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As college basketball evolves, so do centers. From massive shot-blocking 7-footers to shorter players listed as forwards, there are many ways to fill the job.
The Big Ten has a host of impressive returnees and incoming standouts at the center position. We have construed it broadly, but here are five de facto centers to watch from the league in 2024-25:
Top 5 Big Ten centers to watch out for in 2024-25
#5 Derik Queen, Maryland
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A six-foot-10 freshman who was ranked by 247sports as the No. 12 prospect in the nation, Queen figures to get an ample shot to star with Maryland in 2024-25. Queen is able to fill many rolls. He's an elite rebounder and is skilled enough offensively to step out onto the floor and show his skills.
He was a McDonald's All-American, and while his game will doubtlessly need refining, he should be ready. For a Maryland team that's likely to be something of a rebuilding job, Queen is likely to be a standout.
#4 Aaron Bradshaw, Ohio State
A season ago, Bradshaw was discussed in similar terms to Queen. A McDonald's All-American himself, Bradshaw went to Kentucky. Initially sidelined by an injury, his role was uncertain through his single season.
Bradshaw averaged just 4.9 points per game and 3.3 rebounds per game. But the big seven-footer has a vast skill set. He can alter opposing shots, rebound and even step out for open jump shots. Bradshaw showed flashes at Kentucky but will likely show more at OSU.
#3 Xavier Booker, Michigan State
Booker's experience at Michigan State's differed relatively little from Bradshaw's at Kentucky. The significant distinction is that Booker opted to return to Michigan State and Tom Izzo. Booker is a six-foot-11 standout who was also a McDonald's All-American.
Last year, he averaged 3.7 ppg and 1.7 rpg. Still, Izzo is one of the best coaches in the nation at developing talent, and he will probably have Booker making signiicant strides in this coming season.
#2 Trey Kaufmann-Renn, Purdue
A year ago, Purdue used Kaufmann-Renn at the power forward beside seven-foot-four Zach Edey. But Edey's in the NBA now, and Kaufmann-Renn, whether named as such, will be an undersized center for Purdue. The six-foot-nine junior averaged 6.4 ppg and 4.0 rpg a year ago.
A rugged rebounder and defender, Kaufmann-Renn isn't much of a perimeter player. But he plays above his size and should be able to control the post for the Boilermakers next season.
#1 Oumar Ballo, Indiana
Possibly the most sought-after player in the transfer portal, Ballo moves from Arizona to Indiana.
He spent two years at Gonzaga, redshirting in the first, before spending three years at Arizona. Last season, the seven-foot Ballo scored 12.9 ppg and corralled 10.1 rpg.
Ballo was a player off the bench for two seasons, but he has gradually grown into his frame. He's a capable inside scorer and rebounder, and given his height and athleticism, few players in the nation could claim to be his equal down low.
Which Big Ten centers are you excited to see next season? Weigh in below with your comments:
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