Big Ten Basketball: Top candidate for a surprise 2020-21 breakout year

Big Ten Basketball: Breakout star potential

Jerome Hunter – Indiana

The first question outside of Indiana is who is this and why are you picking him? Both valid questions, but just hear us out.

Hunter is primed to make a huge jump for the Hoosiers this year even if you have never heard of him. Yes, he only averaged 3.8 points and under 15 minutes per game last year, but he still showed flashes of what many Hoosiers are so excited for this year.

Hunter is a big body at 6’7″ that can stretch the floor. He isn’t afraid to shoot the ball from the outside along with finishing down low. He is a good rebounder and is also a pretty good defender. But that isn’t why we think he will make the jump.

Justin Smith decided to transfer out of Indiana and that has opened up a spot that Hunter is ready to take. He will also have Trayce Jackson-Davis inside that will draw defenders away and give him a shot to be a big part of the offense.

Jackson-Davis was a force for IU last year, but he needs help and Hunter could be that guy. Throw in a great recruiting class that includes Khristian Lander and Anthony Leal and the Hoosier should be much better on offense. The better play should again open up opportunities for other players. Hunter again is primed to be that guy.

Hunter scored in double digits just three times last year but once was against hated rival Purdue and the other was against Big Ten co-champion Maryland. He has shown he won’t shy away from big moments and from all accounts has been impressive in offseason workouts.

The Hoosiers need a player to step up this year and Hunter could be that guy. Not only the guy for Indiana but one that has the potential to surprise the whole Big Ten.