Post play matters in the ACC, and Liz Kitley knows it better than most. The three-time ACC Player of the Year recently shared her view on the top five players who are creating the most buzz in the current postseason. So, let's take a look at who Kitley kept in her list.

5. Uche Izoje, Syracuse

Uche Izoje’s rise has been fast and historic. The Syracuse freshman's career average currently stands at 13.4 points and 8.6 rebounds while shooting a conference-best 60.5 percent from the field.

No Syracuse women’s player had ever won USBWA National Freshman of the Week before Izoje did it earlier this season.

However, her impact goes beyond scoring. She has already posted multiple games with more than one assist, including 49 blocks this season. 

4. Nunu Agara, Stanford

When Stanford needed, Nunu Agara was there for every match. The junior forward is posting 15.3 points and 8.5 rebounds per game this season while leading the Cardinal in both categories.

Against Duke on January 11, she recorded a 17-point, 10-rebound double-double, once again demonstrating her ability to handle a heavy workload.

Agara’s value is in her motor skills. She rebounds through contact, anchors Stanford defensively, and scores efficiently without forcing touches.

3. Ra Shaya Kyle, Miami

Ra Shaya Kyle is having the best stretch of her college career. The Miami centre is averaging 16.3 points and 10.3 rebounds, and her 30-point outing against Florida State on January 11 was a statement performance.

She performed well in matches while struggling with health conditions. With over 1,200 career points under her belt, she now looks unstoppable. 

2. Khamil Pierre, NC State

Khamil Pierre has turned rebounding into a weapon. The NC State junior leads the nation in total rebounds while averaging 15.2 points and 11.9 boards per game. Her latest double-double came in a lopsided win over SMU, her 11th of the season.

Pierre’s growth since transferring from Vanderbilt shows in her confidence. She has earned a spot on the Wooden Award Midseason Watch List.

1. Toby Fournier, Duke

Toby Fournier secures the peak spot of Kitley's list, and it's hard to argue with that. The Duke sophomore is averaging 17.2 points on over 52 percent shooting at a high level.

Against Stanford on January 11, Fournier scored 16 points and matched a career high with four blocks as Duke extended its winning streak. Her play is the reason why she sits at the top.

Kitley’s list highlights one thing clearly. The ACC is loaded inside, and the future of post play in the conference is in very good hands. The upcoming games will shape the pillars of ACC. Which player was your favourite? Let us know in the comment section!

Written by

Arya Patil

Edited by

Souvik Roy