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The top 10 true sophomores in the 2023-24 men's college basketball season, according to Andy Katz – NCAA.com
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With basketball season almost here, some college basketball players are looking to take the next step after an exciting debut season. Here are the top 10 true sophomores to watch for the upcoming men’s college basketball season.
1. Kyle Filipowski, Duke
He easily could have left for the NBA draft. He returned and the Blue Devils have a Final Four shot because of the decision.
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2. Donovan Clingan, UConn
Clingan is no longer behind Adama Sanogo. This is his frontcourt to dominate.
3. Tyrese Proctor, Duke
The Australian lead guard will pair again with Jeremy Roach and give the Blue Devils one of the best pairings in the country.
4. Adem Bona, UCLA
He was the Pac-12 Freshman of the Year and one of the best defenders. He’s got a chance to be the player of the year in the conference.
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5. Aidan Mahaney, Saint Mary’s
The Gaels were picked to win the WCC over the Zags. A lot of that has to do with the play of the lead guard Mahaney.
6. Judah Mintz, Syracuse
Mintz decided to return and play for Adrian Autry. He’s ready to lead the Orange to the NCAA tournament.
7. Connor Essegian, Wisconsin
Get ready for a banner season for Essegian — and for the Badgers to be back in the NCAA tournament.
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8. Braden Smith, Purdue
Smith is a terrific two-way player who has evolved into a legit leader for the Big Ten favorite.
9. Riley Kugel, Florida
Kugel is a rising star in the SEC and the country, and will get plenty of publicity under Todd Golden in year two.
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10. JJ Starling, Syracuse
Starling played at Notre Dame and the Irish struggled. He is now with Mintz and the Orange should shine.
Andy Katz is an NCAA.com correspondent. Katz worked at ESPN for 18 years as a college basketball reporter, host and anchor. He’s covered every Final Four since 1992, and the sport since 1986 as a freshman at Wisconsin. He is a former president of the United States Basketball Writers Association. Katz can also be seen covering college basketball on Big Ten Network, Fox and FS1. Follow him on Twitter at @theandykatz.
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