We are now nearly a month into the NCAA men’s basketball season, and about a month from the beginning of conference play. Many of the early tournaments have been played, and we finally have some some clues as to how this season will play out. While there are some players everyone knew about coming into this season, there are also some unexpected guys who have burst onto the scene ready to dominate the college basketball landscape. Right now seems like a good time to recognize the guys who came out of the gates ready to play, and predict who I think will be a first team All-American this year.
Carsen Edwards
Guard, Purdue
This guy can just flat out score; I watch Purdue games whenever I can because it is amazing to see this guy go to work. At only 6’1″, 190 pounds, he isn’t the biggest guard in the world; however, I don’t think there is anyone in college basketball that can slow Edwards down. He is averaging over 25 points per game this year, at a fairly efficient rate (44-39-85). The only thing that will stand in the way of Player of the Year honors for Edwards is team success. So far, Purdue has lost to both of the ranked teams they have played, Virginia Tech and Florida State. While he has put up great numbers in these contests, he will need to lead his team to key victories in order to boost his resume. He certainly will be given the opportunity to do so, as Purdue enters a tough stretch against Michigan, Maryland, and Texas.
Deandre Hunter
Guard, Virginia
Although he is not really a guard, ESPN lists him as such. Plus, he played PG in high school, and I would not have felt good about a list that does not include him. So for any of you that are upset about my decision: I truly do not care. Although listed at 6’7″, on the court he looks like he could be 6’10”. He moves like a guard, and can defend any position on the hardwood. He is averaging nearly 17 points per contest for UVA, which is especially impressive considering their pace of play. He has been incredibly efficient offensively, shooting over 58% overall, and over 44% from downtown. He also has been fairly effective at the charity stripe, shooting his free throws at 77%.
Deandre makes scoring look easy, and it seems every isolation opportunity he gets is converted into a bucket. He is great in the open court, and can knock down set jumpers as well. In addition to his scoring, he is averaging over 6 rebounds, nearly 3 assists, and a steal per game. Deandre Hunter is the best player on this basketball team despite being surrounded by talent. With best friend Ty Jerome at his side, along with sharpshooter Kyle Guy, I expect them to lead UVA to a fantastic season. With his all-around game, Deandre must be on this list.
Zion Williamson
Forward, Duke
There isn’t much more to say about Zion Williamson that I haven’t already said. He is averaging over 21 points per game to go along with 9 rebounds, nearly 2 steals and 3 blocks per contest. He is incredibly efficient, scoring on 67% of his shot attempts. His presence in the paint defensively is something that Duke will be relying on all year, and with R.J. Barrett and Cam Reddish being streakier scorers, Williamson’s consistency really helps this squad. Right now, Zion is the glue that holds this team together, and with the highlights he has every night, he absolutely deserves All-American consideration right now.
Rui Hachimura
Forward, Gonzaga
While I expected Hachimura to be good this year, he has absolutely blown me away with how he has been playing for Mark Few and Gonzaga. His post scoring and footwork is fantastic, and the numbers show it. He is averaging 21.9 points per game at 60% shooting. In addition, he has shown the ability to spread the floor a little, knocking down 50% of his threes on limited attempts. He is physical in the post both offensively and defensively, grabbing 5.4 rebounds per game. His presence on the court energizes the Bulldogs, and with him and the surrounding cast on Gonzaga, this team has potential to make it far in the tournament. Hachimura is not afraid of big games either, which is a major factor as to why he has burst onto the scene this year. Against Duke, he led the team to victory with 20 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 3 blocks. If he can continue this, I expect him to shoot up draft boards, and Gonzaga will be tough to beat.
Ethan Happ
Center, Wisconsin
As he has been since his first year at Wisconsin, Happ is doing a little bit of everything. In his senior season, he is filling up the stat sheet at an elite level. He is averaging 18 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game on a team that is one of the slowest in college basketball. Wisconsin relies on Happ for everything, and he has been up to the challenge so far this year. Despite most teams double-teaming him on every possession possible, he is hitting 55% of his shots; a testament to his footwork and offensive abilities. Currently, Wisconsin is 6-1 with their only loss coming against the University of Virginia. If the Badgers can continue this success, it will be on the back of Happ, and he absolutely deserves to be recognized for his abilities.
In The Books 