The start of the 2021-22 college basketball season continues to inch closer, and on Monday the AP released its preseason All-Americans. Villanova guard Collin Gillespie was among the five selections. He is joined by Gonzaga's Drew Timme, UCLA's Johnny Juzang, Indiana's Trayce Jackson-Davis and Illinois' Kofi Cockburn.

It's some great recognition for Gillespie, who returns for a fifth season at 'Nova looking to make up for having the past two postseasons taken away from him, first due to the pandemic and then due to an injury.

Gillespie averaged 14 points, 4.6 assists and 3.3 rebounds last season before going down with a knee injury late in the season. He shot 42.8% from the field, 37.6% from three and 83.3% from the free throw line. His efforts earned him a share of the Big East Player of the Year award. Gillespie is the favorite to win that award again this season.

Now, he'll look to lead Villanova through a season that comes with high expectations.

Discuss Gillespie and Villanova's upcoming season with fellow 'Nova fans here.