Milwaukee Bucks: 5 players to watch in 2018 NCAA Tournament

3. Jacob Evans, SF, Cincinnati

The Cincinnati Bearcats have been one of the least-discussed contenders in the country this season, consistently ranking in the top-15 and finishing as the champions of the American Athletic Conference in both the regular season standings and by winning the conference tournament.

While senior AAC Player of the Year Gary Clark may be the Bearcats’ best player, Jacob Evans is certainly their top NBA prospect. He butters his bread on the defensive side of the ball, a major part of why Cincinnati ranked second in the league in defensive efficiency. Hoops Habit‘s Max Holm had this to say about Evans earlier in the season:

"“Evans is a rare wing averaging over one steal and block per game. Between his instincts, toughness and motor, there’s a lot to like on that end of the floor. Evans ranks seventh nationally in defensive rating. He’s the real deal.”"

Evans continued his averages of more than one steal and block per game, to go along with 12.9 points, 4.6 rebounds and 3.2 assists. He is shooting 37.4 from long range, hitting 1.7 per game. His versatility on defense and comfort level as an off-ball threat on offense would make him a great fit as a 3-and-D wing off the bench.

The Bearcats open up the tournament against Georgia State, one-time Cinderella. If Evans and his team continue to play lockdown defense, this team could go deep into the tournament and give the Bucks and everyone else the chance to see how much of an impact he can make.