Top Freshman Entering the 2023-2024 College Basketball Season

0
187
Photo Cred: USA Today

USC Guard Isaiah Collier

Top hoops prospect Isaiah Collier Commits to USC, Andy Enfield - Sports Illustrated

Photo Cred: SI

The upcoming USC basketball season is generating significant excitement as Coach Andy Enfield leads a team brimming with talent. While the addition of Bronny James brings star power, it’s Isaiah Collier who shines as the nation’s top-rated player, according to the On3 Industry Rankings. By the summer of 2024, Collier might be the first college player selected in the NBA Draft.

Kentucky Guard Justin Edwards

Justin Edwards bringing Philly mentality to Kentucky

Photo Cred: 247Sports

In Lexington, Coach John Calipari has curated an impressive recruiting class, but it’s Justin Edwards who’s captivating the spotlight. With Kentucky entrusting significant minutes to their incoming freshmen this season, the need for standout performances in the NCAA Tournament is palpable. Edwards should be a reliable, go-to player for Calipari as the season progresses.

UConn Guard Stephon Castle

Stephon Castle, 2023's No. 1 Shooting Guard, commits to UConn

Photo Cred: On3.com

Stephon Castle adds a powerful weapon to UConn’s arsenal as they seek to defend their national championship under the guidance of Coach Bobby Hurley. Despite preseason underestimation of the Huskies in the Big East, Castle’s presence enhances their bid for back-to-back titles. UConn’s blend of experience and youthful talent will be instrumental in their quest to maintain their status in the college basketball landscape.

Baylor Guard Ja’Kobe Walter

Top HS guard Ja'Kobe Walter talks commitment to Baylor, Scott Drew - Sports Illustrated

Photo Cred: SI

Coach Scott Drew has consistently produced strong results in the Big 12, and his knack for recruiting top freshmen remains undiminished. Ja’Kobe Walter, hailing from the Dallas-Fort Worth area, is poised to be the next standout. Should Drew’s squad vie for another conference championship, Walter is sure to play a pivotal role.

UCLA Center Aday Mara

It's not a tall tale: At 7 feet 3, UCLA freshman Aday Mara could be team's best passer - Los Angeles Times

Photo Cred: LA Times

Hailing from Spain, Mara is embarking on his college basketball journey under the tutelage of Coach Mick Cronin at UCLA. With a towering 7’3″ frame and a reputation as a “very skilled” player, Mara’s arrival has piqued the curiosity of basketball enthusiasts. UCLA hopes prospects of a deep run in March.

Previous article2023-2024 Mountain West College Basketball Outlook
Next article2023 FWAA/NFF Super 16 Poll (Week 9)
S.K. Patrick is a sports journalist from Louisville, Ky with over 5 years of sports journalism experience. Patrick graduated from the University of Louisville with his BA in mass communications and a minor in marketing. Patrick has been part of Louisville's local sports community for several years. He’s a former high school football player and little league football coach. Patrick has covered press conferences and games for U of L’s Sports Information Office. He now covers the ACC, along with Western Kentucky University and the University of Cincinnati. He has reported on Rick Pitino, Bobby Petrino, Jimbo Fisher, Roy Williams, Mike Krzyzewski, and many others. Professionally he has covered the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl and the NFL Scouting Combine.

Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.