NCAA Basketball: Projecting 8 biggest breakout stars for 2019-20

Speaking of star point guards, Devon Dotson was well on his way to becoming one last year. Forced into the No. 2 role offensively due to injuries and LaGerald Vick leaving the team, Dotson saw his usage and production increase greatly over the last month and a half of the season.

From February on, Dotson averaged 14.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game in that role behind Dedric Lawson, scoring at least 15 points in nine of those 15 games.

The McDonald’s All-American always had potential – he’s quick, smooth, and makes good decisions – but wasn’t at the one-and-done level a freshman needs to be to carry a team. Yet his play over those final 15 games showed glimpses of what he’s capable of and NBA teams took notice. Some projected him to be a late first-round pick if he stayed in the draft, which he opted against in the final minutes before the early entry deadline.

Now, Dotson is set for a full-time increased role for the Jayhawks and he’s prepared for it.

Like Akinjo, his experience should lead to fewer turnovers. He has also focused on improving his outside shot, which was the biggest weakness in his game last year (36.3 percent). If he can add that threat to his game, along with his quickness and uncanny ability to finish around the rim, Dotson will keep opposing defenders off balance and could be virtually unguardable.

Bill Self has a knack for getting his point guards ready for lead roles like this, too. Recently, Frank Mason became KU’s focal point as a senior and broke out, becoming National Player of the Year. Devonte’ Graham took his place the following year and was named Big 12 Player of the Year. Dotson has the skill set to follow a similar path.