Andy Katz released his top 12 fifth-year hoopers ahead of the 2024-25 men’s college basketball season. Here’s a rundown on each player that fans should look out for:
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1. Hunter Dickinson, Kansas
Dickinson, a 7-foot-2 All-American, returns to Kansas for his final season after averaging 17.9 points and 10.9 rebounds in 2023-24. Known as one of the most dominant big men in college basketball, he led the Big 12 in double-doubles and ranked among the national leaders in rebounding. With his inside scoring, shot-blocking and improved 3-point shooting (35%), Dickinson is poised to be a key player for the Jayhawks’ national title push. His return solidifies Kansas as a preseason No. 1 team and a major contender in 2024-25.
2. Ryan Kalkbrenner, Creighton
Kalkbrenner, a three-time Big East Defensive Player of the Year, returns to Creighton for his final season after posting a career-high 17.3 points, 7.6 rebounds and 3.1 blocks per game in 2023-24. Known for his elite shot-blocking and efficiency (64.6% shooting), the 7-foot-1 center is one of the best defensive big men in college basketball. Kalkbrenner’s presence in the paint and growing offensive game will be crucial as the Bluejays aim for another deep NCAA Tournament run.
3. Mark Sears, Alabama
Sears, a second-team All-American and All-SEC guard, returns to Alabama for his fifth season after averaging 21.5 points, 4.2 rebounds and 4.0 assists in 2023-24. Known for his dynamic scoring and three-point shooting (44%), Sears played a crucial role in Alabama’s Final Four run. With his leadership and defensive improvement, he aims to lead the Crimson Tide to a national championship in 2024-25.
4. RJ Davis, North Carolina
Davis, a First Team All-American and ACC Player of the Year, returns to North Carolina for his fifth season after averaging 21.2 points, 3.6 rebounds and 3.5 assists in 2023-24. A vocal leader and key playmaker, Davis has been integral to the Tar Heels’ success and is the only 2023-24 First Team All-American returning to men’s college basketball. With his experience and scoring ability, Davis is expected to lead UNC’s push for a Final Four appearance in 2024-25.
5. Johni Broome, Auburn
Broome, a third-team All-American and one of the top returning big men in college basketball, is set to take on an even bigger role in Auburn’s frontcourt in 2024-25. After averaging 16.5 points, 8.5 rebounds and 2.2 blocks last season, the versatile big man is expected to see time at both the 4 and 5 positions. Broome’s efficiency, including 35.4% shooting from three, makes him a dynamic threat for the Tigers.
6. Caleb Love, Arizona
After a standout season at Arizona, Pac-12 Player of the Year Caleb Love is returning for his final year of eligibility. Love averaged a career-high 18 points per game while leading the Wildcats to a Pac-12 regular-season title and his presence solidifies Arizona as a preseason top-10 team. His iconic shot in the 2022 NCAA Tournament with UNC solidifies Love’s reputation for clutch performances.
7. Johnell Davis, Arkansas
After leading Florida Atlantic to a historic Final Four run and earning AAC co-Player of the Year honors, Johnell Davis is bringing his elite scoring and playmaking to Arkansas for his final year. Averaging 18.2 points, 6.3 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game last season, Davis is set to be the Razorbacks’ key offensive threat under John Calipari.
8. J’Wan Roberts, Houston
Returning for his final season, J’Wan Roberts aims to lead the Houston Cougars back to national prominence after a strong 2023-24 campaign. The third-team All-Big 12 forward averaged 9.5 points and 8.8 rebounds per game, becoming a crucial part of the Cougars’ Big 12 championship season. Despite undergoing knee surgery this offseason, Roberts is expected to recover in time to be a key force in Houston’s pursuit of a national title.
9. Norchad Omier, Baylor
Norchad Omier, one of the top transfers in the nation, has committed to Baylor for the 2024-25 season after a standout career at Miami. A dominant force in the paint, Omier has averaged a double-double every season, posting 17 points and 10 rebounds last year. With his experience leading Miami to the Final Four, Omier brings a winning mentality and elite rebounding skills to this season’s Baylor squad.
10. Kadary Richmond, St. John’s
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐧𝐞𝐰𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐉𝐨𝐡𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐞 ✍️
Welcome to the Red Storm, Kadary! 🌩
🗞 https://t.co/fwOgOemv8S pic.twitter.com/w5vZaDavaf
— St. John’s Men’s Basketball (@StJohnsBBall) May 7, 2024
Kadary Richmond, a 6-foot-6 guard and First-Team All-Big East selection, has transferred to St. John’s from Seton Hall for his final year of eligibility. Richmond led Seton Hall to an NIT championship in 2024, averaging 15.7 points, 7.0 rebounds and 5.1 assists per game. Known for his versatility and playmaking ability, Richmond joins a talented backcourt under coach Rick Pitino.
11. LJ Cryer, Houston
After a standout first season with the Cougars, LJ Cryer has announced he’ll return for a fifth collegiate season and second at Houston. The former Baylor transfer led the team in scoring with 15.5 points per game, shooting 38.8% from three and earned All-Big 12 Second Team honors. His decision to come back gives the Cougars an experienced leader and a major scoring threat as they aim for another deep tournament run in 2024-25.
HISTORY: Every men’s basketball champion since 1939
12. Oumar Ballo, Indiana
After successful stints at Gonzaga and Arizona, Oumar Ballo, a 7-foot, 260-pound center, has transferred to Indiana for his final season of eligibility. A two-time All-Pac-12 First Team and All-Defensive Team selection, Ballo averaged 12.9 points, 10.1 rebounds and 1.2 blocks last season. Known for his dominant rebounding and efficient post play, Ballo brings winning experience and leadership to a Hoosiers squad looking to contend for both a Big Ten title and a national championship under coach Mike Woodson.
