Elissa Cunane, N.C. State
North Carolina State began the year strong, winning 21 games straight, and freshman Elissa Cunane was a huge contribution to the team’s success. N.C. State suffered huge losses from last year’s team under the basket — record-breaking rebounder Chelsea Nelson and dominant post Akela Maize — but Cunane has almost seamlessly stepped into that position.
Cunane has received ACC Freshman of the Week on multiple occasions and was efficient enough to notch a spot in the ACC All-Tournament First Team. She is a threat in the paint and a true post player that can score contested and grab rebounds when needed.
Because of all of the injuries the Wolfpack have faced this season, they lack the depth of some other tournament teams. Cunane will be a prominent piece of the Pack’s progression in March. Her potential is limitless — especially with a successful regular season already under her belt. — Ari Chambers