Big East Basketball: Ranking of top 25 players entering 2023-24 season

18. Tristen Newton – Connecticut

It’s hard not to be impressed when a national championship-winning team, especially in this era, can bring back their veteran point guard for a fifth and final season of college ball. Newton originally began his career at East Carolina and even averaged 17 points a game as a junior before transferring last year, joining the Huskies for a historic season. He put up 10.1 points, 4.7 assists, and 4.5 rebounds in his first year at Connecticut.

Newton is an elite free throw shooter and demonstrated his talents both as a scorer and game manager for a Huskies team filled with talent. He had some inconsistent play last year but shook it off to become a major part of that title run and looks to have an even better final year with the Huskies. Expect even more production, especially with new faces joining him in Connecticut’s backcourt this year.

17. Alex Karaban – Connecticut

After redshirting his first season, Karaban turned in a freshman season last year that has the Huskies excited for his potential. The talented young forward averaged 9.3 points and 4.5 rebounds per game as a freshman, starting nearly every game as Connecticut advanced to and won the national championship. That included a pair of double-figure scoring efforts along that Tournament journey.

Back for a second season on the court, Karaban continues to develop and should be even better next season. He’s already demonstrated his ability to play all over the court, hitting 40% of his 3-pointers, and should continue to be a monster in the paint well. Karaban spent his freshman season making strides on the defensive end and could become a top-level defender by the time his career is up.