Baylor Basketball: Re-ranking the top 20 Bear players from 2000-21

11. Cory Jefferson PF (2009-2014)

In order to develop a player and letting a raw product get time, redshirting seems logical. In Football, even the majority of four-stars redshirt, especially if they go to blue blood schools. In Basketball, it was rare and the majority of players transfer, when given the option to redshirt. It’s even odder to redshirt after playing a whole season. Jefferson did exactly that, and it paid off in a big way.

After playing in 21 games as a freshman, Jefferson would redshirt, giving him more time to practice and groom himself. He would come back in 2011-2012 and played a similar role, averaging just 3.6 points and 2.6 rebounds on a Baylor team that won 30 games that season. Maybe Jefferson’s best season comes the year after as he became a full-time starter with Isaiah Austin declaring for the NBA Draft.

Jefferson would average an astonishing 13.3 points per game and eight rebounds on 61% shooting from the field. That percentage is good for second in the conference and Top 20 in the country.  Jefferson’s defense also improved as he was blocking 1.9 shots per game. The Bears would win the NIT that season, but Jefferson’s progression was humongous for the program.

As a senior, Jefferson would nearly duplicate his numbers with 13.7 points and 8.2 rebounds on a less efficient, but respectable 50% from the field. Jefferson would earn All-Big 12 3rd Team and Wooden Award Preseason Recognition.

The former 92nd ranked player as a recruit, was patient as he didn’t start through his first three seasons, even with being a highly touted high school player. Patience and progression lead Jefferson to being a top 10 player for the Bears of the 21st century.

10. Isaiah Austin C (2012-2014)

The best recruit to come through Baylor, Isaiah Austin’s legacy will be more than basketball. Austin was the #3 ranked player in the country and the #1 Center in his class. With Perry Jones III staying another season, the frontcourt for the Bears was set to be among the best in the conference. Austin for his size was an above-average three-point shooter and racked up the rebounds. He averaged 13 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game.

Austin was a member of both, the All-Big 12 3rd Team and the all-freshman team. He had many memorable performances as a freshman, whether it would be scoring 23 points and grabbing 17 rebounds against Lamar. Or four straight games with double-figure rebounds. Austin was in full position to be a one-and-done, potentially landing in the Top 15 of the draft. Instead, Drew convinced Austin to stay another season in Waco.

Austin’s offensive numbers would take a slight nose dive. He averaged just 11.2 points and 5.5 rebounds on 45% shooting from the field. Austin’s defensive numbers were much improved as a sophomore.  His 3.1 blocks were best in the conference and ranked fourth in the nation in that category.

Austin would declare for the NBA Draft, but would never get drafted by a team. Due to a heart condition, Austin was told by doctors to not participate in the NBA. Austin has made a niche for himself overseas and has been an impact on multiple teams.

The highest-ranked recruit in Baylor history is also an inspiration to us all. Through the long journey of being a gem recruit to the heart condition and now continuing to pursue his dream of professional basketball is a motivation.