College Basketball: Breakout Stars

Chris Wright (Dayton): With Brian Roberts gone, Wright will get plenty of chances to carry the Flyers. A terrific athlete who was one of the most touted recruits to ever sign with Dayton, Wright was limited to 13 games because of injury last year, but he has the talent to be an all-conference player when healthy.

Jason Brubaker

Sherron Collins (Kansas): Pretty simple - the Jayhawks need Collins to play big minutes this season and become more of a focal point, so I expect him to do so.

Jeff Fox

Eric Devendorf (Syracuse): Devo was playing the best basketball of his career before he went down with the knee injury last year. Look for him to come back full steam and combine with Jonny Flynn to make up one of the BIg East's best backcourts.

Raphielle Johnson 

Patrick Patterson (Kentucky): Was the only freshmen among the SEC's top scorers before getting hurt last season.  He'll be the biggest reason Kentucky will be a contender for the SEC East. 

Kevin McNeill

Jeff Allen (Virginia Tech): Lost in last year’s freakish freshman class, Allen quietly had a solid 11 & 7 season for Virginia Tech. But if he keeps his head on straight, Allen has the chance to be one of the best players in the ACC.

Shawn Siegel

Austin Daye (Gonzaga): There is nothing on a basketball court he can't do (well, except defend, but who cares about that, right?). Just a match-up nightmare that can get his shot off any time and should keep improving.

Jason Tomassini

Damion James (Texas): James can score around the basket, shoot the ball and is an absolute beast on the glass. A.J. Abrams might be Texas' leading scorer this season, but James will be the most valuable player.

Joel Welser

Austin Daye (Gonzaga): Daye is a 6'10" perimeter player who can dribble, shoot and create his own shot. WCC defenders, you have been warned.

Joey Whelan