John Wall

FEBRUARY 4, 2010 - The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts announced today the final 11 candidates in consideration for the 2010 Bob Cousy Award presented by The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc. This annual award is given to college basketball’s top point guard and is named after Hall of Famer and former Boston Celtic great Bob Cousy.

Led by future #1 NBA pick John Wall, this year's freshman class will be one to remember. What makes it particularly interesting is that not all of the top performers are at power conference schools. The WCC, CUSA, A10, MWC, WAC, and others have top-level rookies that can play with the best in the country. Here's a list of the Top 25 freshman in the country so far, with a bias on actual performance as opposed to potential. While players like UNC's John Henson may one day tear up NBA harcourts, this list focuses on the guys who are getting it done right now.

For SEC fans, the 2009 NBA Draft was about as exciting as watching paint dry.

By Paul Elkins

phe04@aol.com

Benjamin Franklin used to say the only certainties in life are death and taxes. Well, with all due respect to Mr. Franklin, I think his list has a glaring omission…namely that it’s good to be John Wall.

An update of the day's college basketball action so far:

College Hoops is here. Finally! (This also means we get more of Gus Johnson! I’m excited!) We know all about Coach Cal’s new colors, Pitino’s “family” issues, and most of the big name players and teams in the country. Plus two Isaiah/Isiah Thomases this year. We’re in for a treat.

Overall Rank: #6

Conference Rank: #1 Southeastern Conference