NCAA Basketball: Best player from each of the 50 states for 2022-23
By Joey Loose
Oklahoma – Max Abmas (Oral Roberts)
The top scorer in the Summit League each of the last two years, Abmas is simply a scoring machine of vital importance at Oral Roberts. Last year he averaged 22.8 points and 3.7 assists per game, which was actually a step down from the year before, when he led the Golden Eagles to that Sweet Sixteen run. He’s back as a senior and should continue to be a walking bucket, with his veteran presence even more important in leading this offense.
Oregon – Will Richardson (Oregon)
Richardson is back for his fifth season with the Ducks and this might be his finest effort of the bunch. A Second Team All-Pac-12 honoree last year, he averaged 14.1 points and 3.6 assists per game for a Ducks team that was somewhat disappointing. Now, Richardson will yearn for consistency and efficiency, not just for his own stats but in leading these Ducks, as he’s certainly the focal point on this offense.
Pennsylvania – Cam Whitmore (Villanova)
Though he’ll miss time early due to injury, Whitmore will be the top talent for new head coach Kyle Neptune when he suits up for the Wildcats. A five-star small forward, this impressive freshman is strong and can attack from all over the court. We’re not sure how Whitmore will look at the college game, especially after this injury, but he should be a top-level rebounder, defender, and impact piece in the Big East.
Rhode Island – Jared Bynum (Providence)
Last year’s A-10 Sixth Man of the Year will play a significant role again for the Friars this year. Bynum averaged 12.2 points and 4.0 assists and will certainly be controlling this offense, installed again as the starting point guard. Providence was a surprise team last season, and they can turn some heads again if Bynum develops into a top-level point guard for the Friars.
South Carolina – PJ Hall (Clemson)
After really emerging last season, Hall returns for his junior season with the Tigers with even higher expectations. As a sophomore, he averaged 15.5 points and 5.8 rebounds a game, a major step forward as a sophomore. The former Top 60 recruit has been dealing with leg injuries this offseason and may not be available to start the year, but he’ll be Clemson’s most significant weapon upon his return.