Sports Illustrated College Basketball: Players to Watch Out For in 2023-2024 The college basketball season is upon us\, and with it comes a new wave of talent ready to make their mark on the hardwood. From seasoned veterans to exciting freshmen\, there are countless players across the nation poised to leave their imprint on the 2023-2024 season. This year promises to be a thrilling one\, with the potential for upsets\, breakout performances\, and ultimately\, a new national champion. So\, grab your popcorn and settle in\, because we're diving deep into the world of college basketball and showcasing the players you need to keep your eyes glued to the screen for. Top Returning Players The landscape of college basketball is constantly evolving\, but some players have already established themselves as dominant forces. These returning stars will be leading the charge for their respective teams and are prime contenders for national recognition: Drew Timme (Gonzaga): The reigning West Coast Conference Player of the Year\, Timme is a force in the paint. With his relentless energy and scoring prowess\, he'll be a key player in Gonzaga's quest for another Final Four run. Caleb Love (North Carolina): Love brings a unique blend of athleticism and scoring to the Tar Heels. He is ready to lead North Carolina to new heights after their heartbreaking Final Four loss last season. Keyonte George (Baylor): A rising star with an incredible scoring touch\, George will be the focal point of Baylor's offense. His ability to create his own shot and finish with flair makes him a must-watch player. Max Abmas (Oral Roberts): Abmas has been a scoring machine for the Golden Eagles\, shattering records and earning national attention. He'll be a key player to watch if Oral Roberts can make another deep NCAA Tournament run. Marcus Sasser (Houston): Sasser is a versatile guard who can score at all three levels. He's the engine that drives the Houston offense and will be crucial to their championship aspirations. Fresh Faces Making a Splash The freshman class in college basketball is packed with potential\, and these players are poised to make immediate impacts: Mikey Williams (Memphis): Williams is a generational talent with an exceptional scoring ability. He's expected to lead the charge for Memphis and be a key player in their pursuit of a national title. Cooper Flagg (Maine): A towering presence on the court\, Flagg has the potential to be a dominant force in college basketball. His size and athleticism make him a threat on both ends of the floor. Dereck Lively II (Duke): Lively is a defensive force with a huge wingspan and rim-protecting prowess. He will be an important piece in Duke's attempt to rebuild their program and return to national prominence. GG Jackson (South Carolina): Jackson is a well-rounded player who can score\, rebound\, and defend. He's a rising star with the potential to become one of the best players in the country. Justin Edwards (Kentucky): Edwards is a top-ranked recruit who has the potential to be a game-changer for Kentucky. His athleticism\, scoring ability\, and defensive instincts make him a threat on both ends of the floor. Conference Powerhouses to Watch While individual players are crucial\, the team dynamic is paramount in college basketball. Here are the conferences that are expected to be particularly competitive this season: ACC: The ACC is known for its high-intensity games and its top-tier talent. Duke\, North Carolina\, and Miami are all contenders for the conference crown. Big Ten: The Big Ten is home to some of the most storied programs in college basketball. Purdue\, Michigan State\, and Indiana are all expected to be in the mix for the conference championship. SEC: The SEC is rapidly becoming one of the most competitive conferences in the country. Alabama\, Arkansas\, and Tennessee are all strong contenders for the national title. Big 12: The Big 12 is known for its fast-paced\, offensive style of play. Kansas\, Baylor\, and Texas are all vying for the conference championship and a deep NCAA Tournament run. Actionable Insights The college basketball season is a whirlwind of exciting matchups and unforeseen twists. To make the most of your viewing experience\, here are some actionable insights to keep in mind: Follow your favorite players: Stay up-to-date on the latest news and statistics for the players you're most excited about. Dive into the conference landscape: Become familiar with the key teams and players in each conference to understand the competitive landscape. Don't sleep on the mid-majors: Smaller programs often produce incredible talent and can pull off significant upsets. Enjoy the journey: College basketball is a rollercoaster of emotions. Embrace the unpredictability and appreciate the passion and dedication of these student-athletes. FAQ Q: Where can I find the latest college basketball news and scores? A: There are numerous websites and apps dedicated to college basketball\, including ESPN\, NCAA.com\, and Sports Illustrated. Q: How can I watch college basketball games? A: College basketball games are broadcast on various networks\, including ESPN\, CBS Sports\, and the Fox Sports family. Many games are also available through streaming services like ESPN+\, Hulu Live\, and fuboTV. Q: What are some of the key dates to remember for the season? A: Key dates include the start of the regular season (usually in early November)\, conference tournament championships (typically in late February/early March)\, and the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament (held in March and early April). Conclusion The 2023-2024 college basketball season promises to be a spectacle of athleticism\, skill\, and passion. From the established stars to the rising freshmen\, there are countless players ready to write their own narratives on the court. With the right perspective and a keen eye for the game\, you're sure to witness a season full of surprises\, excitement\, and memories that will last a lifetime. So\, get ready to cheer\, be amazed\, and most importantly\, enjoy the ride!