Welcome to an exciting season of men’s college basketball, where talent abounds from every corner, both old and new. With NIL deals enticing more All-American players to return and a stellar 2024 high school class alongside remarkable international newcomers, the sport is brimming with top-tier performers. The key question everyone is asking is: who’s at the top of the pack this season?
1/2. The Davis vs. Flagg Debate
The Davis vs. Flagg debate has ignited passionate discussions among college basketball enthusiasts. It’s a classic showdown between the tried-and-true and the excitingly unproven.
Davis, the seasoned veteran from North Carolina, brings a wealth of experience and a track record that few can match. With his impressive collegiate resume, including being a first-team All-American, Davis has demonstrated his ability to shine on the national stage. His leadership in taking the Tar Heels to a national title game and a 1-seed is a testament to his impact on the court. His potential run at becoming UNC’s all-time leading scorer highlights his scoring prowess, especially with the offensive freedoms afforded by Bacot’s absence.
On the flip side, Flagg, the sensational Duke freshman, is a name that’s fast becoming synonymous with potential. Recognized by none other than LeBron James as a “big-time player,” Flagg’s pre-Olympic showcase already hints at his future international impact. His collegiate debut numbers, a testament to his versatility, showcased his ability to contribute across the board.
Flagg’s reclassification to join the 2024 college class, paired with his projection as the No. 1 draft pick, paints him as a once-in-a-generation prospect. Whether he can emulate a meteoric rise akin to Carmelo Anthony remains to be seen, but his ceiling might just be the tallest in all of college basketball.
The season promises to reveal whether it’s Davis’s steady dominance or Flagg’s explosive potential that ultimately crowns them as the top player. They both have good NCAAB odds by FanDuel, both in terms of draft position and All-American recognition, but only one can be crowned the top performer.
3. Mark Sears
Mark Sears emerged as a standout for the Alabama Crimson Tide, elevating his performance significantly last season. As a senior guard, he doubled his scoring output to 21.5 points per game, with an impressive 43.6% shooting from beyond the arc. His postseason heroics further solidified his reputation, highlighted by commanding performances against Charleston and Grand Canyon, where he demonstrated his prowess and versatility on the national stage.
4. Hunter Dickinson
Hunter Dickinson, the formidable 7-foot senior for the Kansas Jayhawks, returns with high hopes. Having shot 57% inside the arc last year, he strives to boost his 3-point accuracy from a disappointing 35% to his impressive 2022-23 form.
5. Johni Broome
As a senior forward for the Auburn Tigers, Johni Broome impressively transitioned into a dual threat by enhancing his perimeter shooting. Last season, he attempted 79 three-pointers, hitting them at 35% while consistently delivering strong defensive stats and solid scoring averages.
6. Caleb Love
Caleb Love’s transition shooting prowess is a key asset for the Arizona Wildcats in their Big 12 debut. Last season, his 54% shooting efficiency in transition made him a formidable offensive weapon, complementing his overall 18.0 PPG and strong playmaking abilities.
7. Wade Taylor IV
Wade Taylor IV, a senior guard for the Texas A&M Aggies, is known for his electrifying offensive play. Although his efficiency may vary, he’s delivered explosive performances, like his standout 41-point game against Arkansas. Taylor seeks his third consecutive first-team All-SEC selection.
8. Ryan Kalkbrenner
Ryan Kalkbrenner, Creighton Bluejays’ senior center, stands poised to make history. Averaging 17.3 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 3.1 blocks per game last season, his defensive prowess rivals league legends. A consistent force, Kalkbrenner might just redefine “two-way player” in college hoops.
9. Airious “Ace” Bailey
Airious “Ace” Bailey, Rutgers’ exciting freshman guard, is causing quite the buzz. While Cooper Flagg might be getting much attention, Bailey’s impressive 6-10 frame and shot-creating ability make him an NBA draft contender, showcasing highlight-reel moments regularly.
10. Alex Karaban
Returning as a junior forward for the UConn Huskies, Alex Karaban aims to lead his team to another historic title. Last season’s experience alongside top talent honed his skills, and now he’s ready to elevate his game and the Huskies’ legacy further.
