Atlantic 10 Basketball: Top 10 returning players for 2018-2019

BOISE, ID - MARCH 15: Kellan Grady #31 of the Davidson Wildcats reacts in the second half against the Kentucky Wildcats during the first round of the 2018 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Taco Bell Arena on March 15, 2018 in Boise, Idaho. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

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No. 8 Eric Williams Jr.

Williams was one of the biggest surprises of last season. Unranked by most recruiting websites coming in, he finished averaging 14 points and 9 rebounds per game. The points were impressive on their own, but the rebounding (2nd in the conference) is what really set him apart from the crowd. An average like that for a guard is something the league hasn’t seen since Marquise Moore, and is virtually unheard of for a freshman.

Coach Dambrot has a lot to figure out this season with so many new faces in the mix, but Williams and point guard Mike Lewis II are a strong core to build around. With more talent by his side, Williams won’t see his numbers skyrocket into 20-10 territory, but he should be a much more efficient and confident version of himself.

There were times when Williams showed his (lack of) experience with a questionable shot selection and unforced turnovers. With a year in the weight and film rooms behind him, however, I expect his 2.1 turnovers/pg average to fall and his 39% shooting to rise. If they do, Williams could find himself on the All-Conference first team.

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