So we simplified it. We stuck with five positions -- playmakers, gunners, slashers, inside-outers and bangers -- for consistency's sake, but also because we think those categories best account for every player type and create a more even distribution of players than do traditional positions.

So take a look at the definitions for each of our "positions," because they'll make a difference in how -- and where -- players get ranked. After all, the nation's top center may be only the third-best banger in our book. A prime-time slasher, which in our opinion most closely approximates the small forward position, may be a shooting guard, or even a power forward, in a coach's world.

At any rate, our top 100 is still grounded in identifying and ranking the country's top talent. Point guard or playmaker, slasher or small forward, if the player you're looking for is truly among college basketball's elite, you'll find him here:

Playmakers: Distribute on offense; deny on defense

Gunners: Those who want the ball with the game on the line

Slashers: Size, speed, range and ability around the basket

Inside-outers: The best at combining play in the paint with the perimeter

Bangers: Power in the paint and on the boards

Material from Basketball News.
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