March Madness potential breakout players, stars in 2026 NCAA tournament

Stars are born during the regular season. Legends are made in March Madness.

Players like Ali Farokhmanesh, D.J. Burns, Steph Curry and most recently Walter Clayton Jr. in 2025 have morphed from star players to superstars when the lights are the brightest in March Madness to guide their teams to deep runs.

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REQUIRED READING: March Madness heroes, breakout stars of the past: Where are they now?

When the 2026 NCAA men’s basketball tournament kicks off on Tuesday, March 17, a few more players will have a chance to join them in March Madness lore with breakout performances.

Here’s a look at 10 potential breakout players, stars to watch out for during March Madness 2026:

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Robbie Avila, Saint Louis

The Atlantic 10 Player of the Year has always garnered hype as the “most interesting college basketball player,” but he will make his NCAA Tournament debut with the Billikens this season. Avila’s decision to follow coach Josh Schertz from Indiana State to Saint Louis is paying off.

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The 6-foot-10 center from Oak Forest, Illinois, is averaging 12.9 points, 4.5 rebounds and 4.1 assists per game for Saint Louis. He’s shooting 41.6% from 3-point range on a team that was seventh in the nation in scoring.

If it’s not his game, Avila’s goggles will definitely draw your attention while watching the Billikens play.

Thomas Haugh, Florida

Haugh picked Florida due to his love for Tim Tebow. He has a chance to end his collegiate career by contributing the same number of national championships as the former Gators great quarterback.

After coming off the bench last season for the national champions, Haugh stepped into a starter role for the Gators this season and quickly became their best player. He’s averaging 17.1 points, 6.2 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.1 steals and 1.0 blocks per game.

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Generally, Haugh has been the engine for Todd Golden’s high-powered offense.

Labaron Philon Jr., Alabama

With teammate Aden Holloway in the doghouse for legal troubles, Alabama’s leading…

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Publish date : 2026-03-17 10:01:00

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