The 2024 NCAA Basketball season is in full swing, and the spotlight is on a handful of standout players poised to make headlines.
From skilled guards with a game-changing vision to versatile forwards dominating both ends of the court, this season’s top athletes bring a mix of talent, grit, and star potential.
Fans can expect thrilling performances as these players push their teams toward March Madness. Whether you're rooting for a particular school or simply love the game, these are the five players you won’t want to miss watching as they shape this year’s college basketball season.
Cooper Flagg, Duke
As the 2024 NCAAB season tips off, Cooper Flagg is already the name on everyone’s lips. The 6-foot-9 forward for No. 7 Duke brings versatility, talent, and maturity beyond his years.
Duke’s top recruit and a potential No. 1 NBA draft pick, Flagg, is committed to keeping his game focused amid rising hype. While his skills stand out, his grounded approach is equally impressive.
Flagg is a force on both ends of the court. His offensive game is polished—showcasing a soft shooting touch, impressive passing, and an ability to score from anywhere. Defensively, his length and agility allow him to block shots and guard multiple positions, making him a dual threat.
For Duke, his impact will be critical in high-stakes games, especially with tough matchups on the horizon. Watching his growth this season will be thrilling as fans and analysts eagerly follow every game and stat line.
With an endorsement deal in hand and endless potential, Flagg is undoubtedly one to keep an eye on—and for those curious about how Duke’s season might shape up, checking the NCAAB odds by FanDuel can provide insights on their tournament prospects as they chase a national title.
RJ Davis, North Carolina
North Carolina guard RJ Davis earned his ACC Player of the Year title last season, and it's clear why – his speed and scoring ability make him one of the toughest players to defend in college basketball.
Davis led the ACC with an impressive 21.2 points per game in his senior season, outpacing Syracuse's Judah Mintz, who averaged 18.8. Davis’s career stats are equally remarkable: he’s the only UNC player to notch 1,900 points, 500 rebounds, 400 assists, 250 three-pointers, and 100 steals. Additionally, he was named an AP All-American.
During the ACC Media Day last October, players were asked about their team outlook, individual improvements, and the toughest player to guard in the conference. Most players, including Sallis, recognized Davis as the most challenging opponent to defend.
Mark Sears, Crimson Tide
Mark Sears, Alabama's fifth-year guard from Muscle Shoals, Alabama, enters the 2024 season as a top player to watch after a standout performance last year. An All-America Second Team honoree, Sears was one of only two players to average 20 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1.5 steals.
Leading Alabama to its first Final Four appearance, he earned the NCAA West Region Most Outstanding Player award and set an Alabama program record with 797 points last season.
Starting his college journey at Ohio University, Sears developed under coach Jeff Boals and became a prominent MAC player. Since joining Alabama in 2022, he has thrived, becoming efficient from the field (50.8%), beyond the arc (43.6%), and the foul line (85.7%).
His reliability and skill make him invaluable to Alabama. Under Coach Nate Oats' high-powered system, Sears is set to be one of college basketball’s most influential players this season.
Hunter Dickinson, Jayhawks
Kansas center Hunter Dickinson has been named Big 12 Preseason Player of the Year for the second year, underscoring his influence in college basketball.
The 7-foot-1 transfer from Michigan made an immediate impact last season, earning Big 12 Newcomer of the Year and First Team All-Big 12 honors. Dickinson led the Big 12 in rebounding (10.8 boards per game) and ranked second in scoring (17.9 points), securing consensus All-American status.
As Kansas eyes a deep tournament run after a disappointing previous season, Dickinson’s performance and leadership are expected to be crucial. Named as the only unanimous selection on the Preseason All-Big 12 First Team, Dickinson is also in contention for the Naismith Trophy. With his experience and athleticism, Kansas’s aspirations for a national title look promising, continuing a trend of top Kansas players winning Preseason Player of the Year since 2017-18.
Johni Broome, Auburn Tigers
Johni Broome, a 6-foot-10 senior forward/center for Auburn, is making waves in college basketball with an impressive career that spans numerous accolades and record-breaking performances.
Hailing from Plant City, Florida, Broome transferred from Morehead State and quickly established himself as a dominant force in the SEC. Last season, he earned a spot on the AP All-America Third Team and became Auburn’s 2024 SEC Tournament MVP, showcasing his elite scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking abilities.
Broome is known for his defensive impact, ranking among Auburn’s all-time leaders in blocked shots and defensive rebounds. His 2023-24 season saw him average 16.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game, making him a reliable anchor on both ends of the court. With Auburn aiming for another successful season, Broome’s skill, experience, and leadership will be critical as he continues to chase new milestones and bring intensity to every game.
Conclusion
The 2024 NCAA Basketball season promises to be unforgettable, with these five players showcasing immense talent and leadership. From Cooper Flagg’s dual-threat presence to Johni Broome’s defensive dominance, each player brings a unique edge to their team’s tournament hopes. As March Madness approaches, fans can expect thrilling performances from these future stars.
