PAC-12 Basketball: 2020-21 breakout candidates from each team

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - MARCH 15: A Pac-12 basketball logo is displayed on the court before a semifinal game of the Pac-12 basketball tournament between the Colorado Buffaloes and the Washington Huskies at T-Mobile Arena on March 15, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) /

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LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 13: Cody Riley #2 of the UCLA Bruins defends against Tony Miller #32 of the Washington State Cougars (Photo by Joe Scarnici/Getty Images) /

Washington State Cougars: Tony Miller

Tony Miller only started three of the twenty-three games he played over the 2019-20 season. Not only did Miller struggle to get into games, at 16 minutes per game, but he also struggled to stay healthy. He missed seven games starting in February but was dressed for the PAC-12 Tournament game versus Colorado when he scored nine and collected six rebounds.

The individual game highlights are impressive for Miller as there were eight games that he scored in double digits and was high-scorer three times. He was second on the team in field goal percentage, first among players who averaged at least 10 minutes. His 22 Player Efficiency Rating was the best among Coach Kyle Smith’s entire roster.

Washington State Basketball played a lot of ‘small ball’ in 2019-20 with 6’6 sophomore CJ Elleby playing in the power forward spot. This did not help them defensively as they surrendered the third-highest total in the PAC-12. As point guard Jervae Robinson graduates, it leaves room in the backcourt for Issac Bonton to play point and Noah Willimas to play off guard, while Elleby goes to his natural position of small forward, once he undeclares for the NBA Draft.

Next. Late risers in 2020 recruiting class. dark

This then leaves room for Miller, to not necessarily start but get a lot more minutes and a lot more touches, which is key for the top field goal shooter on a team to breakout.

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