NCAA Basketball: Top 25 international players of 2019-20 season
By TJ Miller
23) Joel Ayayi (France) – Gonzaga
Ayayi was buried under the immense talent of last year’s Gonzaga squad. But, dedication and increased confidence have led to the redshirt sophomore being a huge part of Mark Few’s game plan in 2019-20. Ayayi is the team’s fourth-leading scorer (10.3 PPG) and is second in both assists (3.3) and rebounds (6.2).
At 6′ 5″ with plenty of strength and quickness, Ayayi gives Gonzaga a firecracker in transition as well as a player who is capable of gliding into the lane in the halfcourt. People will likely view Ayayi as perhaps the most improved player in West Coast Conference this season and for good reason. Give Ayayi credit for the hard work.
22) Devonte Bandoo (Canada) – Baylor
During a game a couple weeks ago, Fran Fraschilla tabbed Devante Bandoo as Baylor’s “microwave off the bench,” and I can absolutely get on board with that. The Bears have had a phenomenal season so far, and although the trio of Jared Butler, MaCio Teague, and Davion Mitchell have deservedly received ample praise, Bandoo has been just as important to Baylor’s winning ways.
While Bandoo has all the qualities Scott Drew craves in his guards – tough as nails, disruptive defender, quick off the bound – he also can heat it up from beyond the arc. He’s currently shooting 38% from beyond the arc, which distinguishes him as one of the Bears’ most efficient three-point threat. Like other Baylor players, Bandoo comes to Waco after a couple years of honing his talents elsewhere. Lucky for Baylor, it’s all come together, and this team has all the traits of a National Champion contender.