NCAA Basketball: 10 most versatile playmakers of 2019-20 season
7. Xavier Tillman | Michigan State | F | Junior |
For NCAA Basketball fans, it is impossible to talk about dominant forwards without talking about Michigan State’s Xavier Tillman. Tillman is a force to reckon with close to the basket. at 6’8 ,250, his size and strength make him very hard to handle on both ends of the floor, and he is able to produce many easy scoring opportunities for the Spartans.
Tillman’s stat sheet speaks volumes about his playing ability. He averages a double-double every time he is on the floor, scoring 13.5 points, and grabbing just over 10 rebounds per game.
One thing about Tillman is that his success on the court often plays a huge role in determining whether or not Michigan State will be victorious. In five out of the Spartans’ six losses, Tillman failed to score in the double digits. This shows that he is very important offensively, and opponents of the Spartans know that shutting him down will take away some of their firepower.
On defense, Tillman’s size also contributes an edge for Michigan State beneath the basket. He does not get pushed around much, and when he does, he always has an answer. Opponents do not easily grab offensive rebounds while he is in the game, and he is a great shot blocker as well.
For Michigan State to threaten in the NCAA Basketball Tournament, Xavier Tillman will need to be a great contributor.