The 100 greatest males's gamers getting into the brand new season

With rising NIL budgets enabling some gamers to earn more cash taking part in one other season of school basketball than by turning professional, we’re seeing increasingly more All-American-caliber gamers decide to return to highschool.

When mixed with a loaded 2024 highschool class and arguably essentially the most proficient group of worldwide newcomers, males’s school basketball may be very wholesome in the case of high-end expertise.

North Carolina’s RJ Davis is the primary ACC Participant of the 12 months to return to highschool since Tyler Hansbrough in 2008, whereas fellow AP All-People Mark Sears, Hunter Dickinson, Caleb Love and Johni Broome are all again too. Additionally returning are Wade Taylor IV and Ryan Kalkbrenner, who’ve each racked up a number of years’ price of convention honors in power-conference leagues.

There’s elite freshmen Cooper Flagg, Airious “Ace” Bailey, Dylan Harper and VJ Edgecombe. Projected top-15 draft picks from abroad embrace Egor Demin, Kasparas Jakucionis and Khaman Maluach.

There’s loads of expertise. However what is the pecking order getting into the season?

ESPN’s Jeff Borzello and Myron Medcalf sought to determine that out, rating the highest 100 gamers within the sport. They every submitted their very own 1-100 rating, mixed the 2, tweaked a few dozen names and settled on the under order.

The most important debate? Which participant ranks No. 1.

Soar to:
100-76 | 75-51 | 50-26 | 25-3| The 1-2 debate

Saint Joseph’s Hawks | G | Senior

For the previous two years, Reynolds has been amongst America’s most constant gamers (he went from 19.6 PPG, 38% from past the arc and 89% from the free throw line in 2022-23 to 17.3 PPG, 38% from past the arc and 87% from the free throw line in 2023-24). This season, he is the chief of a Hawks group that might very properly make its first NCAA event look since 2016.

St. John’s Crimson Storm | G | Senior

Smith is heading to his fourth faculty in 5 years, however he is coming off by far the most effective season of his school profession. He averaged 13.3 factors, 6.3 rebounds and seven.1 assists final yr, capturing almost 41% from 3. All of these had been profession highs. Smith additionally tallied 5 triple-doubles, together with back-to-back performances within the NIT. The additions of Smith — and top-100 teammate Kadary Richmond — ought to rework Rick Pitino’s group.

Iowa State Cyclones | F | Sophomore

T.J. Otzelberger has discovered one other star within the Midwest. Momcilovic, who hails from Pewaukee, Wisconsin, ought to have a breakout second season with the Cyclones. In March, he put collectively a handful of spectacular efforts — 18 factors towards 1-seed Houston, 19 factors towards 15-seed South Dakota State within the NCAA event — as Iowa State bowed out a bit of too early. The 6-foot-8 sophomore’s return ought to maintain the momentum that gained ISU the Massive 12 event.

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Milan Momcilovic hits a 3 on the fly

Tamin Lipsey finds Milan Momcilovic on the skin for a 3-pointer.

Duke Blue Devils | G | Freshman

The excitement out of Durham about Knueppel is extremely robust — to the purpose he is now ranked inside the highest 10 of ESPN’s 2025 NBA draft rankings. He is a high-level scorer and 3-point shooter with 6-foot-7 dimension and a excessive basketball IQ. Regardless of the return of guards Tyrese Proctor and Caleb Foster, Knueppel may push his approach into Duke’s beginning lineup.

Memphis Tigers | PG | Sophomore

Penny Hardaway could not overcome a midseason dropping streak to achieve a 3rd consecutive NCAA event. However Haggerty — an all-AAC third group participant as a freshman final season — ought to present indicators of development and assist Memphis place itself to seize a berth. Haggerty averaged 21.2 PPG, a top-15 mark in America, final season.

East Carolina Pirates | G | Senior

One of many extra unheralded gamers on this checklist, Felton is a preseason All-AAC choice who scored in double figures in every of his ultimate 25 video games final season. He hit 20-plus factors in 10 video games, together with back-to-back 30-point efforts in November. Felton is a terrific rebounder for his dimension who continues to make strides as a 3-point shooter.

Kansas State Wildcats | G | Junior

An odd tutorial suspension at Michigan final yr — he missed six street video games — interrupted McDaniel’s 2023-24 and overshadowed a stellar season for the 5-11 guard, who averaged 16.3 PPG and 4.7 APG. He additionally related on 37% of his pictures from past the arc. He generally is a catalyst for a rebuilt Wildcats squad.

Florida Gators | G | Senior

Todd Golden will hope he is getting the model of Martin that helped Florida Atlantic take the world by storm in 2023. In FAU’s run to the Last 4, Martin was terrific, averaging 17.6 factors and 5.6 rebounds in his ultimate seven video games — together with 26 towards San Diego State within the nationwide semifinals. Martin was extra inconsistent final season, however nonetheless showcased his offensive skills. Walter Clayton Jr. wants a sidekick in Gainesville; Martin might be that man.

Arkansas Razorbacks | G | Sophomore

Final yr did not go as deliberate for Wagner, who had been the No. 1 prospect in America earlier in his highschool profession. The emergence of Reed Sheppard and Rob Dillingham at Kentucky difficult his development. However anybody who has watched Wagner (9.9 PPG final yr) since highschool is aware of how good he could be.

Miami Hurricanes | G | Senior

Pack hasn’t been in a position to replicate his Kansas State sophomore scoring numbers throughout his two years at Miami, however with the departures of Norchad Omier, Wooga Poplar, Bensley Joseph and Kyshawn George, he might need to take extra pictures this season. How Jim Larrañaga constructions his backcourt round Pack, top-10 recruit Jalil Bethea and Stetson switch Jalen Blackmon will likely be fascinating to observe.

Illinois Combating Illini | G | Freshman

The 6-6 Lithuanian expertise is without doubt one of the high worldwide gamers to enter the combination this season. He excelled at a number of ranges of the worldwide scene, sustaining a formidable capturing potential at each cease. He is a first-round prospect in ESPN’s newest 2025 NBA mock draft. He has the scale and talent to make a easy transition to school and the NBA.

BYU Cougars | G | Freshman

A Russia native who performed intensive minutes at Actual Madrid, Demin is anticipated to make a major affect for Kevin Younger’s first group at BYU. At 6-9, he poses matchup issues for opponents, given his imaginative and prescient and talent to select aside defenses by way of the cross or working out of a pick-and-roll. He’ll have the ball in his palms usually, and Younger’s NBA-style offense will profit from him too.

North Carolina Tar Heels | G | Freshman

Hubert Davis is getting into a vital season. However the arrival of Powell, a five-star prospect within the 2024 class, ought to ease his path to the NCAA event. At 6-5, Powell’s best power might be his versatility. In a panorama stuffed with elite gamers, he generally is a proficient scorer and likewise defend a number of positions — key for a UNC squad that had a top-10 protection a yr in the past.

Kansas Jayhawks | G | Senior

There have been questions on whether or not Mayo’s manufacturing at South Dakota State — the place he earned Summit League Participant of the 12 months and averaged 18.8 factors, 5.7 rebounds and three.5 assists — would translate to Kansas. However early phrase out of Lawrence is Mayo has been terrific all offseason and has been pushing for a beginning spot from day one.

Miami Hurricanes | G | Freshman

The 6-4 guard, who ranked tenth within the 2024 class per ESPN, is an explosive prospect with capturing vary to beat groups from the perimeter. He is additionally able to attacking and scoring in a large number of the way. Named a McDonald’s All-American, Bethea won’t have the identical buzz as a few of his friends within the class, however he’ll be probably the most proficient gamers within the ACC.

Ohio State Buckeyes | G | Junior

Regardless of dropping just a few key gamers to the portal, getting Thornton again to run the present was crucial for interim-turned-permanent coach Jake Diebler. Thornton led the Buckeyes in scoring (15.7 PPG), assists (4.8 APG) and steals (1.2 SPG) and demonstrated stellar decision-making final season. The All-Massive Ten guard might need to shoulder extra of the scoring load, however seven video games of 24-plus factors exhibits he has the flexibility.

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Bruce Thornton’s dagger 3 secures the OT win for Ohio State

Bruce Thornton drills the dagger 3-pointer to safe the time beyond regulation win for the Buckeyes.

Pittsburgh Panthers | PG | Sophomore

Top-of-the-line younger level guards in America, Lowe excelled within the ultimate stretch of his freshman season, averaging 13.1 PPG and 4.6 APG in his ultimate 12 video games. He additionally made 41% of his 3-point makes an attempt throughout that stretch. He is a participant extra individuals throughout the nation will know as his recreation continues to evolve.

Gonzaga Bulldogs | G | Senior

The Zags ought to have a robust concept of Ajayi’s potential, given they confronted him twice final season when he was at Pepperdine. Ajayi struggled in these matchups however nonetheless averaged 17.2 factors and 9.9 rebounds final season, capturing 47% from 3 and incomes first-team All-WCC honors. With Steele Venters injured once more, Ajayi’s dimension and capturing potential will likely be an actual asset for Mark Few.

Princeton Tigers | G | Junior

Lee, who averaged 17.1 PPG, 5.7 RPG and three.7 APG, joined teammate Caden Pierce on the All-Ivy League first group in 2023-24. After getting into the NBA draft over the summer time, he determined to return to school basketball and can anchor what would be the high group within the Ivy League and (as soon as once more) a possible Cinderella in March.

Duke Blue Devils | C | Freshman

Maluach was thought-about one of many elite recruits within the 2024 highschool class and ranks as the most effective worldwide prospects getting into school basketball. He is 7-2 and can make a right away affect on the defensive finish as a shot-blocker and rim presence. The South Sudan native is a growing expertise on the offensive finish, however he ought to assist as a lob menace and rim-runner.

Stanford Cardinal | F | Senior

Probably the most improved participant within the Pac-12 final season will enter his group’s first season within the ACC as one of many league’s high huge males. The 7-1 heart made 48% of his 3-point makes an attempt in league play and 75% of his free throw makes an attempt final season, each important enhancements over 2023-24.

VCU Rams | G | Senior

Shulga seemed to be headed to Villanova final spring, however he in the end opted to return to VCU. The Ukraine native is an underrated participant nationally, however Atlantic 10 coaches and gamers know the way good he’s after he earned first-team all-league honors final season. Shulga averaged 14.0 factors, 4.6 rebounds and three.6 assists whereas capturing 41.5% from 3.

Ole Miss Rebels | G | Senior

With the rating tied at 77 in what felt like a house recreation for Indiana State at Hinkle Fieldhouse within the NIT championship final season, the previous Xavier star scored the game-winning layup, punctuating an 18-point effort. At SEC media day, Chris Beard stated Davis (15.9 PPG final season) has the potential to be an All-American.

North Carolina Tar Heels | G | Sophomore

Hubert Davis stated this season’s model of Cadeau is “unrecognizable” from final yr, when Cadeau reclassified from the recruiting class of 2024 to affix the Tar Heels sooner than anticipated. He has lengthy been thought-about one of many elite passers within the nation however will look to enhance upon his 18.9% 3-point capturing. If he could make strides as a shooter and on-ball defender, he could be the most effective level guards in school basketball.

Princeton Tigers | F | Junior

For those who test Princeton’s early-season schedule, you will not discover many major-conference opponents. You may blame Pierce (16.6 PPG, 9.2 RPG) — an all-Ivy League first-team contributor final season — and his teammates for that. That is the group, you would possibly recall, that completed 24-5 final season, a yr after a shocking Candy 16 run.

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Caden Pierce skies for large slam

Caden Pierce skies for large slam

Memphis Tigers | G | Senior

Hunter has began 106 school video games in three seasons at Iowa State and Texas, averaging double figures in scoring and exhibiting efficient two-way potential. He should be a catalyst for Penny Hardaway’s group at each ends of the ground, and to point out extra consistency; he hit double figures in simply six of his ultimate 16 regular-season video games in 2023-24.

Arizona Wildcats | C | Sophomore

Tommy Lloyd will enter Arizona’s first Massive 12 season with sufficient expertise to win the league’s title. Oumar Ballo’s switch to Indiana will open up extra alternatives for Krivas, a 7-2 heart who averaged 5.4 factors in simply over 12 minutes per recreation final season and is considered as a legit NBA prospect. Lloyd has helped a number of the high huge males within the nation mature into elite gamers. Krivas needs to be subsequent.

Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets | F | Sophomore

Ndongo did not take lengthy to point out his expertise after lacking the start of his freshman season with a hand damage: In simply his third wholesome recreation, he went for 21 factors on 9-for-11 capturing, 5 rebounds and 4 blocks in an upset win over Duke. He proceeded to common 12.4 factors and eight.2 rebounds as a freshman.

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Baye Ndongo’s alley-oop slam offers Georgia Tech the lead

Naithan George and Baye Ndongo join once more on an alley-oop that provides Georgia Tech the lead late within the 2nd half.

Clemson Tigers | F | Senior

Throughout the lead-up to Duke’s dwelling recreation towards the Tigers, Blue Devils coach Jon Scheyer referred to as Schieffelin (10.1 PPG, 9.4 RPG, 59% clip contained in the arc) probably the most tough matchups within the ACC. At 6-8, 240 kilos, he is a menace within the put up however he additionally made 47% of his 3-point makes an attempt. He is probably the most balanced gamers on this checklist.

Florida State Seminoles | G | Senior

The previous VCU switch withdrew from each the NBA draft and the switch portal to return to Tallahassee, the place he broke out final season. The 6-7 guard averaged 15.6 factors and 6.0 rebounds and made headlines along with his 34-point, 11-rebound exhibiting towards Virginia Tech within the ACC event. Leonard Hamilton and the Seminoles are hungry for a bounce-back season; Watkins could be on the coronary heart of it.

Villanova Wildcats | G | Senior

Two years in the past, Poplar had a robust postseason run to assist Miami make its first-ever journey to the Last 4, after connecting on 45% of his 3s in league play. He wasn’t as profitable in ACC play final season (32%) for a then-turbulent Hurricanes squad, however a contemporary begin at Villanova may give the 6-5 standout the chance to as soon as once more appear to be the participant we noticed throughout that Last 4 run.

Kansas Jayhawks | F | Senior

One of many few gamers on this checklist with nationwide championship expertise, Adams’ position has elevated exponentially since his three-minute cameo towards North Carolina within the 2022 title recreation. He is a tough matchup because of his power and ending potential within the lane, however he is additionally an adept passer out of the put up. Improved capturing round him ought to open up extra inside area for Adams.

Xavier Musketeers | F | Senior

Freemantle hasn’t participated in any official video games since Jan. 28, 2023, because of a number of foot surgical procedures that triggered him to overlook a superb portion of the 2022-23 season and all of 2023-24. However the 6-9 ahead (who averaged 15.2 PPG throughout 22 video games two years in the past) returned to the ground throughout an October exhibition towards Dayton and led his group with 17 factors. It seems Zach Freemantle is again.

UConn Huskies | G | Junior

Mahaney earned first-team All-WCC honors in every of his two seasons at Saint Mary’s, and he’ll now go throughout the nation to the two-time reigning nationwide champions. He can play each backcourt roles for the Huskies and his perimeter capturing potential — 40% from 3 as a freshman, 35.5% final season — ought to work properly alongside Alex Karaban, Liam McNeeley and Solomon Ball.

Duke Blue Devils | G | Junior

We’re nonetheless ready for Proctor (38% from past the arc in ACC play) to achieve his potential after arriving from Australia as a five-star prospect two years in the past. He made strides final season (averaging 10.5 PPG) and now he’ll be surrounded by Cooper Flagg and different potential lottery picks. Proctor can have his likelihood to construct a robust effort within the NCAA event.

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Proctor’s wide-open 3 will get Duke followers again in it

Tyrese Proctor hits the wide-open 3-pointer, pulling Duke inside single digits.

Louisville Cardinals | G | Senior

The reigning Solar Belt Participant of the 12 months, Edwards averaged 17.2 factors and three.4 assists after which led James Madison to an NCAA event upset win over Wisconsin. Then he transferred to headline Pat Kelsey’s top notch at Louisville. The Cardinals are ranging from scratch with their roster, however Edwards is essentially the most confirmed offensive weapon on the school degree; he’ll most likely have first crack at being the group’s offensive chief.

Arkansas Razorbacks | F | Senior

There are a selection of unknowns with John Calipari’s first Arkansas squad, however Aidoo (11.4 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 1.8 BPG) is not one among them. The previous Tennessee standout, who earned a spot on the all-SEC defensive group with the Vols final season, anchored a protection that ranked third in adjusted effectivity. We may count on one thing comparable in Fayetteville.

Iowa State Cyclones | G | Senior

Gilbert led the Cyclones in scoring (13.7 PPG) and was second in assists (4.2) and steals (2.0) per recreation, solidifying himself as a vital two-way participant in T.J. Otzelberger’s system. He had a number of huge performances towards top-25 groups however struggled capturing the ball within the NCAA event. With Iowa State projected to be a excessive seed as soon as once more this season, Gilbert will look to rectify that in March.

Indiana Hoosiers | G | Sophomore

The Pac-12 disruption that left Oregon State and Washington State with out houses created alternatives for different groups across the nation. Indiana now provides Rice, a former star at Washington State who averaged 14.8 PPG and 1.6 SPG final yr. Ranked “excellent” in transition, he is additionally one of many quickest gamers within the nation with the ball in palms.

Maryland Terrapins | C | Freshman

Queen is without doubt one of the extra uncommon huge males within the nation, with glorious passing and ballhandling potential for a 6-10 heart. He can rating across the rim or facilitate offense for others whereas dealing with up, exhibiting an incredible talent degree. Can Kevin Willard discover a technique to get the most effective out of Queen and fellow huge man Julian Reese?

UNLV Rebels | G | Sophomore

Thomas (13.6 PPG, 5.1 APG), the Mountain West co-rookie of the yr, had a promising growth towards the top of his first season, making 51% of his pictures within the ultimate 5 video games of 2023-24. He has proven he generally is a dependable chief in transition, and he has the flexibility to create his personal shot, a talent that ought to proceed to enhance in his second season.

Texas Longhorns | G | Senior

After three seasons at Houston, Mark regarded to increase his offensive position and went to Arkansas, the place he averaged 16.2 factors and shot profession highs from each the sector and 3-point vary. Highlights of his single season for the Razorbacks embrace 34 factors towards North Carolina and 35 towards Texas A&M. The Longhorns have a slew of proficient scorers, however Mark will search to determine his alpha position early.

Ole Miss Rebels | G | Senior

If the 6-4 guard can observe up on his efficiency from final season — 16.2 PPG, 40% from 3 — Murrell may change into one of many high three scorers in Ole Miss historical past. He is a menace the second he crosses half courtroom and a tough matchup in transition. Chris Beard’s squad has one among America’s most constant shooters.

Houston Cougars | G | Junior

Sharp emerged as one among Houston’s most prolific outdoors threats final season, capturing almost 37% from 3 on six makes an attempt per recreation. He had bouts of inconsistency however confirmed the flexibility to hold the Cougars’ offense occasionally — together with his 30-point efficiency towards Texas A&M within the NCAA event, and 20 factors in a vital February win over Iowa State.

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Houston’s Emanuel Sharp knocks down a 3

Emanuel Sharp opens up the scoring for Houston with a 3-pointer.

UAB Blazers | F | Senior

The AAC Defensive Participant of the 12 months and an all-AAC first group choice in 2023-24, Lendeborg led Andy Kennedy’s squad to the convention event championship with an MVP-caliber efficiency within the three video games prior (15.0 PPG, 13.6 RPG, 2.3 BPG). The 6-9 standout additionally made 84% of his free throw makes an attempt in league play.

Oregon Geese | PG | Sophomore

A constant playmaker who had a status as a winner popping out of highschool, Shelstad continued to thrive as a gradual level guard in his first season in Eugene. He was integral within the Geese’ run to the Pac-12 event title, scoring 21 factors towards Arizona within the semis and 17 towards Colorado within the championship recreation.

Penn State Nittany Lions | G | Senior

Baldwin (14.2 PPG, 2.7 SPG) was the Massive Ten Defensive Participant of the 12 months and a semifinalist for the Naismith nationwide defensive participant honor final season after wreaking havoc on opposing backcourts. With Baldwin’s defensive prowess, Penn State compelled turnovers on 21% of opposing groups’ possessions final yr — a top-25 mark, based on KenPom.

New Mexico Lobos | G | Junior

Probably the most electrical playmakers within the nation, Dent is almost unimaginable to maintain out of the lane with the ball in his palms. He averaged 14.1 factors and 5.4 assists, and he went for 31 factors towards Boise State in late January. With Jaelen Home, Jamal Mashburn Jr. and JT Toppin gone, there might be extra pictures coming Dent’s approach in 2024-25.

Kansas State Wildcats | G | Senior

Probably the most coveted transfers in the marketplace, Hawkins (12.1 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 37% from past the arc) reportedly obtained a $2 million NIL deal to make the transfer to Kansas State after serving to take Illinois to the Elite Eight. Was he price it? Properly, EvanMiya.com’s BPR, which measures a participant’s particular person affect, ranked him forward of Hunter Dickinson, Ryan Kalkbrenner and Armando Bacot final season.

Texas Tech Crimson Raiders | F | Sophomore

An unranked four-star recruit when he arrived at New Mexico, Toppin was one of many greatest surprises within the freshman class a yr in the past. He gained Mountain West Freshman of the 12 months and earned all-conference honors after averaging 12.4 factors and 9.1 rebounds — together with three double-doubles in high-profile video games towards San Diego State. He is now again in his dwelling state as a frontcourt anchor for Grant McCasland.

Kentucky Wildcats | G | Senior

After withdrawing from the NBA draft, Robinson (14.2 PPG) adopted Mark Pope to Kentucky, the place he’ll be a part of a gaggle of transfers aiming to make the Wildcats aggressive of their first yr with out John Calipari. Robinson needs to be extra constant in Lexington (he shot simply 30% from 3 in Massive 12 play final season), however his greatest performances — see: 18 factors, 4-for-9 from past the arc in a win over Kansas in 2023-24 — confirmed he could be one of many high gamers in his new convention.

Minnesota Golden Gophers | F | Senior

After stops at Marquette and North Carolina, Garcia returned dwelling to Minnesota for the earlier two seasons, and he’s taking part in the most effective basketball of his school profession. Final season, he averaged 17.6 factors and 6.7 rebounds, incomes All-Massive Ten honors. He’s now the league’s high returning scorer. Coach Ben Johnson faces a pivotal fourth season answerable for the Gophers, and he’ll be leaning closely on Garcia.

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Dawson Garcia will get the and-1 to fall

Dawson Garcia will get the and-1 to fall

Creighton Bluejays | G | Junior

The Texas Tech switch averaged 15.8 PPG final season for the Crimson Raiders, who tied for third place within the Massive 12 and secured a visit to the NCAA event. At Creighton, he’ll play subsequent to Ryan Kalkbrenner, which ought to create alternatives for Isaacs to make much more of an affect on offense and on the free throw line (84%).

Iowa Hawkeyes | F | Senior

Sandfort opted to withdraw from the NBA draft and return to the Hawkeyes for one more season, and Fran McCaffery needs to be grateful. The 6-8 ahead averaged 16.4 factors and 6.6 rebounds, capturing almost 38% from 3-point vary. He additionally posted a 26-point, 10-rebound, 10-assist triple-double towards Penn State in February. If Iowa is to get again to the event, Sandfort would be the driving pressure.

Saint Mary’s Gaels | G | Senior

The son of Sarunas Marciulionis — a Naismith Basketball Corridor of Fame inductee and one of many best worldwide gamers within the recreation’s historical past — may prolong his personal legacy this season as his utilization numbers enhance. Randy Bennett will likely be asking the 6-4 guard, who made 39% of his 3-point makes an attempt in WCC play a yr in the past, to guide this system.

Michigan Wolverines | C | Senior

After exhibiting flashes throughout FAU’s run to the Last 4 in 2023, Goldin loved a real breakout final season, averaging 15.7 factors and 6.9 rebounds — together with a dominant 11-game stretch to complete the marketing campaign when he was placing up 19.5 factors and seven.2 rebounds. He has adopted Dusty Might to Michigan, the place he’ll pair with Yale switch Danny Wolf to kind a novel huge man duo.

Indiana Hoosiers | F | Junior

Mike Woodson has advised reporters he believes this yr’s Indiana squad might be the most effective of his tenure. The return of the 6-9 ahead who averaged 15.4 PPG final season may assist the Hoosiers show as a lot. Reneau’s best asset is likely to be his persistence across the rim, the place he excels: He made 59% of his pictures contained in the arc in 2023-24.

Alabama Crimson Tide | F | Senior

Nelson was a star at North Dakota State in 2022-23 however accepted a lesser position when he transferred to Alabama final season. His potential to place up huge numbers continues to be there although, as evidenced by his NCAA event performances: 24 factors and 12 rebounds towards North Carolina, 19 and 15 towards UConn.

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Grant Nelson will get the within bucket with a sky hook

Grant Nelson wills his technique to the center and knocks down the sky hook shot.

Mississippi State Bulldogs | G | Sophomore

Hubbard is the embodiment of the time period “quantity shooter.” Final season, he took 34.2% of his group’s pictures when he was on the ground, rating eleventh nationally. He additionally had huge moments — 28 factors towards South Carolina, 34 towards Kentucky, 25 towards Tennessee — solidifying the 5-11 guard’s standing as one of many high younger gamers in school basketball.

Grand Canyon Lopes | G | Senior

Grant-Foster already owns an incredible story: beginning his profession in junior school and going by means of a number of coronary heart surgical procedures — which took him away from the sport for 16 months — earlier than lastly touchdown on his toes with Bryce Drew at Grand Canyon. And now Grant-Foster is an NBA prospect. He averaged 20.1 factors final season, together with 29 towards Alabama within the NCAA event.

Notre Dame Combating Irish | G | Sophomore

Burton gave ND followers a cause to smile in a 13-20 season — Micah Shrewsberry’s first yr in South Bend. The 5-11 guard, averaged 17.5 PPG as a freshman, ending with 20 factors or extra in 11 video games. If he can change into a constant menace from the 3-point line (30%), the all-ACC third group decide may mature into one of many expanded convention’s greatest gamers.

Boise State Broncos | F | Senior

A two-time All-Mountain West choice and the Mountain West Preseason Participant of the 12 months, Degenhart was immense down the stretch, main the Broncos to the NCAA event. In Boise State’s ultimate 11 video games earlier than the event, he averaged 20.7 factors and seven.7 rebounds, capturing almost 37% from 3-point vary. He’ll as soon as once more be the go-to man for the league favourite.

Baylor Bears | G | Senior

The previous Duke guard, who helped the Blue Devils attain the Last 4 in Coach Okay’s ultimate season, is now a veteran chief at Baylor, the place he’ll be requested to regular the backcourt with freshman star VJ Edgecombe. Roach related on 43% of his 3-point makes an attempt final yr. His playmaking potential helped him earn a spot on the all-ACC third group, and he’ll enter the Massive 12 as one of many league’s high guards too.

Kansas Jayhawks | G | Senior

Harris is again in Lawrence to chase his second nationwide championship. He began 39 of 40 video games as a sophomore in the course of the Jayhawks’ title-winning marketing campaign, and he has began each recreation the previous two seasons. He is a dogged on-ball defender and a gradual playmaker who runs the offense and will get the ball to his teammates in the suitable spot. Additionally a succesful 3-point shooter if defenses go away him open.

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Dajuan Harris Jr. comes up with the steal-and-score for Kansas

Dajuan Harris Jr. makes a pleasant steal and takes it himself for the Kansas layup.

Alabama Crimson Tide | C | Senior

At Rutgers, Omoruyi (10.4 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 2.9 BPG) secured a spot on the Massive Ten’s all-defensive group after anchoring a Rutgers protection that completed fifth in adjusted effectivity. His new squad completed 111th on that checklist. The 6-11 heart’s arrival in Tuscaloosa is the explanation the Tide will enter the yr ranked thirtieth on KenPom preseason projections of adjusted defensive effectivity.

Saint Louis Billikens | C | Junior

After turning into one thing of a cult hero final season at Indiana State — incomes nicknames akin to “Cream Abdul-Jabbar” and “Larry Nerd” — Avila adopted coach Josh Schertz to Saint Louis. With Schertz’s extremely environment friendly offensive system additionally touring to the Atlantic 10, Avila ought to proceed to place up numbers alongside the identical traces as final season’s 17.4 factors, 6.6 rebounds and 4.1 assists.

South Carolina Gamecocks | F | Sophomore

Whereas he confirmed his potential in a freshman season that included averages of 10.4 factors and 5.7 rebounds, and a 61% clip contained in the arc, the 6-7 ahead will likely be requested to do much more after returning to South Carolina. At SEC media day, head coach Lamont Paris stated the projected first-round decide in subsequent summer time’s NBA draft would be the guiding pressure of the Gamecocks’ offensive assault.

West Virginia Mountaineers | G | Senior

DeVries opted to observe his father, Darian, when he left Drake to take the West Virginia job. And very similar to he was within the Missouri Valley, DeVries will now be the point of interest of his group’s offense within the Massive 12. He averaged 21.6 factors final season, successful his second straight Missouri Valley Participant of the 12 months award. His dimension and capturing will translate to the large leagues.

Houston Cougars | F | Senior

The 6-8 standout’s numbers — 9.5 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 1.3 SPG final season — won’t appear to validate his spot forward of a number of the different stars on this checklist. However Roberts is the explanation why the analytics matter. Per EvanMiya.com’s participant affect ranking BPR metric, he was ranked twenty third final season, forward of different standouts akin to Terrence Shannon Jr., DaRon Holmes II and Hunter Dickinson.

Kansas Jayhawks | G | Junior

Storr is at his third faculty in three years. He began his profession at St. John’s earlier than transferring to Wisconsin, the place he had a breakout sophomore marketing campaign (16.8 PPG, second-team All-Massive Ten honors). Now he is in Lawrence, the place he will likely be anticipated to begin from Day 1 for the nation’s preseason No. 1 group.

Washington Huskies | F | Senior

Throughout the offseason, Osobor (17.7 PPG, 9.0 RPG, 1.4 BPG) was mentioned principally due to a reported seven-figure NIL deal. However the Utah State switch, who adopted head coach Danny Sprinkle to the West coast, ought to contend for all-Massive Ten honors within the faculty’s first yr within the convention.

Baylor Bears | F | Senior

Baylor was well-stocked on the perimeter after the additions of VJ Edgecombe and Jeremy Roach, however Scott Drew wanted a productive huge man. And so they do not come rather more productive than Omier. He is averaged a double-double in every of his 4 school seasons to this point, together with 17.0 factors and 10.0 boards final season at Miami. He’ll present stability for the Bears.

Villanova Wildcats | F | Senior

The 6-8 expertise is as able to connecting from outdoors (36% from 3 final season) as he’s making an affect within the paint and as a defender. In his ultimate 9 video games of the 2023-24 season, he averaged 19.4 PPG and seven.2 RPG for a Villanova group searching for its first NCAA event berth beneath third-year coach Kyle Neptune.

UConn Huskies | F | Freshman

McNeeley decommitted from Indiana final March and picked UConn a number of weeks later, giving Dan Hurley a readymade substitute for his quartet of outgoing NBA draft picks. The No. 9 recruit in ESPN’s class of 2024, who performed alongside Cooper Flagg at Montverde Academy final season, brings dimension, scoring potential and perimeter capturing — in addition to a high-level aggressive streak. He and Alex Karaban ought to kind a lethal offensive duo.

Windfall Friars | F | Senior

At 6-7, 220 kilos, Hopkins is tough to cease as soon as he expenses by means of the lane. He is additionally a succesful ball-handler with the velocity to take opposing defenders off the dribble and end on the rim. When Hopkins (15.5 PPG, 8.6 RPG) is recovered from final yr’s season-ending knee damage, he’ll be the most effective gamers in America. The “when,” nevertheless, stays unclear.

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Bryce Hopkins will get up for the gorgeous slam dunk

Bryce Hopkins will get up for the gorgeous slam dunk

Texas Longhorns | G | Freshman

Johnson is a really elite scorer, the most effective pure bucket-getters in the highschool class of 2024. He is a top-five recruit and a projected lottery decide. Regardless of Rodney Terry going into the switch portal and touchdown a slew of big-time scorers, it would not be a shock to see Johnson lead the Longhorns in scoring.

Florida Gators | G | Senior

A yr in the past, the 6-3 Clayton Jr. averaged 17.6 PPG and related on 37% of his 3-point makes an attempt. His 33-point loss in Florida’s 102-100 loss to Colorado within the first spherical of the NCAA event was maybe an indication of what is forward when head coach Todd Golden offers him much more management because the seemingly start line guard.

Gonzaga Bulldogs | G | Senior

After two stellar seasons at Creighton, Nembhard transferred to Gonzaga and put up the most effective playmaking numbers of his profession. He completed within the high 10 nationally in assists, dispensing 6.9 per recreation, whereas additionally averaging a career-high 12.6 factors. Nembhard was terrific late within the 2023-24 marketing campaign, racking up 10-plus assists in six of his ultimate 11 video games.

Arkansas Razorbacks | G | Senior

After he withdrew from the NBA draft this spring, Davis — the hero who led Florida Atlantic to the Last 4 in 2023 — determined to play for John Calipari at Arkansas, the place he’ll be a veteran chief for a roster stacked with younger expertise. He made 41% of his 3-point makes an attempt and 86% of his free throw makes an attempt on his technique to sharing co-AAC participant of the yr honors.

Gonzaga Bulldogs | F | Senior

After lacking your complete 2022-23 season with a fractured foot and transferring from Wyoming to Gonzaga, Ike returned the identical dominant participant final season he was with the Cowboys in 2021-22. He averaged 16.5 factors and seven.4 boards, capturing higher than 60% from the ground. He performed his greatest basketball towards the top, hitting 20-plus factors in his ultimate seven regular-season video games.

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Graham Ike flexes after getting putback

Gonzaga’s Graham Ike places within the layup after grabbing an offensive rebound, then flexes whereas operating again on protection.

Tennessee Volunteers | G | Senior

Rick Barnes’ program misplaced greater than 55 factors per recreation from a Vols squad that reached the Elite Eight final yr. However Zeigler (11.8 PPG, 6.1 APG) is again for a Tennessee group that may observe the guard’s lead. That is a superb factor. He made 37% of his 3-point makes an attempt and 54% of his pictures contained in the arc in SEC play final yr, whereas additionally main the convention in help price, per KenPom.

Indiana Hoosiers | C | Senior

The very best huge man within the portal within the spring, Ballo was a two-time first-team All-Pac 12 choice at Arizona. He averaged 12.9 factors and 10.1 rebounds final season and ranked within the high 10 nationally in subject purpose share. It is going to be fascinating to see how Ballo coexists with Malik Reneau, one other productive low-post pressure in Bloomington.

Purdue Boilermakers | G | Junior

Final preseason, Smith advised ESPN he felt like an underdog. Following a formidable 2023-24 marketing campaign — through which he averaged 12.0 PPG, 7.5 APG, 1.6 SPG and shot 43% from the 3-point line — Smith has been named the Massive Ten’s preseason participant of the yr. He is definitely the most effective returning school basketball gamers, and with Zach Edey within the NBA now, he runs the present in West Lafayette.

Houston Cougars | G | Senior

Cryer has been probably the most prolific 3-point shooters within the nation for the previous three seasons, two of them at Baylor and final season at Houston. He is tried six 3-pointers per recreation for his profession, making them at a virtually 41% clip. Kelvin Sampson may look to him for an expanded position this season after the departure of Jamal Shead.

Baylor Bears | G | Freshman

The 6-4, two-way star is already a projected lottery decide for the 2025 NBA draft. The five-star prospect has justified the hype after he excelled towards a number of the greatest gamers on the earth over the summer time. Though his Bahamian nationwide group did not safe a visit to the Paris Olympics, Edgecombe averaged 16.5 PPG, 5.5 RPG and three.8 APG within the qualifying event in Valencia.

St. John’s Crimson Storm | G | Senior

Arguably the most effective switch within the portal this spring, Richmond is not touring far to his new dwelling. Rick Pitino and the Crimson Storm ought to have loads of familiarity with Richmond, having confronted the 6-6 New York native 3 times in 2023-24. He averaged 15.7 factors, 7.0 rebounds and 5.1 assists final season, after which went for 21 factors, 13 rebounds and 5 assists within the NIT title recreation.

Iowa State Cyclones | G | Junior

Few gamers loved the year-to-year transformation as Lipsey, who was key for the Cyclones’ journey to the Candy 16 final season. Throughout the 2022-23 marketing campaign, Lipsey (12.4 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 4.9 APG, 2.7 SPG) made simply 20% of his 3-point makes an attempt. However he returned to change into a dependable menace (39.1%) from past the arc. His utilization numbers considerably elevated, and he additionally diminished his turnovers.

Wake Forest Demon Deacons | G | Senior

Sallis was one of many greatest breakout stars within the nation final season. Regardless of being a extremely touted prospect popping out of highschool, he was a rotation participant throughout his two seasons at Gonzaga earlier than transferring throughout the nation to Winston-Salem. It turned out to be a much-needed change. Sallis went from averaging 4.5 factors as a sophomore to 18.0 factors — scoring in single digits simply as soon as all marketing campaign.

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Hunter Sallis drills 3-pointer in

Hunter Sallis drills 3-pointer in

Rutgers Scarlet Knights | G | Freshman

As a rookie with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Ron Harper averaged 22.9 PPG and completed second within the Rookie of the 12 months race. Dylan, his son and a 6-5 projected lottery decide, is equally anticipated to make his mark in his school debut, the place he’ll group with fellow five-star prospect, Ace Bailey, and try to guide this system to its second ever Last 4 look. His 22-point effort within the McDonald’s All-American recreation in April was an early spotlight.

Marquette Golden Eagles | G | Senior

Do not be stunned if Jones is the highest scorer amongst all power-conference gamers. He averaged 17.2 factors final season taking part in alongside Tyler Kolek. In six video games with out the previous All-America level guard, he averaged 20.8 factors and 4.5 assists. He’ll have the ball in his palms extra this season, however he is easy and environment friendly as a playmaker and may be capable of shine.

UConn Huskies | F | Junior

The Huskies have an opportunity to win their third consecutive nationwide title this season — a feat that hasn’t occurred in males’s school basketball since UCLA’s run from 1966-67 to 1972-73 beneath John Picket. That is partially due to Karaban’s choice to return, after averaging 13.3 PPG, 5.1 RPG and going 38% from 3. After taking part in alongside a pair of lottery picks final season and the NCAA event’s Most Excellent Participant (Tristen Newton), Karaban is able to showcase his full potential because the chief of this yr’s Huskies squad.

Rutgers Scarlet Knights | G | Freshman

Cooper Flagg is getting a lot of the eye this season however Bailey is not too far behind in the case of NBA draft hype. He is extremely explosive and a matchup drawback because of his 6-10 dimension and talent to create his personal shot. Spotlight-reel performs will likely be on show incessantly in Piscataway.

Creighton Bluejays | C | Senior

Former Georgetown star Patrick Ewing is the one participant in Massive East historical past to win the league’s defensive participant of the yr award 4 occasions. Kalkbrenner may change into the second after this yr. You can even make a robust case Creighton’s 7-1 heart, who averaged 17.3 PPG, 7.6 RPG and three.1 BPG final yr, is the nation’s high two-way pressure.

Texas A&M Aggies | G | Senior

He won’t be essentially the most environment friendly scorer within the nation, however gamers do not come rather more explosive offensively than Taylor IV. He had seven video games of 30-plus factors final season, together with back-to-back efforts towards Kentucky and Florida within the SEC event and a 41-point outing towards Arkansas in January. Taylor will likely be aiming for his third consecutive first-team All-SEC choice.

Arizona Wildcats | G | Senior

Final season, Love made 54% of his pictures in transition, based on Synergy Sports activities. Regardless of a gradual begin from deep, he finally related on 37% of these pictures in Pac-12 motion. Love, who averaged 18.0 PPG, 4.8 RPG and three.4 APG for the Wildcats, is the catalyst for Tommy Lloyd of their first yr within the Massive 12.

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Caleb Love floats in and-1 for Arizona

Arizona’s Caleb Love drops in a floater whereas drawing contact.

Auburn Tigers | F | Senior

Broome has been a dominant pressure at each ends of the ground all through his school profession, which additionally included a cease at Morehead State. A yr in the past, he expanded his recreation so as to add extra constant perimeter capturing. After trying 36 3-pointers mixed in his first three school seasons, he took 79 final season and made them at a 35% clip — whereas nonetheless averaging 16.5 factors, 8.5 boards and a couple of.2 blocks.

Kansas Jayhawks | C | Senior

Dickinson shot 57% contained in the arc final season on his technique to incomes a spot on the AP All-America second group. The 7-footer has returned for one more likelihood to guide the No. 1 Jayhawks to their second nationwide title in three years. The chances of this occurring will enhance if he can shake final yr’s 3-point capturing droop (35%) and return to his 2022-23 kind (42% in his ultimate yr at Michigan).

Alabama Crimson Tide | G | Senior

Sears had a breakout marketing campaign final season in Tuscaloosa, going from 12.5 factors on common in a complementary position to 21.5 factors (43.6% from 3) as the most effective guards in school basketball. He in some way took his recreation to a different degree within the NCAA event, together with notching 30 factors within the first spherical towards Charleston and 26 factors, 12 rebounds and 6 assists within the second spherical towards Grand Canyon.

North Carolina | G | Senior

Duke | G/F | Freshman

The Davis vs. Flagg debate

The battle-tested fifth-year senior or the uber-talented freshman? Confirmed school manufacturing and All-American accolades or potential ceiling and the projected No. 1 draft decide? Davis or Flagg, who’s ESPN’s No. 1 males’s school basketball participant?

Our formulation to find out most of those participant rankings wasn’t overly difficult. However this one sparked a debate: One No. 1 vote for Davis, one No. 1 vote for Flagg.

On the one hand, Davis deserves to be the preseason nationwide participant of the yr favourite. He was a first-team All-American. He has been to the nationwide title recreation. He led North Carolina to a 1-seed final season. And he is seemingly going to place up larger scoring numbers than Flagg — and make a reputable run at turning into the Tar Heels’ all-time main scorer. With out Armando Bacot offering stability down low for UNC this season, Davis would possibly get these pictures too.

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RJ Davis’ career-high 42 factors lead UNC over Miami

RJ Davis tallies a career-high 42 factors as North Carolina comes up with a slim win over Miami.

Then there’s Flagg: When Esquire requested LeBron James about the way forward for the US males’s nationwide group, he pointed to the Duke freshman as a “big-time participant” who would hold Crew USA’s gold medal streak going. The 6-foot-9 17-year-old regarded like he deserved a spot on the U.S. group after a spectacular pre-Olympic scrimmage. Within the preseason, he notched an off-the-cuff 22 factors, 2 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 blocks in his collegiate debut towards Division II faculty Lincoln (Pennsylvania) and 9 factors, 4 rebounds and three assists towards Arizona State.

Flagg has limitless potential as the most effective prospects to enter school basketball in recent times, and he has been the projected No. 1 draft decide because the second he reclassified from the category of 2025 to 2024. There is a world through which Flagg lives as much as all of the hype and produces a Carmelo Anthony-esque run, main Duke to a nationwide championship. It is inside his vary of outcomes.

There’s no one else within the nation with that form of ceiling.

Because of this, Cooper Flagg enters the season as ESPN’s No. 1 participant in school basketball.