A.J. Hammons, Purdue
(12) Arkansas-Little Rock vs Purdue (5) – Thursday, 4:30 PM (ET)
A.J. Hammons, the big man behind Purdue’s success this season, averages 15 points, eight rebounds and two blocks per game on 60 percent shooting from the field. He’s a true 7-footer and will definitely be leaned heavily as the Boilermakers attempt to avoid the good ole 5-12 NCAA Tournament upset.
Even with the NBA slowly transitioning away from the center position, Hammons should get a good look from most NBA teams. Despite the new NBA, every team could use a true 7-footer. They are far and few in-between.
Hammons is a four-year player that has the size and strength that is needed to make it in the NBA, especially for big men. Hammons is a more conventional back-to-the basket type of center that should be a mismatch on most nights in the NCAA Tourney.
Next: Taurean Prince