ESPN has dropped its top 100 current NBA player list, and a few Tar Heels cracked this year’s ranking.
UNC’s Harrison Barnes and Cam Johnson found themselves on ESPN’s top 100 list on different trajectories in their respective careers. Barnes ranked 96th on the list after being 74th on last season’s list. A diminished role could be on the horizon, something that sports reporter Kendra Andrews pointed out under Barnes ranking.
“One huge question for 2023-24: What will his role be this season? Barnes signed a three-year, $54 million extension over the summer, and on a younger team looking to continue its rise, he is a trusted veteran voice for reigning Coach of the Year Mike Brown. However, Barnes’ minutes declined last year, and the addition of EuroLeague MVP Sasha Vezenkov could impact the way Sacramento uses Barnes in 2023-24.”
On the other hand, Cam Johnson is on the verge of a breakout year with plenty of opportunities. Unlike Barnes’s situation, Johnson is on a rebuilding Nets team in his youth, and his role is defined on the team. Johnson did not make the list last season but ranks 82nd this year.
It is surprising to see no Coby White or Cole Anthony, who have had big moments in their young careers.
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