The Top 50 Scorers in College Basketball Today

It's an exciting time for college basketball. Teams and fans use the holiday break to take stock and cram in another cupcake or two before plunging into the meat of their conference schedules. And while the second half of the season is certainly more enlightening than the first, there's already plenty to know. 

For instance, we have a pretty good idea of who some of the great scorers are.  Some are a surprise, some not at all, some have blue-blood pedigree, some are cast-offs and erstwhile afterthoughts. 

What follows is a sketch of the nation's top 50 in this category. To put this together, I looked at scoring and shooting averages along with caliber of opponents and other contextual matters.

I then took it a step further by including true shooting percentage, which helps measure offensive efficiency; if you're interested, the formula is Total Points / [2 * (FGA + 0.44 * FTA)]. I used the TS percentage rankings provided by the Web site Draft Express.

Please enjoy.  And if I riled you up with a particular inclusion or omission, have at me in the comments.

50. Jared Sullinger, Forward, Ohio State

Al Messerschmidt/Getty Images

PPG: 17.5 
FG percentage:  60
FT percentage:  72
TS percentage:  63

Just because your game's not pretty doesn't mean you're not a great scorer.

Sullinger is not generally known for pure offensive production, but the best all-around player in the Big Ten (and maybe the entire nation) knows how to score in a variety of ways using his wide body and slippery footwork.

His secret weapon, though, may be his relative proficiency at the line, which protects him from unbridled hackery.

49. Matt Howard, Forward, Butler

Andy Lyons/Getty Images

LOUISVILLE, KY - NOVEMBER 16: Matt Howard #54 of the Butler Bulldogs grabs a rebound during the game against the Louisville Cardinals at the KFC Yum! Center on November 16, 2010 in Louisville, Kentucky. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

PPG:  17.4
FG percentage:  50.3
3P percentage:  41.2
FT percentage:  84.0
TS percentage:  63

Good at everything, great at nothing. Offensively unselfish but efficient when the opportunity arises.  It is the mid-major way.  And Howard embodies it.

48. Ryan Rossiter, Forward, Siena

Credit: (Philip Kamrass/Times Union)

PPG:  18.0
FG percentage:  52.7
FT percentage: 77.3
TS percentage:  59

The long-limbed Rossiter takes heat from opposing fans for the way he looks, but he gives it right back to the home team in spades.  The forward has a menu of post moves every bit as long and flexible as his rangy 6'9" frame.

47. D.J. Cooper, Guard, Ohio

Photo credit: OhioBobcats.com

PPG: 18.6
FG percentage: 40.8
3P percentage: 28.4
FT percentage: 70.9
TS percentage:  51

Don't let Sparky, er, Cooper's 5'11" frame fool you.  This tough Chicagoan is the unquestioned leader and scoring motor for the Bobcats, although it does take him quite a few shots to get off.  When you can't make at least a third of your three-pointers, you probably shouldn't shoot seven of them per game. 

46. Denzel Bowles, Forward, James Madison

Photo credit: Pete Maravich Images

PPG:  17.8
FG Percentage: 61.7
FT Percentage:  74.4
TS Percentage: 66

The 6'10" senior forward brings a Rolls Royce skill set to an Oldsmobile program.  Bowles, who began his college career at Texas A&M, has the size and power to exert himself and an efficient post-up game on which to fall back. The 10-3 Dukes could be poised to make noise this season in the surprisingly talent-rich Colonial Athletic Association.

45 (TIE). Kyle Singler, Forward, Duke

Streeter Lecka/Getty Images

DURHAM, NC - DECEMBER 01: Kyle Singler #12 of the Duke Blue Devils watches on during their game against the Michigan State Spartans at Cameron Indoor Stadium on December 1, 2010 in Durham, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)

PPG:  17.8
FG percentage: 47.4 
3P percentage:  40.3
FT percentage:  82.7
TS percentage:  58

Singler has only improved with each year in Durham, and this year was no different.  He leads a team that shoots more threes than all but two other teams, and it is looking increasingly likely that that formula has a good chance to carry the Devils to a second straight national title.

45 (TIE). Nolan Smith, Guard, Duke

Jamie Squire/Getty Images

KANSAS CITY, MO - NOVEMBER 23: Nolan Smith #2 of the Duke Blue Devils shoots over Will Spradling #55 of the Kansas State Wildcats during the CBE Classic championship game on November 23, 2010 at the Sprint Center in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jami

PPG: 17.8
FG percentage:  53.2
3P percentage:  38.1
FT percentage:  73.5
TS percentage:  59

How's this for balance? Singler might get more national attention, but his backcourt running mate is averaging an identical 17.8 points per game. With phenom Kyrie Irving out of action, Smith's role only stands to increase as ACC play gets going in earnest.

43. Jordan Williams, Center, Maryland

Chris McGrath/Getty Images

NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 19: Jordan Williams #20 of the Maryland Terrapins is fouled by Demetri McCamey #32 of the Illinois Fighting Illini during the 2k Sports Classic at Madison Square Garden on November 19, 2010 in New York, New York. (Photo by Chris McGr

PPG: 18.1
FG percentage:  57.4
FT percentage:  50.5
TS percentage:  57

At this point, it's looking like Williams is the best big man in the ACC. The sophomore melted 20 pounds off his frame in the offseason, and now plays with more energy and aggression. Williams is able to score in a variety of ways from the field, but free throw shooting remains an Achilles' heel. He'll need to correct that if he wants to be The Man on a tournament team.

42. Stephon Carter, Guard, Cal State Bakersfield

Photo credit: Gorunners.com

PPG: 18.5 
FG percentage:  50.5
3P percentage:  50.0
FT percentage:  60.8
TS percentage:  56

The lead Road Runner is dirty from beyond the arc, though it's odd to see his eye-popping 50 percent three-point average juxtaposed with a free throw percentage only 10 points higher.

41. Keion Bell, Guard, Pepperdine

PPG:  20.7
FG percentage:  42.0
3P percentage:  29.3
FT percentage:  72.3
TS percentage:  54

Three words:  above the rim.

Bell has become a minor YouTube celebrity for his athletic and creative dunks.  He clearly has a nose to finish, and is very hard to contain in the lane.  He does seem to hog the ball a little at times, though, and a better shooting stroke would be a positive addition to his game.

40. Kenneth Faried, Forward-Center, Morehead State

PPG:  19.1
FG percentage:  64.2
FT percentage:  56.6
TS percentage:  61

Faried knows his skill set, and he knows it well.  He dunks, and then he dunks some more. But hey, you know what they say about fixing things that work. And because this Newark, N.J. product grabs 5.5 offensive boards a game, he can put up numbers without the team having to run plays for him.

Faried's athleticism and courage are a huge asset for Morehead. He demonstrated both when he put up 15 on 5-7 shooting versus Jared Sullinger and Ohio State.

39. Chris Fouch, Guard, Drexel

Photo credit: AP

PPG:  19.1
FG percentage: 43.4 
3P percentage:   42.5
FT percentage:  80.4
TS percentage:  60

Fouch is the second-leading scorer in the CAA and plays 30 minutes a game. 

Interesting, then, that he does all this coming off the bench. Imagine what he could do if head coach Bruiser Flint wanted to start him.

A former teammate from Fouch's high school days in the Bronx said Fouch was the best shooter on the squad "by far."  That teammate?  Kemba Walker. 

38. Will Clyburn, Guard, Utah

Photo Credit: The Deseret News

PPG:  19.1
FG percentage:  46.8
3P percentage: 43.8
FT percentage:  77.1
TS percentage:  61

Clyburn, a junior, is only now enjoying a full season at the D-1 level.  Utes fans are enjoying it, too.  Clyburn has stepped in and immediately filled the scoring and leadership void with his all-around game.

37. Brandon Knight, Guard, Kentucky

Andy Lyons/Getty Images

LEXINGTON, KY - DECEMBER 28: Brandon Knight #12 of the Kentucky Wildcats shoots the ball during the game against the Coppin State Eagles at Rupp Arena on December 28, 2010 in Lexington, Kentucky. Kentucky won 91-61. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

PPG:  18.0
FG percentage:  45.4
3P percentage:  38.3
TS percentage:  58

A scoring machine whose ability to get it in the hole—especially in big spots—is a major asset for the Wildcats.  His deep range and lightning-quick release mean he can get his shot off anytime, anywhere, without warning.  His abilities are almost too good, in a way, as he sometimes ups the degree of difficulty unnecessarily. 

Apparently, though, Knight learned something after his worst game of the season—a six-point clunker against Connecticut—as he has rebounded to average 19 ppg since, including 25 on 7-13 shooting in Louisville on New Year's Eve.

36. Alec Burks, Guard, Colorado

Jamie Squire/Getty Images

KANSAS CITY, MO - MARCH 10: Alec Burks #10 of the Colorado Buffaloes dunks the ball in the first half against the Texas Tech Red Raiders during the first round game of the 2010 Phillips 66 Big 12 Men's Basketball Tournament at the Sprint Center on March

PPG:  19.0
FG percentage:  50.6
3P percentage: 29.6
FT percentage:  82.4
TS percentage:  61

When Burks is on the floor, you're just hoping the Buffaloes can get a fast break going.  He is a dynamic finisher, but also complements his power with a soft shooting touch, making him a much tougher guard.

35. James Nunnally, Forward, University of California Santa Barbara

Ethan Miller/Getty Images

LAS VEGAS, NV - DECEMBER 15: James Nunnally #21 and Christian Peterson #24 of the UC Santa Barbara Gauchos celebrate their 68-62 win over the UNLV Rebels at the Thomas & Mack Center December 15, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Im

PPG:  19.0
FG percentage:  47.9
3P percentage:  35.7
FT percentage:  90.3
TS percentage: 64

Nunnally has done more than step out of the shadow of teammate and defending Big West player of the year Orlando Johnson. He turned a flood light on himself.

So far, the conference's current scoring leader seems to welcome the exposure.  The highlight of UCSB's season thus far came when Nunnally, playing on a bad ankle, put 23 on then No. 22 UNLV to lead the Bears in the upset.  The effort included several clutch free throws, an area where Nunnally is nearly automatic.

34. Reggie Jackson, Guard, Boston College

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CHESTNUT HILL, MA - FEBRUARY 20: Reggie Jackson #0 of the Boston College Eagles takes a shot as Will Graves #13 of the North Carolina Tar Heels defends on February 20, 2010 at Conte Forum in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts. The Eagles defeated the Tar Heels

PPG:  18.5
FG percentage:  53.8
3P percentage: 46.9
FT percentage: 78.2
TS percentage:  65

Jackson has quietly become the best scorer and clutch player on a Boston College team that appears much improved from a year ago.  All I have to do now is refrain from all those "I must kill the queen" jokes.  Easier said than done.

33. TyShwan Edmondson, Guard, Austin Peay

PPG: 19.5
FG percentage: 47.3
3P percentage: 39.0
FT percentage: 82.2
TS percentage: 57

No way the Governors are 9-6 without their junior leader. Edmondson has been remarkably dependable this season, which was highlighted by a 22-point effort in a close loss to Memphis.

32. Malcolm Delaney, Guard, Virginia Tech

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ATLANTA - MARCH 13: Malcolm Delaney #23 of the Virginia Tech Hokies drives up court against the North Carolina Tar Heels during day two of the 2009 ACC Men's Basketball Tournament on March 13, 2009 at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevi

PPG:  19.1
FG percentage: 46.0
3P percentage: 43.6
FT percentage: 85.7
TS percentage:  62

With Dorenzo Hudson lost for the season, now more than ever Seth Greenberg and the Hokies need every ounce of Delaney's ferocious aggression and surgical slash-and-shoot game if they want to contend in the ACC.

31. Jordan Hamilton, Guard-Forward, Texas

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GREENSBORO, NC - DECEMBER 18: Jordan Hamilton #3 of the Texas Longhorns shoots over Reggie Bullock #35 of the North Carolina Tar Heels at Greensboro Coliseum on December 18, 2010 in Greensboro, North Carolina. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

PPG:  19.8
FG percentage:  45.8
3P percentage:  41.2
FT percentage: 73.6
TS percentage:  57

Hamilton is a more mature player this year, and it shows in his game.  He spent the offseason working out with Ron Artest, so I'm fairly confident no Big XII defender can show Hamilton anything he didn't see over the summer.

30. JuJuan Johnson, Forward, Purdue

Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

INDIANAPOLIS - MARCH 12: Center JuJuan Johnson #25 of the Purdue Boilermakers goes up for a dunk against the Northwestern Wildcats during the quarterfinals of the Big Ten Men's Basketball Tournament at Conseco Fieldhouse on March 12, 2010 in Indianapolis

PPG:  19.9
FG percentage:  50.0
3P percentage: 23.5
FT percentage: 76.0
TS percentage:  57

Alongside E'Twaun Moore (and "Moore" on him later, if you get my meaning), the rangy, multitalented Johnson is the overhand right in the one-two punch of Purdue's offense.

29. Ravern Johnson, Guard, Mississippi State

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NASHVILLE, TN - MARCH 14: Ravern Johnson #2 of the Mississippi State Bulldogs drives for a shot attempt against the Kentucky Wildcats during the final of the SEC Men's Basketball Tournament at the Bridgestone Arena on March 14, 2010 in Nashville, Tenness

PPG: 20.1
FG percentage: 42.2
3P percentage: 39.0
FT percentage: 75.0
TS percentage: 56

Leading the SEC in scoring by a significant margin.  Known primarily as a shooter, it will be interesting to see whether Johnson can use his scoring to keep the tumultuous Bulldogs afloat through conference play.

28. Jon Leuer, Forward, Wisconsin

Ethan Miller/Getty Images

LAS VEGAS - NOVEMBER 20: Jon Leuer #30 of the Wisconsin Badgers looks to pass the ball inbounds as Derrick Jasper #5 of the UNLV Rebels defends during their game at the Thomas & Mack Center November 20, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevada. UNLV won 68-65. (Photo

PPG:  19.4
FG percentage: 48.5
3P percentage: 46.6
FT percentage: 81.0
TS percentage:  63

One of the most skilled big men in the land. Leuer is a wily competitor who can create his own shot both inside and outside. He may not win a lot of style points, but he'll get you a lot of the kind of points that go on the scoreboard. I'm no Dean Smith, but I think those are the kind of points you want.

27. Devon Beitzel, Guard, University of Northern Colorado

Photo credit: Yahoo! Sport/UK and Ireland

PPG: 19.8
FG percentage: 51.0
3P percentage: 37.5
FT percentage: 94.9
TS percentage:  67

Being the leading scorer in the Big Sky Conference is a little like being the best cook at a petting zoo.  It's dubious, is what I'm saying.  But Beitzel's game has landed him in the national conversation. 

Among other distinctions, Beitzel is what I'll call the best functional free throw shooter in the nation; he currently sits third in the rankings, but is the only guy in the top 10 with six or more attempts per contest.

26. Austin Freeman, Guard, Georgetown

Jim McIsaac/Getty Images

NEW YORK - MARCH 13: Austin Freeman #15 of the Georgetown Hoyas reacts after a play as Devin Ebanks #3 of the West Virginia Mountaineers looks on during the championship of the 2010 NCAA Big East Tournament at Madison Square Garden on March 13, 2010 in Ne

PPG:  19.2
FG percentage: 57.5
3P percentage:  48.5
FT percentage: 83.7
TS percentage:  69

In his senior season, the ninth-ranked Hoyas are Austin Freeman's team.  He may not bowl you over with athleticism, but he is extremely smart and is an outstanding shooter.  A catch-and-shoot guard with that kind of FG percentage almost defies logic.

25. E'Twaun Moore, Guard, Purdue

Andy Lyons/Getty Images

WEST LAFAYETTE, IN - DECEMBER 21: E ' Twaun Moore #33 of the Purdue Boilermakers grabs a loose ball while defended by Jeremy Mixon #22 of the IPFW Mastodons during the game at Mackey Arena on December 21, 2010 in West Lafayette, Indiana. (Photo by Andy

PPG:  20.4
FG percentage: 48.3
3P percentage: 45.5
FT percentage: 68.6
TS percentage:  59

The other half of the Boilermakers' formidable scoring tandem. Moore, a dangerous shooter in transition or spotting up, is coming off a brilliant stretch in which he averaged 26 ppg in wins over Michigan and Northwestern, including a new career high of 31 versus the Wildcats.

24. C.J. McCollum, Guard, Lehigh

Ronald Martinez/Getty Images

OKLAHOMA CITY - MARCH 18: CJ McCollum #3 of the Lehigh Mountain Hawks drives for a shot attempt past Cole Aldrich #45 of the Kansas Jayhawks during the first round of the 2010 NCAA men's basketball tournament at Ford Center on March 18, 2010 in Oklahoma

PPG:  21.0
FG percentage: 41.7
3P percentage: 33.8
FT percentage: 81.6
TS percentage:  54

McCollum epitomizes the term "scoring in bunches." The Patriot League's top scorer can explode any time; just ask the Kent State Golden Flashes, on whom C.J. dropped 42 over Thanksgiving (Lehigh still somehow found a way to lose).  He's a versatile, if slight, player who can score from just about anywhere. Think Stephen Curry with a little less range.

23. Adnan Hodzic, Center, Lipscomb

PPG:  20.4
FG percentage: 56.4
FT percentage: 75.8
TS percentage:  60

After looking at the photo, you might be thinking Hodzic doesn't exactly fit the mold for this list.  I nominate you to go tell him that.

Because I don't particularly want to see this Bison barrelling down on me, and neither do defenders in the Atlantic Sun conference.  In 2009-2010, Hodzic was the top scorer in ALL the land, not to mention the conference, where he was a lock for conference player of the year and should be again this season.

Nothing subtle about the Bosnian's approach.  He kicks your butt in the lane and scores.  Not sweet enough for you?  Feel free to try and stop it.  His lack of size and athleticism (he's a 6'9" center) mean he is diminished somewhat against larger and more athletic defenders, but he's still more than capable of helping Lipscomb earn its first-ever conference title -- and March Madness berth.

22. Norris Cole, Guard, Cleveland State

Marc Serota/Getty Images

MIAMI - MARCH 20: Guard Norris Cole #30 (R) of the Cleveland State University Vikings takes a shot over guard L.D. Williams #42 (L) of Wake Forest Demon Deacons during the first round of the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Tournament at the American Ai

PPG:  20.9
FG percentage: 46.4
3P percentage: 36.4
FT percentage: 85.0
TS percentage:  58

The lead Viking can pull up for the jumper or take his opponent off the dribble.  He can go off any time, and last month scored 25 points against South Florida—in one half.

21. Derrick Williams, Forward, Arizona

Ethan Miller/Getty Images

LAS VEGAS - NOVEMBER 27: Markieff Morris #21 of the Kansas Jayhawks fouls Derrick Williams #23 of the Arizona Wildcats during the championship game of the Las Vegas Invitational at The Orleans Arena November 27, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Kansas won 87-7

PPG:  18.6
FG percentage: 65.1
3P percentage:  70.0
FT percentage:  77.7
TS percentage:  74

How do you become a great scorer?  Easy: just make it every time you shoot.  It seems to work well for Derrick Williams.

It also helps if you have otherwordly athleticism that makes you a force of nature in open space.

The 6'8" power forward doesn't shoot much for some reason (just 8.4 times a game), but that makes these stats all the more impressive, as it means he is averaging more than two points every time he puts the ball up. No surprise, then, that he leads the nation in TS among those scoring 13 points or more.

20. Anthony Gurley, Guard, Massachusetts

Photo credit: MassLive.com

PPG:  20.6
FG percentage:  51.1
3P percentage:  41.2
FT percentage:  73.5
TS percentage:  59

A talented shooter and a smooth customer in the lane, Gurley has almost double the average of the team's second-leading scorer.

19. Talor Battle, Guard, Penn State

Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

INDIANAPOLIS - MARCH 11: Guard Talor Battle #12 of the Penn State Nittany Lion stands on the court during the game against the Minnesota Golden Gophers in the first round of the Big Ten Men's Basketball Tournament at Conseco Fieldhouse on March 11, 2010

PPG:  21.3
FG percentage: 45.3
3P percentage: 39.4
FT percentage: 70.1
TS percentage:  57

If you think the Nittany Lions are bad now, picture them without their do-it-all point guard.

18. Gary Flowers, Forward, Southern Mississippi

Photo credit: GulfLive.com

PPG:  20.8
FG percentage: 52.5
3P percentage: 51.1
FT percentage: 72.2
TS percentage:  61

This former Oklahoma State Cowboy is now the top star for the 11-2 Golden Eagles and the second-leading scorer in Conference USA.  His main strength is in one-one-one situations, where, simply put, you can't really stop him. 

While he seems fine relying on pure athleticism, just for giggles he hits a couple of three pointers per contest as well. 

His best effort of the season was a 28 on 10-16 shooting he put up to help the Eagles defeat the Cal Bears in Berkley.

17. Tu Holloway, Guard, Xavier

PPG:  21.3
FG percentage: 46.0
3P percentage: 32.8
FT percentage: 84.2
TS percentage:  63

Though he is still looking for consistency, Holloway seems to come up the biggest when Xavier needs him most. Along with Jordan Crawford, the artist formerly known as Terrell keyed a Musketeer run to the Sweet 16 last season.  This year, Holloway is looking for more, and he's off to a solid start, ranking second in the A-10 in scoring, with his team at a respectable 8-4 entering conference season.

And despite what you may believe from the picture, he's not a three-point specialist. Maybe he's asking the manager for water.

16. Mike Glover, Forward, Iona

Photo Credit: New York Daily News

PPG:  21.2
FG percentage: 62.6
FT percentage: 61.5
TS percentage:  64

I'm definitely dating myself here, but if this were the Billboard Hot 100 list, Mike Glover would be #16 with a bullet.

It probably shouldn't be too surprising, though. With a nickname like Optimus Prime, you have to deliver.

Prime, er, Glover turned a lot of heads last month when he hung 25 on Syracuse, working touted center Fab Melo like a heavy bag in the process.

A circuitous route to D-1 landed him with the Gaels instead of a larger school (he was initially a Seton Hall commit).  But his creativity and explosiveness around the basket mean he's one of those players who attracts eyeballs no matter where he is. 

15. Justin Hurtt, Guard, Tulsa

PPG:  21.8
FG percentage: 44.9
3P percentage: 40.7
FT percentage: 89.9
TS percentage:  62

Hurtt is really putting the "hurt" on some teams lately.  He is "hurtting" them badly.  And so on.

But seriously, folks.  His last five games:  25, 36, 30, 33, 23.  That's thanks to 52 percent FG shooting and a ridiculous 92 percent from the line.

14. Donald Sims, Guard, Appalachian State

Photo Credit: GoASU.com

PPG:  22.5
FG percentage: 43.3
3P percentage: 34.3
FT percentage: 86.0
TS percentage:  60

Sims came out blazing this fall, posting 40, 27, and 28 (twice) during a stretch in November and early December.  He has come back to Earth lately, but remains dangerous.  Sims led the nation last season in three-pointers made with 128, and has 34 so far this season.

13. Adrian Oliver, Guard, San Jose State

Photo credit: San Jose State Spartans Hoops

PPG:  24.4
FG percentage:  44.4
3P percentage:  36.5
FT percentage:  80.0
TS percentage:  55

This reedy guard can shoot from anywhere but isn't afraid of the lane. As is the case with great shooters, Oliver is prone to streakiness. Several days after scoring a school-record 42 in a win over Puget Sound, Fresno's larger backcourt held him to 15 in the Spartans' WAC opener. Still, fans are hopeful that Oliver and company can rebound from an 0-2 start in conference play.

12. LaceDarius Dunn, Guard, Baylor

Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

HOUSTON - MARCH 28: LaceDarius Dunn #24 of the Baylor Bears encourages the crowd against the Duke Blue Devils during the south regional final of the 2010 NCAA men's basketball tournament at Reliant Stadium on March 28, 2010 in Houston, Texas. Duke defeate

PPG:  21.2
FG percentage: 42.5
3P percentage: 39.0
FT percentage: 79.7
TS percentage:  64

Dunn did not play in the season's first three games. For you see, he was serving a suspension after being charged with aggravated assault for allegedly breaking his girlfriend's jaw.  One might wonder how punitive that punishment really was, considering the Bears won those road apple games by a combined 59 points, but one can also let Baylor slide considering they've never before had to deal with a discipline issue of this magnitude.  Oh, wait...

I was saying something.  Right, Dunn has a deadly (whoops, sorry) shooting stroke that is really rounding into form.  He is the Big 12's leading scorer and has embraced his role as the leader and top offensive option for the 9-3 Bears. 

He's not going to blow anybody away, but he's crafty and plays with a ton of determination.  Here's hoping he keeps it together off the court and helps Baylor meet the high expectations people have for them this season.

11. Andrew Nicholson, Forward, St. Bonaventure

PPG:  22.4
FG percentage:  56.0
3P percentage:  14.3
FT percentage:  74.3
TS percentage:  63

One of the fastest-rising players in the nation, Nicholson is a 6'7" big man who can finish with either hand and knows how to play within himself (in other words, you won't see him trying to juke a point guard any time soon).  The Atlantic 10's leading scorer, Nicholson has a knack for knowing when to step out for the jumper, and when he does, it usually goes in.

10. Klay Thompson, Guard, Washington State

Hannah Johnston/Getty Images

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND - JULY 06: Klay Thompson of the United States dunks the ball during the U19 Basketball World Championships match between the United States and Greece at North Shore Events Centre on July 6, 2009 in Auckland, New Zealand. (Photo by

PPG:  22.2
FG percentage: 47.2
3P percentage: 44.4
FT percentage: 82.6
TS percentage:  62

What a difference an offseason makes.  So far this year, Thompson's FG shooting has improved by six percentage points, including a whopping eight-point leap from beyond the arc.  The net result is almost three extra points per contest, and the top spot on the Pac-10 scoring list.  The difference, according to observers, is greater discipline in terms of adhering to the ideal mechanics of his shooting rhythm.  He is also settling less often for jumpers and looking to get into the lane. 

9. John Shurna, Forward, Northwestern

Chris Chambers/Getty Images

NEW YORK, NY - DECEMBER 20: John Shurna #24 of the Northwestern Wildcats dunks against the St. Francis Terriers during the Madison Square Garden Holiday Festival at Madison Square Garden on December 20, 2010 in New York City. (Photo by Chris Chambers/Ge

PPG:  22.2
FG percentage: 60.4
3P percentage: 61.8
FT percentage: 68.6
TS percentage:  73

This extremely efficient and consistent junior has helped remediate a program that was a laughingstock just a few short years ago. The 6'8" Shurna gets it done mainly with a pinpoint shooting stroke that is very hard to block. The Wildcats are still not much of a threat in the top-heavy Big 10; all the more impressive, then, that he leads the conference in scoring, outranking several players with bigger names and brighter basketball futures.

Plus, he looks like an extra from "The Social Network."  That was a great movie.

8. Marshon Brooks, Guard-Forward, Providence

Chris Chambers/Getty Images

PROVIDENCE, RI - DECEMBER 04: Marshon Brooks #2 of the Providence Friars drives for a shot attempt against the Rhode Island Rams at the Dunkin' Donuts Center on December 4, 2010 in Providence, Rhode Island. (Photo by Chris Chambers/Getty Images)

PPG:  23.1
FG percentage: 51.0
3P percentage: 36.0
FT percentage: 77.6
TS percentage:  61

No less than Syracuse point guard Scoop Jardine recently called Brooks "one of the most underrated players in the country."  That could have something to do with the fact that Brooks leads a Providence team that is itself overlooked in the loaded Big East.  But if the conference's second-leading scorer continues to move through defenders like they're phantoms, that will change. 

7. Andrew Goudelock, Guard, College Of Charleston

Photo credit: National Hoops Report

PPG:  24.1
FG percentage:  49.0 
3P percentage:  43.1
FT percentage:  81.1
TS percentage: 61

If you take nothing else from this slide show, remember the name Andrew Goudelock.

This is the same Andrew Goudelock (pronounced GOWD-lock) who scored 31 points in Knoxville to key a 91-78 win over Tennessee. The same Goudelock who laid down 27 in College Park before losing to Maryland on a buzzer beater. He is a complete senior who can do it inside and out. Opponents ignore him and his 9-4 Charleston team at their peril. 

This. Guy. Is. Legit.

The percentages above are all the more impressive considering how much they ask him to shoot.  The 6'2" Goudelock leads the nation in three-pointers made (sixth in attempts) and is fourth in field goal makes and tries. 

If Goudelock and the Cougars can outduel Furman and Wofford to win the Southern Conference, they're the upset special of the tournament...assuming, of course, you could even call it an upset.

6. Josh Selby, Guard, Kansas

Jamie Squire/Getty Images

LAWRENCE, KS - DECEMBER 29: Josh Selby #32 of the Kansas Jayhawks in action during the game against the University of Texas Arlington Mavericks on December 29, 2010 at Allen Fieldhouse in Lawrence, Kansas. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

PPG:  13.7
FG percentage:  36.4
3P percentage:  47.1
FT percentage:  90.0
TS percentage: 68

I'm betting the futures market with this one.

Like Dunn, you won't see Selby on any official scoring list at the moment. That's because he's only played in four games thus far after sitting on the shelf for two months while awaiting an eligibility ruling from the NCAA.  His rust is evident—most notably in a two-point, 1-9 effort against Texas-Arlington—but once he knocks it off, his courage, deep range, and fiery first step make him a safe bet to take his place among the nation's most skillful scorers.

5. Anatoly Bose, Guard-Forward, Nicholls State

PPG:  25.0
FG percentage:  41.0
3P percentage:  38.3
FT percentage:  84.6
TS percentage: 58

The Australian is currently the nation's second-leading scorer, but he gets knocked back a few rungs because of his subpar Southland Conference competition.

Still, there's a lot to like about his game.  A new layer of muscle means he's no longer shooting over the contact.  This has given him the classic two-pronged, pick-your-poison game of the modern scorer. 

4. Xavier Silas, Guard, Northern Illinois

Chris Chambers/Getty Images

PHILADELPHIA, PA - DECEMBER 18: Xavier Silas #13 of the Northern Illinois Huskies attempts a shot against Aaron Brown #22 of the Temple Owls at the Liacouras Center on December 18, 2010 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Chris Chambers/Getty Image

PPG:  24.5
FG percentage:  47.6
3P percentage:  43.1
FT percentage:  90.7
TS percentage:  66

The buttery-smooth senior is a one-man gang for Northern Illinois; he currently boasts nearly triple the points production of the team's second-leading scorer.  The MAC's top scorer seems to skate on ice while those around him are forced to remain earthbound.  A natural, plain and simple.

3. Jimmer Fredette, Guard, BYU

Ronald Martinez/Getty Images

OKLAHOMA CITY - MARCH 20: Jimmer Fredette #32 of the Brigham Young Cougars looks on against the Kansas State Wildcats during the second round of the 2010 NCAA men's basketball tournament at Ford Center on March 20, 2010 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. (Phot

PPG:  24.1
FG percentage:  47.5
3P percentage:  37.5
FT percentage:  88.6
TS percentage: 60

Everybody's favorite player-of-the-year dark horse is not disappointing, leading the Cougars to a 14-1 record and topping the scoring ranks in the Mountain West Conference. His team faces a dog fight with #7 San Diego State for the title, but at least we know Jimmer won't be a shrinking violet; he leads the nation in field goal attempts with 263.

2. Charles Jenkins, Guard, Hofstra

Photo credit: Netscoutsbasketball.com

PPG: 23.5
FG percentage: 60.0
3P percentage:  50.0
FT percentage:  82.2
TS percentage:  71

By his own admission, Charles Jenkins has spent his whole life under the radar.  And that aura carries over to the court, where Jenkins is a quiet assassin.  You don't even know he's coming until you hear your guts hitting the floor.

Not to put too fine a point on it, but the man is, quite simply, a machine. There's a lot packed into that 6'3" frame. There would have to be, as I don't think regular guards can shoot 60 percent from the floor. That's because few are as consistent as Jenkins, as calmly instinctive about what needs to be done to put two points on the board. His game is cold and efficient, seemingly designed to exert both minimum effort and maximum damage.

If he stays on pace—heck, if he cuts his pace in half—they'll have to rewrite Hofstra's record books, which may not look like North Carolina's, but do contain names like NBA veteran Speedy Claxton.

1. Kemba Walker, Guard, Connecticut

Andy Lyons/Getty Images

LOUISVILLE, KY - FEBRUARY 01: Kemba Walker #15 of the Connecticut Huskies shoots during the Big East Conference game against the Louisville Cardinals on February 1, 2010 at Freedom Hall in Louisville, Kentucky. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

PPG:  26.7
FG percentage: 48.6
3P percentage:  38.4
FT percentage:  84.0
TS percentage:  61

Surprised?  Probably not. 

But when you're leading the nation in scoring by a decent margin—and you're doing it for an elite team in a stacked conference—you deserve it. 

Walker's game starts with speed; he's one of those guys who probably moves faster with a basketball than without.  He has a full bag of tricks, conventional and otherwise, for getting his shot, but he doesn't put his team's momentum at risk by forcing the issue.  Walker's range has improved every season, and he is now at a pretty respectable mark from three-point land. 

A great scorer means you're the guy opponents unequivocally and unanimously fear, and supporters can't wait to see with the ball in his hands.  This statement is more descriptive of Walker, right now, than it is of any other player in the country.  That's why he's the current favorite to win national player of the year.

But of course, there's still half a season left.  Any of the guys on this list could have something to say about these rankings before it's all said and done.