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Match facts August 19-23, Durban Start time 1000 local (0800 GMT)Big PictureThe world has already accepted cricket as a year-round - and not summer - sport, and now its South Africas turn. This is the first time Test cricket will be played in what is essentially winter, although Durbans balmy conditions beat summer in most places. The weather is certain, but at this time of the year, no one knows what to expect from the conditions, not even South Africa.The home side will begin their fresh start at an unfamiliar time of the year, and with their permanent captain and one of their premier pacemen out with injury. Stand-in leader Faf du Plessis admitted he does not know what to expect from the Durban strip, which did not appear unusually green the day before the match. Some say it will take turn, others feel it will be slow, and the prevailing view is that the quicks will have to work hard for their wickets.Among those are South Africas returning seamers, Dale Steyn and Vernon Philander, who will play together for the first time since November last year. The pair sat out most of the previous summer with injuries, but has recovered ahead of a busy season. They will face a stern test against New Zealands strong batting line-up, who played themselves into form in the preceding two-Test series in Zimbabwe, but will know this will be a much sterner challenge.New Zealand were shot out for 45 in the first innings of the first Test they played in South Africa three years ago, and lost both matches in the series by an innings. But they used that humiliation as a catalyst to rebuild and have since racked up a string of good results at home, and, importantly for their growth as a team, away. They want to be able to build on that, although history does not favour them in this series.New Zealand have never won a Test series against South Africa, but could see this as their best chance. They are ranked two places ahead of the hosts, and with a similarly balanced side and recent form behind them, could be seen as favourites. But South Africa are not keen to concede the advantage early on and have promised to start more aggressively than before in a bid to begin their rebirth.Form guideSouth Africa WLDLL (last five completed matches, most recent first)New Zealand WWLLWIn the spotlightAt the end of January, Faf du Plessis would have had reason to doubt he would play in this series. Du Plessis had scored one half-century in 13 innings dating back to South Africas tour of Bangladesh in July 2015 and was dropped for the Centurion Test against England. Fast-forward seven months and not only is du Plessis back in the team, but he is the captain in de Villiers injury-enforced absence. He will have to find form and a leadership style quickly as South Africa begin to rebuild.The last time New Zealand were in South Africa, BJ Watling was one of the few bright spots for the visitors. He finished behind Dean Brownlie in New Zealands batting charts with twin half-centuries in the Port Elizabeth Test. Since then, Watling has scored five Test centuries and has earned the praise of coach Mike Hesson for being able to change approach mid-game. Watling could bat as high as No. 5 in this series and will have additional run-scoring responsibility, which he has been tipped to take on with aplomb.Team newsThe much-anticipated return of Dale Steyn and Vernon Philander will give South Africas attack its reputation back. While Morkel will not be around, the pair have Kagiso Rabada as a third prong. Dane Piedt will operate as the only specialist spinner, while JP Duminy is certain to be called on to bowl a bit too. De Villiers absence will see the return of du Plessis, in a familiar, if lacking-for-form, middle order. Stephen Cook has been promised an extended run at the top, which will mean Stiaan van Zyl is sidelined.South Africa: (probable) 1 Stephen Cook, 2 Dean Elgar, 3 Hashim Amla, 4 Faf du Plessis (capt), 5 Temba Bavuma, 6 JP Duminy, 7 Quinton de Kock (wk), 8 Vernon Philander, 9 Dane Piedt, 10 Dale Steyn, 11 Kagiso RabadaMost of the XI that did duty in Zimbabwe will retain their place. Henry Nicholls had an average series in Zimbabwe, where he failed to get past 20, but is likely to retain his place. Mitchell Santner, who has been asked to do more of an all-round job, may have a bigger role in both disciplines, and could also operate as the only specialist spinner. Conditions could keep Ish Sodhi out for Doug Bracewell to provide a fourth seam-bowling option.New Zealand: (probable) 1 Martin Guptill, 2 Tom Latham, 3 Kane Williamson (capt), 4 Ross Taylor, 5 Henry Nicholls 6 BJ Watling (wk), 7 Mitchell Santner, 8 Doug Bracewell/Ish Sodhi 9 Neil Wagner, 10 Trent Boult, 11 Tim SoutheePitch and conditionsA foreign surface awaits both teams, neither of which knows what to expect from early-season conditions. Without baking hot sunshine to harden the surface, there is talk of a strip that could be slower than the usual South African surface, and one which may also take turn early on. The outfield is the main concern as it appeared patchy in places.Durbans rain-free winter was interrupted by showers in the week leading up to the Test and may interfere with the cricket. Rain is forecast for parts of Saturday and Monday, days two and four. Temperatures will remain in the early 20s with high humidity.Stats and triviaSouth Africa and New Zealand have played each other in 14 Test series dating back to 1932. New Zealand have never won, but have managed three draws, most recently in 2003-04 in New ZealandThere has never been a Test match played in Kingsmead in AugustDale Steyn is 16 wickets away from overtaking Shaun Pollock as South Africas leading wicket-taker in TestsQuotesI accept the fact that we havent played the best cricket. Losing 3-0 in India took a lot of our points away. It was tough conditions - we should have done better, but it was really tough. Where we are lying at the moment, at No. 6 or No. 7, is not where we are going to be. We have New Zealand at home and then Sri Lanka at home. If we win both these series, we will start to climb up the rankings.Faf du PlessisI dont think we regard ourselves as favourites. We know that South Africa are always a strong opposition, regardless of the rankings. For us the focus is on playing our cricket, going out there and adapting quickly.Kane Williamson Zaino Fjallraven Kanken Rosa . Already owning gold from competition in Vancouver in 2010, Loch posted a combined four-run time of 3:27.526. That included a track-record third run of 51. Zaino Kanken Classic Nero . -- Former San Diego Chargers safety Paul Oliver was found dead at his Atlanta-area home Tuesday night, and a medical examiner said Wednesday that the ex-player committed suicide. http://www.fjallravenkankenitalia.it/zaino-kanken-classic.html . The move comes after the Canadiens were approached by the Buffalo Sabres for permission to speak to Dudley - a former Sabres player and head coach. "The Sabres called for permission and I appreciate that, Im flattered, Dudley told TSN Hockey Insider Pierre LeBrun of ESPN. Fjallraven Kanken Italia . The formidable trio of Canadian receivers -- individually known as Chris Getzlaf, Rob Bagg and Andy Fantuz -- will share the field at Mosaic Stadium one more time on Sunday. Zaino Fjallraven Kanken Offerta . The Croatian served 21 aces and hit 42 winners against Sijsling, who double-faulted to give Cilic a 4-3 lead in the deciding set. "All the players, they know me and they were really happy to see me and they were really happy that this is over for me," Cilic said. What is #CBBrank?#CBBrank is the Twitter hashtag to use if you want to get involved in the discussion or just follow along.How did we rank the players?We asked our wide range of college basketball writers, editors and analysts to rate players based on their expected contributions for the 2016 season.Player breakdowns written by Andy Katz, Eamonn Brennan, Dana ONeil, Jeff Goodman, John Gasaway, C.L. Brown, Myron Medcalf and Jeff Borzello.Daxter Miles Jr. West Virginia Junior | Guard Score: 34.32Hes part of a fairly anonymous group of Mountaineers guards, but Miles plays both ends and can make shots from the perimeter. He averaged 9.4 points in 25 minutes per game last season.Amida Brimah Connecticut Senior | Center Score: 34.44Connecticuts defensive guru missed 11 games last season, yet he still recorded 67 blocks (2.7 per game). Opponents connected on only 42 percent of their shots inside the arc against Connecticut because of the big mans shot-blocking gifts.V.J. Beachem Notre Dame Senior | Forward Score: 34.93Steady all season, Beachem came on strong in the NCAA tournament, averaging 17.5 points and shooting 65 percent from the floor to lead the Irish back to the Elite Eight. With Demetrius Jackson and Zach Auguste gone, hell be asked to pick up where he left off, plus take on more of a leadership role as Notre Dame eyes another deep NCAA run.Bennie Boatwright USC Sophomore | Forward Score: 34.98Boatwright didnt get much attention during ?coach Andy Enfields breakout third season, despite being a 6-foot-10 freshman who shot 36 percent from 3 and took 24.6 percent of the Trojans shots. More minutes, and more publicity, should be around the corner.Donovan Mitchell Louisville Sophomore | Guard Score: 35.77There are several Louisville sophomores capable of breakout seasons in 2016-17, and Mitchell is as good a bet as anyone. Hes an insane athlete whose per-40-minute numbers last season average out to 15.5 points, 7 rebounds and 3.5 assists.Isaac Haas Purdue Junior | Center Score: 35.99In 2016-17 Haas will have the opportunity to show that his excellent numbers from last season for 2-point shooting (59 percent) and foul-drawing (eight per 40 minutes) can be sustained by a starter playing extended minutes. Hes a breakout junior waiting to happen.Malcolm Hill Illinois Senior | Guard Score: 36.44Illinois desperately needs Hill to follow up on what was said to be a solid summer with a highly productive winter. The Illini have been besieged by injuries and attrition and a great season by Hill could solve a lot of headaches.Nick Emery BYU Sophomore | Guard Score: 36.53He had the most prolific freshman season at BYU since Danny Ainge, averaging 16.3 points per game. His 97 made 3-pointers set a new school record for a freshman -- only Jimmer Fredette and Chase Fischer have made more in a season.Lauri Markkanen Arizona Freshman | Forward Score: 36.60Markkanen could wind up being Arizonas best player. Hes a legitimate 7-footer from Finland who is extremely skilled and was terrific in the Under-20 European Championships this past summer.Markis McDuffie Wichita State Sophomore | Forward Score: 36.66The reigning Missouri Valley Conference Freshman of the Year averaged 7.4 points per game as a raw, lanky forward who helped Wichita State with his determination and grit. With Ron Baker and Fred VanVleet in the NBA, however, hell log more minutes and evolve into Gregg Marshalls young star.Yante Maten Georgia Junior | Forward Score: 36.89Underrated. The best player youve never heard of. These are the tags currently following Maten, a fierce rebounder and versatile scorer. Maten, who averaged 16.5 points and eight rebounds per game last season, turned plenty of heads in the SEC and should grab more notice nationally this season.Vince Edwards Purdue Junior | Forward Score: 37.18Caleb Swanigan wasnt the only crucial Boilermaker to turn back from the NBA ledge in the spring. Small forward Edwards return might be just as important: He rebounds well, guards even better, and made 40 percent of his 3s a season ago.Jaylen Adams St. Bonaventure Junior | Guard Score: 37.41One of the most efficient scorers in the Atlantic 10, Adams could be in store for a huge season after averaging 17.9 points per game as the Bonnies third offensive option. Some A-10 coaches think hes the best point guard in the league.Tres Tinkle Oregon State Sophomore | Forward Score: 37.58Tinkle underwent foot surgery in the offseason, and was cleared to participate in practice on Oct. 20. Few players in the Pac-12 are more adept at getting to the line than the sophomore, who draws nearly six fouls per 40 minutes.Terry Larrier Connecticut Sophomore | Guard Score: 38.16UConn desperately needs more production from its wings and on the perimeter. Inconsistency has been an issue for the Huskies, but Larrier could solve some of those issues with his athleticism and ability to get buckets.Abdul-Malik Abu NC State Junior | Forward Score: 38.35Hes the Wolfpacks leading returning scorer and rebounder and recorded 14 double-doubles as a sophomore. Abu is especially adept on the offensive boards, where he averaged 3.6 per game last season.JaQuan Newton Miami Junior | Guard Score: 38.60With Angel Rodriguez and Sheldon McClellan gone, Newton should be the primary scoring threat -- and also the guy with the ball in his hands -- this season for the Hurricanes. Hes quick and averaged 10.5 points per game last season coming off the bench.Maurice Watson Jr. Creighton Senior | Guard Score: 38.64The catalyst for Creightons offense helped the Bluejays finish 43rd in adjusted offensive efficiency per KenPom.com. His motor never stops and his knack for finding his teammates in half-court sets or fast-break situations is rivaled by only a handful of players.?He averaged 6.5 assists per game and his 38.8 percent assist rate was 12th in the countryDJ Hogg Texas A&M Sophomore | Forward Score: 39.26Hogg averaged just 6.2 points per game last season but thats mostly because, with Danuel House and Jalen Jones around, he couldnt get a lot of minutes. With more playing opportunity, Hogg, a versatile defender who also shot 33 percent from beyond the arc a season ago, should shine.Kobi Simmons Arizona Freshman | Guard Score: 39.47Simmons, the No. 20 prospect in this loaded incoming class, might need a little time to add some strength and off-ball intuition to his game. Then again, the 6-foot-5 wing is already immensely polished, and Sean Miller gets the best out of his freshmen with minimal delay.Andrew White III Syracuse Senior | Guard Score: 39.71White is exactly what Jim Boeheim and Syracuse needed, even if the graduate transfer from Nebraska didnt pick the Orange until late August. Hes a legitimate go-to scorer, shooting better than 41 percent from 3-point range while finishing sixth in the Big Ten in scoring last season.Eron Harris Michigan State Senior | Guard Score: 39.87The erstwhile West Virginia Mountaineer is now Tom Izzos leading veteran on a team brimming with young talent. If Harris can continue to connect on 44 percent of his 3s, the youthful Spartans will push Wisconsin, Indiana and Purdue for the Big Ten title.J.J. Frazier Georgia Senior | Guard Score: 39.90Georgia will be a contender for an NCAA tournament bid out of the SEC if Frazier lives up to his billing of being an elite scorer (16.9 points per game last season). He doesnt have intimidating size, but he has been able to hold his own at a high level.Jordan Bell Oregon Junior | Forward Score: 40.17Bell spent the better part of last season finding his rhythm after being slowed by a foot injury. He and?Chris Boucher??form a fearsome shot-blocking duo, combining for 163 last season. Hes an athletic big man who runs the floor well and is one of the Ducks best finishers.Jonathan Isaac Florida State Freshman | Forward Score: 40.29The ultratalented, skilled and athletic forward was the 12th-ranked recruit in 2016 and has already drawn the interest of the NBA folks as a likely first-round pick. The question is whether his production in Tallahassee will match his potential.Isaac Hamilton UCLA Senior | Guard Score: 41.13The 6-foot-5 slashing, athletic wing averaged 16.8 points per game for a UCLA squad that added a top-10 recruiting class to this seasons roster. With the new talent on the floor, Hamiltons numbers may change but his role and significance within Steve Alfords plans (37.7 percent from the 3-point line) remain.Jarrett Allen Texas Freshman | Forward Score: 41.16The Longhorns late addition already has his coach raving, with Shaka Smart saying he plans to start the 6-11 Allen alongside Shaquille Cleare for a rather impressive frontcourt. Allen hasnt garnered as much attention as some in this freshman class but he could help a promising Texas team get back to the NCAA tournament.Emmett Naar Saint Marys Junior | Guard Score: 41.19The latest in the long line of Saint Marys Australian imports, Naar tied fellow Aussie Matthew Dellavedovas single-season SMC assist record. The Gaels project to be a hyper-efficient offensive force for the second year running, and Naar is a major reason why.Jordan Woodard Oklahoma Senior | Guard Score: 41.54The post-Buddy Hield era in Norman will begin with Woodard. He was one of the best complementary options -- and shooters -- in the Big 12 last season, and will become the go-to guy on the offensive end for Sooners coach Lon Kruger.Zach LeDay Virginia Tech Senior | Forward Score: 42.64LeDay was notably efficient as a scorer last season, and that was as the co-featured scorer (alongside Seth Allen) for the ACCs No. 13-ranked offense. With just about everyone returning in Blacksburg this season, the senior could have even more noteworthy performances in store.Bonzie Colson Notre Dame Junior | Forward Score: 42.67Notre Dame has a tremendous glue guy in Colson. Hes a bit of a tweener at 6-foot-5 but his length allows him to always be around the ball and make things happen for an Irish team that will need even more production from him this season.Troy Caupain Cincinnati Senior | Guard Score: 42.73He ranked second in the American Athletic Conference with a 2.67 assist-to-turnover ratio and is fluid playing on or off the ball for the Bearcats.Carlton Bragg Jr. Kansas Sophomore | Forward Score: 43.24Bill Self said he wont be shocked if the long and skilled forward winds up leading the Jayhawks in scoring this season. He played sparingly last season behind Perry Ellis, but Bragg could be a focal point this season in Lawrence.Steve Vasturia Notre Dame Senior | Guard Score: 43.27Notre Dames 6-foot-6 wing is a reliable contributor who can use his size to get to the rim or find space off a screen and connect with his jumper. Hes one of the most balanced players in the ACC: 34 percent from the 3-point line, 49 percent inside the arc and 85 percent on his free throw attempts.Tyler Dorsey Oregon Sophomore | Guard Score: 43.86As the Ducks wait for Dillon Brooks to recover from foot surgery, Dorsey will be asked to carry much of the scoring load in what will be a very guard-oriented team. But Dorsey, who averaged 13.4 points per game as a freshman, is more than able to handle it. When Brooks returns, they will make for a terrific Oregon backcourt.Jalen Adams Connecticut Sophomore | Guard Score: 43.88If the name rings a bell, its likely because you saw the singular moment of UConns 2015-16 season: Adams insane 70-foot buzzer-beater to knock off Cincinnati in the American conference tournament last March. That shot kept UConns disappointing season alive; if Adams hits his ceiling, the Huskies wont need to live 2016-17 on a prayer.Luke Kennard Duke Sophomore | Guard Score: 44.12Early returns from Duke practices indicate that Kennard is ready to assume a larger role. Known as a lights-out 3-point shooter coming out of high school, Kennard impressed during his freshman season with his decision-making and passing.Justin Robinson Monmouth Senior | Guard Score: 44.39He converts 39 percent of his 3s and nearly half his 2s at a listed height of 5-foot-8, runs the point for the Hawks and he even dressed up as his own coach (King Rice) for Halloween. Robinson is spooky-good.Isaiah Briscoe Kentucky Sophomore | Guard Score: 44.56Briscoe has already been dubbed the leader of Kentucky -- as a sophomore. The knock on him last season was his shooting, but he proved last month during Kentuckys pro day that he can make 3s in bunches.Johnathan Williams Gonzaga Junior | Forward Score: 44.61Williams led Missouri in scoring, rebounding and blocked shots as a sophomore during the 2014-15 season before transferring to Gonzaga and sitting out last season. He will help the Zags make up for a depleted frontcourt.Dedric Lawson Memphis Sophomore | Forward Score: 44.88The skilled forward was Memphis best player as a freshman, and contemplated heading to the NBA. He is a tough matchup due to his ability to step out and make shots at his size.JaeSean Tate Ohio State Junior | Forward Score: 44.98The stocky 6-foot-4 athlete is an undersized forward but an effective finisher and talented rebounder. He used his brawn to average 11.7 points and 6.4 rebounds per game last season, but he must improve at the charity stripe (52 percent).Antonio Blakeney LSU Sophomore | Guard Score: 45.19The post-Ben Simmons (and perhaps back to reality) world begins for the Tigers, and if they are going to be better than last seasons disastrous mess, it will be up to Blakeney. He showed what he can do down the stretch of last season, averaging 17.4 points in his final 10 games, and LSU will need all of that and more to succeed this season.Marcus Foster Creighton Junior | Guard Score: 45.26Its hard to remember now, but three years ago, Marcus Fosters out-of-nowhere rookie campaign made him one of the hottest names in the Big 12. His falling-out with Kansas State coach Bruce Weber led him to transfer to Creighton, where his scoring could elevate the Bluejays from fringe bubble team to a regular in the top 25.Michael Young Pittsburgh Senior | Forward Score: 45.48Young has improved steadily in each of his three seasons with the Panthers, and will continue to rebound and get to the free throw line at a high rate. Under new coach Kevin Stallings, Young will be the focal point of the offense.Przemek Karnowski Gonzaga Senior | Center Score: 46.06Karnowski missed all but the first five games of last season with a back injury, and its no coincidence that Gonzaga failed to deliver on a preseason top-10 ranking. If the 7-foot-1 senior is healthy hell be a leading West Coast Conference POY candidate and an invaluable source of 2-point makes.Jordan McLaughlin USC Junior | Guard Score: 46.18USC has a solid, low-maintenance college point guard in McLaughlin, who will lift the Trojans when hes on the court. His size could be an issue at times, but hes billed as a quick, tough player.Alec Peters Valparaiso Senior | Forward Score: 47.46Hes an elite shooter who shot 50 percent from the field and 44 percent from the 3-point line last season. Valpo is thrilled he not only withdrew his name from the NBA draft, but decided not to leave as a graduate transfer.Seth Allen Virginia Tech Senior | Guard Score: 48.15Last season, his first for the Hokies, the Maryland transfer averaged 14.7 points per game. Hell need to improve his perimeter shot and his decision-making, but hes a tough, quick guard and plays both ends of the floor.Derrick Walton Jr. Michigan Senior | Guard Score: 48.40The senior point guard is John Beileins most significant weapon, the veteran leader on a roster that lost multiple perimeter players. Hes a confident distributor (4.5 assists per game) who made 39 percent of his 3-pointers last season, but finished on just 36 percent of his shots inside the arc.Bryce Alford UCLA Senior | Guard Score: 48.47The coachs son has been a bit of a lightning rod during his career, and how he coexists with?Lonzo Ball?in the backcourt will be both intensely watched and wildly critical to the Bruins success this season.dddddddddddd Controversy aside, Alford has to be given props for his 16.1 points and 5.2 assists per game last season.Peter Jok Iowa Senior | Guard Score: 48.49A year ago, Jok had the benefit of playing alongside four seniors -- two of whom, Adam Woodbury and Mike Gesell, were four-year starters (and one of whom, Jarrod Uthoff, was one of the nations best players). Now Jok, who already averaged 16.1 points per game last season, will need to do even more.Moses Kingsley Arkansas Senior | Forward Score: 48.61Razorbacks coach Mike Anderson has to be thrilled Kingsley withdrew his name from the NBA draft and returned to Arkansas for his senior season. Among SEC players, Kingsley was 10th in scoring (15.9 points), third in rebounds (9.3) and second in blocked shots (2.4).Kennedy Meeks North Carolina Senior | Center Score: 48.64Meeks posted outstanding offensive rebound percentages for three seasons while having to compete for those boards with Brice Johnson. The seniors numbers may improve still further with Johnson gone -- or, as Roy Williams would prefer, the competition may now be with Isaiah Hicks.OG Anunoby Indiana Sophomore | Forward Score: 49.31Indiana will need Anunoby to be an integral part of its lineup this season, especially if he can score. Thats good since he is considered to have a great defensive feel for the game.Amile Jefferson Duke Senior | Forward Score: 50.38Forget Dukes stellar freshman recruiting class for a minute, Jefferson is the unsung leader of the team. Hes the best communicator on the floor for the Blue Devils; defensively, they would be lost without him.Lonzo Ball UCLA Freshman | Guard Score: 50.90Hes arguably the best passer in the country, but the key question is how much Bruins coach Steve Alford will give him the ball and let him go. Balls athleticism will be questioned, but his size and court vision have drawn comparisons to Jason Kidd.Miles Bridges Michigan State Freshman | Forward Score: 51.86At a Nike Skills Academy showcase stacked with veteran talent in Los Angeles over the summer, the 6-foot-7 freshman looked stronger than every player on the floor. The high-flying wing is comfortable above the rim, as evidenced by his 21-point, 7-rebound performance in a season-opening loss against Arizona at the Armed Forces Classic.Bam Adebayo Kentucky Freshman | Forward Score: 51.95The fun-loving Adebayo is no joke on the inside and will plug the biggest hole that plagued the Wildcats last season. He can block shots, rebound and protect the rim, all vital for a Kentucky team that struggled to do all three last season.Caleb Swanigan Purdue Sophomore | Forward Score: 52.03The 2015 Indiana Mr. Basketball and McDonalds All-American had an occasionally inefficient freshman season, but his promise was never hard to see. A more versatile offensive repertoire -- particularly in the high post, playing off 7-foot-2 Purdue center Isaac Haas -- might bring a breakout sophomore campaign.Jawun Evans Oklahoma State Sophomore | Guard Score: 52.11One of the best two-way players in college basketball, Evans is lightning-quick with the ball in his hands and a pest on the defensive end. Hell shoulder more of the scoring load as the Cowboys look to improve on last seasons 12-20 record.Isaiah Hicks North Carolina Senior | Forward Score: 52.39On a Carolina team thats not averse to (and exceptionally good at) 2-point jumpers, Hicks generates a very high percentage of his offense at the rim. The result, as youd expect, is an excellent rate of conversion inside the arc: 61 percent.Harry Giles Duke Freshman | Forward Score: 52.55Giles sat out last season after tearing his ACL in his right knee and underwent an arthroscopic procedure on his left knee last month, making his impact unknown this season. If he gets on the court hes an elite talent who can score around the rim and become a game-changer for the Blue Devils.Dwayne Bacon Florida State Sophomore | Guard Score: 52.73Bacon decided to return for his sophomore season instead of being another rookie in the league thats not playing. He led the Seminoles in scoring last season with 15.8 points per game, but will need to improve from 3-point range, where he shot just 28 percent.Tyler Davis Texas A&M Sophomore | Center Score: 52.95Davis is one of the best true big men in the country and doesnt try to be something hes not. He has shed about 100 pounds since high school and should improve significantly on his production from a season ago (11.3 points, 6.2 rebounds per game).E.C. Matthews Rhode Island Junior | Guard Score: 54.23The Atlantic 10 Player of the Year contender played only 10 minutes last season after a knee injury in the first game of the season ended his 2015-16 campaign. But the 6-5 guard, who averaged 16.9 points per game in 2014-15, is back to penetrate, collect points from the perimeter and attack defenses with size and strength few that players in the country can match.Austin Nichols Virginia Junior | Forward Score: 54.32The Memphis transfer was suspended for two weeks for violating team rules. Even before the suspension, Virginia head coach Tony Bennett said Nicholas was still trying to master the Cavaliers defense. Nichols averaged 13.3 points and 6.1 rebounds per game last season and could be the most critical piece to the oft-challenged offense of Virginia.Chris Boucher Oregon Senior | Forward Score: 54.91Boucher caught the hoops world by surprise a season ago: Who was this twig-thin 23-year-old junior, who began his organized basketball career at age 19 after being plucked out of a rec center by a basketball academy for hardscrabble Montreal kids ...?and how on Earth was he so good? Bouchers game is as unique as his story, and just as good.Frank Jackson Duke Freshman | Guard Score: 54.97Jackson has the size and strength to make an immediate impact, and he will be able to score against most opponents. The lone question with Jackson is whether he will be able to make the transition to being a full-time point guard.Allonzo Trier Arizona Sophomore | Guard Score: 55.00Triers status remains a mystery. He did not play in the Wildcats season-opening win against Michigan State at the Armed Forces Classic. If he plays, the sophomore can give the Wildcats a proven dose of scoring from anywhere on the floor.Marques Bolden Duke Freshman | Center Score: 55.12Bolden isnt getting the most hype among the Duke freshmen, but hes got NBA size. Like Harry Giles and Jayson Tatum, he has caught the Duke injury bug. He is sidelined with a leg injury.Nigel Williams-Goss Gonzaga Junior | Guard Score: 55.70A former highly ranked recruit, Williams-Goss will be ready to play after sitting out last season after transferring from Washington. Hell bring a scoring dynamic to the point guard position that the Bulldogs havent had in a while.Trevon Bluiett Xavier Junior | Guard Score: 55.90Hes a tough matchup due to his ability to score in a variety of ways. He averaged 15.1 points and 6.1 boards per game as a sophomore last season while shooting 40 percent from 3.Joel Berry II North Carolina Junior | Guard Score: 56.37Early projections about national runner-up North Carolina remain high, in part because Berry promises the return of a dynamic, talented combo guard capable of keeping the Tar Heels in contention, despite the loss of Marcus Paige. Berry, an All-ACC preseason first-teamer, averaged 12.8 points and 3.8 assists per game, while connecting on 38.2 percent of his 3-pointers and 86.7 percent of his free throw attempts, and could produce even bigger numbers in 2016-17.Tyler Lydon Syracuse Sophomore | Forward Score: 56.47Syracuse coach Jim Boeheim said at ACC media day that Lydon put on 20 pounds over the summer and is a totally different player. The old version, who nearly lifted the Orange to the Final Four single-handedly, wasnt too shabby, averaging 10.1 points and 6.3 boards per game.James Blackmon Jr. Indiana Junior | Guard Score: 56.55Indianas sweet-shooting off-guard averaged 15.7 points and five rebounds per game as an all-conference honorable mention two seasons ago, but missed much of the 2015-16 season to injury. If hes healthy, hes one of the best pure scorers in the country.Edmond Sumner Xavier Sophomore | Guard Score: 57.04The athletic point guard bounced back from a redshirt season to help lead the Musketeers to a No. 2 seed in the NCAA tournament. Sumner is an attack-minded playmaker who showed flashes of being able to take over games last season.Thomas Bryant Indiana Sophomore | Center Score: 57.50Whats next after a freshman season in which Bryant converted an incredible 71 percent of his 2-point attempts? If youre Tom Crean, youre thinking in terms of more minutes, a larger role in the offense and some tough interior defense from your 6-foot-10 sophomore.Malik Monk Kentucky Freshman | Guard Score: 60.16Monk has already given a glimpse of his athletic talent with a monster dunk in the preseason that made a SportsCenter highlight reel. Hell become a big-time scorer for the Wildcats in their quest to get to a Final Four.Devonte Graham Kansas Junior | Guard Score: 60.78Graham has carved out a niche as a tough on-ball defender for the Jayhawks. Last season, he became much more of an offensive threat too while shooting 44 percent from 3-point range.Bronson Koenig Wisconsin Senior | Guard Score: 61.03Has revamped his body and could wind up being the best player on a Badgers team that features Nigel Hayes and Ethan Happ. Koenig can get into the lane, shoot it from deep and also set up his teammates.Nigel Hayes Wisconsin Senior | Forward Score: 61.10Last season, Wisconsins Draymond Green-like cog saw his effectiveness decline as he hoisted up 72 more shots from inside the arc (54 percent to 40 percent) and 32 additional 3-pointers (40 percent to 29 percent) compared to the previous season. But the Big Tens preseason player of the year is due for a more efficient season packed with the same versatility and stat-stuffing, shot-stopping production of past seasons.Jayson Tatum Duke Freshman | Forward Score: 62.12Tatum, like Giles, is out with an injury. Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski seems like he will take the cautious route with Tatum. Once he returns, he is a sure-fire first-round pick, Tatum could emerge as the star of a heavily favored Duke team.Kris Jenkins Villanova Senior | Forward Score: 66.15The author of the greatest buzzer-beater in the history of college basketball -- sorry, Christian Laettner, but a title winner takes the cake -- wont be able to improve on last seasons finish, because such a thing is not possible. Good news? Hell still be a potent, matchup-havoc weapon for a back-to-back title contender.Ethan Happ Wisconsin Sophomore | Forward Score: 66.29Happ took advantage of a redshirt season and developed into the best freshman in the Big Ten in 2015-16. He saved his best for the NCAA tournament, where he averaged 15.7 points and 9.3 rebounds in three games.Justin Jackson North Carolina Junior | Forward Score: 66.58Jackson has been a consistent and efficient scorer inside the arc the past two seasons (though, granted, a 30 percent shooter outside it). Now that mainstays like Brice Johnson and Marcus Paige are gone, the junior will have more opportunities to flash that ability.DeAaron Fox Kentucky Freshman | Guard Score: 67.61Fox should have an immediate impact on Kentucky with his quickness on the defensive end. Hes fast in all facets of the game and as a pass-first guard hell make everyone on the floor better playing with him.Josh Jackson Kansas Freshman | Guard Score: 67.63The all-everything freshman was one of the most coveted wings in the class of 2016. His versatility and ability to rebound will give Bill Self a lot of options as to where to play him in the lineup.Jack Gibbs Davidson Senior | Guard Score: 67.98The senior point guard could wind up leading the nation in scoring after putting up 23.5 points per game last season. According to coach Bob McKillop, Gibbs conditioning is much-improved -- and thats scary for opponents.Dennis Smith Jr. NC State Freshman | Guard Score: 68.66North Carolina States explosive point guard is a versatile, unpredictable gem who will thrive in any scenario and could lead the Wolfpack in every offensive category. The 6-foot-3 point guard resembles former Maryland star Steve Francis with his ability to dunk through traffic, find his teammates anywhere on the floor or connect on a deep 3-pointer, even if its contested.Frank Mason III Kansas Senior | Guard Score: 69.05Mason and?Devonte Graham?combine for one of the more formidable backcourts in the country. The steady Mason -- strong defensively, reliable offensively -- has flown under the radar for much of his career and likely will take a backseat to freshman?Josh Jackson?this season, but hes invaluable to the Jayhawks success.Monte Morris Iowa State Senior | Guard Score: 72.82Texas Tech coach Chris Beard, whose Arkansas-Little Rock team lost to Iowa State in the 2016 NCAA tournament, remembers preparing for that game and thinking, This guy might be their best player. With star forward Georges Niang gone, Morris -- who has led the nation in assist-to-turnover ratio for almost his entire career -- is about to make an even larger impression.Dillon Brooks Oregon Junior | Forward Score: 73.44A left foot injury suffered in the summer could hamper Brooks during the early portion of the season. When healthy, though, Brooks is among the most versatile and talented scorers in the country, and knows how to get under an opponents skin.Jaron Blossomgame Clemson Senior | Forward Score: 74.48If any one of several Duke Blue Devils should stumble in the slightest, Blossomgame could be the 2017 ACC Player of the Year. Since adding 3-point range to his repertoire last season, the 6-foot-7 senior is now one of the most effective scoring threats in the nation.Melo Trimble Maryland Junior | Guard Score: 74.80Trimble returns to Maryland for his junior season to lead a team in transition. Hes not considered a true point guard, but he does find ways to score.Josh Hart Villanova Senior | Guard Score: 79.26Bucket. Getter. Hart operates well in tight spaces as he might very well be the best guard in the nation when it comes to scoring in the paint.Markelle Fultz Washington Freshman | Guard Score: 81.70Some project him as the early leader for the No. 1 overall pick in the NBA draft, largely because he has the size, athleticism, IQ and scoring ability to do it all as a combo guard.Ivan Rabb California Sophomore | Forward Score: 82.67The Oakland product can accomplish two goals with Cal this season: First, he can lead his hometown squad to a Pac-12 championship and extended run in the NCAA tournament. Second, he can solidify his place as a lottery pick in next years draft as the perfect stretch-4 NBA executives covet. Last season, the 6-foot-11 big man averaged 12.5 points, 8.6 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game, while attempting a balanced 52.2 percent of his shots at the rim and 47.4 percent of his tries from the field, per hoop-math.com.London Perrantes Virginia Senior | Guard Score: 94.47The savvy point guard is more than ready to take over the leadership reins from Malcolm Brogdon. The veteran will be the steady hand to guide a young Cavaliers team.Grayson Allen Duke Junior | Guard Score: 100Tripping indiscretions aside, Allen emerged as one of college basketballs best last season, when he poured in 42 percent of his 3s and 21.6 points per game overall. For all of the hype surrounding Mike Krzyzewskis star-studded freshman class, veterans are the real reason the Blue Devils are the clear national title favorites, and one of them might be the best player in the country. ' ' '