We’re just over a month away from college basketball: it should be an exciting start to the season with the usual invitationals being played between some of the NCAA’s biggest names. However, it’s worth taking a look at some players who could see unprecedented levels of success this year. First up on the list is Harrison Ingram, a 6’8”, 230 pound forward for Stanford.
High School
Coming out of high school, Ingram was a coveted prospect. 247 Sports ranked the McDonald’s All-American 16th in his class after he dominated at St. Mark’s High School. Due to his combination of athletic prowess and academic talent, Ingram had a unique combination of schools pursuing him: Stanford, Harvard, North Carolina, and Purdue were the headliners.
Freshman Year
Ingram landed on Stanford and immediately made a splash in his first year with the team. During the 2021-22 season, he averaged 10.5 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 3 assists per game on his way to PAC-12 Freshman of the year. Overall, it was an impressive first year, and Ingram looks to build on that this season.
Skillset
Forwards who can shoot are a problem for defenses. From pull up threes to aggressive drives into the paint, Ingram can score consistently at any level. Last season, he shot 31 percent from distance, and added plenty of midrange jumpers to that. Additionally, Ingram’s ball handling skills and post moves allow him to be a weapon in the paint.
It’s not just scoring, though. Ingram also has great court vision and feel for passing, and his size helps him to scoop up plenty of rebounds. Just check out his highlight reel in a 19 point, 11 rebound, 6 assist game against San Jose State (which was only his third college game).
Although there’s certainly room for improvement on the other side of the ball, Ingram is no slouch on defense. He possesses a high motor and has the blend of speed and length to defend most players on the court. While his block numbers weren’t particularly high, Ingram averaged nearly a steal a game, which is solid for a forward. Look for more blocks from him this season.
Outlook
NBA teams are constantly looking for shooters and defensive specialists. With his skillset and physical tools, Harrison Ingram can bring both of those things to the table– while he’s projected to be drafted in the late first/early second round in the upcoming draft, I think he’ll make a rapid ascent into lottery territory.
As Ingram gets more designed plays and chances with the ball, his production will increase. Couple that with continued development, and I think Ingram will improve in almost every category and draw a ton of draft buzz this season.
Quad Sports 