10. Eric Dixon – Villanova
Dixon originally arrived on Villanova’s campus back in 2019, redshirting his first year before becoming a valuable frontcourt presence for the Wildcats. He was a full-time starter at the back end the last two seasons and is coming off by far his best campaign. Dixon took a big step forward last year, averaging 15.4 points and 6.6 rebounds per game, albeit in a bit of a stale season for the Wildcats.
Things should be better for second-year head coach Kyle Neptune’s program and there’ll certainly be more help around Dixon this year. Not only does Dixon have experience and strength as a big in this league, but he’s also shown the ability to step outside and hit shots, knocking down just under 40% of the 3-pointers in his career. He’s developed into a dominant presence in the paint and can cause mayhem all over the floor for the Wildcats, who certainly look to be in line for a bounce back year.
9. Baylor Scheierman – Creighton
After emerging as one of the nation’s best shooters at South Dakota State, Scheierman joined the party at Creighton in the offseason last year and is now back for a fifth and final collegiate campaign. He was actually Summit League Player of the Year after making 47% of his 3-pointers as a junior, though his shooting numbers took a step back as a senior with the Bluejays. Still, averaging 12.8 points and 8.3 rebounds on an Elite Eight team is a great season.
Now Creighton gets a bonus season out of a player that some have described as one of the nation’s best pure shooters. He made just 36% from long range after two straight hot shooting years with the Jackrabbits, and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Scheierman return to form a little bit from outside the arc. Regardless, he’s going to make an impact on the court for the Bluejays, especially now with his experience, leadership, and ability on the boards.