Busting Brackets
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MAAC Basketball: Ranking of 25 best players from last decade (2013-23)

By Joey Loose

Nov 6, 2018; Providence, RI, USA; Siena Saints guard Jalen Pickett (22) drives down the lane with Providence Friars center Nate Watson (0) defending during the second half at Dunkin Donuts Center. Mandatory Credit: Gregory J. Fisher-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 6, 2018; Providence, RI, USA; Siena Saints guard Jalen Pickett (22) drives down the lane with Providence Friars center Nate Watson (0) defending during the second half at Dunkin Donuts Center. Mandatory Credit: Gregory J. Fisher-USA TODAY Sports /
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MAAC Basketball Iona Gaels guard Walter Clayton Jr. David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
MAAC Basketball Iona Gaels guard Walter Clayton Jr. David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports /

7. Walter Clayton Jr.

A 6’2 combo guard from Lake Wales, Florida, Clayton was a big addition for Rick Pitino and Iona and spent these last two seasons starring for the Gaels. Clayton played a limited role in his freshman year but really stepped up and developed into a star at Iona during this past college basketball season.

After averaging just 7.3 points a game as a freshman, Clayton’s production would significantly increase in a season that was great for both him and the Gales. That sophomore year saw him average 16.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game as a full-time starter in the backcourt. He had a career-high 12 rebounds in an early season win over Saint Louis and would average 20 points a game as Iona won the MAAC Tournament, advancing to the 2023 NCAA Tournament.

For that sophomore jump, Clayton was named the MAAC Player of the Year for leading Iona to a 27-win season that included regular season and conference tournament titles. Not only was he one of the league’s top scorers but he actually led the entire nation in free throw shooting. He was the MAAC’s best offensive player and he’ll be continuing his career closer to home. Clayton will play at Florida next season for his junior year.