Race for the Naismith: College Basketball Player Power Rankings

Feb 26, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Connecticut Huskies guard Shabazz Napier (13), center Amida Brimah (35), guard Ryan Boatright (11) and forward DeAndre Daniels (2) meet during the first half against the South Florida Bulls at USF Sun Dome. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

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8. Julius Randle, Kentucky Wildcats (22-8, 12-5 SEC)

Mar 4, 2014; Lexington, KY, USA; Kentucky Wildcats forward Julius Randle (30) during the game against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the second half at Rupp Arena. Kentucky defeated Alabama 55-48. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports /

Previous: No. 8

Position: Power Forward

Class: Freshman

2013-14 Season Averages:

Julius Randle is the last person to blame for the Kentucky Wildcats’ recent woes. Not only is the star freshman solidifying his status as a future top-five draft pick, but he’s performing with consistency that most with more experience than he have failed to provide.

Randle has a double-double in six of his past seven appearance and double-digit rebound totals in seven straight games. He’s had his off days, but Randle’s energy and effort on the glass have created second chance opportunities for a team that has otherwise sputtered.

One general manager is going to be very happy to land this young man.