Most popular players of the last decade

Every March, the Ali Farokmanesh's and Steph Curry's captivate America for a few weeks as they lead their teams through the NCAA tournament. That flame is often fleeting, however, as they fade back into relative obscurity most of the time. There are some players, however, that grab America's hearts through their career and are popular across the country, even if the fan has no vested interest in the team. We touched on the villains of the past decade last week, so it is only fair we recognize some of the most loved players.

Eugene Edgerson, Arizona

Much like Duke is a factory for hated players, I feel as though Arizona has had many popular players throughout the past 10-15 years or so. Edgerson is the poster child for Arizona popularity, most likely because I was enthralled with his huge afro, high socks, hustle and overall demeanor. As if he needed to justify his popularity, he joined the Harlem Globetrotters after his Arizona career was over in case anybody had any doubt.

Dominic James, Marquette

The little guy that could out of Marquette established himself as a fighter and a winner despite his below average (for basketball standards) stature. He endeared himself to many fans and much of America felt for him when he injured himself his senior season, struggled in his return in the NCAA second round and was unable to complete his career on a positive note.

Glen Davis, LSU

'Big Baby' showed that you do not have to look like a workout freak to be a good basketball player. The plump LSU forward earned popularity with his ever present smile coupled with his ferocity on the court. He was the face of the LSU final four team and he was an easy character to love from the football crazy LSU.

Gerry McNamara, Syracuse

Another Big East guard makes our most popular list as McNamara saw his career go from role player on a national title team his freshman year to leader his senior year and sparking an incredible 4 day run through the Big East tournament that fueled Jim Boeheim to say 'Without Gerry McNamara, we don't win 10 (bleepin) games this year. Not 10!' Gerry Mac was popular outside of upstate New York (save the rest of the Big East) for his masterful three point shooting and his ability to relate to every YMCA chucker across America.

Who were some of your favorite players not on your favorite team?