NCAA Basketball: 10 best players from state of Tennessee of last decade

4. Jalen Crutcher – Dayton

A 3-star prospect in 2017, Crutcher is a 6’1 point guard from Memphis who originally committed to Chattanooga. He did not end up playing for the Mocs, ending up at Dayton in a last-minute decision. Suffice to say, it was a great decision for everyone involved, especially for new head coach Anthony Grant. Crutcher would play a vital role on some of the Flyers’ best success in program history.

He spent almost his entire career as Dayton’s starting point guard, really emerging as an offensive threat late in his career. He helped the Flyers to the NIT as a sophomore, averaging 13.2 points and 5.7 assists a game. His offensive numbers were even more impressive as a junior, playing a major role in Dayton’s 29-2 campaign as one of the nation’s best teams. Crutcher was forced to settle for another NIT bid to end his career but did average 17.6 points and 4.8 assists per game in that final campaign for the Flyers.

Crutcher was All-A-10 three straight seasons, including First Team honors in his final two seasons. He was part of a really impressive Dayton squad during that junior season. He was one of the conference’s best free throw shooters while his role in orchestrating the offense should not be overlooked. One of Dayton’s most impressive guards in program history, Crutcher continued his career professionally in the G-League last season.