Best game: 10 points, 12 rebounds, 10 assists vs. Georgia State
Gary Payton II, son of Hall of Fame point guard Gary Payton, has followed in his dad's footsteps by attending Oregon State University. Payton II has made headlines for his exceptional all-around play, but his scoring still remains a little suspect. He was held scoreless by Quinnipiac, limited to four points by Washington, and he only scored six against Rice. He attacks the rim relentlessly, and makes plays off of penetration. He helped lead the Beavers to an upset over Arizona, and has tons of upside. He has the potential to break out next year in his final college season.
Melo Trimble- Freshman G, Maryland
Best Game: 31 points, 3 rebounds vs. Arizona State
Melo Trimble is possibly the most underrated freshman in the country. The frosh point guard made the Wooden Award watch list of 25 players recently, and for good reason. He is leading Maryland to a 16-2 record, one of their best in a long time. Trimble has had a few freshman struggles, but he has been able to move past them. He has hit 28 three-pointers so far this year. Trimble and Ohio State guard D'Angelo Russell are competing for the top freshman in the Big Ten, and I believe Trimble has a shot at the Freshman of the Year award.
Monte Morris- Sophomore G, Iowa State
Best game: 19 points, 9 assists vs. Georgia State
Monte Morris is not very flashy. He doesn't throw down rim-rattling dunks, he doesn't hit fade-away threes, and he won't break anyone's ankles. But he is one of the best point guards in the nation for one reason: he doesn't turn the ball over. He only has 15 turnovers on the year compared to 84 assists, which is a 5.6 assist-to-turnover ratio, the best in the country by far. He plays well beyond his years, and although he is not a great shooter, he gets the job done for a top 25 team.
