Evan Turner, Ohio State: The Bucks have had some monster athletes lately, kids who look NBA-ready extremely early. Oden, Koufos, Mullens, Cook, Conley...and now Turner. I was told early in the season that the young star was having a Derrick Rose-like season and it only takes a couple games to notice his talent. He can post up smaller defenders, penetrate with quickness, and he averages a block and a couple of steals per game. Although his sometimes herky jerky dribbling needs work, he is quickly building his Draft profile. Named the Big 10's Player of the Week the last two weeks, this future NFL shooting guard/small forward has exhibited skill that makes him the Big 10's best all around player. Stats Per Game: 17 points, 7.5 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 2 steals, .8 blocks.
Jamelle Cornley, Penn State: This buff Lion has been the best low post scorer in a guard dominated Big 10, spurring the Lions to possible NCAA bubble respectability. His emotional play pushed the Nittany Lions to a huge victory over Iowa and his consistent offensive presence helped defeat Michigan State in East Lansing. Stats Per Game: 15.5 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.2 assists.
Talor Battle, Penn State: Surprising to have the Nittany Lions place so many players at the top of the Big 10, but Battle's big game performances and fearless play is something to behold. He shredded Michigan State with layups and three pointers so deep they would make Dick Vitale scream, "He shot that all the way from his hometown in New York, baby." To go along with his scoring ability, has a surprisingly low turnover rate. After peaking in East Lansing, has shot 1-15 from the three point arc, making Penn State fans squirm as they find their bubble chances bursting. Stats Per Game: 18.2 points, 5.5 rebounds, 5.2 assists, 1.3 steals, 2.2 turnovers.
Kalin Lucas, Michigan State: Remember that guy in the gym who always beat you off the dribble? Lucas is that guy. Featuring the quickest first step in the Big 10, Lucas has matured over the year to become the Spartan's undisputed floor leader and their go to scorer in big games. The little guy (6', 180 lbs) has learned to score from anywhere on the floor, hitting open mid range jumpers and getting to the bucket against most anyone. Although his assists have been noticeably down in Big 10 play, Lucas's scoring production has gone up. If he didn't play in such a controlled offensive system, probably would score 20 points per game. Stats Per Game: 14.8 points, 2.2 rebounds, 4.8 assists, 1 steal.
Jajaun Johnson, Purdue: Leading the Big 10 in blocked shots and getting stronger as the conference season goes on, Johnson's prodigious talent shone through against the strong frontlines of Minnesota and Ohio State. Only a sophomore, this Baby Boiler scored 30 points against the Buckeye's, showcasing a vastly improved offensive repetoire and a smooth free throw stroke. Although Purdue was rated a bit too high in the offseason, Johnson has exhibited an an all around game and a high basketball IQ, both marks of an emerging star. Stats Per Game: 13.4 points, 5.9 rebounds, .7 assists, 2.2 blocks, .6 steals.