NCAA Basketball: Best player from each of the 50 states for 2022-23
By Joey Loose
New Mexico – Jamal Mashburn Jr. (New Mexico)
Mashburn followed Richard Pitino to New Mexico last season and was vital for the Lobos, averaging 18.2 points a game to lead the team. The junior guard should have another explosive impact on the offense, following a season where he was effective all over the court, including a 34% clip from long range. We’ll see if the Lobos can take a step forward in the MWC this season; Mashburn’s success would go a long way towards that happening.
New York – Posh Alexander (St. John’s)
Alexander’s first two seasons were great, winning Big East Rookie and Defensive Player of the Year as a freshman before a solid offensive campaign last season. He averaged 13.8 points and 5.5 assists a game last season and should play an even more important role on an upstart Red Storm roster. He’s just your average strong, feisty athlete who can defend at a high level and make shots while doing everything you want from him. We’ll see how he handles year three, now joined in the backcourt by Andre Curbelo.
North Carolina – Armando Bacot (North Carolina)
One of the nation’s best rebounders, Bacot did more than that last season, averaging 16.3 points and 13.1 rebounds in leading the Tar Heels to a surprise trip to the national title game. Bacot has returned for his senior season and will be one of the nation’s best players. He’s a dominant force down low and spearheads a team filled with experience and talent, but Bacot is the crown jewel in a state full of great players.
North Dakota – Grant Nelson (North Dakota State)
The best piece back from last year’s Bison’s team, Nelson averaged 11.6 points and 4.9 rebounds a game as a sophomore and is the only returning starter in the lineup for North Dakota State. Nelson has shown his sturdiness on offense and led the Summit League in blocks last season. He’ll have even more opportunities to showcase himself on both sides of the ball; this is a future All-Summit League player.
Ohio – DaRon Holmes II (Dayton)
Holmes made quite the impact as a freshman at Dayton last year, winning A-10 Rookie of the Year and making his way onto the All-Defense team as well. He averaged 12.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game and is a major reason why big things are expected of the Flyers. Holmes lead the A-10 in field goal percentage, making 66% of his field goals last season, and with another step forward as a sophomore could become a household name.