Fans bring their own biases, preferences, and regional loyalties into the conversation, which makes it difficult to reach a consensus
While some fans felt that Katz’s rankings were fair, others believed they were flawed and showed favoritism towards Big Ten players like Braden Smith and Bruce Thornton.
Ultimately, these debates are part of what makes college basketball so exciting. Fans care deeply about their teams and players, and lists like Katz’s Top 12 serve as a catalyst for lively discussions and debates. Whether or not fans agree with the rankings, they undoubtedly keep the passion for the sport alive.
As the 2024-25 college basketball season approaches, it will be interesting to see how these players perform and whether they live up to their rankings—or exceed them. For now, fans will continue to voice their opinions, and the debate over Katz’s list will rage on.
Tyrese Proctor is one of the most promising young guards in the ACC, playing for Duke. Proctor’s ability to run the offense, coupled with his scoring ability, makes him a valuable asset for the Blue Devils. His quickness and playmaking ability allow him to break down defenses and create opportunities for his teammates.
In his junior season, Proctor will be tasked with leading Duke’s offense, and his development as a floor general will be crucial to the team’s success in the ACC.
Also Read: Andy Katz: Married Life With Wife Denise Padilla, Children, Career, Bio, Net Worth 2023 And More
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Andy Katz: Top 12 Junior Rankings for 2024-25 Season
Fair or Flawed?
Andy Katz, a well-known college basketball analyst, recently released his rankings of the Top 12 third-year players for the 2024-25 men’s college basketball season.1
His list, published on NCAA.com, quickly generated discussion among fans and analysts.
Katz’s selections, particularly his top three—Alex Karaban from UConn, Braden Smith from Purdue, and Bruce Thornton from Ohio State—drew criticism, especially for perceived biases toward Big Ten players.
This controversy highlights the passionate nature of college basketball fan bases and their differing views on player evaluations.
Top juniors for @MarchMadnessMBB: https://t.co/Ga3miI7jCZ
— Andy Katz (@TheAndyKatz) September 25, 2024
The Alleged Big Ten Bias
As soon as Katz’s rankings were published, some fans voiced their concerns over what they perceived as a preference for Big Ten players.
The inclusion of Purdue’s Braden Smith at No. 2 and Ohio State’s Bruce Thornton at No. 3 raised eyebrows, especially when compared to players like Tamin Lipsey, who finished fourth.
Lipsey, a key player for Iowa State, is known for his defensive prowess and leadership. Fans were particularly upset that he was ranked behind Smith and Thornton, with many feeling that his two-way abilities should have placed him higher on the list.
For example, one fan voiced frustration with Katz, saying, “Katz should give up lol. Who is Bruce Thornton??? Why is he above Lipsey??”
Another fan questioned the lack of recognition for other talented players outside the Big Ten, commenting, “Dan Skillings. Another garbage Andy Katz list. Keep em coming.” This reaction suggested that Katz might be overlooking deserving players from other conferences in favor of Big Ten talent.
Andy Katz’s Fan Defenses: The Case for Braden Smith
While some fans were upset by Katz’s rankings, others came to the defense of Braden Smith, Purdue’s standout point guard.2
Smith played a crucial role in Purdue’s success last season, and his combination of shooting, playmaking, and floor leadership earned him recognition.
One fan argued, “Lmfao. You’re right, Smith made the final four,” pointing out that Smith has led Purdue to deep tournament runs, something that bolsters his case for being ranked so high.
Another fan compared Smith’s offensive skill set to that of Tamin Lipsey, writing, “Lipsey is a better defender than Smith, but Smith is definitely better offensively.”
This highlights the age-old debate of whether offense or defense should weigh more heavily in player rankings.
Despite the backlash, there are those who believe Smith deserves the No. 2 spot, particularly due to his impact on the offensive end.
Purdue fans and those familiar with the Big Ten have seen Smith elevate his game consistently, and they feel he merits the recognition.
The Disrespect Towards Tamin Lipsey
At the heart of the controversy was Iowa State’s Tamin Lipsey, who many fans believe was slighted by being ranked fourth. Lipsey is a dynamic point guard known for his exceptional court vision, defense, and leadership on the floor.
Iowa State fans felt that his ranking was too low, especially when compared to Bruce Thornton and Braden Smith.
One fan asked bluntly, “No one nationally even knows who Lipsey is. Smith clears easily,” suggesting that Lipsey’s national profile hasn’t garnered the same attention as Smith or Thornton.
However, another fan made the counterpoint, emphasizing Lipsey’s overall impact on both ends of the court, saying, “Lipsey is a better defender than Smith but Smith is definitely better offensively.” For many, Lipsey’s two-way ability and leadership made him deserving of a higher ranking.
Andy Katz: The Big 12 vs. Big Ten Debate
The debate over Katz’s rankings also shed light on the larger college basketball rivalry between the Big Ten and Big 12 conferences.3
Both are known for producing elite talent, but fans from each conference often view their players and their contributions through different lenses.
For Big Ten supporters, players like Braden Smith and Bruce Thornton represent the toughness and skill that define the conference. Meanwhile, Big 12 fans, particularly those of Iowa State, feel their players, like Tamin Lipsey, are often overlooked in favor of Big Ten counterparts.
This conference rivalry added fuel to the debate, with some fans believing that Katz’s list unfairly favored Big Ten players at the expense of Big 12 talent.
The debate underscores the regional pride that runs deep in college basketball and often influences how fans evaluate players.
The Underappreciated Players
Another interesting aspect of Katz’s rankings is the presence of lesser-known players who are often underappreciated on a national level.
For example, Robbie Avila from Saint Louis and Milos Uzan from Houston are ranked in the middle of Katz’s list but are not household names for casual fans.
These players may not receive the same media attention as those from Power Five schools, but they have been integral to their teams’ success.
Avila, in particular, is a versatile forward who has made significant strides in his development and has been a key contributor for Saint Louis.
For fans who are more familiar with players like Avila and Uzan, Katz’s recognition of their talent was a positive aspect of the rankings. However, for those who primarily follow the larger programs, the rankings may have seemed surprising or unfamiliar.
The Social Media Backlash
In today’s digital age, it’s no surprise that fan reactions to sports rankings are quick and vocal. Katz’s list was no exception, as Twitter and other platforms were flooded with opinions on who was ranked too high, too low, or not included at all.
One fan sarcastically tweeted, “Katz should give up lol,” expressing frustration with the analyst’s perceived biases. This type of reaction is common when fans feel their favorite players or teams have been overlooked or disrespected in national conversations.
Others took a more analytical approach, discussing specific skills like offense and defense to defend their preferred players. Whether defending Braden Smith’s offensive capabilities or Tamin Lipsey’s all-around game, fans engaged in thoughtful debates about what makes a player deserving of a higher ranking.
Also Read: AJ Dybantsa on the All-Time Best Basketball Players: Rapid-Fire Quiz Highlights
Andy Katz: Top 12 Juniors List
Big 12 Dominates
The Big 12 Conference made a significant statement by having five players featured in Andy Katz’s Top 12 list of third-year NCAA basketball players, a testament to the talent within the conference.
Tamin Lipsey, AJ Storr, Rylan Griffen, Milos Uzan, and Ugonna Onyenso represent a wide range of skills and play styles that highlight the depth of the conference.
These players not only carry their respective teams but also play critical roles in shaping the competitive landscape of college basketball. From Lipsey’s commanding playmaking ability to Onyenso’s prowess in the paint, the Big 12’s representation is diverse and well-rounded.
Tamin Lipsey: The Engine Behind Iowa State
Tamin Lipsey is one of the most exciting point guards in college basketball. As the primary ball handler for Iowa State, Lipsey has quickly become a cornerstone of the Cyclones’ success.
Known for his court vision, decision-making, and defensive tenacity, Lipsey is a player who sets the pace for his team. His ability to create offense for himself and his teammates has made him one of the most impactful guards in the country.
In his junior season, Lipsey is expected to expand his role further, adding leadership and consistency to a team looking to make a deep tournament run. His performance on both ends of the court will be pivotal as Iowa State navigates the competitive Big 12.
AJ Storr: Marquette’s High-Flying Wing
AJ Storr has emerged as one of the most athletic and dynamic players in the Big 12, playing for the Marquette Golden Eagles. His ability to score from all three levels and his versatility on defense make him a nightmare matchup for opponents.
Storr’s offensive skill set has expanded significantly since his freshman year, and he now plays with the poise and confidence of a veteran.
What sets Storr apart is his explosiveness. He can finish above the rim with authority, which makes him a highlight-reel favorite. As Marquette looks to contend for the Big 12 title, Storr will be a key figure, providing both scoring punch and defensive intensity.
Rylan Griffen: A Dynamic Scorer for Texas Tech
Rylan Griffen brings a lethal scoring touch to the Texas Tech Red Raiders. Known for his ability to light up the scoreboard, Griffen has a knack for getting hot at just the right time. Whether it’s pulling up from three or attacking the basket, Griffen has proven he can score in multiple ways, making him a dangerous offensive weapon.
With Texas Tech looking to re-establish itself as a contender in the Big 12, Griffen’s growth as a scorer and leader will be vital. His ability to take over games makes him a player to watch as the season progresses.
Milos Uzan: The Backbone of Oklahoma’s Offense
Oklahoma’s Milos Uzan has quietly become one of the most efficient point guards in the country. His basketball IQ, combined with his ability to distribute the ball, makes him a crucial piece for the Sooners.
Uzan is not the flashiest player, but his impact is undeniable. He makes the right plays at the right time, and his calm demeanor under pressure is invaluable for Oklahoma.
In his junior season, Uzan is expected to take on a larger leadership role, guiding a young Sooners team through the rigors of the Big 12. His steady hand will be crucial for Oklahoma’s success.
Ugonna Onyenso: Kentucky’s Defensive Anchor
Ugonna Onyenso of Kentucky stands out as a dominant force in the paint. A rim protector with incredible shot-blocking instincts, Onyenso is a defensive powerhouse.
He alters the game with his presence in the paint, making it difficult for opponents to score inside. His rebounding and shot-blocking skills give Kentucky a defensive edge that few teams can match.
Offensively, Onyenso is still developing, but his ability to finish around the rim makes him a valuable asset. As he continues to grow his offensive game, Onyenso’s role as Kentucky’s anchor on defense will be critical for the team’s success in the coming season.
Big 10’s Presence on the Top 12 List
The Big 10 Conference also made its mark with four players on Katz’s list. Braden Smith, Bruce Thornton, Desmond Claude, and Fletcher Loyer represent a mix of playmakers and shooters who are integral to their respective teams’ success.
The Big 10 is known for its physical, high-level competition, and these players embody the conference’s toughness and skill.
Braden Smith: Purdue’s Floor General
Braden Smith has quickly developed into one of the best point guards in the Big 10. Playing for the Purdue Boilermakers, Smith is known for his leadership and ability to control the tempo of the game.
His basketball IQ allows him to make smart decisions in both the half-court and in transition, and his court vision is elite.
Smith’s impact goes beyond just stats; he’s the kind of player who makes his teammates better. In his junior year, Smith will be tasked with leading Purdue through the grind of the Big 10 schedule and into the postseason.
Bruce Thornton: Ohio State’s Dynamic Playmaker
Bruce Thornton is a versatile guard for Ohio State, capable of scoring and facilitating at a high level. His athleticism and quickness make him a tough cover for defenders, while his passing ability helps elevate his teammates. Thornton’s ability to play both on and off the ball gives Ohio State flexibility in how they use him on the court.
As Ohio State looks to make a deep run in the Big 10, Thornton’s development as a consistent scorer and playmaker will be a key factor in their success.
Desmond Claude: Xavier’s Two-Way Star
Desmond Claude of Xavier is known for his defensive prowess and his ability to lock down opponents on the perimeter. However, Claude has also developed into a reliable offensive player, capable of scoring when needed. His two-way ability makes him one of the most valuable players in the Big 10.
Claude’s growth in his junior season will be critical for Xavier’s chances in a loaded conference. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor gives Xavier an edge in close games.
Fletcher Loyer: Michigan State’s Sharpshooter
Fletcher Loyer is one of the best pure shooters in college basketball. Playing for Michigan State, Loyer’s ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc stretches defenses and opens up opportunities for his teammates. His shooting range and quick release make him a constant threat, and he has developed into a more well-rounded scorer as well.
Loyer’s junior season will be pivotal as Michigan State aims to return to prominence in the Big 10. His shooting ability will be a key factor in the Spartans’ offensive game plan.
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Representation from Other Conferences
While the Big 12 and Big 10 were heavily represented, the Big East, Atlantic 10, and ACC also made their presence known with one player each.
Alex Karaban (UConn), Robbie Avila (Atlantic 10), and Tyrese Proctor (ACC) round out Katz’s Top 12 list.
Alex Karaban: UConn’s Star Forward
UConn’s Alex Karaban was the top-ranked player on Katz’s list, and for good reason. Karaban has been a key part of UConn’s national championship success over the past two seasons.
His decision to return for his junior year instead of entering the NBA draft has made UConn one of the favorites to win another title.
Karaban is a versatile forward who can score, rebound, and defend at a high level. His basketball IQ and leadership make him the centerpiece of UConn’s team, and his presence on the court will be crucial as the Huskies chase a third straight national championship.
Robbie Avila: The Atlantic 10’s Rising Star
Robbie Avila has emerged as one of the top players in the Atlantic 10 Conference.
Playing for Duquesne, Avila has shown an ability to dominate the game with his size and skill. He can score inside, rebound effectively, and is a solid rim protector. His versatility makes him a difficult matchup for opponents.
As Avila enters his junior season, he will be looking to lead Duquesne to a strong showing in the Atlantic 10. His continued development will be key to the team’s success.
Also Read: Kemba Walker Reveals Basketball Stars Who Inspired His Decision to Join the Huskies
