As the 2024-25 NCAA men’s basketball season nears, several talented seniors are primed to take center stage. These top 10 seniors have proven themselves in past seasons and will play crucial roles for their teams this year. Here’s a look at the top seniors to watch, ranked based on their expected impact.
1. Great Osobor – Washington State
Osobor is a standout senior for Washington State, coming off an impressive season. Last year, he showcased his ability to dominate in the paint, averaging strong numbers in points and rebounds. Osobor’s physicality and presence inside will make him a key player in Washington State’s frontcourt this season. Look for him to build on his past success and help lead the team in the Pac-12.
2. Kam Jones – Marquette
Jones is a dynamic scorer for Marquette, known for his offensive firepower. Last season, Jones averaged over 15 points per game while shooting well from beyond the arc. As one of Marquette’s leaders, Jones will be crucial in the Golden Eagles’ quest for another Big East title. His ability to score from all levels of the court makes him a player to watch this season.
3. Yaxel Lendeborg – UAB
Lendeborg had a breakout season at UAB, becoming a key piece of the team’s success. He averaged double digits in scoring and was a force on the boards. His versatility as a forward allows him to contribute on both ends of the court, and his leadership will be essential for UAB’s success in Conference USA. Lendeborg’s senior season could solidify his status as one of the top forwards in the conference.
4. Hunter Sallis – Wake Forest
After transferring from Gonzaga last season, Sallis looks to continue to make a significant impact at Wake Forest. Sallis showed flashes of brilliance last season, contributing on both ends of the floor. At Wake Forest, he will have the opportunity to take on a larger role and showcase his scoring and playmaking abilities. Sallis’s ability to impact the game on defense and offense makes him a key player for the Demon Deacons.
5. Ryan Nembhard – Gonzaga
Nembhard enters his senior season as one of the top point guards in the country. Last season, he averaged over 12 points and 5 assists per game, leading the offense efficiently. Nembhard’s ability to run the floor and facilitate for his teammates will be crucial for Gonzaga as they look to maintain their dominance in the West Coast Conference. His leadership and poise at the point guard position make him one of the top seniors to watch.
6. Wade Taylor IV – Texas A&M
Taylor IV is coming off an outstanding junior season, where he led Texas A&M in scoring and assists. His ability to score at all three levels and his leadership on the court make him a valuable asset for the Aggies. As a senior, Taylor will look to improve his consistency and lead Texas A&M in the competitive SEC. His offensive skills and experience make him one of the top guards to watch this season.
7. Payton Sandfort – Iowa
Sandfort is a versatile wing player for Iowa, known for his shooting ability. Last season, Sandfort was a key contributor off the bench, averaging solid numbers in points and rebounds. As a senior, he will take on a larger role for the Hawkeyes, and his shooting and defense will be crucial for Iowa’s success in the Big Ten. Sandfort’s ability to stretch the floor with his shooting makes him a valuable piece of Iowa’s offense.
8. Tyon Grant-Foster – Grand Canyon
Grant-Foster had a strong junior season at Grand Canyon, showcasing his scoring and athleticism. Averaging double figures in points, he has the ability to take over games with his explosive scoring ability. In his senior year, Grant-Foster will be the focal point of Grand Canyon’s offense, and his leadership will be key as the team looks to compete for a WAC title. His athleticism and scoring make him a dangerous player to watch.
9. Graham Ike – Gonzaga
Ike, another Gonzaga standout, is coming off a season where he was a dominant force in the paint. Averaging a double-double in points and rebounds, Ike is a physical presence who can control the boards and score inside. As Gonzaga looks to continue its dominance in the West Coast Conference, Ike’s contributions will be essential in anchoring the team’s frontcourt. His ability to impact the game on both ends makes him a key player to watch.
10. Tyson Degenhart – Boise State
Degenhart was a consistent performer for Boise State last season, averaging double digits in scoring and being a reliable defender. His ability to stretch the floor and defend multiple positions makes him a versatile asset for Boise State. As a senior, Degenhart will look to lead Boise State to success in the Mountain West, and his all-around game will be crucial to the team’s efforts.
These seniors bring a wealth of experience and talent to their respective teams, making them the players to watch in the 2024-25 NCAA men’s basketball season. Each has the potential to elevate their game and lead their team to success, making this group of seniors one of the most exciting in recent memory.
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