After starting off our countdown by profiling North Carolina’s Brice Johnson, we’re now ready to move on to the next name on the list. This big man from Arizona has never played a featured role for one of the nation’s best programs, but his impact has consistently been praised by his head coach as irreplaceable.
50. Kaleb Tarczewski, Center, Arizona Wildcats
To some, it may seem weird to rank a player who’s never averaged double-digit scoring numbers, and actually took a statistical step back as a junior from his sophomore campaign. However, at least in this writer’s opinion, much of that has to do with the system that Tarczewski plays in, and the way in which he is utilized, as opposed to it being a true indication of what kind of talent he has.
First off, he attempted 10 or more shots just once last season, going for 15 points and nine rebounds in a 30 point win over USC. When utilized on the offensive end, he has the ability to be very effective and efficient. He is still a menace in the pick-and-roll, with the ability to get fouled and convert from the line at a 70-percent clip. Defensively, he’s at his best. Due to the presence of multiple shot blockers at UA, he’s never had the chance to accumulate big time stats in that department, but he’s always had the ability to so.
The Wildcats will be much thinner on the frontline next season than any other time in his career, so the longtime starter should be given even more opportunities to shine. His potential and two-way ability was enough to get a nod here.
