Fansided

5 most underrated players in college basketball

By Nathaniel Reeves

Jan 9, 2016; Madison, WI, USA; Maryland Terrapins forward Robert Carter (4) works the ball against Wisconsin Badgers guard Zak Showalter (3) at the Kohl Center. Maryland defeated Wisconsin 63-60. Mandatory Credit: Mary Langenfeld-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2016; Madison, WI, USA; Maryland Terrapins forward Robert Carter (4) works the ball against Wisconsin Badgers guard Zak Showalter (3) at the Kohl Center. Maryland defeated Wisconsin 63-60. Mandatory Credit: Mary Langenfeld-USA TODAY Sports /
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Xavier
Jan 13, 2016; Villanova, PA, USA; Marquette Golden Eagles forward Henry Ellenson (13) catches the ball before a foul shot against the Villanova Wildcats during the first half at The Pavilion. Villanova won 83-68. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Henry Ellenson, F, Marquette

Ellenson was regarded as one of the top recruits in the country coming out of high school, although he didn’t receive a ton of national attention due to the hype surrounding Simmons, Ingram and Kentucky’s Skal Labissiere. As an expected one-and-done, Ellenson has long been on the NBA’s radar, and has only improved his draft stock this year.

However, Ellenson is not really getting enough credit for the terrific college season he is turning in with the Golden Eagles. Ellenson has emerged as not just one of the top freshmen in the county, but one of the best players overall.

The 6-10, 245-pound forward is averaging over 16 points and 10 rebounds per game according to CBB Reference, both of which lead the team by a healthy amount. Ellenson has also gotten it done on the defensive end while showing some versatility, adding 1.7 blocks plus a steal per game.

When the outside shot is working for Ellenson, he has the ability to take over a game on the offensive end. Ellenson’s best game of the year was a 32-point outing in January against Butler, and he later added a 26-point, 16-rebound effort against Providence.

The Golden Eagles are going through a bit of a rebuilding period under second-year head coach Steve Wojciechowski and don’t have a ton of talent on the roster. However, thanks to Ellenson’s efforts, Marquette has scored a couple of upsets this year, and are at least approaching the tournament bubble.

Don’t expect Ellenson to be underrated for long once NBA Draft season rolls around. He has solidified his status as a lottery pick and could make one of the biggest rookie impacts outside of Simmons.

Next: 4. Kay Felder, G, Oakland