Versatile Bigs Could Shake Up March Madness

Danny Wolf exhibits the versatility of a guard inhabiting a 7-footer’s frame, effortlessly moving off screens for quick 3-point shots, driving past opponents, and utilizing his height to pass over defenders. In contrast, Vladislav Goldin follows a more physical approach, setting robust screens and wielding his power to dominate inside the paint. The 17th-ranked Michigan team benefits from having the option to play with both of these contrasting 7-footers, often deploying them simultaneously on the court.

“It’s a unique style that our coaches let us play,” Wolf remarked. “It’s been great so far.”

The role of big men in basketball has evolved significantly over the past decade. As players have honed their skills to match a free-flowing, three-point-oriented play style, traditional forwards have adapted beyond their primary area near the basket. They can now extend their range, shooting from afar, utilizing guard-like ball-handling, and shooting off the dribble. In recent years, there’s been a resurgence of traditional post-play dominance.

Purdue’s Zach Edey used his formidable 7-4, 305-pound presence to secure back-to-back player of the year titles, crushing opponents inside the lane. Similarly, UConn’s consecutive NCAA triumphs were secured with 7-2 Donovan Clingan dominating both ends of the court. This year, powered by standout freshmen Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel, Duke has ascended to the second spot in the rankings, becoming strong title contenders. Supporting them is 7-2 freshman Khaman Maluach from South Sudan, who excels in shot-blocking and converting dunks.

Currently, 7th-ranked Alabama is building on last year’s unprecedented Final Four success. While preseason All-American Mark Sears orchestrates the Crimson Tide, it’s 6-11 center Clifford Omoruyi who establishes an inside presence, capitalizing on lob plays, and clearing rebounds.

Maryland’s Derik Queen embodies the old-school Big East style, forcefully producing 15.9 points and 9.0 rebounds per game at a 53% shooting efficiency. Kansas, having recently exited the Top 25 rankings after an 80-week streak, continues to rely on 7-2 Hunter Dickinson. Though he occasionally steps out for a 3-pointer, Dickinson’s key contributions come within the paint, where he scores 16.9 points and gathers 9.9 rebounds with 53% shooting.

Kansas forward KJ Adams Jr. praised, “He’s my All-American for the season.” However, not all big men rely solely on post play. Numerous centers are excelling even beyond the 3-point arc.

Stanford’s agile 7-1 center Maxime Raynaud leads his team, averaging 20.2 points and 10.9 rebounds, with a standout 54 3-pointers made. At Creighton, Ryan Kalkbrenner thrives both inside and outside, boasting averages of 19.1 points, 8.8 rebounds, and hitting 36% from 3-point land; his defensive prowess is highlighted by his 2.69 blocks per game, placing him among the national leaders.

The 7-2 Zvonimir Ivisic from Arkansas, originally from Croatia, has enriched the Razorbacks’ offense, shooting 39% from beyond the arc and contributing close to 10 points each game. Auburn’s Johni Broome stands out as a potential national player of the year candidate, with a savvy and cerebral playstyle. The 6-10 senior records 15.8 points and 9.4 rebounds per game with a 50% shooting rate. Despite his 3-point shooting percentage dropping to 29% from last year’s 35%, the possibility of an outside shot keeps defenders wary.

“He’s a terrific talent. He’s a veteran guy,” remarked Kentucky coach Mark Pope. “He’s got that moxie to him where he’s actively engaged in playing the game.”

Michigan breaks the mold by integrating two big men with divergent strategies. Goldin spearheads the team with an average of 16.1 points per game while boasting a 65% shooting accuracy. Moreover, Wolf is equally impactful, averaging 12.4 points, with 34% 3-point accuracy, and offering 3.6 assists. Their standout performances earned the tag “Area 50-1,” an homage to their jersey numbers.

“There are a lot of high-level bigs across the country, and it’s been really exciting to see and watch,” said Wolf, proudly donning No. 1. Regardless of their methods, these players continue to leave their mark on the game.