NCAA Basketball: Ranking 2019-20 National Player of the Year candidates

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 31: Cassius Winston #5 of the Michigan State Spartans is defended by Tre Jones #3 of the Duke Blue Devils during the first half in the East Regional game of the 2019 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena on March 31, 2019 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /

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MARIETTA, GA – MARCH 25: Mannion reacts next to Green. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images for Powerade) /

Nico Mannion. 17. player. 511. . Guard. Wildcats

One of the most electrifying newcomers to college basketball this season, Nico Mannion looks poised to immediately jump onto the scene. Ranked as the No. 9 overall prospect in the 2019 class, Mannion is a top-tier point guard with star potential right away. The Wildcats feature enough talent to be a top-25 team in the nation this year and Mannion will be the star player. With Brandon Williams going down with a season-ending injury earlier this offseason, Mannion will be tasked with a ton of responsibility in Zona’s backcourt and he could respond in a big way.

The McDonald’s All-American brings plenty of size to the point guard position at 6-foot-3 and is more than capable of being a primary scorer or creator at the college level. He boasts elite ball-handling skills and a variety of scoring options at all three levels. While also an adept 3-point shooter, Mannion’s finishing package includes nifty floaters and impressive finishing through contact.

He will also be one of the best playmakers in the country as a product of his above-average court vision. Arizona features several strong scoring options, including freshman counterpart Josh Green, and Mannion will be the primary initiator of the offense. Head coach Sean Miller has had success with highly-rated freshmen in the past and Mannion will be the next in line.

He could set Tucson on fire this season.

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