NIT 2012: Underrated Players Who Will Shine in Quarterfinals

Casual college basketball fans don't hear much about players in the NIT because the NCAA tournament dominates the landscape in March. That said, there are a couple of underrated stars worth watching even though they aren't taking part in the Big Dance.

Here are three players taking part in tonight's quarterfinal games that are enough reason to watch at least a couple NIT games. For a complete look at the bracket, visit the official NCAA website.

Chasson Randle (Stanford)

Randle has been Stanford's most consistent player all season, but his teammates didn't give him enough support in the season's second half. The Cardinal missed the NCAA tourney because their depth players didn't step up down the stretch.

He's a terrific shooter for long range, having knocked down more than two outside shots per game, and he's also able to get into the paint for buckets. His ability to create offense for himself as well as his teammates makes him dangerous to play against.

If Nevada's defense isn't ready for his versatility, he will light up the scoreboard. It's too bad he didn't get to showcase his talents on the biggest stage.

LaRon Dendy (Middle Tennessee)

There shouldn't be much surprise that a player from Middle Tennessee has been overlooked. After all, it's tough to attract much attention in the Sun Belt Conference. One player who did deserve some attention, however, was Dendy.

He's a dominant presence in the paint on both ends. He averaged 15 points on 54-percent shooting and chipped in seven rebounds. The senior even has the ability to step outside and knock down jumpers, which helps space the defense for his teammates to attack.

The Blue Raiders have already upset in-state rival Tennessee, and they should give the Golden Gophers of Minnesota everything they can handle thanks to Dendy.

Dario Hunt (Nevada)

Nevada has four players averaging more than 10 points, but none contribute in as many different ways as Hunt. He's able to score in the paint, grab rebounds with authority and block shots at a high rate. Not bad for an unheralded senior.

Since the Wolfpack have so many different weapons, Hunt tends to get lost in the shuffle when defenses are preparing to face Nevada. That allows him to take control without the pressure of having to produce every single night weighing down on him.

Stanford will be a tricky test for the Wolfpack, but if the Cardinal aren't prepared to slow down Hunt, an upset will be on the horizon.