Minnesota Timberwolves: 10 players to watch during March Madness
By Zach Lung
Jarrett Culver – Texas Tech, SG
The Texas Tech Red Raiders have their eyes set on a Final Four run after finishing the regular season as co-Big 12 champions alongside Kansas State. Unfortunately, a shocking loss to West Virginia in the Big 12 tournament has Texas Tech fans on edge and wary of a first round upset against an offensive-minded Northern Kentucky squad.
The Red Raiders will rely on NBA-bound star Jarrett Culver for a deep run in March.
Jarrett Culver has been a sensation for Texas Tech this year, averaging 18.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game, leading Texas Tech in all three categories. The sophomore shooting guard has been the motor of both the Red Raiders’ offense and defense this season.
Unfortunately, his 3-point shot has declined this season to just 32 percent as his usage rate has drastically increased. Culver’s polished all-around game will need to shine in order to give Texas Tech a chance at a Final Four berth amidst a difficult West region that includes heavy-hitters such as Gonzaga, Michigan, and Florida State.
Culver’s draft stock has risen greatly as of late with some mocks projecting him within the top five. The Timberwolves will be interested in the 6-foot-5 guard that profiles in many ways to Josh Okogie with defensive upside but question marks concerning his long-range jumper.
A strong shooting performance in March would make Culver a lock for the top of the NBA draft this summer.
Opening game: vs. Northern Kentucky on Friday at 12:30pm CT