Star freshmen take the spotlight, but the elder Michigan State shines

Harris should be appreciated, after Tuesday, as as much of an All-America candidate as Randle, Parker or Wiggins. Freshmen of Randle, Parker and Wiggins'

Keith Appling (11), Branden Dawson (22) and Adreian Payne all made life hard for Kentucky / Getty Images

Harris should be appreciated, after Tuesday, as as much of an All-America candidate as Randle, Parker or Wiggins.

Freshmen of Randle, Parker and Wiggins' ilk are exotic creatures. They are specimens to be scouted by roving packs of NBA personnel guys, and celebrated by the rest of us -- because how can you not enjoy having them around? But the norm, as it always will be, is a kid who needs a few seasons before he can flourish. And the best team in college basketball, right now, is one that needed time to grow up.