NCAA Basketball: Top 25 team frontcourts heading into 2021-22 season

Considering how good of a start the Musketeers had last season, how they finished left a poor taste in their fans’ mouths. But the one positive they can take from it was the breakout campaign of forward Zach Freemantle, who led the team with 16.1 ppg and 8.9 rpg on 53% shooting from the field.

The 6’9 forward had a spectacular month of February, producing six straight double-doubles, one of which was a career-high 30 points and 15 rebounds against UConn’s frontcourt. His decision to return, along with the rest of Xavier’s backcourt rotational pieces, makes them top-25 caliber for next season.

What also helps is that the frontcourt for this team has added much-needed depth to support Freemantle. Iowa transfer Jack Nunge was a solid backup to Luka Garza and he’ll be in the same position here at Xavier. He can play both frontcourt positions and can stretch the floor if need be. Indiana transfer Jerome Hunter is a 6’7 combo forward that is more of a defensive asset than scorer but his versatility will benefit the team.

Lastly, the Musketeers will have 6’6 small forward Benjamin Stanley, who was limited to just four games last season. He averaged 22.0 ppg in the year prior at Hampton and can provide a great scoring punch when healthy. And with incoming freshman Cesare Edwards adding even more depth, there should be plenty of balance and support for Xavier to make a move in the Big East next season.