She will be the nation's leading returning scorer after averaging 23.4 points per game this season. That's a good start. Howard does so much well. Kentucky's pressure allows her to influence games on the defensive end.

McDonald will follow in the footsteps of Kelsey Plum and Ionescu as Pac-12 guards with the style and skill necessary to build a national player of the year campaign. She will be one of only four returning players.

Onyenwere will be the Pac-12's leading returning rebounder and second only to McDonald among returning scorers. That matters in a conference that should remain among the best in the country.