Phoenix Suns: 5 players to watch in 2018 NCAA Tournament

4. Mohamed Bamba, Texas

Like Young, Mohamed Bamba probably won’t be in the tourney long enough to warrant a higher spot on this list. Given his unicorn potential, however, you can be guaranteed McDonough will be glued to the action when the 10-seeded Texas Longhorns take on the 7-seeded Nevada Wolf Pack.

If Bamba can carry his team to an opening victory over the regular season Mountain West Conference champs, he’ll face an even greater test against a 30-win Cincinnati Bearcats team in the ensuing 2-10 matchup.

Regardless of how far Texas makes it in the tournament, Bamba’s time on the court will be dissected, especially if he carries his team to an upset or two. For a player who averaged 12.9 points, 10.4 rebounds and 3.7 blocks per game this season, it certainly can’t be ruled out, especially against a Nevada team that doesn’t have a single player taller than 6’8″.

The 6’11” Bamba and his eight-foot wingspan should be the central point of Texas’ attack and he’ll continue to be their defensive anchor thanks to his length and shot-blocking instincts.

Phoenix desperately needs to improve its league-worst defense. Tyson Chandler is in his twilight years, Alex Len is an unrestricted free agent this summer and Alan Williams is a backup big with a non-guaranteed contract for 2018-19.

The 5-spot may be this team’s biggest need approaching the offseason, and though a restricted free agent like Clint Capela may be the play, it could all depend on where the Suns fall in the draft and who’s available at that point.

If Bamba flashes continued improvement with that 3-point shot of his and impresses in the tournament, he’ll certainly be on the Suns’ radar should they fall outside of the top two on draft lottery night.