NCAA Basketball: 6 mid-major players who should be on 2021-22 radar

Graham Ike and Hunter Maldonado, Wyoming

Wyoming is off to a 15-2 start and is one of the most entertaining teams in the country to watch play—an offensive juggernaut led by one of college basketball’s most dynamic duos in Graham Ike and Hunter Maldonado.

Ike is averaging 20.6 points and 8.9 rebounds on the season. The 6-foot-9 forward is a relentlessly physical presence in the paint, ranking first nationally in fouls drawn per 40 minutes according to KenPom. His offensive prowess at 252 lbs is reminiscent of former Michigan State legend and NBA All-Star Zach Randolph, an intimidating matchup for most opponents.

Maldonado is one of the premier all-around players at the college level, averaging 17.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 6.7 assists on the season. The 6-foot-7 point guard is a matchup nightmare on the offensive end and can guard multiple positions defensively. That said, he stays true to his position as a facilitator and leader, ranking fourth nationally in assists per game.  He also leads the nation with nine games of at least 15 points, 5 boards, and 5 assists.

Ike and Maldonado are both phenomenal individually but are seen in their peak form when operating as a highly adaptable and compatible duo. There are few more enjoyable things to watch in college basketball this season than the Cowboys when they find a consistent rhythm offensively.

Wyoming has a very real chance at earning an at-large bid this season, significantly increasing the likelihood that we will see them on the big stage in March. That’s great news for college basketball fans but bad news for whoever draws the Cowboys on Selection Sunday.