Today we focus on the Big Ten. Greg and I have combined to compile the top 30 players for the upcoming season. We even took into account the incoming freshman and transfers, along with all the returning players. In weeks to come, we'll bring you similar rankings for other conferences across the country. Enjoy!
Sports Guys Top 30
1. Cody Zeller: Indiana – 15.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 1.4
steals, 1.2 blocks
This was an easy choice that was the same for both of us. He is arguably the best player in the country and future number one draft pick. He is also the best player on the preseason best team in America. Offensively, he is unstoppable and even torched Anthony Davis twice last year. He will be bigger and stronger, so that should make him better defensively and on the glass.
This was an easy choice that was the same for both of us. He is arguably the best player in the country and future number one draft pick. He is also the best player on the preseason best team in America. Offensively, he is unstoppable and even torched Anthony Davis twice last year. He will be bigger and stronger, so that should make him better defensively and on the glass.
2. Trey Burke: Michigan – 14.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, 4.6 assists
Another easy selection that both of us agreed upon. When Burke decided to return to Michigan, he made them an instant contender, not just in the conference, but in the country. He is a complete guard that can score and get his teammates involved. We think he'll have an even bigger season in year two.
Another easy selection that both of us agreed upon. When Burke decided to return to Michigan, he made them an instant contender, not just in the conference, but in the country. He is a complete guard that can score and get his teammates involved. We think he'll have an even bigger season in year two.
3. Deshaun Thomas: Ohio State – 15.9 points, 5.4 rebounds
Deshaun was another that flirted with NBA waters before returning to Ohio State. He will be the focus of the offense this year and he's not afraid of putting up the shots either. In fact, he could easily average over 20 points a game this year. Becoming more efficient and doing more than scoring will be what he needs to get better at though.
Deshaun was another that flirted with NBA waters before returning to Ohio State. He will be the focus of the offense this year and he's not afraid of putting up the shots either. In fact, he could easily average over 20 points a game this year. Becoming more efficient and doing more than scoring will be what he needs to get better at though.
4. Aaron Craft: Ohio State – 8.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, 4.6 assists, 2.5 steals
Craft is much more than stats. He is and has been the heart and soul of the Buckeyes, and is another coach on the court. He is likely the best defending guard in the country and does a great job setting up his teammates. With Sullinger and Buford gone, I expect him to score a little more too.
5. Brandon Paul: Illinois – 14.7 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 1.4 steals
This athletic guard can light it up, as seen in his 43 point performance in his team's upset win over Ohio State last year. His problem is that he doesn't sustain that level each night. If he really wants to become NBA worthy, that needs to change this year.
6. Christian Watford: Indiana - 12.6 points, 5.8 rebounds, 1.3 assists
This Indiana hero was most known for his ESPY-winning, game-winning shot against Kentucky. But his decision to return for his senior year could help lead to banner #6 in Bloomington, which would make him a real hero. With so many weapons on Indiana's team, his shot selection will be key in 2013.
7. Keith Appling: Michigan State - 11.4 points, 2.9 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.2 steals
This is the guy that makes Michigan State go. He was a little up and down last year, but I don't think that will be an issue again. Each year he has improved, which mean All-Big Ten Honors could be in his grasp this season.
8. Tim Hardaway Jr.: Michigan – 14.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists
Similarly to Brandan Paul, Hardaway's issue isn't talent, but consistency. If he can take better shots and avoid cold streaks, he will be among the league leaders in scoring. Unlike Paul though, he won't have to force it this season so he should be able to increase his percentages.
9. Trevor Mbakwe: Minnesota - 14 points, 9.1 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 1.1 steals, 1.7 blocks
How will he bounce back from a season ending injury? He has potential to average a double double this year and lead Minnesota into the top 25. But his injury could also make him take a step back. He's a good guy so let's hope for good things.
10. Gary Harris: Michigan State – 5 star recruit, McDonald’s All-American, IN Mr. Basketball
He is the best of the incoming freshman this season. He is also stepping into a great situation at Michigan State. The Big Ten will feel his defensive presence immediately. He is an excellent athlete that will also run the floor well. If he can knock down a jumpshot consistently, he will be tough to contain. NOTE: Greg has him ranked as the third best player overall in the conference.
11. Drew Crawford: Northwestern – 16.1 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 1.2 steals
With Shurna gone, this is truly Crawford's team. Can he be the one to lead them to the NCAA Tournament. Probably not, but he will put up some great stats along the way. He is a great leader and scorer, but will need to create more shots for his teammates this year. NOTE: Andrew has him fifth overall.
12. Tim Frazier: Penn State – 18.8 points, 4.7 rebounds, 6.2 assists, 2.4 steals
This is the guy that does it all for the Nittany Lions. He needs to once again because he doesn't have much help. But don't think his stats are due to his throwing up shots. He is truly one of the toughest players to guard in the country. He also averages over six assists per game. All-Big Ten First Team isn't out of the question. NOTE: Andrew has him ranked fourth overall.
Craft is much more than stats. He is and has been the heart and soul of the Buckeyes, and is another coach on the court. He is likely the best defending guard in the country and does a great job setting up his teammates. With Sullinger and Buford gone, I expect him to score a little more too.
5. Brandon Paul: Illinois – 14.7 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 1.4 steals
This athletic guard can light it up, as seen in his 43 point performance in his team's upset win over Ohio State last year. His problem is that he doesn't sustain that level each night. If he really wants to become NBA worthy, that needs to change this year.
6. Christian Watford: Indiana - 12.6 points, 5.8 rebounds, 1.3 assists
This Indiana hero was most known for his ESPY-winning, game-winning shot against Kentucky. But his decision to return for his senior year could help lead to banner #6 in Bloomington, which would make him a real hero. With so many weapons on Indiana's team, his shot selection will be key in 2013.
7. Keith Appling: Michigan State - 11.4 points, 2.9 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.2 steals
This is the guy that makes Michigan State go. He was a little up and down last year, but I don't think that will be an issue again. Each year he has improved, which mean All-Big Ten Honors could be in his grasp this season.
8. Tim Hardaway Jr.: Michigan – 14.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists
Similarly to Brandan Paul, Hardaway's issue isn't talent, but consistency. If he can take better shots and avoid cold streaks, he will be among the league leaders in scoring. Unlike Paul though, he won't have to force it this season so he should be able to increase his percentages.
9. Trevor Mbakwe: Minnesota - 14 points, 9.1 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 1.1 steals, 1.7 blocks
How will he bounce back from a season ending injury? He has potential to average a double double this year and lead Minnesota into the top 25. But his injury could also make him take a step back. He's a good guy so let's hope for good things.
10. Gary Harris: Michigan State – 5 star recruit, McDonald’s All-American, IN Mr. Basketball
He is the best of the incoming freshman this season. He is also stepping into a great situation at Michigan State. The Big Ten will feel his defensive presence immediately. He is an excellent athlete that will also run the floor well. If he can knock down a jumpshot consistently, he will be tough to contain. NOTE: Greg has him ranked as the third best player overall in the conference.
11. Drew Crawford: Northwestern – 16.1 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 1.2 steals
With Shurna gone, this is truly Crawford's team. Can he be the one to lead them to the NCAA Tournament. Probably not, but he will put up some great stats along the way. He is a great leader and scorer, but will need to create more shots for his teammates this year. NOTE: Andrew has him fifth overall.
12. Tim Frazier: Penn State – 18.8 points, 4.7 rebounds, 6.2 assists, 2.4 steals
This is the guy that does it all for the Nittany Lions. He needs to once again because he doesn't have much help. But don't think his stats are due to his throwing up shots. He is truly one of the toughest players to guard in the country. He also averages over six assists per game. All-Big Ten First Team isn't out of the question. NOTE: Andrew has him ranked fourth overall.
13. Victor Oladipo: Indiana – 10.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2 assists, 1.4 steals
Victor brings the energy each night for the Hoosiers. Outside of Craft, he could be the best defender in the Big Ten. He may also be the best at attacking the rim. His jumpshot and lack of control holds him back. He made a huge leap from first year to second, can he make another leap?
14. Jordan Hulls: Indiana – 11.7 points, 2.5 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 1.1 steals
Hulls does two things well: he leads and he shoots. That's all he'll need to do this year too. With Yogi Ferrell sure to see some time at point guard this year, Hulls can play off the ball for the first time in his career. That's a scary thought considering he is probably the country's best shooter.
15. Jared Berggren: Wisconsin – 10.5 points, 4.9 rebounds, 1.7 blocks
With Taylor gone, Berggren is now Wisconsin's go-to guy. He is a classic Badger big that can step out and knock down a jumper. His post moves are also improving. But can he consistently create his own shot? The good news is that he is a good defender and knows how to rebound. So he will make a difference no matter what.
16. Glenn Robinson Jr.: Michigan – 5 star recruit, ESPN 18th overall
Glenn will step right into the role vacated by Douglas and Novak. He will provide another outside scoring and giving the Wolverine's a scary backcourt. It remains to be seen if he can be a star in year one, but he has the tools for it.
17. Sam Dekker: Wisconsin - Sam Dekker – 5 star, “Highest Rated Recruit by Bo Ryan”
This McDonald's snub is just what Wisconsin needed to get over Jordan Taylor. He can do a lot of things, but Bo will surely get the most out of him. What he brings to this team may keep Wisconsin up top in the Big Ten rankings.
18. Rodney Williams: Minnesota – 12.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1.3 steals, 1.4 blocks
He took over last year in the absence of Mbakwe, leading his team to some tremendous upsets and a great showing in the NIT. This year, he won't be asked to do as much, which may actually increase his production. He will continue to be a presence all over the court, but also off the court as a true leader for the Golden Gophers.
19. Yogi Ferrell: Indiana - 2 state titles, McDonalds All-American, 4 star recruit
Yogi is a player that IU fans have been waiting on for a long time. He is also a player that will fill a need this team had. Although Hulls is the better shooter, Yogi is quicker and is a better passing point guard. His defense should also be an upgrade over Hulls. Although Yogi may not start immediately, by the end of the year I am sure he will be, probably alongside his predecessor.
20. D.J. Richardson: Illinois – 11.6 points, 3 rebounds, 1.7 assists
I mentioned earlier his teammate Paul and the lack of consistency there. D.J. may be even more hot and cold than him. But he can also really light up it from deep, and put up points in a hurry. New coach Groce may be just what this guy needed to light a fire under him.
21. Aaron White: Iowa – 11.1 points, 5.7 rebounds
Massively overshadowed last year by Zeller and Burke, White had a fine freshman campaign himself. He is athletic, smart, and plays in a system that can feature him. Iowa is a sleeper this year and could make some real noise in the Big Ten. If that happens, it's due to this guy. There aren't many bigs better than he.
Victor brings the energy each night for the Hoosiers. Outside of Craft, he could be the best defender in the Big Ten. He may also be the best at attacking the rim. His jumpshot and lack of control holds him back. He made a huge leap from first year to second, can he make another leap?
14. Jordan Hulls: Indiana – 11.7 points, 2.5 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 1.1 steals
Hulls does two things well: he leads and he shoots. That's all he'll need to do this year too. With Yogi Ferrell sure to see some time at point guard this year, Hulls can play off the ball for the first time in his career. That's a scary thought considering he is probably the country's best shooter.
15. Jared Berggren: Wisconsin – 10.5 points, 4.9 rebounds, 1.7 blocks
With Taylor gone, Berggren is now Wisconsin's go-to guy. He is a classic Badger big that can step out and knock down a jumper. His post moves are also improving. But can he consistently create his own shot? The good news is that he is a good defender and knows how to rebound. So he will make a difference no matter what.
16. Glenn Robinson Jr.: Michigan – 5 star recruit, ESPN 18th overall
Glenn will step right into the role vacated by Douglas and Novak. He will provide another outside scoring and giving the Wolverine's a scary backcourt. It remains to be seen if he can be a star in year one, but he has the tools for it.
17. Sam Dekker: Wisconsin - Sam Dekker – 5 star, “Highest Rated Recruit by Bo Ryan”
This McDonald's snub is just what Wisconsin needed to get over Jordan Taylor. He can do a lot of things, but Bo will surely get the most out of him. What he brings to this team may keep Wisconsin up top in the Big Ten rankings.
18. Rodney Williams: Minnesota – 12.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1.3 steals, 1.4 blocks
He took over last year in the absence of Mbakwe, leading his team to some tremendous upsets and a great showing in the NIT. This year, he won't be asked to do as much, which may actually increase his production. He will continue to be a presence all over the court, but also off the court as a true leader for the Golden Gophers.
19. Yogi Ferrell: Indiana - 2 state titles, McDonalds All-American, 4 star recruit
Yogi is a player that IU fans have been waiting on for a long time. He is also a player that will fill a need this team had. Although Hulls is the better shooter, Yogi is quicker and is a better passing point guard. His defense should also be an upgrade over Hulls. Although Yogi may not start immediately, by the end of the year I am sure he will be, probably alongside his predecessor.
20. D.J. Richardson: Illinois – 11.6 points, 3 rebounds, 1.7 assists
I mentioned earlier his teammate Paul and the lack of consistency there. D.J. may be even more hot and cold than him. But he can also really light up it from deep, and put up points in a hurry. New coach Groce may be just what this guy needed to light a fire under him.
21. Aaron White: Iowa – 11.1 points, 5.7 rebounds
Massively overshadowed last year by Zeller and Burke, White had a fine freshman campaign himself. He is athletic, smart, and plays in a system that can feature him. Iowa is a sleeper this year and could make some real noise in the Big Ten. If that happens, it's due to this guy. There aren't many bigs better than he.
22. Roy Marble: Iowa – 11.5 points, 3.8 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.5
steals
Along with his teammate above, Marble hopes to lead Iowa back into the upper half of the Big Ten. He had a solid all-around season last year, and could easily increase those numbers across the board. Marble won't have Matt Gatens out there with him this year, so he will have to produce more himself instead.
23. Ryan Evans: Wisconsin – 11 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.6 assists
This is another Bo Ryan Wisconsin role player that will increase his production now that Taylor is gone. He is the most athletic Badger (outside of new freshman Dekker) and he will use that to cause havic in the lane. His jumper has improved steadily throughout his career too.
24. Will Sheehey: Indiana - 8.6 points, 3.1 rebounds, 1.1 assists
This guy does a lot of things well, but he doesn't necessarily do one thing great. Nonetheless, this guy is a major X-factor for the Hoosiers, similar to Darius Miller last year for Kentucky. In order to accomplish what they want this season, they will need this guy.
25. Ronnie/Terone Johnson: Purdue – 9.2 points, 3.4 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal / 4 star recruit
Most believe Purdue will hang around the middle of the Big Ten once more, despite losing Hummel, Smith, Jackson, and Barlow. If they do, it will be in large part due to these guys. They will run the show from day one and attempt to become one of the most dynamic backcourts in the conference. Terone needs to improve his shooting percentages, particularly from the free throw line. Ronnie will need to get up to speed quickly as he adapts to the college level.
Along with his teammate above, Marble hopes to lead Iowa back into the upper half of the Big Ten. He had a solid all-around season last year, and could easily increase those numbers across the board. Marble won't have Matt Gatens out there with him this year, so he will have to produce more himself instead.
23. Ryan Evans: Wisconsin – 11 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.6 assists
This is another Bo Ryan Wisconsin role player that will increase his production now that Taylor is gone. He is the most athletic Badger (outside of new freshman Dekker) and he will use that to cause havic in the lane. His jumper has improved steadily throughout his career too.
24. Will Sheehey: Indiana - 8.6 points, 3.1 rebounds, 1.1 assists
This guy does a lot of things well, but he doesn't necessarily do one thing great. Nonetheless, this guy is a major X-factor for the Hoosiers, similar to Darius Miller last year for Kentucky. In order to accomplish what they want this season, they will need this guy.
25. Ronnie/Terone Johnson: Purdue – 9.2 points, 3.4 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal / 4 star recruit
Most believe Purdue will hang around the middle of the Big Ten once more, despite losing Hummel, Smith, Jackson, and Barlow. If they do, it will be in large part due to these guys. They will run the show from day one and attempt to become one of the most dynamic backcourts in the conference. Terone needs to improve his shooting percentages, particularly from the free throw line. Ronnie will need to get up to speed quickly as he adapts to the college level.
26. Lenzelle Smith Jr.: Ohio State – 6.8 points, 4.6 rebounds, 2 assists
If you are looking for a guy to make a leap this season, this could be your guy. With other scoring options gone, Smith will have the chance to become a focal point. He and LaQuinton Ross were highly touted recruits and they will show it this season. Smith had big games last year on and off and his consistency should improve in year two.
If you are looking for a guy to make a leap this season, this could be your guy. With other scoring options gone, Smith will have the chance to become a focal point. He and LaQuinton Ross were highly touted recruits and they will show it this season. Smith had big games last year on and off and his consistency should improve in year two.
27. Payne/Nix: Michigan State – Both around 8 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, block, and assist
With Green gone, this two big guys will control the paint for the Spartans. We know they can be rugged defenders, but look for the offense to improve this season. If they can prove to score a bit more, this team has a chance to take out Indiana on top of the conference.
With Green gone, this two big guys will control the paint for the Spartans. We know they can be rugged defenders, but look for the offense to improve this season. If they can prove to score a bit more, this team has a chance to take out Indiana on top of the conference.
28. DJ Byrd: Purdue – 8.9 points, 2.3 rebounds
With Hummel out, Byrd will fill the role of the big guy that can step out to knock down shots. He has worked hard this summer, so expect a good season. If he can improve defensively, he has a chance to earn All-Big Ten honors. On the flip side, any struggle could put him behind some of the incoming freshmen.
With Hummel out, Byrd will fill the role of the big guy that can step out to knock down shots. He has worked hard this summer, so expect a good season. If he can improve defensively, he has a chance to earn All-Big Ten honors. On the flip side, any struggle could put him behind some of the incoming freshmen.
29. Melsahn Basabe: Iowa – 8.2 points, 4.8 rebounds, 1 block
He showed flashes a couple seasons ago of becoming a star. Last year though, he never took that step forward. Although he shares the paint with teammate White, I think he will increase his production a bit more as Iowa takes a step up in the Big Ten.
He showed flashes a couple seasons ago of becoming a star. Last year though, he never took that step forward. Although he shares the paint with teammate White, I think he will increase his production a bit more as Iowa takes a step up in the Big Ten.
30. Branden Dawson: Michigan State - 8.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1 assist, steal, and block
He suffered a late injury, but should be back at some point this year, if not the start of the season. If he is healed up, he will play a much bigger role this year than last. He should increase his scoring and rebounding numbers, and he will also be a force defensively.
Others Considered: Hollins Brothers: Minnesota, Mitch McGary: Michigan, Sam McLaurin: Illinois, Nnanna Egwu: Illinois, Jared Swopshire: Northwestern
Stay tuned throughout the offseason as we continue to prepare for a great college basketball season. As always, feel free to comment on our rankings whether you agree or disagree. If we forgot somebody, let us know!
Andrew and Greg - The Sports Guys 2008
He suffered a late injury, but should be back at some point this year, if not the start of the season. If he is healed up, he will play a much bigger role this year than last. He should increase his scoring and rebounding numbers, and he will also be a force defensively.
Others Considered: Hollins Brothers: Minnesota, Mitch McGary: Michigan, Sam McLaurin: Illinois, Nnanna Egwu: Illinois, Jared Swopshire: Northwestern
Stay tuned throughout the offseason as we continue to prepare for a great college basketball season. As always, feel free to comment on our rankings whether you agree or disagree. If we forgot somebody, let us know!
Andrew and Greg - The Sports Guys 2008
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