Shabazz Muhammad: 6 Reasons He Can Be a Better Freshman Than Anthony Davis

In 2012, the NCAA was rocked by the presence of a 6'10" freshman with a 7'4" wingspan and a 4.7 block per game average. In 2013, the NCAA will prepare for a 6'6" freshman who is widely considered the next best player in the nation.

Anthony Davis, meet Shabazz Muhammad.

For just the second time in NCAA history, Davis became a freshman winner of the National Player of the Year award. In 2013, expect Muhammad to be in hot pursuit of history as he outperforms Davis and claims the title of Freshman of the Decade.

Here are six reasons as to why he'll get it done.

6. Just as Solid on the Boards

As a senior at Bishop Gorman High School, Shabazz Muhammad posted ridiculous averages of 29.4 points and 10.1 rebounds per game. While the average eye would view those numbers as impossible to translate to the collegiate level, that belief is a pure fallacy.

Muhammad will play in a Pac-12 conference where small forward Andre Roberson led all players with 11.1 rebounds per game. While Roberson is an explosive athlete, Muhammad is just the same. The separating factor may be Muhammad's motor, which has been compared to that of Michael Kidd-Gilchrist.

We saw how that worked out.

5. Fire 'em Up, Throw 'em Down

A following slide will go further into depth about Shabazz Muhammad's distinct advantage over Anthony Davis on the offensive end of the floor. This slide, however, focuses on one specific aspect of Muhammad's offensive game that will separate him from the rest of the nation.

Despite possessing a rapidly improving mid-range game, there will be games where Muhammad's shot just won't fall. The advantage that is owned over Davis is that, while the former Kentucky big man had very few options beyond a 10-15 foot jump shot, Muhammad is excellent at penetrating off the dribble.

Muhammad's ability to create for himself, and most importantly, finish above the rim, will put him over the top. Versatility is present on both ends of the floor, folks, and Muhammad matches Anthony Davis tit for tat.

4. Better in the Post

Whether it's the high or low post, it's hard to imagine a player standing at 6'10" with a 7'4" wingspan struggling to score. It's also hard to imagine a 6'6" small forward being the better low-post performer.

Both of those inconsistencies just so happen to be true in the case of Anthony Davis and Shabazz Muhammad.

Muhammad has an excellent back-to-the-basket game, utilizing his above-average length and impenetrable focus to knock down full-extension hook shots. While he is limited to his left hand, a trait that must change, Muhammad is far more developed than Davis in an area that is more applicable to the Kentucky big man.

3. Creation Is His Craft

Shabazz Muhammad is a crafty southpaw who thrives in penetrating off the dribble. For those hoping to slow Muhammad down by forcing him into taking a mid-range J, buyer beware: Muhammad will rise above any defender and knock that shot down with consistency.

With that being noted, Muhammad is virtually unstoppable once he's created even the slightest bit of separation. He finishes above the rim with the best of them and will fill up the highlight reels from day one. Trust that he will score despite contact.

All traits in which Muhammad has a distinct advantage over Anthony Davis.

2. Just as Solid on the Perimeter as Anthony Davis Was in the Paint

If you're looking for 4.7 shot blocks per game, you won't find it with Shabazz Muhammad. If you're looking for roughly two steals, one block and some of the most smothering perimeter defense you'll find at the collegiate level, you can bet your house that Muhammad will provide that on a nightly basis.

While Muhammad will not match the statistical performance of Anthony Davis, he will establish himself as an elite perimeter defender from day one. As Harrison Barnes displayed, that's more than enough to take a player to an elite level of play.

1. Born to Win, Would Die to Get There

You'd be hard-pressed to find a player with as strong a desire to win as Shabazz Muhammad.

He'll dive for loose balls, fight off contact and scratch and claw for every point his team needs. He'll also step up and defend the best low-post or perimeter scorers on opposing teams, shutting them down more times than not.

While Davis' will to win cannot be overlooked, his surroundings were built to make up for any offensive shortcomings. Muhammad will have to play his heart out on both ends, night in and night out, and will reward his team handsomely in return.

This is a player of the year candidate, even with the freshman stars poised to surround him.