Small School Players That Could Make Big Noise During March Madness
It’s easy to pick out the best college basketball players from the best teams. Most of those players have been grabbing headlines since their days playing in high school. The players that seem to be forgotten in the mix are the ones playing at a high level with school teams that look destined to make the NCAA Tournament due in large part to these player’s efforts. Setting aside the great players at Duke, Kentucky, Kansas and UCLA, let’s take a look at three players that belong on the radar, as did one Larry Bird (Indiana State) and Stephon Curry (Davidson).
Alec Peters (Valporaiso Crusaders) – With the Crusaders sitting alone in 1st place in the Horizon League, there’s a good chance they will earn a spot in the final 64 whether they win the conference tournament or not. Much of the team’s success can be attributed to Senior F/C Alec Peters. With a current team record of 22-6, Peters has been a dominant force around the basket with an ability to step back and hit from distance when necessary. Peters currently ranks #8 in the country in scoring with 23.1 PPG. Adding to his luster is his ability to rebound the ball at both ends of the floor. He currently ranks #13 in rebounding with 10.8 RPG. This is the kind of player that warrants attention come tourney time.
Evan Bradds (Belmont Bruins) – Nowhere in the country has a team dominated its conference like the Bruins as they runaway with the Ohio Valley Conference at 20-5. At 6’7”, Evan Bradds, Senior F has shown great instincts for getting to the basket. While not much of a perimeter shooter, he has proven to be deadly with mid-range jumpers and big moves close to the basket. He is currently averaging 21.0 PPG and 8.8 RPG. Come tournament time, these slasher types with great scoring instincts can prove to be very tough to contain.
Keon Johnson (Winthrop Eagles) – At 21-6, the Eagles are no sure bet to make it to the big dance with N.C. Ashville currently leading the Big South Conference by a full game. With that said, the Eagle have the high-scoring Senior G Keon Johnson to lead the way to a possible tournament bid. With an average of 22.0 PPG, what makes Johnson so special is his size. At 5’7” and 160 lbs. sopping wet, he stands tall as one of the smallest players in the country. Despite his size, Mr. Johnson is able to use his speed and balance to keep teams off-guard. This is the kind of player and team that could end up shocking a top team or two should they get a place in the final 64.
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