Big Ten Lands 3 Players On NBC Player of the Year Rankings

Although the college basketball season just started a few weeks ago, NBCSports has already started compiling its list of the nation’s best players. While plenty of things will change between now and the end of the season, it’s a great barometer for setting expectations for the remainder of the year.

The Big Ten found itself well represented on the list with three players making the cut, including players from three different teams. Obviously, that speaks to just how exciting this season should be for Big Ten fans.

Here’s a full look at the Big Ten players listed below.

Big Ten On 11/22 NBC Player of the Year Rankings:

• #3 - James Blackmon (Indiana
• #10 - Caleb Swanigan (Purdue)
• Just Missed: Melo Trimble (Maryland)

All the Big Ten names on this list came with little surprise. Blackmon, Swanigan, and Trimble has all been excellent so far this season. Each has put up massive numbers against marquee competition and all three have been pivotal in turning at least one game from a loss to a victory.

However, there were two absences that should raise some eyebrows. First, it was a bit odd to see Wisconsin’s Nigel Hayes miss the cut. Admittedly, he hasn’t been great this season, but one would figure his preseason hype alone would warrant his inclusion. Additionally, not seeing Iowa’s Peter Jok listed somewhere was a bit surprising.

Of course, we will have to wait how things shake out in the coming weeks. But for Indiana, Maryland, and Purdue fans, they have to feel pretty good about how their star players have performed so far this season.

If interested, you can see the full list here.