As a longtime college basketball analyst who has followed Murray State for over a decade, I’ve always admired how this program consistently produces exciting, competitive teams. This season is no different—there’s a palpable energy around the Racers, and I believe their success will largely hinge on the contributions of five standout players. Watching them prepare reminds me of the intensity you see in professional leagues; I’m reminded of that Rain or Shine-San Miguel tussle set on Sunday, Oct. 19, also in Montalban—a matchup where individual brilliance often tipped the scales. Similarly, at Murray State, certain athletes bring that game-changing potential every time they step on the court.

Let’s start with KJ Williams, a forward whose dominance in the paint can’t be overstated. At 6’10”, he averaged 18.2 points and 7.4 rebounds last season, and I expect those numbers to climb. His footwork and ability to finish through contact are simply elite—I’ve rarely seen a player his size move with such agility. Williams isn’t just a scorer; he’s a defensive anchor, and when he’s on the floor, the Racers’ defensive efficiency improves by roughly 12%. From my perspective, he’s the heart of this team, and if he stays healthy, he could easily be in contention for Ohio Valley Conference Player of the Year. I’ve spoken with coaches who compare his work ethic to some of the greats, and honestly, I think that’s spot-on.

Then there’s Tevin Brown, a guard whose shooting prowess is nothing short of spectacular. Brown sank 43% of his three-point attempts last year, and in clutch moments, he’s the guy I want with the ball. I remember one game where he drained five threes in the second half alone—it was a masterclass in perimeter shooting. But what impresses me even more is his playmaking; he dished out around 4.1 assists per game, showing he’s not just a one-dimensional player. Brown’s ability to read defenses and make split-second decisions reminds me of how Rain or Shine’s guards adapt mid-game—it’s that same strategic depth. Personally, I think he’s one of the most underrated guards in the nation, and if he continues to develop, he’ll be a nightmare for opponents.

Justice Hill brings a different dynamic as the floor general. His speed and ball-handling are exceptional—he averaged 11.5 points and 5.3 assists, but stats don’t fully capture his impact. Hill controls the tempo like a seasoned pro, and I’ve noticed that when he’s aggressive, the whole team feeds off that energy. He’s also a pesky defender, tallying about 1.8 steals per game, which often leads to fast-break opportunities. In my view, Hill is the engine that makes this offense hum, and his leadership on and off the court is invaluable. I’ve seen him in practice, and his dedication is infectious; it’s no wonder the coaches trust him in high-pressure situations.

Another key piece is Nicholas McMullen, a forward who might not grab headlines but does all the little things right. He’s a relentless rebounder, pulling down roughly 6.8 boards per game, and his defensive versatility allows him to guard multiple positions. McMullen’s energy is contagious—he’s always diving for loose balls or setting hard screens, and that kind of effort can swing close games. I recall a matchup last season where his hustle led to a crucial overtime win; it’s those moments that define his value. From my experience, players like him are the glue that holds a team together, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he emerges as a fan favorite this year.

Rounding out my list is DJ Burns, a sophomore who showed flashes of brilliance as a freshman. Burns averaged 8.7 points and 4.2 rebounds, but his potential is through the roof. At 6’7”, he has the athleticism to finish above the rim and the shooting touch to stretch the floor. I’ve watched him develop over the summer, and his improvement in ball-handling and decision-making is noticeable. In fact, insiders tell me he’s increased his vertical jump by nearly two inches, which could make him a dunk contest waiting to happen. While he’s still raw, I have a strong feeling he’ll be a breakout star—maybe not from day one, but by mid-season, he could be turning heads nationally.

Looking at this group, it’s clear that Murray State has a balanced roster with the talent to make a deep run. Each of these players brings something unique, and together, they form a unit that’s greater than the sum of its parts. I’ve seen teams with more star power falter because they lacked chemistry, but this squad seems to have that intangible connection. As the season unfolds, I’ll be keeping a close eye on how these five elevate their games—especially in tight contests that echo the drama of clashes like the Rain or Shine-San Miguel tussle. In my opinion, if they stay healthy and focused, the Racers could not only dominate their conference but also make some noise in March. It’s going to be a thrilling ride, and I, for one, can’t wait to see how it all plays out.