We all know John Wall, Wes Johnson, Jacob Pullen, and Da’Sean Butler. There are some players in the Sweet Sixteen that deserve some attention that may not be getting their due. Here are 5 unknown players still Dancing….
1.) Omar Samhan – St. Mary’s
The big man from St. Mary’s is rapidly growing in fame, but just in case you didn’t know Big O it’s time you did. Samhan made an appearance on Unathletic back in the day (5 Wooden Award Candidates) and now makes his big return as his Gaels head to the sweet sixteen. The Sandman has calmly dropped 20 and 10 all season, but he’s been extra special in the tournament. He did Richmond for 29 and 12, then killed ‘Nova with 32 and 7. There is no question he’s been the MOP so far this tournament.
2.) Louis Dale – Cornell
You think Cornell, and you think white guys who can shoot or 7′ footers. Louis Dale isn’t white or 7′ feet, but he can shoot a little. Dale is the athletic guy on Cornell. He’s been the spark plug and the best player on one of the hottest teams in the Tourney. Dale dropped 26 vs. Wisconsin and 21 vs. Temple. Cornell looks very good, and he is a big reason why.
3.) Ekpe Udoh – Baylor
Udoh isn’t the big star on Baylor. He doesn’t put up gawdy numbers, but the transfer from Michigan is a key component to the Bears success. Udoh went for 20 and 13 vs. Sam Houston State. Udoh changes the game on the defensive side. In a span of 5 games this season, he had 36 blocks.
4.) Gordon Hayward – Butler
Hayward, along with Matt Howard, are the big time scorers for Butler. The Horizon Play of the Year has had a so so tourney so far, but he is most certainly a guy to watch vs. the 2-3 zone of Syracuse. He’s scored 12 and 13 points respectively for the low-scoring Butler Bulldogs on their way to the Sweet Sixteen. The only shot they have to win is if Hayward blows up.
5.) Quincy Pondexter – Washington
This has been sort of a long time coming. Washington flies under the radar because they are out west, but for those who follow basketball know about the ability of this guy. He’s got two 18 point games in the tournament thus far, which is no surprise because he averaged 20 ppg this season. This guy can ball.
