We’re just fewer than 20 days left until the start of the 2022-23 NCAA Basketball season. And we’ve been previewing and covering as much throughout the preseason but it’s getting old. The good news is we have just a few big pieces left to look at the entire sport before the games start.
This project takes a look at the very best returning players from last year heading into this year. This includes my projections of potential breakout stars and which transfers will have big impacts (will injury current injuries to make things easier). No true freshmen will be included because, to be honest, I don’t where to place guys like Nick Smith and Dereck Lively alongside guys who’ve already played in NCAA Basketball.
Here are a few honorable mentions, followed by the top 100 returning overall players.
HM: Zed Key – Ohio State Buckeyes
The junior big man won’t be playing behind E.J Liddell anymore and will be the focal point of the Buckeyes’ frontcourt. Key has shown that he’s capable, including 20 points against No. 1 Duke last season. He’ll have a statistical boost this year but how much is to be determined.
HM: Daeshun Ruffin – Ole Miss Rebels
The former top-100 prospect had a great freshman campaign midway through, averaging 12.6 ppg and 3.4 apg before a knee injury took him out. Ruffin may not be able to start the season on time but when healthy, is one of the better players in the SEC.
HM: Tyler Burton – Richmond Spiders
The breakout star of the A-10 last season averaged 16.1 ppg and 7.7 rpg. The 6’7 wing had numerous games of at least 20 points, including a career-high 36 points against St. Bonaventure. Burton will be even more of the focal point of Richmond now and it won’t be a surprise if he’s a 20 ppg scorer this season.
HM: Charles Pride – Bryant Bulldogs
Peter Kiss led all of NCAA Basketball with 25 ppg but Pride wasn’t too bad as a secondary option, averaging 17.7 ppg and 8.6 rpg. That included games of 44 and 32 points respectively when Kiss was out. Pride is now the No. 1 option at Bryant now and the gaudy numbers will show this season.
HM: Tristen Newton – UConn Huskies
After Jayden Gardner left the year prior, Newton became the statistical star of the team, leading with 17.7 ppg and 5.0 apg. The 6’5 guard is now over at UConn as the likely starting point guard. If he can replicate these kinds of numbers as the lead guard with the Huskies, they’ll be a Big East contender.
100. Paul Mulcahy – Rutgers Scarlet Knights
2021-22 stats: 9.0 ppg, 4.1 rpg and 5.3 apg
The 6’6 guard has slowly developed into one of the best all-around players in Big Ten, as well as a leading passer. Mulcahy had a career-high 12-assist game against Michigan State, which came after a 31-point performance versus Northwestern. He’ll have an even larger role now that Geo Baker is gone and this should be the year that his name gets on the national radar.
99. Andre Jackson – UConn Huskies
2021-22 stats: 6.8 ppg, 6.8 rpg and 3.1 apg
The 6’6 guard can play and defend four different positions and is the definition of versatility. Jackson’s scoring doesn’t have a high ceiling but he’s a strong rebounder for his size, including 16 in one game against St. John’s. The junior guard will have a big role once he gets back from a broken finger in November.
98. Dylan Penn – Vermont Catamounts
2021-22 stats (at Bellarmine: 16.6 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 5.0 apg
The 6’3 guard turned the former D-I newcomer into a solid mid-major program in the past couple of years, putting up some big stats in all the main categories. That includes a career-high 38 points versus Central Arkansas and multiple games of 10+ assists and rebounds. He joins one of the top mid-major NCAA Basketball teams in Vermont and Penn should be a frontrunner for America East Player of the Year.
97. Fousseynyi Traore – BYU Cougars
2021-22 stats: 9.5 ppg and 8.5 rpg
The 6’7 forward got extended minutes as a freshman due to injuries and produced in a big way. Traore had 19 points and 13 rebounds in a win over Liberty, as well as a season-high 25 and 19 versus Pepperdine. Although he’s undersized as a forward, Traore is highly athletic, physical, and energetic and is primed for a breakout sophomore campaign.
96. Jesse Edwards – Syracuse Orange
2021-22 stats: 12.0 ppg, 6.5 rpg and 2.8 bpg
Despite being the 4th or 5th option on offense last season, the 6’11 center still managed to be an effective post scorer. Edwards had a couple of 20+ point games, including 22 points, eight rebounds, and seven blocks against Miami. He fouled out 12 out of 24 games so if he can avoid foul trouble, Edwards can have a big year with the Orange.
95. Tyrece Radford – Texas A&M Aggies
2021-22 stats: 10.9 ppg, 6.2 rpg and 1.4 apg
After transferring over from Virginia Tech, Radford became a much better three-pointer shooter (40%), while also remaining a strong defender and rebounder in a system that fit him well at Texas A&M. The senior guard became a consistent scorer in the second half of the season and should again be a focal point of the offense this year.
94. Kerr Kriisa – Arizona Wildcats
2021-22 stats: 9.7 ppg, 2.5 rpg and 4.7 apg
In his first full year as a starter, Kriisa was an inefficient dynamic playmaker for the Wildcats. He had a triple-double against Utah, along with eight games of at least 16 points. He also shot under 35% from the field and had a bunch of games with five or fewer points as well. There are times when he has looked like a top-40 player in the country and other times when he’s outside the top 200. More consistency from Kriisa is needed for Arizona to succeed.
93. Fardaws Aimaq – Texas Tech Red Raiders
2021-22 stats (at Utah Valley): 18.9 ppg, 13.6 rpg, and 1.7 apg
The former WAC Player of the Year (and multiple Defensive POY) put up some major stats at UVU in the past couple of years and is one of the top frontcourt transfers from this offseason. He joins a Texas Tech system that thrives on defense and while he’s currently out with a foot injury until late December, the team will need him if they want to make a run in March.
92. Wendell Green – Auburn Tigers
2021-22 stats: 12.0 ppg, 3.7 rpg and 5.1 apg
Despite coming off the bench last season, Green not only led the Tigers in passing but also did his fair share of scoring, including scoring at least 19 points on eight different occasions. The former Eastern Kentucky guard proved he can play at the SEC level and with more efficiency can be an all-league level scorer as well.
91. Brandon Slater – Villanova Wildcats
2021-22 stats: 8.5 ppg and 3.7 rpg
The 6’6 forward was a full-time starter for the first time last season and had 10 games of at least 15 points, although his production was fairly inconsistent. But Slater earns his reputation on the defensive end, capable of guarding all five positions on the court. With five-star freshman Cam Whitmore likely out to start the season, look for the 5th-year senior to be a key part of the offense.
90. Matthew Mayer – Illinois Fighting Illini
2021-22 stats (at Baylor): 9.8 ppg and 5.0 rpg
One of a few players on this list with a national championship on their resume, Mayer spent four years at Baylor, with last year being his lone as a starter. The numbers didn’t pop out as expected but Mayer, who shot 41% from deep the year prior, is still a quality stretch forward that can defend and will have a much larger role at Illinois this season.
89. Charles Bediako – Alabama Crimson Tide
2021-22 stats: 6.7 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 1.5 bpg
The former started 30 games and was an All-SEC Freshman but definitely was raw overall. Bediako has plenty of two-way potential, including several games of 5+ blocks, as well as seven double-digit games. Look for him to have a big sophomore breakout campaign and anchors the Alabama defense inside.
88. Kobe Brown – Missouri Tigers
2021-22 stats: 12.5 ppg, 7.6 rpg and 2.5 apg
One of the more quiet All-SEC players that gets no attention, Brown was a brightspot on Missouri’s roster, including some huge performances. The 6’7 forward had 30 points and 13 rebounds in an upset win over Alabama, as well as 21 points, six rebounds, and six assists versus Texas A&M. Brown will be a key piece on the rebuilt Tigers roster but the team can rely on him in the frontcourt.
87. John Hugley – Pittsburgh Panthers
2021-22 stats: 14.8 ppg and 7.9 rpg
The 6’8 center had a breakout sophomore campaign for Pitt last season, despite having little shooting and backcourt support to work with. Hugley had 32 points and 13 rebounds in a win over Boston College and 18 boards versus Syracuse. He’s difficult to defend down low without a double team and should be in position to be an All-ACC forward this year.
86. Jalen Cook – Tulane Green Wave
2021-22 stats: 18.0 ppg, 2.5 rpg and 3.5 apg
The LSU transfer was a major breakout contributor for Tulane, leading them in scoring last season. It started with a career-high 28 points in the season-opener versus Southeastern Louisiana, along with seven more games of 20+ points. And shooting just under 40% from three-point range doesn’t hurt. In an AAC that’s filled with quality guards, Cook deserves to be mentioned with them at the top.
85. Xavier Johnson – Indiana Hoosiers
2021-22 stats: 12.1 ppg, 3.8 rpg and 5.1 apg
One of the more erratic guards in NCAA Basketball, Johnson has shown to have a high floor and low ceiling in four years at Pittsburgh and Indiana. But he did shoot a career-high 38% from deep last season, including around 46% in the Hoosiers’ win streak to make the NCAA Tournament. When he’s playing well, Johnson is one of the top ball-handlers in the country. It just depends on which version shows up.
84. Josh Oduro – George Mason Patriots
2021-22 stats: 17.7 ppg, 7.5 rpg and 1.7 apg
One of the best offensive players in the country, Oduro had 11 games of at least 20 points, as well as four of at least 30. That includes a career-high 33 versus Saint Joeseph’s. If the power forward can continue developing a three-point shot, then Oduro could very well have the numbers to be A-10 Player of the Year.
83. Reece Beekman – Virginia Cavaliers
2021-22 stats: 8.2 ppg, 3.9 rpg and 5.2 apg
While Kihei Clark is the guard with the national title and more name recognition, Beekman has emerged as the better player. He’s the top passer on the team and an annual contender for ACC Defensive Player of the Year. If he takes another leap in the offensive development, he’ll make a name for himself as well.
82. Hunter Maldonado – Wyoming Cowboys
2021-22 stats: 18.5 ppg, 5.7 rpg and 6.3 apg
The 6’7 “point guard” plays some of the most minutes in NCAA Basketball and has the all-around stats to show for it. It includes his first triple-double against San Diego State of all teams, along with 35 points in an overtime victory over Colorado State. Maldonado is capable of double-digit assists and/or rebounds in any game and played a large role in the Cowboys making it back to the NCAA Tournament.
81. Jamarion Sharp – Western Kentucky Hilltoppers
2021-22 stats: 8.2 ppg, 7.6 rpg and 4.6 bpg
A former JUCO star (John Logan College) came into D-I hoops and had a tremendous impact. The 7’5 center became the easy pick for Conference USA Defensive Player of the Year last season, ranking 3rd nationally in blocks. That includes 10 in a triple-double effort versus Alabama A&M and 17 points and 14 rebounds in a game against Eastern Kentucky. If his offense continues to get better, Sharp will have a good chance at being at being CUSA Player of the Year.
80. Dane Goodwin – Notre Dame Fighting Irish
2021-22 stats: 13.6 ppg, 4.7 rpg and 1.3 apg
While freshman guard Blake Wesley rightfully got most of the credit last season, Goodwin was the leading scorer and consistent sharpshooter. He made over 50% from the field as a guard, along with 46% from three-point range. The senior guard/wing had four games of at least 20 points and was in double figures in the first 20 games as well.
79. Pelle Larsson – Arizona Wildcats
2021-22 stats: 7.2 ppg, 3.4 rpg and 1.8 apg
The Utah transfer was the Pac-12 6th Man of the Year last season and was one of the best all-around players in the league as well. The 6’5 guard is a good shooter and capable scorer when given time on the court and should have a big role in replacing Dalen Terry in the backcourt.
78. Sincere Carry – Kent State Golden Flash
2021-22 stats: 17.9 ppg, 4.5 rpg and 4.8 apg
The former Duquesne guard exploded statically at Kent State last season, winning MAC Player of the Year and making an all-defensive team as well. Carry had several 30+ point efforts, including a career-high 42 points in a win over Ball State. He’s always been known as a quality passer but his becoming an elite scorer as well was a pleasant surprise for the Flash.
77. Darrion Trammell – San Diego State Aztecs
2021-22 stats (at Seattle U): 17.3 ppg, 3.8 rpg and 5.0 apg
The 5’11 league guard likely would’ve won WAC Player of the Year if it wasn’t for Aimaq but Trammell played a huge role in the Redhawks becoming league contenders. The Aztec transfer had numerous big scoring nights, including 39 against Abilene Christian. Trammell is a legit defender and is the perfect backcourt addition for this season on both ends.
76. Cliff Omoruyi – Rutgers Scarlet Knights
2021-22 stats: 11.9 ppg, 7.8 rpg and 1.3 bpg
The former top-50 prospect had a breakout sophomore campaign as the starting center and while his rebounding and rim-protecting looked as advertised, Omoruyi’s offensive potential was a nice surprise. He went for 15+ points on nine occasions, including a season-high 22 against Northwestern. The center is a great rim-runner and should have an even bigger role on offense in his junior season without Ron Harper Jr. around.
75. Jamison Battle – Minnesota Golden Gophers
2021-22 stats: 17.5 ppg and 6.3 rpg
If there was any question as to whether or not the transfer from George Washington to the Big Ten, Battle’s production early on showed that he can be a leading offensive force. He was in double figures in 27 of 29 games, including a season-high 39 points against Maryland. The 6’7 forward has some talented newcomers that should make Minnesota more competitive but in the end, Battle will once again lead them in scoring.
74. Jake Stephens – Chattanooga Mocs
2021-22 stats (at VMI): 19.6 ppg, 9.0 rpg and 3.3 apg
There’s no big man in NCAA Basketball that put up the stats that Stephens did in such an efficient matter. The 6’11 center shot 55% from the field and 46% from three-point range, including 7/8 from deep in a 39-point effort against Samford. He has a 21-rebound effort versus the Citadel and also a number of games of at least five assists. Stephens remains in the SoCon after following his head coach and has a great chance of being SoCon Player of the Year.
73. Osun Osunniyi – Iowa State Cyclones
2021-22 stats (at St. Bonaventure): 11.3 ppg, 7.5 rpg and 2.9 bpg
One of the best defensive big men in NCAA Basketball, Osunniyi is a multi-time A-10 Defensive Player of the Year and has over 300 career blocks in four seasons. He’s also a strong rebounder and has a couple of 21-point games this past season as well. The 6’10 and 220-pound big man will be a nice fit in the Big and the league’s strong defense and should anchor Iowa’s State this year.
72. Malachi Smith – Gonzaga Bulldogs
2021-22 stats (at Chattanooga): 19.9 ppg, 6.7 rpg, and 3.0 apg
Last season’s SoCon Player of the Year was the best player on the best team, putting up huge stats on a daily basis while making 41% from three-point range. That includes 11 games of at least 25 points, including 36 points versus Murray State. The 6’3 guard joins a Gonzaga roster loaded with talent and should start and based on previous transfers to the program, should be even more efficient from the field.
71. Josiah-Jordan James – Tennessee Volunteers
2021-22 stats): 10.3 ppg, 6.0 rpg and 1.7 apg
While the former five-star never ended up being a prolific scorer for the Vols, James still has been a pivotal part of the team’s success. The 6’6 wing can defend up to four positions with his versatility and averaged around 15 ppg in the final eight games of last season. The team’s leading rebounder and underrated shooter should have his largest role on the offense yet so there’s a chance that offensive potential will be realized.
70. Javonte Perkins – Saint Louis Billikens
2020-21 stats: 17.1 ppg and 3.9 rpg
He missed all of last season with an injury but has returned after two previous years of being an All-Atlantic 10 scorer. Perkins had a 32-point effort versus LSU and six other 20+ point games in 2021 and assuming he’s fully healthy, should return as one of the top scorers in the A-10.
69. Graham Ike – Wyoming Cowboys
2021-22 stats: 19.5 ppg and 9.6 rpg
The 6’9 big man was a breakout star in the Mountain West, scoring at least eight points in every game last season. That includes 25 points and 18 rebounds at San Jose State, as well as a career-high 35 points and 14 rebounds versus Denver. Ike is one of the better offensive frontcourt players in NCAA Basketball and can get even better this year.
68. Ryan Nembhard – Creighton Bluejays
2021-22 stats: 11.3 ppg, 3.1 rpg and 4.4 apg
The younger brother of former Gonzaga starter Andrew Nembhard proved that he too can be a quality ball-handler, playing at a high level as a freshman last season. The Big East Rookie of the Year had 15 points and 10 assists in his debut versus Arkansas-Pine Bluff. The Bluejay point guard also can score, with eight games of at least 15 points. Look for a breakout campaign from Nembhard that puts up in the category of top playmakers in the country.
67. Marcus Carr – Texas Longhorns
2021-22 stats: 11.4 ppg and 3.4 apg
Despite his scoring numbers not being anywhere near where they were at Minnesota, Carr still was an All-Big 12 performer and proved that he can be a good defender. The 5th-year senior still is capable of being a scorer, including going for 18 points six times, including 25 points versus Kansas State. He’ll be part of a crowded backcourt again but Carr still will have a leading role.
66. Chuck Harris – Butler Bulldogs
2021-22 stats: 11.4 ppg and 1.6 apg
One of the more underrated players in NCAA Basketball, Harris had four games of at least 20 points, including 29 against Xavier in the Big East Tournament. The rising junior guard will be on a much-improved Butler roster and if his three-point shooting takes a leap, can easily become one of the top scorers in the league.
65. Drew Peterson – USC Trojans
2021-22 stats: 12.4 ppg, 6.2 rpg and and 3.3 apg
The 6’8 wing can do a little bit of everything for USC. He’s a good defender, quality rebounder, capable facilitator, and can go for 20+ points (4 times last season), all while making over 40% of his three-point attempts. Peterson has been a nice complementary player to the Mobley brothers in the past couple of years but enters this season as the Trojans’ clear best player. Look for him to have an ever larger role in the offense.
64. Tramon Mark – Houston Cougars
2021-22 stats: 10.1 ppg, 2.4 rpg and 2.4 apg
The Cougars’ 6th Man from last season was on track to put up some big numbers, including a three-game stretch where he averaged over 17 ppg. Yet Mark was just limited to seven games due to a season-ending injury but is back and part of the elite Houston backcourt. Whether as a starter or off the bench, look for the 6’5 guard to be a major contributor this season.
63. Yuri Collins – Saint Louis Billikens
2021-22 stats: 11.1 ppg, 4.1 rpg and 7.9 apg
Collins stepped up in a big way after Perkins was injured, becoming a double-digit scorer while leading all of NCAA Basketball in assists last season. That includes a program-record 19 against Boston College, along with seven other games with at least 10 assists. Collins also is an all-league defender and underrated shooter as well.
62. KJ Williams – LSU Tigers
2021-22 stats (at Murray State): 18.0 ppg and 8.4 rpg
The 5th-year transfer was the Ohio Valley Conference Player of the Year, leading the Racers to the NCAA Tournament. The 6’10 center had a bunch of big performances, including 39 points in a win over Tennessee State. Williams is a quality versatile offensive player and will be the focal point of the rebuilt LSU offense.
61. Kevin Obanor – Texas Tech Red Raiders
2021-22 stats: 10.0 ppg and 5.5 rpg
After averaging nearly 20 and 10 at Oral Roberts in the year prior, Obanor’s numbers expectedly took a dip at the slower-paced Red Raiders system. But not only did he prove that he can be a good defender at the Big 12 level but the veteran forward had a strong end to last season, scoring in double figures in eight straight. With Bryson Williams gone and Aimaq hurt, look for Obanor to have a sizeable role in the offense.
60. PJ Hall – Clemson Tigers
2021-22 stats: 15.5 ppg and 5.8 rpg
The 6’10 forward was a breakout star for the Tigers last season, leading them in scoring. Hall was in double figures in all but one game, including a career-high 28 points versus Florida State. It was one of six games with 20+ points and his consistency was a big part of his success. He’s currently recovering from an offseason injury but the hope is that he’s back sometime in November.
59. Posh Alexander – St. John’s Red Storm
2021-22 stats: 13.8 ppg, 4.4 rpg and 5.5 apg
The only weakness in the point guard’s game is from three-point range but the junior is a solid scorer, including a 29-point and 12-assist game against Providence, along with placing second in the Big East in total assists. Alexander also was Co-Big East Defensive Player of the Year and ranked in the top 5 of NCAA Basketball in steals. Without star forward Julian Champagnie around, it’ll be Alexander that leads St. John’s this season.
58. Johni Broome – Auburn Tigers
2021-22 stats (at Morehead State): 16.8 ppg, 10.5 rpg and 3.9 bpg
Broome was the Defensive Player of the Year in the Ohio Valley last year, ranking 3rd in the country in blocks. That includes a career-high 12 against Tennessee-Martin. The 6’10 center also is a legit offensive weapon, including a 32-point effort versus Murray State in the OVC Tournament. If he can replace Walker Kessler as the defensive anchor for Auburn, they’ll be a contender in the SEC.
57. Jared Bynum – Providence Friars
2021-22 stats: 12.2 ppg and 4.0 apg
The Big East 6th Man of the Year was an unsung hero for the Friars, leading them in passing while also being a dynamic defender. Bynum also has shown to be a great scorer when he has the ball in his hands, including 57 points in a two-game span against Georgetown and DePaul. The 6’0 guard is likely to start and be the focal point of the new-look roster and Bynum could really break out offensively this year.
56. Baylor Scheierman – Creighton Bluejays
2021-22 stats (at South Dakota State): 16.2 ppg, 7.8 rpg and 4.5 apg
The 6’6 wing was the Summit League Player of the Year, putting up huge numbers while shooting 51-47-80 spilts. Scheierman had 11 games of at least 20 points, as well as an 18-rebound performance versus Alabama. He gives Creighton another capable scorer in the lineup and a potentially lethal shooter on the perimeter.
55. Jack Nunge – Xavier Musketeers
2021-22 stats: 13.4 ppg and 7.4 rpg
The 6’11 big man went from being a role player at Iowa to a leading scorer at Xavier last season. Nunge posted career-high numbers across the board, including 24 points against both Iowa State and Butler as a whopping 31 and 15 performance against Cincinnati. He’s a capable floor spacer and post-scorer and if he can play well with fellow forward Zach Freemantle, will create one of the best frontcourt pairings in NCAA Basketball.
54. Kyle Lofton – Florida Gators
2021-22 stats (at St. Bonaventure): 12.8 ppg, 3.6 rpg and 5.9 apg
The “iron man” of NCAA Basketball, Lofton has 116 career starts at around 38 mpg in four years. And he’s been very productive during all that time when on the court, including a career-high 17 assists in a game against UMass last season. Lofton is a quality defender and passer and also can go for 15+ points on many occasions.
53. Deandre Williams – Memphis Tigers
2021-22 stats: 11.1 ppg, 5.8 rpg and 1.7 apg
He took a backseat to Jalen Duren and all the other newcomers while dealing with injuries last year but Williams still managed to be an All-AAC player. The 6’9 forward proved he can be a quality scorer dating back to his days at Evansville but also is an elite defender and can playmake from the inside. He’s the clear centerpiece of the frontcourt this season and look for his stats to start to equal his value at Memphis.
52. Antoine Davis – Detroit Mercy Titans
2021-22 stats: 23.9 ppg, 3.6 rpg and 4.4 apg
One of NCAA Basketball’s top scorers over the past four years, Davis is the school’s all-time leading scorer and has a good chance to crack the top 10 in the sport’s history. Davis was the Co-Horizon League Player of the Year last season, with games such as 39 points against Milwaukee and 38 versus Green Bay as examples. The volume scorer and shooting didn’t have fewer than 15 points in any game last year and with the greenest of green lights, look for that feat to be replicated.
51. Mark Sears – Alabama Crimson Tide
2021-22 stats (at Ohio): 19.6 ppg, 6.0 rpg and 4.1 apg
In a MAC that was filled with quality backcourt talent, Sears was statistically the best. He shot 41 from three-point range and 88% from the free throw line on some good volume while scoring 8+ points in every single game. That includes performances such as 33 points against USC Upstate and 22 points, 13 rebounds, and six assists at Bowling Green. With Jahvon Quinerly out until SEC play, look for Sears to have a big role in the backcourt.
50. Isaiah Stevens – Colorado State Rams
2021-22 stats: 14.7 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 4.7 apg
The starting point guard has been an All-Mountain West performer in all three seasons and is one of the top two-way players in the country. He went for 35 points in a matchup with UNLV, along with several games of double-digit assists. Unfortunately, a recent foot injury likely will have him out until conference play but when healthy is one of the better playmakers in NCAA Basketball.
49. Will Richardson – Oregon Ducks
2021-22 stats: 14.1 ppg, 3.7 rpg and 3.6 apg
Few things went right for Oregon last season but Richardson emerging as a quality offensive player was. The senior guard had seven games of at least 20 points, including a career-high 28 versus USC. Richardson is a near 40% three-point shooter and solid distributor as well and should be one of a few good options for Pac-12 Player of the Year this season.
48. Ace Baldwin – VCU Rams
2021-22 stats: 11.4 ppg, 3.5 rpg and 5.5 apg
After coming back earlier than expected from an Achilles injury, Baldwin was great as the starting point guard for the Rams. Even in a slow-paced offense, Baldwin still was one of the top passers in the Atlantic 10, including 10 assists (along with 18 points) in a matchup with George Mason. A fully healthy campaign should see even better results from the junior playmaker.
47. Colby Jones – Xavier Musketeers
2021-22 stats: 11.6 ppg, 7.3 rpg and 3.2 apg
The 6’5 guard is one of the most versatile players in NCAA Basketball and one of the best pure rebounders for someone his height as well. Jones can guard four positions and showed high potential in the NIT title run last season, including a season-high 21 points in the win over Texas A&M.
46. Jeremy Roach – Duke Blue Devils
2021-22 stats: 8.6 ppg, 2.4 rpg and 3.2 apg
The former five-star recruit has had his ups and downs in the past couple of years but had his breakthrough in the NCAA Tournament, scoring 15 points in wins over Texas Tech and Michigan State in the Final Four run. Roach is more than capable of scoring at a high level but his ability to run an offense will be tested as the clear lead guard this time around.
45. Timmy Allen – Texas Longhorns
2021-22 stats: 12.1 ppg, 6.4 rpg and 2.1 apg
Allen was a quality scorer at Utah and remained that way at Texas, leading them in scoring last season. He had 18 points versus Gonzaga and 26 points and 10 rebounds in a win over Texas. The combo forward is one of the best mid-range scorers in the country and on a team that was anything but consistent in terms of offensive production, Allen was the closest thing to that concept.
44. Matthew Cleveland – Florida State Seminoles
2021-22 stats: 11.5 ppg, 4.6 rpg and 1.2 apg
The former five-star prospect had a solid freshman season and was the ACC 6th Man of the Year. Cleveland had nine straight games of double-digit scoring to end the year, including 20 points at Virginia. The 6’7 wing is a great athlete and defender and if he can stretch his shooting to beyond the three-point line, can become a national breakout contender and someone that can be first-team All-ACC.
43. Caleb Daniels – Villanova Wildcats
2021-22 stats: 10.3 ppg and 3.8 rpg
The 6th-year senior has willingly taken a backseat with the Wildcats, even coming off the bench last season. Daniels still can be a potent scorer, including 20 points against Providence and 19 versus St. John’s in the Big East Tournament. He’s a capable scorer at all three levels and with Justin Moore and Cam Whitmore out to start the season, Vilanova will need Daniels to be the leading scorer to keep them competitive against the top teams.
42. Justyn Mutts – Virginia Tech Hokies
2021-22 stats: 10.1 ppg, 7.4 rpg and 3.4 apg
The former Delaware and High Point transfer has been highly effective with the Hokies, doing a little of everything. He led Tech in both rebounding and assists, while also recording a triple-double against Syracuse. Mutts is also a great defender both inside and out and with star forward Keve Aluma gone, now becomes the focal point of the offense.
41. Sahvir Wheeler – Kentucky Wildcats
2021-22 stats: 10.1 ppg, 2.6 rpg and 6.9 apg
One of the top passers in all of NCAA Basketball, ranking 1st in the SEC and third nationally. That includes five double-digit assist games, including 12 points and 14 assists versus North Florida. The 5’10 playmaker is also an underrated scorer, with 26 points versus North Carolina. Wheeler has proven to be a high-volume passer and is a good defender and will have plenty of chances to rack up more assists at Kentucky.
40. Terquavion Smith – NC State Wolfpack
2021-22 stats: 16.3 ppg, 4.1 rpg and 2.1 apg
The 20-point performance against Bucknell in his season debut was an indicator of how offensively talented Smith was going to be. The 6’4 guard had 12 games of at least 20 points, including a season-high 34 points at North Carolina. He shot under 40% from the field but made 37% of his three-pointers and with Dareon Seabron gone, the Wolfpack will be looking for Smith to be a nightly star.
39. Pete Nance – North Carolina Tar Heels
2021-22 stats (at Northwestern): 14.6 ppg, 6.5 rpg and 2.7 apg
One of the top transfers this offseason, Nance is a 6’11 forward that can move fluidly to play and guard both frontcourt positions. He shot 46% from three-point range and is a talented scorer, while underrated in the rebounding and passing categories. He’ll likely not put up the same numbers with the Tar Heels as he did last year but his impact will be felt in March.
38. Isiaih Mosley – Missouri Tigers
2021-22 stats (at Missouri State): 20.4 ppg, 6.2 rpg and 2.3 apg
The only NCAA Basketball player to score more than 15 ppg while shooting 50-40-90 splits, Mosley is an efficient scoring star from the Missouri Valley. The 6’5 guard had seven games of at least 30 points last season, including a career-high 43 points versus Northern Iowa. Few teams were able to slow Mosley down but now he goes to arguably the toughest conference in the SEC, where the tests will be plenty.
37. Jayden Gardner – Virginia Cavaliers
2021-22 stats: 15.3 ppg and 6.4 rpg
There were plenty of issues with the Cavaliers last season but Gardner wasn’t one of them, leading the team in both scoring and rebounding. He had 13 games of at least 17 points, including 29 versus Fairleigh Dickinson. The former ECU star was a consistent offensive force inside and should continue that in his 5th season.
36. DaRon Holmes – Dayton Flyers
2021-22 stats: 12.8 ppg, 6.1 rpg and 2.3 bpg
The former top-50 prospect was the Atlantic 10 Rookie of the Year and made the all-defensive unit as well. Holmes’ offensive went into high gear in the last month of the season, scoring 28 points against UMass in the conference tournament and was becoming a consistent force inside. Assuming he keeps that up as a sophomore and has that breakout campaign many see coming, look for Holmes’ name to be among the top tier of NCAA Basketball centers in 2023.
35. Harrison Ingram – Stanford Cardinal
2021-22 stats: 10.5 ppg, 6.7 rpg and 3.0 apg
The former five-star prospect was the Pac-12 Rookie of the Year last season but was extremely inconsistent and inefficient from the field. He made up for it with his all-around game as a strong rebounder, as well as a 16-point and 9-assist performance versus Oregon State. Ingram is a first-round NBA Draft pick talent and a certain breakout candidate to watch. If his shooting improves, Ingram is a darkhorse Pac-12 POY candidate.
34. Kris Murray – Iowa Hawkeyes
2021-22 stats: 9.7 ppg and 4.3 rpg
His brother Keegan was the star and All-American player on last year’s team but Kris was the hyper-efficient scorer off the bench, almost averaging double figures in fewer than 18 mpg off the bench. The 6’8 forward shot 48% from the field and 39% from deep, including scoring outputs such as 23 points against Purdue and a career-high 29 points and 11 rebounds against Indiana. Murray will have a much larger role this season and while he’s not likely to replicate Keegan’s numbers, the remaining brother also has a great chance to be a top-5 player in the Big Ten.
33. Tyrese Hunter – Texas Longhorns
2021-22 stats (at Iowa State): 11.0 ppg, 3.5 rpg ad 4.9 apg
Last season’s Big 12 Rookie of the Year played a massive role in turning the Iowa State program around. He’s a quality all-around playmaker, with seven games of at least 15 points and a 13-point, 10-assist outing against Kansas State. Hunter is a good defender and can grow even more as a scorer and now will co-run a Texas offense with plenty of talent, giving him even more chances to rack up assists.
32. Max Abmas – Oral Roberts Golden Eagles
2021-22 stats: 22.8 ppg, 3.4 rpg and 3.7 apg
The 6’1 guard has been one of the best pure scorers in all of NCAA Basketball. He takes nearly 20 shots a game, nearly half from deep, and still is fairly efficient. Abmas, a former Summit League Player of the Year winner, had six games of at least 30 points last season, including 38 against both Tulsa and St. Thomas. The senior looks to take Oral Roberts back to the Big Dance, where they could make another potential Sweet 16 run.
31. Jordan Walker – UAB Blazers
2021-22 stats: 20.3 ppg, 2.8 rpg and 4.9 apg
After transferring over from Tulane, Walker exploded onto the national scene, becoming the Conference USA Player of the Year and leading them into NCAA Tournament. He had a pair of 40-point games last season, along with a 12-assist performance versus Rice. The veteran playmaker also shot 40% from deep on over eight attempts. Walker is a legit passer and talented scorer and has a case of being the best of the mid-major guards.
30. Kevin McCullar – Kansas Jayhawks
2021-22 stats (at Texas Tech): 10.1 ppg, 4.6 rpg and 3.1 apg
One of the best defenders in the country, McCullar showed that he can be an offensive playmaker as well. The 6’6 guard had a pair of 20+ point outings, as well as 14 points and 10 rebounds against Gonzaga. He also led the team in passing, while playing a big role in them being a top-5 defense in all of NCAA Basketball. He takes his skills with him to Kansas, where he’ll effectively play the same role on the perimeter.
29. Ryan Kalkbrenner – Creighton Bluejays
2021-22 stats: 13.1 ppg, 7.7 rpg and 2.6 bpg
The other Co-Big East Defensive Player of the Year, Kalkbreener had a huge sophomore breakout campaign last season. He had 22 points and 15 rebounds in a win over Georgetown, the first of 12 straight games of at least 12 points to end the season. The 7’0 center also had seven games of at least five blocks and is a true defensive anchor for the Bluejays.
28. Terrence Shannon Jr. – Illinois Fighting Illini
2021-22 stats (at Texas Tech): 10.4 ppg and 2.0 apg
The 6’6 versatile wing dealt with injuries and an inconsistent role with the Red Raiders but the two-way potential has always been there for him. Shannon had nine games of at least 15 points, including in the first five games. He’s one of the best “3 and D” players in NCAA Basketball last in the past three years and now has a big role at Illinois. It wouldn’t be a surprise if Shannon ends up leading them in scoring this year.
27. Arthur Kaluma – Creighton Bluejays
2021-22 stats: 10.4 ppg and 5.4 rpg
The highest-rated recruit in program history, Kaluma showed his potential in a bunch of games as a freshman. That includes Big East and NCAA Tournament play, with performances such as 17 points against Providence and 24 points and 12 rebounds versus Kansas, while making a season-high four three-pointers. He’s an elite athlete and has the ability to be an All-American if he continues improving from deep. On a team full of talented Creighton players, Kaluma has the chance to be the best of the group.
26. LJ Cryer – Baylor Bears
2021-22 stats: 13.5 ppg and 1.7 apg
Despite being limited to just 19 games due to injuries, Cryer remained the leading scorer for the Bears on offense. The 6’1 guard came off the bench and had five games of 20+ points, including 25 against West Virginia. He shot a blistering 47% from three-point range and likely will start this upcoming season. Cryer is one of the best scorers in NCAA Basketball when fully healthy and may be the best perimeter player on a stacked Bears roster.
25. Santiago Vescovi – Tennessee Volunteers
2021-22 stats: 13.3 ppg, 4.4 rpg and and 3.2 apg
The 6’3 guard may have flown under the radar in the Vols backcourt but Vescovi is the lead guard this time around. He’s a consistently good scorer, going for 15+ on 11 different occasions, including a season-high 23 points against Villanova. The senior is also one of the best pure shooters in the country, making 40% from deep last season.
24. Darius McGhee – Liberty Flames
2021-22 stats: 24.6 ppg, 4.5 rpg and 3.6 apg
The second-leading scorer in all of NCAA Basketball last season, McGhee averaged nearly 10 more points to become an incredible pure scorer. He shot 39% from three-point range on 11 attempts per game, which led to a number of huge performances. The two-time Atlantic Sun Player of the Year had four games of at least 39 points, including a career-high 48 on 16/25 shooting against Florida Gulf Coast. McGhee is a capable passer and defender as well, making Liberty one of the top mid-major teams in the country.
23. Nijel Pack – Miami Hurricanes
2021-22 stats (at Kansas State): 17.4 ppg, 3.8 rpg and 2.2 apg
In the best conference when it comes to overall defense, Pack still managed to be an efficiently elite scorer when he was at Kansas State. The 6’0 guard shot 46% from the field and 44% from three-point range last season, while scoring in double figures in every game in which he played more than 15 minutes. Pack also had a trio of 30+ point games, including a season-high 35 versus Kansas. He joins Isaiah Wong at Miami, making one of the best backcourts in NCAA Basketball.
22. RJ Davis – North Carolina Tar Heels
2021-22 stats: 13.5 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 3.6 apg
A bit of an unsung hero for the Tar Heels, Davis had a big sophomore campaign as a full-time starter. He had 26 points in the second game of the season against Brown and played more with the ball than expected. The 6’0 playmaker had 12 assists in a single game while having a season-high 30 points in the NCAA Tournament win over Baylor. Davis has a very high ceiling as a scorer, while also having good value as both a passer and rebounder.
21. Jamal Shead – Houston Cougars
2021-22 stats: 10.0 ppg, 3.0 rpg and 5.8 apg
One of the bigger breakout stars in the country last season, Shead kept the Cougars’ offense afloat after two top-100 guards went down with injuries. The point guard had five games of double-digit assists including 13 versus Temple. He also proved that he can be a viable scoring threat, including 39 combined points in two NCAA Tournament games against Illinois and Arizona respectively. When it comes to true point guards, Shead deserves to be near the top.
20. Jalen Wilson – Kansas Jayhawks
2021-22 stats: 11.1 ppg and 7.4 rpg
Between an early-season suspension and coming off the bench in the non-conference, Wilson’s overall stats don’t stand out. But once he got back to the starting lineup, the veteran forward went back to being an all-league player. The Jayhawk had 17 points and 13 rebounds in a game against Texas, along with four double-digit scoring games in the team’s national title run. Wilson now will be the go-to option for Kansas this year and if he comes out the gate hot, could be an All-American candidate.
19. Julian Strawther – Gonzaga Bulldogs
2021-22 stats: 11.8 ppg and 5.4 rpg
The 6’7 wing had a breakout campaign as a sophomore starter and despite playing next to the best frontcourt in the country, still managed to have some big games of his own. Strawther had 20 points and 10 rebounds in a game against Duke, with 10 others with at least 15 points. He shot 37% from deep and has the potential to be a dynamic scorer. Look for him to have his biggest role yet as a junior and rise up the NBA Draft boards.
18. Matt Bradley – San Diego State Aztecs
2021-22 stats: 16.9 ppg, 5.4 rpg and 2.7 apg
The former California star was just as good for the Aztecs, leading them in scoring while shooting over 40% from three-point range. Bradley had 12 games of at least 20 points, including 30 at Wyoming. He’s an outstanding defender, capable distributor and as the past four years have shown, can go for 20+ points on any given night.
17. Tyger Campbell – UCLA Bruins
2021-22 stats: 11.9 ppg, 2.5 rpg and 4.3 apg
The three-year starter for the Bruins has always been known as a great passer but Campbell was able to show that he was a legit scoring threat as well. He had 13 games of at least 14 points, including in the final five games of the season. The point guard also shot over 40% from three-point range and simply is one of the top operators of an offense in NCAA Basketball.
16. Caleb Love – North Carolina Tar Heels
2021-22 stats: 15.9 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 3.6 apg
What Love may lack in terms of shooting efficiency, Love more than makes up for it in scoring potency. He had 13 games of at least 20 points, including 28 and 30 points in NCAA Tournament wins over UCLA and Duke. He certainly takes a lot of shots but showed to be incredibly clutch in March.
15. Isaiah Wong – Miami Hurricanes
2021-22 stats: 15.3 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 2.0 apg
The lone returning from the star trio that took Miami to the Elite 8, Wong has been one of the most consistent high-level scorers in NCAA Basketball. Last season, the 6’3 scoring guard went for 20+ points on 10 different occasions, including 27 points and seven rebounds in a game against Boston College. Wong can create his offense anywhere on the court and will have the ball in his hands even more, co-running the offense next to Nijel Pack.
14. Adama Sanogo – UConn Huskies
2021-22 stats: 14.8 ppg, 8.8 rpg and 1.9 bpg
The 6’10 center had his expected sophomore breakout campaign, leading the Huskies in both scoring and rebounding. That includes a 30-point game against Auburn, along with six games of at least 15 rebounds. His interior defense also improved and now instead of sharing the frontcourt with another forward, will likely be the only big on the court with a lot of four-guard offenses. Look for Sanogo’s game to expand even more with all this room.
13. Colin Castleton – Florida Gators
2021-22 stats: 16.2 ppg, 9.0 rpg and 2.2 bpg
The 6’11 center has his best season yet in his fourth year, scoring at least nine points in every game, including a 29-point effort versus Arkansas. Castleton is one of the best post-scorers in the country and also is a quality interior defender, blocking at least four shots on five different occasions. The 5th-year senior will have more shooting surrounding him this season, giving him even more space to score inside.
12. Azuolas Tubelis – Arizona Wildcats
2021-22 stats: 13.9 ppg, 6.2 rpg and 2.3 apg
Despite having Pac-12 Player of the Year Bennedict Mathurin and other high-usage players, the 6’11 forward still managed to have a big role himself. Tubelis had seven games of at least 20 points, including 32 versus Utah. He’s also a quality rebounder and underrated passer and will have the chance to showcase his skills, now that he’s the clear go-to option on offense this year at Arizona.
11. Mike Miles – TCU Horned Frogs
2021-22 stats: 15.4 ppg, 3.5 rpg and 3.8 apg
The star guard of TCU is one of the most prolific scorers in the country, coming off a breakout campaign as a sophomore. Miles went for 20+ points eight different times, including 28 points versus Utah, as well as 26 against both Baylor and Texas Tech. Regardless of how good an opposing defense is, the talented playmaker can score on anyone. Add his good passing ability and strong defense, Miles is one of the best all-around players in the county.
10. Jamie Jaquez – UCLA Bruins
2021-22 stats: 13.9 ppg, 5.7 rpg and 2.3 apg
The definition of an “all-around” player, Jaquez is a multiple-time All-Pac 12 defender, while also capable of going for 20+ points. Jaquez was inconsistent with his scoring output at times but ended last season with 12 straight double-digit scoring games, including 30 points and nine rebounds versus Washington. With leading scorer Johnny Juzang gone, look for Jaquez to be a clear top offensive option on a nightly basis.
9. Adam Flagler – Baylor Bears
2021-22 stats: 13.8 ppg, 2.2 rpg and 3.0 apg
Flagler was an effective 6th Man on the title-winning Bears sqaud in 2021 and elevated into the team’s best player last season. He’s a 40% shooter from deep that also had 15+ points 11 times, including 29 points in overtime against Oklahoma State. He can play point guard as well, noted by his 21 points and 11-assist performance against Northwestern State. In a loaded backcourt, look for Flagler to separate himself as the lead guard.
8. Zach Edey – Purdue Boilermakers
2021-22 stats: 14.4 ppg and 7.7 rpg
The 7’4 big played fewer than 20 mpg at center last season, sharing the position with Trevion Williams. That won’t be the case this time around, with Edey now able to play up to 30 mpg. He’ll be able to put up some gaudy stats if last season is any indication. He went for 20+ points on nine different occasions, including 24 points and 10 rebounds versus Wisconsin and 25 points in just 22 minutes against Michigan State. In a Big Ten Conference filled with quality bigs, look for Edey to put up the most production this season.
7. Trayce Jackson-Davis – Indiana Hoosiers
2021-22 stats: 18.3 ppg, 8.1 rpg and 2.3 bpg
The offensive capabilities of Jackson-Davis have never been a question. He’s one of the best post scorers in NCAA Basketball, going for 20+ points 12 different times, including 31 points and 10 rebounds versus Iowa, as well as a career-high 43 points against Marshall. Where he grew the most was on defense, making the all-defensive team in the Big Ten and becoming a real shot-blocking threat, including seven in one game against Northern Illinois. Jackson-Davis has become one of the top two-way forwards in the country, with a high offensive ceiling.
6. Kendric Davis – Memphis Tigers
2021-22 stats (at SMU): 19.4 ppg, 3.8 rpg and 4.4 apg
Davis won the AAC Player of the Year award at SMU last year and has been one of the best offensive players in the country. He had at least 25 points eight different times, including 33 points against New Mexico and 30 versus Washington State in the NIT. He’s also a quality passer, with six games of at least seven assists. Davis was even better at it the year prior, ranking towards the top of the country at 7.6 apg. He joins a more talented Memphis squad and becomes its new lead guard, on a bigger national stage.
5. Hunter Dickinson – Michigan Wolverines
2021-22 stats: 18.6 ppg, 8.6 rpg and 2.3 apg
The All-American center carried an underachieving Michigan squad to yet another Sweet 16 appearance. He was in double figures in 29 of 32 games, with eight of them at least 25 points. Dickinson went for 33 points and nine rebounds versus Michigan State, along with 27 points and 11 rebounds in the NCAA Tournament win over Tennessee. The 7’0 big man is consistently one of the great post-scorers in NCAA Basketball, with an underrated ability to defend and facilitate. There are lots of talented bigs in the sport but few have a postseason resume as Dickinson does.
4. Marcus Sasser – Houston Cougars
2021-22 stats: 17.7 ppg, 2.8 rpg and 2.6 apg
The 6’1 guard was set to have an All-American season but was limited to just 12 games before a season-ending injury ended his year. Still. Sasser put up huge numbers, including going for 25+ points in 25% of his games last season, on 44% shooting from deep. He was a past All-AAC guard and clearly capable of being an elite scorer and if he does last season’s result over a full year, will be an easy All-American selection.
3. Armando Bacot – North Carolina Tar Heels
2021-22 stats: 16.3 ppg, 13.1 rpg and 1.7 bpg
The big man made history in the past NCAA Tournament, becoming the first player to produce a double-double in all six games. Bacot’s production in the regular season was a sign that he was capable of that, including 13 total of at least 15 boards. There were a couple of 22-rebound efforts, with one of them accompanied by 29 points versus Virginia. Bacot’s relentless energy allows him to produce incredible stats and his postseason performances solidified him as one of the best in NCAA Basketball.
2. Drew Timme – Gonzaga Bulldogs
2021-22 stats: 18.4 ppg, 6.8 rpg and 2.8 apg
The two-time All-American and reigning WCC Player of the Year has seven games of 22+ points out of nine NCAA Tournament games. Timme has been just as good in the regular season, including a career-high 37 points versus Texas last season, as well as 25 points and 14 rebounds in the comeback win over Memphis in the Round of 32. He’s a quality passer out of the post and shoots nearly 60% from the field overall, regardless of the level of competition. The most skilled big in NCAA Basketball, Timme’s return instantly makes Gonzaga a national title contender once again.
1. Oscar Tshiebwe – Kentucky Wildcats
2021-22 stats: 17.4 ppg, 15.2 rpg and 1.6 bpg
Tshiebwe was the nation’s leading rebounder last season, including five games of at least 20. One of them was 28 boards in a win over Western Kentucky. The Kentucky star and SEC Player of the Year also was an offensive force, scoring 20+ points on 11 occasions, including going for 30 points three times. One of them was against St. Peter’s in the NCAA Tournament. At times he was simply unstoppable and to produce those numbers in the SEC was an impressive feat.
It’s been over a decade since the NCAA Basketball Player of the Year has returned for another season, so who to pick for the No. 1 spot was easy. And if Tshiebwe can put up similar numbers for the Wildcats this upcoming season, it’ll be an easy pick to give the big man the award again.