6.) Caleb Love – Arizona
FPTS/G: 33.1
The former top-20 prospect is leading his own team now after departing from UNC where he averaged 16.7 PPG, 3.7 RPG, and 2.8 APG as a junior despite missing the NCAA Tournament. Now, Love is running the Wildcats backcourt and leading the team offensively, managing 15.8 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 4.3 APG, and 1.7 STLPG behind an 8-1 start to the season.
After consecutive seasons with early exits at the NCAA Tournament for Arizona head coach Tommy Lloyd, Love is the critical veteran ball-handling piece that can bring stability and production to this backcourt.
5.) Jamarii Thomas – Norfolk State
FPTS/G: 34.7
Since arriving at Norfolk State this offseason by way of UNC Wilmington, Thomas has erupted onto the scene averaging 18.8 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 4.1 APG, and 2.3 STLPG and was recently selected as the Lou Henson National Player of the Week. He even earned MEAC Defensive Player of the Week honors with Thomas leading the Spartans to wins over William & Mary and VCU with a combined 40 points, eight boards, 14 assists, and seven steals.
While Norfolk State has been inconsistent to start the season, Thomas has been able to provide stability, opening the season with 20 points against Hampton, contributing 27 points to beat FGCU, and recently notching 31 points in a win at Illinois State.
