NCAAB 2024 – As the 2025 NBA Draft looms on the horizon, anticipation is already building for which college basketball stars will rise to the occasion and boost their draft stock. While the 2024 NBA Draft was laden with big names, the upcoming draft cycle promises blue-chip talent ready to make their mark. Amidst the frenzy, several players made the strategic decision to return to school, a move that could significantly enhance their prospects. Here’s a look at ten players who made the right call by opting for another season in college basketball. For those seeking sports free picks, these athletes are worth keeping an eye on.
NCAAB 2024
1. Johnell Davis, Arkansas
Johnell Davis who was earlier with FAU is all set to play his last college season under the coaching of John Calipari for Arkansas. Evaluating Davis as the number one player transfer according to CBS Sports’ David Cobb, Davis scored 18.2 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 2.9 assists. He contributed largely to the team taking the Florida Atlantic University to the final Four in 2023. Saying so, transferring to Arkansas offers Davis that bigger platform in order for him to be considered for an SEC player of the year.
2. Coleman Hawkins, Kansas State
Suddenly, Coleman Hawkins changed his mind to attend college again for the second successive summer the next year, but this time as a transfer student to Kansas State. Best known for his activity as the forward who can defend his team and perform three-point shots, Hawkins might succeed in a new position. As we have seen, the NBA trend of playing more wing players should see Hawkins rise in the draft rankings especially if he is able to remain a consistent scorer.
3. Alex Karaban, UConn
Alex Karaban is on the brink of rewriting a knick of history in terms of players where he could win three successive national championships. Karaban himself chose to forgo the NBA Draft and is expected to become the leading player for UConn as a candidate to the preseason All-American. Having several starters that contributed to the championship runs of the team transition, Karaban’s guidance will be invaluable. As with the aforementioned, if he does it, he could be a first rounder for sure.
4. Tyon Grant-Foster, Grand Canyon
Tyon Grant-Foster the WAC Player of the Year put up an average of (20.1 points, 6.1rebound, 1.6 assists) to help Grand Canyon reach the NCAA Tournament. Standing at the perfect height for a guard/wing, Grant-Foster’s choice to get back to school can improve his draft standing easier if he guides GCU to another tournament appearance.
5. Collin Murray-Boyles, South Carolina
Another one of the most promising returning sophom*ore players, Collin Murray-Boyles proved that he is capable of shining in the SEC and scored 31 points against Vanderbilt. Murray-Boyles’ role is expected to increase, and he could end up as a lottery pick, with the associated increase in point totals.
6. Hunter Sallis, Wake Forest
Hunter Sallis, after transferring from Gonzaga to Wake Forest, had a breakout season with averages of 18 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.5 assists. His impressive shooting percentage from beyond the arc (40.5%) and overall play make him an All-American candidate and a likely first-round pick if he continues his upward trajectory.
7. Mark Sears, Alabama
Mark Sears, a CBS Sports All-America team member, is a frontrunner for the Naismith Player of the Year. Despite his height (just over 5-foot-10), Sears’ performance draws comparisons to Jalen Brunson, suggesting that he could overcome size limitations and make a significant impact in the NBA.
8. Jarin Stevenson, Alabama
Jarin Stevenson, a former blue-chip recruit, returned to Alabama after a brief draft process. Known for his heroics in the Elite Eight against Clemson, Stevenson is expected to see more minutes this season. His ability to play as a stretch-four and contribute significantly will be key to Alabama’s success and his draft prospects.
9. AJ Storr, Kansas
AJ Storr, now at Kansas after stints at St. John’s and Wisconsin, is poised for a breakout season. Averaging 16.6 points at Wisconsin, Storr’s challenge lies in improving his efficiency. If he can enhance his shooting percentages and contribute to Kansas’ national title contention, his draft stock will soar.
10. JT Toppin, Texas Tech
JT Toppin, one of the best freshmen in college basketball last season, transferred from UNLV to Texas Tech. Averaging nearly a double-double, Toppin’s focus will be on improving his free throw shooting and three-point attempts. Playing in the Big 12 should help him become one of the best rebounders in the conference and improve his draft outlook.
These ten players have positioned themselves strategically by returning to school, aiming to bolster their draft stock for the 2025 NBA Draft. As the season unfolds, sports enthusiasts and analysts alike will be keen to see how these decisions play out. For those interested in sports betting in Canada, these athletes’ performances will undoubtedly influence the odds and predictions leading up to the draft.
Hilbert M.
