Our focus at Hoops Rumors is always on the NBA, but the rest of the basketball world will be concentrating on the college game for the next few weeks. Casual fans of the NCAA may be getting their first look at some of the top players who have been filling up mock drafts throughout the winter.
It appears that for the third straight season, the No. 1 pick won’t be in the tournament. Scouts say Slovenian star Luka Doncic has an NBA-ready game, and he may be the safest choice in June. However, there will be plenty of lottery picks on display when the tourney kicks off this week.
Here are a few names to consider when filling out your brackets:
- DeAndre Ayton, Arizona — The seven-footer is second behind Doncic in the latest mock draft compiled by Jonathan Givony of ESPN. Ayton brings a major presence on both ends of the court and is averaging 19.9 points, 11.3 rebounds and 1.9 blocks per game. The Wildcats are in the Pac 12 finals tonight and appear to be headed for a top four seed.
- Marvin Bagley III, Duke — Bagley is another imposing inside presence who may be able to succeed at center or power forward in the NBA. He is averaging 21.1 points and 11.5 rebounds per night while shooting better than 60% from the field for a Blue Devils team that will also be among the top seeds.
- Mo Bamba, Texas — This year’s draft is rich in big men, and Bamba may be the most imposing of them all, at least on defense. He averaged 3.7 blocks per game this year to go with 12.9 points and 10.4 rebounds. The Longhorns were a second-round loser in the Big 12 tournament, but appear to be safe for an NCAA bid.
- Jaren Jackson, Michigan State — Another intimidating big man, Jackson blocked 3.2 shots per game while scoring 11.3 points and pulling down 5.8 rebounds. He shoots nearly 40% from 3-point range, a quality that teams are looking for in a modern center.
- Michael Porter Jr., Missouri — Porter was one of the top recruits in the nation last summer and may have had a shot at being the top pick if not for a back injury that wiped out nearly his entire season. He returned for the SEC Tournament and could have an even greater presence once the NCAAs begin.
- The nation’s top two point guards could both have nervous waits tomorrow as the field of 68 is unveiled. Collin Sexton‘s Alabama team may have secured a late bid by beating Auburn on Friday, while Trae Young‘s Oklahoma team is on the bubble after a second-half slump.
We want to get your input. Which players are you most looking forward to watching under the March Madness spotlight? Jump into the comments section below and give us your feedback.