RETURNERS
Of the eight returning players, seven saw action last season and six played a major role in the rotation. The group comprised about 60 percent of the team scoring a year ago and will need to find ways to fill the gaps left by the departure of their scoring backcourt.
Damien Daniels - Daniels is a fifth-year season who will run away with a number of ACU records by season's end. He has already played the most games in school history with 130 under his belt and the team will need that experience at the point. Damien led the team with 115 assists last season and was second with 68 steals and the Wildcats will need him to replicate those numbers to find success again this season.
Ja'Sean Jackson - Jackson worked his way into more and more playing time as the season went on last year and he showed his ability to be a high-level two-way player for the ‘Cats. The team will need him to make big strides going into season two as one of the few returning wings who has a whole season under their belt in coach Tanner’s system.
Cameron Steele - Steele had a breakout sophomore campaign, averaging nearly 10 points per game and hitting a team-leading 40 threes on the season. The Wildcats will have one of the most experienced front courts in the conference as they return all of their key interior players and Steele will be a huge part of that again this season.
Tobias Cameron - Cameron made a big jump last season transitioning from a bench role to a starting role mid-season. He has been a do-it-all type guard throughout his time with the Wildcats and he thrived in that role last season. He plays with a chip on his shoulder and brings energy and hustle every minute he is on the court.
Airion Simmons - Another player who made a big jump last season, Simmons earned his first all-conference recognition with his selection to the All-WAC second team and he was named to the preseason first team this fall. Airion led the team in scoring and rebounding during conference play and put up a ridiculous 31 points and 14 rebounds in a home win over UTRGV. The team will need the same level of production from him again this season and if he can do that, he will be in contention for Player of the Year.
Immanuel Allen - After suffering a season-ending injury during the 20-21 season, Allen came back with a bang last season including a game-tying three that allowed the Wildcats to secure their first win of the Tanner era in overtime. Allen's athleticism is off the charts and he should take a big jump this season as he looks like he is fully confident in his abilities on the court again. He will definitely have a chance to fill the scoring gap left by Mason and Morris.
Yuot Gai - Now in his second year with the Wildcats, Gai provides great length inside and has a chance to develop into a regular rotation player down low. While his 6-11 frame is thin, he has a great touch at the rim and can stretch outside with a three as well. If he can keep up on the defensive end, he will provide great rim protection and keep the bench deep for coach Tanner.
