WAC Basketball: Ranking of 25 best players from last decade (2013-23)
By Joey Loose
1. Pascal Siakam
New Mexico State has boasted a number of great players in the last decade but Siakam tops the list. A 6’9 center originally from Cameroon, he made his way to Las Cruces back in 2014 and became a major contributor for the Aggies. He’d stay in the college game for just two years but certainly showcased his abilities in those seasons in the WAC.
As a freshman, Siakam averaged 12.8 points and 7.7 rebounds, not taking long to become a starter and focal player for the Aggies. He helped lead New Mexico State to WAC regular season and tournament titles and a trip to the 2015 NCAA Tournament.
His second year would be even better, as Siakam averaged 20.3 points and 11.6 rebounds while leading the Aggies to another regular season title. He had a 24-point, 23-rebound game against UTEP, dropped 35 points on Oral Roberts, and was clearly New Mexico State’s best player. Unfortunately, his career ended in the NIT, as the Aggies were upset in the conference tournament.
Next. Ranking al. dark
Siakam was First Team All-WAC and All-Defense in both seasons, winning Rookie of the Year and then Player of the Year in consecutive seasons. He emerged as the top rebounder and shot blocker in both of his seasons while his 690 points led the conference during his sophomore year. Not only did he help New Mexico State win a ton of games, he also was putting up some gaudy numbers in the WAC. His explosive performance as an underclassman got him drafted in the first round of the 2016 NBA Draft.