NCAA Basketball: Top 30 frontcourt players for 2021-22 season
By Ian Mumm
6. Armando Bacot, UNC Tar Heels
Even with a dramatic increase in the Tar Heels frontcourt depth and usage last season, Bacot emerged not only as the top big man for Roy Williams but also the team’s most productive player. At 12.8 points per game, the near 3-point increase between his sophomore and freshman seasons was more a reflection of Bacot’s improving offensive efficiency rather than further domination of workload. A consistent and comfortable part of his game has been attacking the offensive rim and giving himself easier looks to pile on points.
His tenacity in this area of the court, pulling down 3.2 offensive boards a night, was good enough for 3rd in the ACC behind Pitt’s Justin Champagnie (3.4) and teammate Day’ron Sharpe (3.3). Bacot’s motor is always running and is a huge benefit to North Carolina’s continued dominance in the rebounding department. However, his athleticism was utilized more frequently last season as he also showed signs of improvement on the defensive end as well.
Bacot showcased his mobility to stifle opposing frontcourt players and was also effective in disrupting ball-handlers in one-on-one situations on the perimeter. His impact on both ends of the floor was tangible for the Tar Heels during a down year and his elevated play to end the year suggests his junior campaign could feature more 15-15 games in 2021-22.
5. Trayce Jackson-Davis, Indiana Hoosiers
Taking it upon himself to carry the fortunes of the Indiana program, Trayce Jackson-Davis showcased a substantial improvement in his offensive production. Carrying a much larger chunk of the scoring responsibility, he maintained his efficiency hitting shots while finding an increasing number of ways to the free throw line. However, don’t discount his growing ability to step further away from the basket and score using increasingly effective range.
Jackson-Davis has maintained himself as one of the most productive rebounders in the nation, but his defense has helped him gain traction with NBA scouts. Tallying six games last year with a combined four blocks and steals, mobility was a big factor in the incoming junior’s productivity on both ends of the floor. Getting to pair with South Florida transfer Michael Durr this season could enable Jackson-Davis more spacing to shoot on the offensive end and more opportunities to increase his defensive production.