Top 10 players: Atlantic 10/ CUSA
- Joe Jackson PG Memphis- 11.0pts. 3.9ast. Jackson’s been a bit inconsistent during his firsts two seasons, but he’s explosive and talented. I expect him to improve his shooting and decision making leading to a monster season.
- DeAndre Kane SG Marshall- 16.5pts. 5.4reb. Kane has been a stat machine the last two years and will likely improve on them this season. He’s dangerous on the break and in the half court; there’s no real weakness in his game.
- Adonis Thomas SF Memphis- 8.8pts. 3.2reb. Thomas has started out slow in his college career, but in this his sophomore year he’ll
untap his unlimited potential. A former top 15 recruit and likely first round draft pick once he’s ready. - Juvonte Reddic PF VCU- 10.3pts. 6.7reb. Reddic has been a beast for this surprise team. His numbers, on paper, aren’t overly impressive but his overall impact on a game is undeniable. If VCU is going to make the tournament again they’ll need him on the boards and scoring in the paint.
- Rotnei Clarke PG Butler- Transfer/Arkansas He’s probably wishing he stayed in Arkansas with all the talent gathering there, but he will be Butler’s best player and fits coach Brad Stevens’ system perfectly.
- Keith Clanton PF Central Florida- 14.5pts. 8.1reb. The monster numbers and physical style of Clanton have gone relatively unnoticed so far, but if he improves into a 15-10 guy this season NBA scouts might start paying attention.
- Arsalan Kazemi SF Rice- 12.6pts. 10.1reb. Kazemi is one of the best in school history, and could play his way into the NBA with a good season. The Iranian will hope his improved play will lead to more wins for Rice this year. Transferred to Oregon.
- Chazz Williams PG Massachusetts- 16.9pts. 6.2ast. Williams transferred from Hofstra last year and was a revelation for UMass. This year he projects as a perfect point guard and leader in coach Kellogg’s fast paced, up-tempo offense.
- Khalif Wyatt SG Temple- 17.1pts. 3.3ast. Wyaff showed he’s for real with a 22 point effort against Duke last year. If he can handle the loss of Ramone Moore, and accept a lead role, it could be a big year for both him and Temple.
- Isaiah Sykes SG Central Florida- 12.3pts. 6.4reb. Sykes chose CF over Michigan and Tennessee for instant playing time and it’s been a good decision so far. Sykes is a natural slasher that can get to the basket and score points in bunches. If he can develop a more consistent jump shot he may have an NBA future.
Top 5 freshmen
- Shaq Goodwin SF Memphis- The McDonald’s All-American will start at power forward this year. His versatility and athleticism will certainly be welcomed.
- Darnell House SG Houston- This was a major coup for the Houston coaching staff. He’s a consensus top 30 player in the class and could be a one and done.
- Jordan Burgess SG VCU- Burgess enters college as his brother Bradford leaves. He’s a top 100 recruit with a nice shooting touch.
- Melvin Johnson SG VCU- Johnson, also a top 100 recruit, will give VCU a nice 1-2 punch in the backcourt for the next four years.
- Danrad Knowles PF Houston- Another top 75 recruit gives Houston a very good head start when they join the Big East next year.