NCAA Tournament: Top 10 Players in the Midwest Region
By Shane Black
4. Isaiah Wong, G, Miami
16.2 points, 4.3 rebounds, 3.4 assists – 45.3 FG%, 37.8 3P%, 83.6 FT%
Senior guard Isaiah Wong was selected as the ACC Player of the Year, yet he still seems to be an under-the-radar talent on the national level. Wong leads a Miami backcourt that is one of the best and most experienced in the nation. He knifes through the lane better than anyone at the collegiate level and seemingly gets a good look at the rim when the Hurricanes need it the most.
This season, Wong has become a reliable three-point shooter (37.8% on 4.5 attempts per game). This asset has forced teams to guard him out to 25 feet, stressing the opposition every time he crosses half-court. During last year’s run to the Elite Eight, Wong averaged 16.3 PPG and provided a calming ability to a somewhat erratic Miami squad. He will once again be the catalyst and leader if the Canes advance deep into the Tournament.
3. Marcus Sasser, G, Houston
17.1 points, 2.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists – 43.9 FG%, 38.3 3P%, 84.0 FT%
Marcus Sasser was selected as the AAC Player of the Year and a First-Team All-American. The senior guard combines a bevy of experience with elite offensive and defensive traits that he has combined to make up one of the most complete players in college basketball.
The Houston Cougars are an excellent team. They won 12 games this season by 25 or more points. Because of this, Sasser often gave way to his teammates, limiting his counting stats. When he needed to turn it on, Sasser was a man amongst boys. He embraces the physicality Coach Kelvin Sampson preaches and is a handful on both ends of the floor. Sasser is the ideal point guard you want running your team in March. If Houston cuts down the nets in early April, it will largely be due to the play of their senior point guard.