(#20) Alex Karaban, F, UConn
‘23-’24 Stats: 31.4 MPG, 13.3 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 38% 3PT
We start our Top 20 countdown with two-time national champion, UConn Huskies forward Alex Karaban. The sharp-shooting Karaban passed on the NBA Draft for a chance at a three-peat. With his impressive range, Karaban is set to be a primary option in UConn’s pursuit of another title.
(#19) Nigel Pack, G, Miami
‘23-’24 Stats: 32.6 MPG, 13.3 PPG, 3.6 APG, 36% 3PT
At number 19, we have Miami guard Nigel Pack. A dynamic playmaker and scorer, Pack has been instrumental in Hurricane’s recent successes, including a Final Four appearance two seasons ago. Known for his clutch performances and three-point shooting, Pack belongs among the elites.
WASHINGTON, DC – MARCH 14: Hunter Sallis #23 of the Wake Forest Demon Deacons handles the ball against the Pittsburgh Panthers in the Quarterfinals of the ACC Men’s Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena on March 14, 2024 in Washington, DC. (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images)
(#18) Hunter Sallis, G, Wake Forest
‘23-’24 Stats: 35.4 MPG, 18.0 PPG, 2.5 APG, 1.1 SPG, 40% 3PT
At number 18, we feature Wake Forest guard Hunter Sallis. The former Gonzaga Bulldog broke out last year and became one of the best players in the ACC. Sallis brings a combination of scoring, defense, and playmaking to the Demon Deacons. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor makes him one of the best two-way guards in the country.
(#17) Julian Reese, C, Maryland
‘23-’24 Stats: 31.9 MPG, 13.7 PPG, 9.5 RPG, 1.9 BPG
At number 17, we have Maryland center Julian Reese. A dominant force in the paint, Reese is known for his rebounding prowess and shot-blocking ability. The big man will once again be the focal point for the Terrapins program, which is looking to bounce back after a down year.
(#16) Ryan Nembhard, G, Gonzaga
‘23-’24 Stats: 35.8 MPG, 12.6 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 6.9 APG, 1.2 SPG
At number 16, we highlight Gonzaga guard Ryan Nembhard. A skilled floor general, Nembhard excels in orchestrating the Bulldogs’ high-powered offense with his sharp passing and court vision. Look for the senior point guard to be a finalist for the Bob Cousy Award (the nation’s top point guard).
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH – MARCH 23: Ryan Nembhard #0 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs greets teammates as he is introduced before the second round game against the Kansas Jayhawks during the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Delta Center on March 23, 2024 in Salt Lake City, Utah. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
(#15) Norchad Omier, F, Baylor (Miami transfer)
‘23-’24 Stats: 30.6 MPG, 17.0 PPG, 10.0 RPG, 1.5 SPG, 35% 3PT
At number 15, it’s Baylor forward Norchad Omier. The Miami transfer is a tenacious and versatile player known for his relentless energy, strong rebounding, and defensive prowess. His physicality and skill set make him a crucial component of Baylor’s lineup as Scott Drew and company aim for a big year in Waco.
(#14) Kam Jones, G, Marquette
‘23-’24 Stats: 28.9 MPG, 17.2 PPG, 2.4 APG, 41% 3PT
At number 14, we feature Marquette guard Kam Jones. Jones exploded onto the national scene two years ago and is now set to be the star, with Tyler Kolek no longer in the mix. His offensive versatility and leadership on the court are key assets for the Golden Eagles.
DALLAS, TEXAS – MARCH 29: Kam Jones #1 of the Marquette Golden Eagles dribbles the ball against the North Carolina State Wolfpack during the second half in the Sweet 16 round of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at American Airlines Center on March 29, 2024 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
(#13) Zakai Zeigler, G, Tennessee
‘23-’24 Stats: 31.6 MPG, 11.8 PPG, 6.1 APG, 1.7 SPG
From Long Island, New York, and all the way to number 13 on our returning players countdown is Tennessee guard Zakai Zeigler. Known for his strong leadership and tenacious defense, Zeigler also brings a dynamic playmaking ability to the court, as well. His two-way play will be vital for the Volunteers as they gear up for another deep run in March.
(#12) Coleman Hawkins, F, Kansas State
‘23-’24 Stats: 31.6 MPG, 12.1 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 2.7 APG, 1.5 SPG, 37% 3PT
At number 12, we spotlight Kansas State forward Coleman Hawkins, a transfer from Illinois. Known for his versatile scoring and strong defensive presence, Hawkins is one of the best bigs in the country. His ability to contribute on both ends of the floor will be crucial for the Wildcats, who are looking to bounce back after a tough year.
(#11) Kadary Richmond, G, St. John’s (Seton Hall transfer)
‘23-’24 Stats: 32.8 MPG, 15.7 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 5.1 APG, 2.2 SPG
Dropping in at number 11 in our returning players countdown, it’s St. John’s guard Kadary Richmond, a transfer from Seton Hall. Known for his size and strength, Richmond is a versatile guard who gets it done on both ends of the court. Coach Rick Pitino will look to maximize Richmond’s talents as the Johnnie’s look to make waves in the 2024-2025 season.
