Tyus Battle SG, Syracuse
Tyus Battle is currently ranked 63rd overall in ESPN’s draft rankings. Like Ponds, if Syracuse plans on winning their first round matchup and challenging Gonzaga in the second round, Battle is going to have to be a huge part of it.
Syracuse has a defense that makes it very difficult on their opponent every time they step on the floor. The offense, however, often comes and goes. Battle is the only real offensive threat that Syracuse has, so he will have to be great in the tournament to fuel Syracuse’s offense if they expect to win any games.
Battle isn’t afraid to take tough shots and he often makes tough shots and he could drastically elevate his draft stock by scoring the ball well in the tournament and willing Syracuse to a couple of victories. His ability to score the ball mixed with Syracuse’s exciting defense makes their opening round matchup another must watch.
Honorable Mention: Tacko Fall C, Central Florida
Tacko Fall is currently unranked in ESPN’s draft rankings, but that doesn’t change the fact that he will likely find himself on an NBA roster in the future as a Boban Marjanovic-type back up center. Tacko Fall might be the most popular name in this group but, playing at UCF, a lot of casual college basketball fans haven’t had the chance to watch him play yet.
Standing at 7-foot-6, Fall might not excite you with his athleticism, but it is still pretty cool to see him tower over pretty much every player he plays. Also, as a bonus you might get to see a tip toe dunk.