I get so excited this time of year because the start of college basketball season is right around the corner! The landscape of the sport changes as "Diaper Dandies" take to the floor and look to make a major impact on their respective programs.
My dazzling dozen "Diaper Dandies" can flat-out play. I can't wait to see them put on their college jersey: These guys will be difference makers on the college hardwood, baby! Here is my first look at the crème de la crème of college hoop freshmen to watch:
1. Harrison Barnes, SF, North Carolina
A quality kid and athlete who will have an immediate impact on Roy Williams' team. Will be important on both ends of the court and is polished for a freshman.
2. Jared Sullinger, PF, Ohio State
He has size and strength and will be a major force right away. He is part of a super class in Columbus, baby!
3. Brandon Knight , PG, Kentucky
The latest star guard for John Calipari, he has quickness and great ball-handling skills. Think about Derrick Rose, Tyreke Evans and John Wall. Now add Knight to that list!
4. Kyrie Irving, PG, Duke
Howard Garfinkel, who founded the famous Five-Star Basketball camp, has touted him as a superstar. He has size and great ball-handling skills. He can hit from long distance and penetrate to the basket.
5. Perry Jones , PF, Baylor
With Epke Udoh leaving early for the NBA, Jones will be an important player up front for Scott Drew. He's a solid rebounder who runs the court well.
6. Will Barton, SG, Memphis
Coach Josh Pastner had a great recruiting class and Barton is a key. He has great range and can flat out shoot the rock.
7. Fab Melo, C, Syracuse
Jim Boeheim is excited about his incoming class -- Melo could be one of the best big men in the Big East right away. The seven-footer will be a low-post presence, drawing fouls on the opposition. He will have the greatest impact among true big men coming in.
8. Terrence Jones , SF, Kentucky
Jones is a great passer for a player of his size. Fans in Oregon were left disappointed when he opted for the Bluegrass in Lexington.
9. Tobias Harris , PF, Tennessee
An athletic player from Long Island, he should have a big impact for Bruce Pearl. Can score and rebound.
10. C.J. Leslie , PF, NC State
Sidney Lowe is counting on big things from Leslie. Very athletic and can also nail the medium-range jumper. Him staying home in North Carolina is huge for the Wolfpack.
11. Cory Joseph , PG, Texas
Rick Barnes has to be thrilled to have Joseph and Tristan Thompson coming in. I picked Joseph because he will have the ball in his hands and key the offensive attack. He should distribute the rock well to his teammates, too.
12. Patric Young , PF, Florida
A rebounder and shot blocker who will help Billy Donovan right away.
Others to watch include:
Ray McCallum, PG, Detroit
Reggie Bullock, SG, UNC
Jereme Richmond, SF, Illinois
Tristan Thompson, PF, Texas
I left off Josh Selby of Kansas because of injury and question of eligibility. I also left off Enes Kanter of Kentucky until his eligibility is settled.