For the first time in years, there’s no singular awe-inspiring freshman baller who is generating mega-buzz in college basketball.

There’s several of them instead.

In the last couple of NBA drafts, we’ve witnessed freshmen rise to the top of the boards.  In 2009, it was the future ROY, Tyreke Evans.  And, of course, this year we saw John Wall get plucked from the amateur ranks with the first overall selection.  But back in 2008, we saw four super-talented frosh taken high in the draft – Derrick Rose at #1, Michael Beasley at #2, O.J. Mayo at #3 and Eric Gordon at #7.

The 2011 NBA Draft looks like is could shape up to produce a similar lineup of talent.

Let’s check out the cream of the 2010-2011 freshman crop:

Baylor forward Perry Jones: This is the guy who is at the top of the draft chart.  He’s also the type of player who could make a GM lose his job for passing on him.  Jones is the type of talent that comes along once in a decade.   The Baylor forward has a scintillating combination of height (6’10″), quickness, agility, and perimeter skills that are rare.  The freshman has struggled statistically in his last few outings, but Jones is the type of star whose game translates much favorably to the NBA style  – rather than the NCAA style – of play.

Jones has yet to tap into any one particular skill that will set him apart from the rest.  However, his frame would resemble a stronger Kevin Durant, or a longer Nicolas Batun.  The end result of his development would seemingly lie somewhere between the two (as far as his potential impact of an NBA franchise is concerned), but the bottom line is that the failure of a team to pick him (if available) could wind up being a mistake of Greg Oden – Durant proportions.  

Prior to his mysterious injury, point guard Kyrie Irving had seized command of Duke's offensive attack.

Duke guard Kyrie Irving: After watching Duke assume total control over Michigan State in their 84-79 win at Cameron on December 1, there was a statement that was made.

Kyrie Irving has already made it clear that he is the best playmaker is the freshman 2011 class. Irving’s stats told the story.  He collected 31 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, two steals and two blocks.  His play totally overshadowed an opposing team with an upperclass, All-American point guard (Kalin Lucas).  His ability to do it all in the backcourt is fondly reminiscent of another former Blue Devil who had a record-setting tenure in Cameron – Jay Williams. 

Irving recently went down with a toe injury, which is apparently more serious than it initially seemed.  The New Jersey native has missed Duke’s last three games, and now, coach Mike Krzyzewski has publicly stated that Irving will be out for a long time.  As it stands, the injury could be the only thing that holds him back from leaving for the NBA after this season.  But make no mistake about – this guy has the talent to enter the league and be better than half of the starting point guards already in the Association.

Ohio State forward Jared Sullinger:  Anytime you see a player who’s 280 pounds, as well as being fairly agile, you know that he could be equipped to make a serious impact in the NCAA’s.  That is certainly the case with freshman Jared Sullinger.  His size and strength – coupled with the time of arrival (the season following All-American Evan Turner’s departure) - have put him in the perfect position to become a factor for the Buckeyes.

How’s does Sullinger’s long term prospects look?

One can’t help but to look at him and think “mini-Tractor Traylor,” or Corliss Williamson.  Or even perhaps Glen “Big Baby” Davis.  But generally, the NBA is not very kind to athletes of his stature.  They tend to become foul magnets because of the NBA’s desire to keep the pace of the game up.  It harder for dominant college big men to make a successful jump into the Association because of the increased versatility of their potential opponents.  Just imagine Sullinger having to defend Kevin Garnett about 15 feet from the basket…or trying the match LaMarcus Aldridge’s length and skill…or covering Channing Frye at the three point line.  Each scenario would be nightmarish for bullies who have become accustomed to strictly pounding the paint.

Given Perry Jones' current draft stock, the Bears could churn out top 10 picks in consecutive years.

It’s for that reason alone that Sullinger’s ability to excel professionally will depend on his ability to adjust and expand his game.

North Carolina forward Harrison Barnes:  One thing that I can say is that the NCAA sports anlaysts and coaches did the youngster a grave mis-service.

Based on potential alone, Barnes was voted as a first team Associated Press All-American.  The reasons why this shouldn’t have happened certainly outweigh the reasons that it should have happened.  But one thing is for certain – the kid has some game.  The flashes of his professional potential have been evident in just about every contest that he has played this season.  Seeing him in action leads me to believe that the panel made their decision based on Barnes’ NBA readiness.  Like a few others in this class, the Iowa native’s game translates great on the college stage…but even better on the pro stage.   

And the truth is that Harrison has not bombed – like many may believe.  Stepping into a new level of competition is what Barnes has come up against, and while he has struggled with his shot (36.5% FG thus far), he has still managed to put up 12 points and snag almost 6 boards a game.  But his versatility, unteachable skill set, and good athletic ability make him a sure bet to turn into an above-average professional.

Kentucky forward Terrence Jones:  Can anyone say “baby T-Mac?”

The Kentucky sensation is blessed with the attributes that comprise the very definition of ”impact player” in the league.  Jones is 6’8″, and his game is well rounded.  Jones can do everything from shooting the three to throwing down monstrous slam dunks.  But in the early going, Jones is showing everyone that he isn’t all promise – he’s producing 18 points and 9 boards a game on 46% shooting.

Obviously, Jones’ versatility would make for an ideal transition to the big leagues.  He also has enough strength to keep himself from getting bullied, and could effectively work smaller opponents for easier looks.  Jones would be a great addition for a team in need of immediate bench scoring or even a starter able to get leftover points a la Cedric Ceballos.

But his stock as a player with long term star ability is solid, and will keep him in the heads of the team with the top spot in the draft.

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