13 NCAA Basketball Players that had Great Performances During March Madness

This year’s March Madness didn’t fail to deliver first-class theatrics from the best players in college basketball. Few tournaments are as competitive and as entertaining as the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, and seeing the future stars of basketball battle it out is always exciting.

Today’s crop of college basketball players had the perfect opportunity to not just bring glory to their schools, but also to up their draft stock through March Madness. These are the players who simply stood out among the rest and are looking to have bright futures in the professional leagues.

1. Luka Garza

Although Iowa wasn’t able to make it to the Final Four, there’s no doubt that Luka Garza performed amazingly and cleared doubts as to whether the all-time leading scorer in Iowa’s basketball program can fit in the NBA.

The Hawkeyes Center ended the tournament averaging 24.1 points and 7.3 rebounds per game, showcasing his unusual skill and finesse for the size and physicality that he possesses.

2. Cade Cunningham

Oklahoma State’s Cade Cunningham came in with high expectations as the top freshman in the country, and he didn’t disappoint. Despite the Cowboys’ failed bid for an NCAA Tournament win, Cunningham proved that he was worth the hype.

Cunningham ended his season averaging 20.1 points per game while shooting 40% from three-point range. His dazzling and clutch play coupled with his consistency made him one of the most fun players to watch in the tournament.

3. Jared Butler

Baylor finally ended its seven-decade drought and made the Final Four for the first time in 71 years. Although it was indeed a team effort, Baylor made it here in large part thanks to its floor general, Jared Butler.

The Bears junior established himself as a true leader and was an irreplaceable presence on both ends of the floor. Butler is a true point guard who also has the scoring chops to make him a threat any time he has the ball in his hands. He is averaging 16.5 points, 4.8 assists, and 2.0 steals a game so far this season.

4. Ayo Dosunmu

Unfortunately, the Illinois point guard wasn’t able to lead the Fighting Illini to the Final Four, but Ayo Dosunmu nonetheless turned in an astonishing performance in his junior year.

Dosunmu averaged 20.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists this season. The 6’6 point guard demonstrated that he’s the complete package and established himself as arguably the most clutch player in NCAA basketball.

5. Corey Kispert

Corey Kispert rode out his college career with Gonzaga, and it paid off. The Bulldogs are currently in the Final Four and Kispert’s contributions were indispensable.

Kispert consistently improved every season and the Gonzaga sharpshooter currently averages 18.9 points per game while shooting an astounding 45% from three-point range. Expect his shooting to be instrumental in Gonzaga’s bid for the championship.

6. Jalen Suggs

Another key piece in the Gonzaga Bulldogs Squad is Jalen Suggs. His athleticism makes Gonzaga one of the toughest team to guards in transition and he likewise brings it on the defensive end, proving to be one of the most reliable freshmen in the country.

Suggs is averaging a smooth 14.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game.

7. Evan Mobley

Evan Mobley is one of the NCAA’s defensive standouts and has been a tremendous anchor for USC.

With his immense length and physicality and expansive skillset, Mobley made an impact on both ends for the Trojans, and ended his season averaging 16.4 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 2.9 blocks per game. 

8. Davion Mitchell

The other half of Baylor’s top-tier backcourt, Davion Mitchell is another guard who has an undeniable two-way presence.

The Big-12 Defensive Player of the year is averaging 2.0 steals together with 14.1 points and 5.3 assists per game.

9. Drew Timme

Drew Timme came into form in his sophomore season, becoming a dangerous weapon for Gonzaga and establishing himself as one of the NCAA’s premier big men.

Timme’s incredible combination of floor-running ability and dominance in the paint has been a problem for defenses everywhere. He’s currently averaging 19.0 points and 6.2 rebounds per game.

10. Chris Duarte

Three-and-D players are indispensable tools for any successful basketball team, and Chris Duarte is one of those players who perfectly fits the mold.

The Oregon Ducks shooting guard was incredibly efficient on offense, averaging 17.1 points per game with a 42% shooting clip from range. He likewise brought it on the defensive end, notching 1.9 steals per game for Oregon.

11. Franz Wagner

Franz Wagner emerged as a critical piece for Michigan in his sophomore year.

His development as a playmaker and defender made him a legitimate threat every time he’s on the floor. The Wolverine shooting guard finished his season averaging 12.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game.

12. James Bouknight

James Bouknight has been one of the most electrifying players to watch in college basketball today.

The UConn guard is a lethal scorer who can get hot anytime and his shot creation spells readiness for the NBA. He averaged 18.7 points this season for the Huskies.

13. Hunter Dickinson

Hunter Dickinson was another critical player for Michigan this season.

The 7’1 big man was a terror in the paint, averaging 14.1 points while shooting 60% on his two-points attempts, and grabbing 7.4 rebounds per game.