Anthony Davis was meant to be an All-American and national player of the year from the moment he signed on to play for Kentucky. He’s not the only big name and not the only future NBA (potential) star on that team in my opinion, but he’s certainly the most impressive talent and the most consistent in Calipari’s group.
Thomas Robinson from Kentucky also got the nod from ESPN.com as the national player of the year, while Jared Sullinger kept his stocks high despite surprising many by staying on for another year at Ohio State, repeating his All-American status. The big surprise is Doug McDermott from tiny Creighton, showing there’s no nepotism in him playing a big role in the Bluejays’ success.
Anthony Davis, Kentucky, Freshman
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The 6’10 Freshman out of Chicago has been the best player in the nation, playing for the most loaded team, making it into the final four. An All-American in high school as well, Davis has averaged 14.3 points, 10.1 rebounds and 4.6 blocks per game. He was a first team choice on all four selector teams, winning the SEC player of the year, Freshman of the year and National player of the year (Robertson, Rupp) awards.
Draymond Green, Michigan State, Senior
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The 6’7 Green is one of those rare things in College Basketball these days – a senior worthwhile mentioning. In his fourth year under coach Izzo Green gave his best season, averaging 16.2 points and 10.6 rebounds. It’ll be interesting to see what place he finds in the NBA, as he seems too small to play as a power forward. He can stroke the three ball, hitting 38.8% of his shots this season. He is one of only three players, alongside Magic and Oscar, with two career triple doubles in the NCAA tournament.
Thomas Robinson, Kansas, Junior
ESPN chose Robinson as their player of the year, after an excellent junior season with the Jayhawks, averaging 17.7 points and 11.8 rebounds. He was very impressive in both wins over North Carolina teams, averaging 18 points and 10 boards in leading the team into the final four. He own Big 12 player of the year honors.
Jared Sullinger, Ohio State, Sophomore
Jared Sullinger chose to stay for another year with the Buckeyes, and hasn’t regretted his decision. Being a top 10 pick in this NBA draft is surely awaiting, and hopefully, it’ll be with more than a final four participation badge. Sullinger had an equally impressive season in 2011-2012, averaging 17.6 points and 9.1 rebounds, averaging 21 points in the games against Cincinnati and Syracuse to take OSU into the Final Four.
Doug McDermott, Creighton, Sophomore
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The 6’7 son of the head coach had a fantastic Sophomore season with the Bluejays, leading them to win the MVC tournament for the first time since 2007. He was a first team All-American on three of the four selections, the first player from Creighton to be named FTAA by the NABC. He ranked third in the nation with 22.9 points per game and 48.6% from three point land. He led Creighton to a 29-6 season before losing to North Carolina in the tournament, scoring 20 points against the Tar Heels.