Every March, the spotlight falls on the NCAA’s biggest basketball stars. However, while household names from powerhouse programs dominate headlines, mid-major players often provide some of the tournament’s most thrilling moments.
This year, these heroic underdogs will take center stage once again. We’ve highlighted 10 mid-major stars poised to leave their mark this March.
Memphis’ PJ Haggerty is more than a breakout star. He’s the engine powering the Tigers’ offense. Leading the team in scoring with 21.2 points per game, Haggerty also adds 3.8 assists and 1.9 steals per contest. A legitimate All-American candidate, Haggerty’s play will heavily influence Memphis’ postseason success.
Drake’s Bennett Stirtz was electric this season. For a team boasting a 30-0 record, Stirtz was instrumental, averaging 18.9 points, 5.9 assists, and 2.2 steals. His consistent scoring (18.9 points on 49.7% shooting) could make Drake’s Arch Madness run something special. Bettors tracking NCAA basketball odds should keep an eye on Stirtz.
Marquel Sutton’s stellar senior season earned him Summit League Player of the Year honors. Sutton averaged 19.1 points per game overall and 7.7 rebounds in conference play, consistently improving each season since joining Omaha. His standout performances, including a notable game against South Dakota, contributed to Omaha’s success. Sutton is a livewire in close games and Omaha’s key to a Cinderella story.
Jaron Pierre Jr. didn’t just arrive at Jacksonville State to contribute—he’s transformed the Gamecocks into an offensive powerhouse. Averaging 21.7 points per game, Pierre ranks among the nation’s top scorers. His February highlight came against Middle Tennessee, where he dropped 36 points with a school-record 10 threes. NBA scouts are already taking notice of his scoring ability and dynamic playmaking.
Yale’s Bez Mbeng is showcasing his versatility this season. His stat line is impressive, averaging 12.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game. Mbeng’s contributions have been crucial to Yale’s success, helping them maintain a strong 14-6 record. His consistent production is evident in his improved shooting, with a notable 40.3% from three-point range this season. For those valuing well-rounded performers in high-stakes games, Mbeng’s development is worth following.
Saint Mary’s senior guard, Augustas Marciulionis, continues to impress as the 2024-25 West Coast Conference Player of the Year. Averaging 14.4 points, 6.1 assists, and 1.4 steals this season, his floor management skills have been pivotal in leading Saint Mary’s to success. Marciulionis’s consistent production and leadership will be crucial as Saint Mary’s eyes another deep tournament run.
Standing at 6’9”, Tyler Tejada’s smooth playstyle distinguishes him from his peers. This imposing player has developed into a go-to player for Towson, drawing the attention of both NBA scouts and power conference coaches. Tejada’s performance will play a decisive role in his team’s postseason ambitions.
Quimari Peterson has blossomed at ETSU after limited opportunities in his freshman year elsewhere. This season, he’s averaging 19.5 points per game, scoring in double figures consistently. His steady hand makes him an indispensable leader for ETSU’s Southern Conference tournament bid, where he also leads the team in assists (3.7 per game) and steals (2.0 per game). Peterson’s consistent performance and leadership will be pivotal in ETSU’s postseason ambitions, as he plays a team-high 34.5 minutes per game and contributes significantly to the team’s success.
Known affectionately as “Budd,” Adam Clark has dominated this season. His 19.8 points and 5.6 assists per game cement his spot as one of the top guards. Clark’s ability to control tempo makes Merrimack a formidable opponent.
Ryan Nembhard leads the nation in assists, averaging 9.9 per game, making him the top playmaker in college basketball. For Gonzaga, which is chasing its 10th consecutive Sweet 16 appearance, Nembhard’s court vision is the team’s x-factor. His unselfish play ensures Gonzaga’s shooters have every opportunity to succeed, and his ability to control the tempo has been pivotal to their success.
The Atlantic Sun Player of the Year, Jacob Ognacevic, has been unstoppable. Averaging 20.3 points per game, he set the tone with a strong performance in Lipscomb’s quarterfinal game. Ognacevic’s scoring prowess gives Lipscomb a strong shot in the tournament. His consistent production, including leading the ASUN in scoring and ranking among the nation’s top scorers, makes him a key factor in Lipscomb’s postseason success.
March Madness has a history that surprises us. These mid-major players are likely to deliver unforgettable moments on the biggest stage.
This year, as we continue to track NCAAB insights, these athletes promise to challenge narratives and add excitement to the dance.
Whether you’re a fan eyeing the next big name or analyzing NCAA basketball odds, these players are your must-watch mid-major stars.
