Two of college basketball freshman showed out in their debuts for there teams. James Wiseman, the number one recruit in the country for Memphis and Cole Anthony, another top recruit for North Carolina, both had impressive debuts.
James Wiseman Memphis
Memphis basketball fans had been waiting for Wiseman’s debut since he decided to come to Memphis, and he did not disappoint. Wiseman missed both exhibition games due to an ankle injury.
In his first game with Memphis, James Wiseman helped led them to 97-64 win over South Carolina State. Wiseman dominated in the game with 28 points, 11 rebounds, and three block shots. He shot 11-14 from the field and 6 out of 7 from the free-throw line. Wiseman could not be stopped weather it was catching ally oops or going one on one on the block. He became the third player in school history to record a double-double in school history.
Cole Anthony North Carolina
North Carolina freshman point guard Cole Anthony busted on the scene with a big game. He scored 34 points while helping the Tar Heels beat Norte Dame 76-65. Anthony shot 12-24 from the field and made 6 out of 11 three-pointers. His jump shot was supposed to be the weakness in his game, but you would not be able to tell from his performance on Wednesday night. Along with his 34 points, Anthony grabbed 11 rebounds and five assists.
Anthony set an ACC record for most points by a freshman in his debuts. He was the No.4 ranked recruit coming out of high school and went on the college scene and made a statement.
Wrap up
Both these freshmen will be watched closely this season and rightfully so. I think Wiseman and Anthony can bring some more excitement back to college basketball. Excitement is what college basketball needs during the regular season; everyone watches March Madness, so the excitement in the regular season is much needed. I feel both James Wiseman and Cole Anthony could be in the running for College Basketball Player of the Year.
