NCAA Basketball: 2023 Summit League Tournament preview, predictions

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Summit League North Dakota State Bison forward Grant Nelson (4) drives against South Dakota State Jackrabbits guard Alex Arians Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports /

Players to Watch

If you’re looking for a mid-major conference with tremendous guard play, you won’t find a ton better than the Summit League. There are high-scoring, playmaking guards dotting rosters throughout the conference, all who should provide plenty of fireworks this March.

Max Abmas, Oral Roberts

Max Abmas is hoping to end his legendary Oral Roberts career with another NCAA Tournament run. The senior has been one of the best mid-major players in recent memory, wrapping up his third straight season averaging at least 22 PPG. He’s done so at a particularly efficient rate in 2022-23, shooting 45% from the field and 91% from the free-throw line, and has limited turnovers. He’s appointment television, and his play may determine whether the Golden Eagles are able to stay flawless in the league.

Trenton Massner, Western Illinois

If not for Abmas, Trenton Massner would be the clear Player of the Year favorite in the conference. He finished just behind Abmas in the Summit League’s scoring, at 19.3 PPG, and has carried the Leatherneck offense at countless points on the season, including setting a new program record with 46 points. Just as impressive is his passing ability; Massner’s court vision and feel for the game is something you simply don’t see at this level very often.

Grant Nelson, North Dakota State

Abmas and Massner are reasons to tune in on their own, but if you need extra motivation to tune into the action in Sioux Falls, Grant Nelson should do it. The NDSU star has become somewhat of a cult hero for his highlight-reel tape, but the junior offers so much more. Despite being 6’11”, Nelson handles the ball like a veteran guard, and he can really stroke it. He’s fresh off a performance in which he dropped 23 points and hit four three-pointers in a win over Western Illinois.

Connor Vanover, Oral Roberts

It’s hard to miss Connor Vanover – quite literally. The 7’5″ former Arkansas transfer has been a much-needed addition to the Golden Eagle frontcourt. He’s having the best year of his career offensively, but it’s his defense that has been the real game-changer for Oral Roberts in 2022-23. Vanover not only blocks over three shots per game, he impacts every attempt at the rim. No big in the Summit can counter Vanover, but staying out of foul trouble will be key.