The race for the best player in college basketball for the 2026-27 season is heating up. With only three CBS Sports All-Americans returning, Michigan State's Jeremy Fears Jr. and Vanderbilt's Tyler Tanner are among the top candidates. Fears led the nation in assists last season and has the chance to build on his success, while both players are set to be key figures on proven rosters. The lack of star freshmen this year opens the door for these returning players to establish themselves as elite talents.

By the Numbers
  • Jeremy Fears averaged 9.4 assists per game, leading the nation last season.
  • Tyler Tanner recorded 17 dunks in a single season, showcasing his unique skill set.
Yes, But

The discussion about the best player in college basketball is unusually open this year, with multiple candidates such as Kansas' Tyran Stokes鈥攔anked No. 1 in the 2026 recruiting class鈥攑ossibly contending. This adds complexity to the debate, diverting attention from clear frontrunners.

State of Play
  • Returning players like Fears and Tanner are poised to take on significant roles in their respective teams.
  • The 2026 high school recruiting class is not as competitive as last year's, affecting the influx of new talent.
What's Next

As the season approaches, expect Fears and Tanner to showcase their skills, potentially vying for the National Player of the Year title. Their performance will be pivotal in shaping the dynamics of college basketball this year.

Bottom Line

The consensus points toward Jeremy Fears as the likely favorite for college basketball's best player, but the competitiveness of the upcoming season means surprises are possible. Both returning stars hold the potential to redefine their standings and impact the game significantly.