College Basketball Stars Shine Bright Before the Season Kicks Off

The college basketball season is just around the corner, and the excitement is building. This year, there are some new award categories to highlight the best players in the game. But first, let's talk about the players who are expected to make a big impact this season. Braden Smith, a senior point guard from Purdue, is the top pick for the preseason Player of the Year. He's had an impressive career so far, with over 1, 300 points, 700 assists, and 500 rebounds in just three seasons. He's also the best point guard in college basketball right now. Smith is a rare player who has stayed at one school for all four years while becoming an NBA prospect. He's also a great shooter, making 38. 1% of his three-pointers last season. If he keeps up his current pace, he'll break Bobby Hurley's record for the most assists in a career. Joseph Tugler, a junior power forward from Houston, is the pick for the preseason Defensive Player of the Year. He's known for his quick reflexes and ability to switch on defense. He ranked seventh in block rate last season and was named the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year. He's also one of the best defensive players in the country, with a defensive rating of 87. 0. Yaxel Lendeborg, a graduate student power forward from Michigan, is the pick for the preseason Transfer of the Year. He had an impressive season last year at UAB, averaging 17. 7 points, 14. 4 rebounds, 4. 2 assists, 1. 8 blocks, and 1. 7 steals. He's a versatile player who can play multiple positions and is a key part of Michigan's national title hopes. These awards are voted on by college basketball writers and broadcasters. It's important to note that the preseason awards are just predictions, and the actual winners won't be known until the end of the season.