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NCAA Basketball: Top 25 breakout sophomores to watch for 2022-23 season

By Tristan Freeman

Dec 28, 2021; Spokane, Washington, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs guard Nolan Hickman (11) shoots the ball against the North Alabama Lion's in the second half at McCarthey Athletic Center. Gonzaag won 93-63. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 28, 2021; Spokane, Washington, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs guard Nolan Hickman (11) shoots the ball against the North Alabama Lion's in the second half at McCarthey Athletic Center. Gonzaag won 93-63. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports /
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Virginia Tech Hokies guard Sean Pedulla Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Virginia Tech Hokies guard Sean Pedulla Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

22. Fousseyni Traore – BYU Cougars

2021-22 stats: 9.5 ppg and 8.5 rpg

After two starting bigs went down with injuries, the 6’7 forward proved to be one of the top impact newcomers in the WCC and made the all-freshmen team. Traore went for double-digit rebounds 11 times, including 19 against Pepperdine. Plus, his offense became much more consistent, going for double figures in seven of the final nine games.

Traore is the clear starting big for BYU this season and with the backcourt duo of Alex Barcello and Te’Jon Lucas gone, will have to take more of the offensive load this season. With his relentless energy that creates opportunities itself, it wouldn’t be a surprise if he averages nearly a double-double on the season.

21. Sean Pedulla – Virginia Tech Hokies

2021-22 stats: 5.4 ppg and 1.3 apg

The former three-star prospect was effective in his role as the backup ball-handler for the Hokies last season. Pedulla’s minutes were more consistent in the second half of the year, including three games of at least 17 points. One included a 20-point effort against Florida State on 6/7 shooting from three-point range.

With Storm Murphy gone, Pedulla will fill in as the likely starting point guard. His shooting (45% from deep) and offensively potential are clear but how effective he is as a distributor and table-setter will determine how viable Virginia Tech is as a team.

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