25. John Blackwell - Wisconsin
2024-2025 stats: 15.8 pts, 5.1 reb, 2.2 ast
Blackwell will take on the go-to sorcerer role for the Badgers next season after last year when he was part of a strong one-two punch with John Tonje. The question is will the new backcourt combo of Blackwell and SDSU transfer Nick Boyd be enough to help Wisconsin get over the hump and into the Sweet 16 for the first time since 2017.
24. Emanuel Sharp - Houston
2024-2025 stats: 12.6 pts, 3.0 reb, 0.8 ast
Sharp is the next Houston Cougar who feels like he has been there forever, but that is a testament to how impactful he has been on the court. As an elite off-ball threat and knock down shooter, Sharp has been a perfect fit in the offense. Now entering his fourth season with Kelvin Sampson, he will look to bounce back from last season’s heartbreaking national championship loss and help lead Houston on another deep run in the tournament.
23. D.J. Wagner - Arkansas
2024-2025 stats: 11.2 pts, 2.7 reb, 3.6 ast
Wagner will once again run point in the Arkansas offense with his great play making ability. The former five-star recruit was one of the more consistent pieces for the Razorbacks last year and will hope to take another big step forward in his third season.
22. Joshua Jefferson - Iowa State
2024-2025 stats: 13.0 pts, 7.4 reb, 3.1 ast
The former Saint Mary’s Gael is returning for another season with TJ Otzelberger. The 6’9” 240 pound big man was extremely versatile for the Cyclones last season averaging 2.1 steals per game, blocking 26 shots, and providing consistent scoring and rebounding.
21. Jackson Shelstad - Oregon
2024-2025 stats: 13.7 pts, 2.9 reb, 2.7 ast
Speaking of the new era of college athletics, Shelstad reportedly signed a new deal to remain with Oregon for next season. The rising junior is an extremely explosive point guard who has the ability to score at all three levels on the court. He will be one of the top guards in the Big Ten as he goes on to year three in the Dana Altman system.