ACC Basketball: Top 10 returning players to watch for 2024-25 season

6. Markus Burton - Notre Dame Fighting Irish

2023-24 Averages: 17.5 PTS, 3.3 REB, 4.3 AST

We do not often see a freshman dominate in the ACC on a team not named Duke or North Carolina. Markus Burton did just that for a Notre Dame team that struggled for most of the season with the freshman leading the team in both points and assists.

Recognized as the 2024 ACC Rookie of the Year, Burton is the kind of player you build a team around with how well he involves others while still staying aggressive for his own shot. Burton showed up against great competition as well, scoring 20 points in an early season game against Marquette and 18 against Duke matching up against other talented guards.

5. Matthew Cleveland - Miami Hurricanes

2023-24 Averages: 13.7 PTS, 6.1 REB, 1.7 AST

Cleveland's size and scoring ability from the wing projected him to be a second-round pick had he declared for the draft. Instead, he chose to come back for his senior season alongside fellow senior Nijel Pack which should bring a sigh of relief to fans in Coral Gables.

Cleveland has an NBA game with how well he breaks down opposing defenders in one-on-one situations along with his creativity finishing in the lane. Given the losses Miami's roster suffered at the guard position, Cleveland may see an even bigger offensive role coming into this season.