NCAA Basketball: 20 sophomores under pressure to break out in 2020-21

DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA - NOVEMBER 12: Matthew Hurt #21 of the Duke Blue Devils takes a three-point shot against the Central Arkansas Bears during the first half of their game at Cameron Indoor Stadium on November 12, 2019 in Durham, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

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COLUMBUS, OHIO – NOVEMBER 22: D.J. Carton #3 of the Ohio State Buckeyes (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images) /

DJ Carton – Marquette Golden Eagles

Carton was a double-digit scorer at Ohio State off the bench but took a leave of absence, citing mental health issues. He transferred over to Marquette, where he recently has received a waiver to play for the upcoming season. The former five-star caliber prospect has shown great offensive potential, including the ability to shoot the ball at a high clip.

He’ll be given the hard task to replace Markus Howard, the program’s all-time leading scorer who led the country with 27.8 ppg last season. That’ll be tough for Carton, who won’t have much scoring help outside of Koby McEwen. Unless the former Buckeye goes for at least 15 ppg next season, it’ll be hard to see the Golden Eagles making the NCAA Tournament.

Tristan Enaruna – Kansas Jayhawks

The minutes at the power forward position for the Jayhawks is seemingly up for grabs, with a number of players in the running. That includes Enaruna, a former top-100 combo forward who averaged 2.8 ppg and 2.4 rpg in 11 minutes a night off the bench.

The 6’8 combo forward has the versatility Coach Self loves on the wings, including the ability to spread the floor. That’ll be key while playing with center David McCormack. Someone has to solidify themselves at the four-spot and the player with the most potential is Enaruna. If he can be a double-digit contributor, Kansas will be a Final four threat once again.

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