UCLA's Lonzo Ball notwithstanding, Washington's Markelle Fultz might be the most buzzed about freshmen on the West Coast.
Fultz, who DraftExpress projects as the No. 1 pick in the 2017 draft, is an electric player. Fair or not, he has been hidden on the national scene somewhat due to a lackluster schedule thus far.
That changes Wednesday.
Washington will travel to No. 8 Gonzaga to face its first ranked opponent. Gonzaga faces arguably the most talented player they'll see all year. It should be quite the matchup.
Here are three things to watch as Washington prepares for its first big test of the season.
1. How will Fultz fare against stiffer competition?
The Huskies' toughest tests this season -- against Yale and TCU -- resulted in losses. But Fultz has been a standout, averaging 26 points in their three losses and just 20.3 in their wins. That number is slightly skewed, given that several were blowout wins. But the point stands: Will he continue his hot streak against stiffer competition?
Fultz has done his best work by making plays with his action on offense. He penetrates the lane to open up shots for himself. And he makes a case as one of the best all-around playmakers in this loaded freshman class. I mean, just look at this filth:
The Zags have a lot of length that will challenge drives like this one. Johnathan Williams and Przemek Karnowski provide solid rim protection that will contest around the basket. Fultz has shown a weakness with his ball-handling, and is coming off a six-turnover game against TCU. It will be interesting to see how he handles the pressure.
2. This is for bragging rights
This in-state matchup has been a fierce rivalry in the past, although they have not faced each other in the regular season in 10 years.
Washington extended an olive branch in 2010 by proposing a neutral court game. To which Gonzaga coach Mark Few replied: "The chances of that happening are about the same as Bigfoot having my baby."
It was a joke. But this game between these two teams have had a lot of back-and-forth over the years.
This game marks the first of a four-year deal between the two teams. It's more than an old rivalry. The two schools are vying for bragging rights. A win could go a long ways in recruitment efforts and overall program recognition in the state. Bragging rights most importantly.
3. This may be the last time to watch Fultz for a month
Blame the schedule. But after Wednesday, the next time Fultz will be on national television will be 2017 when Washington takes on Washington State on ESPNU to open Pac-12 play.
Once conference play gets in swing, Washington will get more air time nationally. But the first real taste of him in serious competition will be Wednesday at 11 p.m. ET. I'd suggest to plan accordingly.
Viewing information
Television: ESPN2
Streaming: Watch ESPN app or watchespn.com
Time: 11 p.m. ET
Location: McCarthey Athletic Center, Spokane, Washington