The Sporting News’ 2024-25 College Basketball All-America Team has sparked significant discussion, particularly regarding the Third Team selections. Among the honorees is L.J. Cryer, a senior shooting guard for Houston, who transferred from Baylor after winning an NCAA Championship in the 2020-21 season. Cryer has been instrumental in Houston’s offense, averaging 15.5 points per game and shooting 43.1% from three-point range. His nine 20-point games have contributed to Houston’s impressive 7-2 record in those matchups.
Ryan Kalkbrenner, Creighton’s 7-1 senior center, has also been recognized for his defensive prowess. Matching the legendary Patrick Ewing, Kalkbrenner secured his fourth Big East Defensive Player of the Year award this season. He has been a formidable presence in the paint, averaging 2.7 blocks per game and altering opponents’ offensive strategies. Offensively, he boasts a remarkable 66.3% field goal percentage, underscoring his efficiency.
Chaz Lanier, a senior shooting guard for Tennessee, made a seamless transition from North Florida, emerging as a consistent scorer. With an average of 17.9 points per game and a 40.5% success rate from beyond the arc, Lanier has delivered standout performances, including a 29-point game against Arkansas and a 30-point showing versus Texas A&M.
St. John’s junior small forward, RJ Luis, has been pivotal in the team’s elite perimeter defense. Despite a modest 31% three-point shooting percentage, Luis averages 18.1 points and 7.1 rebounds per game. His recent surge in three-point accuracy, hitting 48% over a five-game winning streak, signals his evolving offensive threat.
Zakai Ziegler, Tennessee’s 5-9 senior point guard, defies expectations with his defensive tenacity and playmaking abilities. Averaging 13.1 points, 7.5 assists, and 1.9 steals per game, Ziegler’s relentless energy has been crucial for the Volunteers, often logging 34 minutes per game.
While these selections have been lauded, they have also ignited debates among fans and analysts. Some argue that certain deserving players were overlooked, while others question the criteria for selection. Nonetheless, the achievements of these athletes highlight the depth and talent present in college basketball this season.
