As the season draws to a close, anticipation mounts for the forthcoming announcements of the Player of the Year and All-American teams. With our ADJeff model, we aim to offer our insights by spotlighting the standout statistical performers of this season. The Player of the Year contest has long been settled, with Zach Edey delivering another remarkable performance, placing him amongst the elite in the annals of college basketball history. It’s fair to say that the race for Player of the Year has become a battle for the second position.
Outlined below are the top 25 players based on statistical analysis. Below are True Shooting percentage, Net Differential—illustrating the disparity between their offensive and defensive ratings per 100 possessions—Player Efficiency Rating (PER), and our ADJeff model, which adjusts for efficiency relative to the strength of schedule.
The All-American designation is typically awarded to the top players on the most successful teams. It’s important to note that individual players cannot control the performance of their teammates or coaching staff, although this aspect is somewhat beside the point.
UConn Conundrum
UConn presents an intriguing dynamic with four players boasting above a 3.9 ADJeff and perhaps the best collection of talent in the nation. Clingan undeniably stands out statistically and exhibits NBA potential. However, one could argue that the team’s success is more attributable to the overall collective talent pool, with Newton potentially holding the most crucial role as the point guard. Despite Clingan’s absence at times, UConn managed to compensate for his contributions, evidenced by his average of 21 minutes per game even when he’s on the court. Newton’s value lies in his ability to deliver in ways that might be challenging to replace, hence his widespread recognition on various All-American teams. Nonetheless, his statistical profile might not immediately stand out in comparison to others nationally. None of the UConn players really do as outstanding. Clingan’s would if he played more minutes.
