March Madness isn't just a showcase of the best basketball the college ranks have to offer; it's also a baptism of sorts for NBA fans getting a first serious glimpse at players they hope to see in the pro ranks in the next couple of seasons. The 2011 NCAA Tournament has plenty of players currently projected by the experts to go in the first round of the 2011 NBA Draft, and so there are prospects NBA fans with limited rooted interest in March Madness itself to take a look at.
Over the next three days, we'll be breaking down the prospects of note, leaning on the latest mock drafts by experts to highlight the names David Stern could be reading this June or next. Many, like Jimmer Fredette and Harrison Barnes, are already famous for their high school or college exploits. Others, like Derrick Williams and John Henson, will make their names at the NBA level. Because of the madness associated with the tournament, we may only see some of these players a game or two. But unlike years past, where names like Michael Beasley and Derrick Favors were knocked out early, we have a few prospects whose teams could go the distance, like Kemba Walker and Barnes.
In the meantime, if you're itching to fill out a bracket, check out SBNation.com's printable 2011 NCAA Tournament bracket. To keep up on the action, which begins Tuesday, visit our March Madness hub.