1. Adrian Wooley
It makes sense that many are starting McKneely over Adrian Wooley, but the true sophomore has NBA potential already, and it would not be surprising at all if he steals that starting job at the shooting guard position later in the season. The 5-star transfer was just a 3-star recruit out of high school, but in his first season, he quickly proved he is one of the best players in college basketball.
He was the first domino to fall Kelsey's way in the Transfer Portal, and after winning Conference USA Freshman of the Year with Kennesaw State, Kelsey and the Cardinals have incredibly high expectations. Wooley playing next to Brown in the backcourt is a nightmare scenario for opposing teams, as the two 5-stars can create space for their shots, but also get shooters and teammates open.
Last season, Wooley earned First Team All-CUSA after averaging 18.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.4 steals per game, while shooting 51.2 percent from the floor and 42.2 percent from beyond the arc. Wooley splashed 73 3-pointers last season, proving he can be that elite 3-point shooter next to Brown, and with his athleticism and length, he would become the Cardinals' elite defender in their backcourt as well.
Wooley's defense is severely underrated, and that is one of the key reasons he will have a chance to start over McKneely later in the season. The Cards must get stops to win big-time games, and it would not be shocking with Wooley's ability to score and defend if he takes over that starting spot.
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