As March Madness draws closer, basketball fans eagerly anticipate the performances of standout players on the grand stage of college basketball. Every year, new stars emerge and captivate audiences with their skill and passion for the game. One such player who captured the attention of the nation last year was Jack Gohlke, who rose to prominence with a stellar performance that helped Oakland secure an upset victory over Kentucky.
While the allure of underdog stories is undeniable, it is often the established stars of the game who leave a lasting impact on the NCAA Tournament. These players, who have already made a name for themselves, are poised to showcase their talent and compete at the highest level. So, who are these players, and who stands out as the best of the best?
As we approach March Madness, here are the top 10 players in men’s college basketball who are primed to make a significant impact:
10. LJ Cryer, Houston
- 2024-25 stats: 15.0 PPG, 2.2 RPG, 1.9 APG, 41.9 FG%, 42 3P%
- Insight: Cryer’s shooting prowess and athleticism make him a standout player in the Big 12, with the potential to shine as the conference’s Player of the Year.
9. Hunter Dickinson, Kansas
- 2024-25 stats: 16.9 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 2.0 APG, 53.1 FG%, 20.9 3P%
- Insight: Dickinson’s consistency and dominance in the paint make him a force to be reckoned with, despite Kansas’s recent struggles against top-tier opponents.
8. Bennett Stirtz, Drake
- 2024-25 stats: 18.9 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 5.9 APG, 49.7 FG%, 38.1 3P%
- Insight: Stirtz’s scoring ability and leadership have propelled Drake to new heights, earning him recognition as a top player in college basketball.
7. Chaz Lanier, Tennessee
- 2024-25 stats: 17.8 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 1.0 APG, 42.5 FG%, 40.7 3P%
- Insight: Lanier’s scoring outbursts and impact on Tennessee’s success highlight his ability to take over games and lead his team to victory.
6. PJ Haggerty, Memphis
- 2024-25 stats: 21.3 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 3.7 APG, 49.1 FG%, 40.9 3P%
- Insight: Haggerty’s scoring prowess and free-throw proficiency have cemented his place as a key player for Memphis, with eyes set on a high seed in the NCAA Tournament.
5. Mark Sears, Alabama
- 2024-25 stats: 19.1 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 5.0 APG, 41.2 FG%, 36.1 3P%
- Insight: Sears’s ability to lead Alabama’s offense and keep games competitive showcases his talent as a versatile playmaker and scorer.
4. Braden Smith, Purdue
- 2024-25 stats: 16.3 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 8.7 APG, 44.6 FG%, 40.6 3P%
- Insight: Smith’s all-around excellence in scoring, passing, and defense makes him a standout guard in the Big Ten, capable of taking over games when needed.
3. Kameron Jones, Marquette
- 2024-25 stats: 18.4 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 6.2 APG, 48.8 FG%, 31.5 3P%
- Insight: Jones’s smooth transition to the guard position and increased playmaking responsibilities have solidified his role as a leading scorer for Marquette.
2. Johni Broome, Auburn
- 2024-25 stats: 18.0 PPG, 10.7 RPG, 3.3 APG, 50.4 FG%, 28.6 3P%
- Insight: Broome’s impressive rebounding and shot-blocking abilities showcase his impact on both ends of the floor, making him a key player for Auburn.
1. Cooper Flagg, Duke
- 2024-25 stats: 19.6 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 4.2 APG, 49.7 FG%, 38.2 3P%
- Insight: Flagg’s all-around excellence, NBA-ready skills, and improved three-point shooting elevate him to the top spot among college basketball’s elite players.
As the excitement builds for March Madness, these players are set to lead their teams on a thrilling journey through the tournament, showcasing their talents and determination on the national stage. Stay tuned for an unforgettable display of skill, passion, and basketball prowess as the quest for the championship unfolds.