NCAA Basketball: Ranking the 20 point guards for 2022-23 Bob Cousy Award

16. Wendell Green – Auburn Tigers

2021-22 stats: 12.0 ppg and 5.1 apg

Although he came off the bench, Green was the leading passer for the Tigers last season. He had 11 games of at least seven assists, including 11 in a matchup against Georgia. The 5’11 guard also had eight games of at least 19 points and while Green certainly was inefficient as a shooter, he can explode for a big outing on any given night.

Without star freshman Jabari Smith around, Green will have a bigger role in the offense and his stats will take a leap. However, if Auburn isn’t as good as last year and his efficiency remains an issue, the junior ball-handler will not be a contender.

15. Will Richardson – Oregon Ducks

2021-22 stats: 14.1 ppg and 3.6 apg

The veteran guard has his best season yet as a senior for Oregon, leading the team in both scoring and passing. Richardson became a much better and more consistent scorer, including seven games of at least 20 points. He was arguably the lone brightspot for the Ducks overall and has established himself as a clear lead guard.

The question will be whether or not the surrounding games will take the ball too much. South Carolina transfer Jermaine Couisnard and former Colorado guard Keeshawn Barthélémy were high-usage guys at previous stops, while five-star freshman center Kel’el Ware could end up being the best player for Oregon this year. The team may end up being better but it could come at a cost of Richardson’s stats.