The 2025 college basketball season has witnessed an extraordinary influx of talent, with a renowned freshman class that has captivated fans and scouts alike. With NBA front offices closely monitoring the upcoming draft, this year’s class features standout players such as Darryn Peterson of Kansas, AJ Dybantsa from BYU, and Cameron Boozer of Duke. As of January 12, 2025, these players have not only met expectations but have exceeded them, making their mark in the early stages of the season.
Entering January, the top 10 freshmen in the NCAA were averaging an impressive 17.8 points per game, marking the highest average for any top-10 class since the ESPN recruiting database began tracking in 2007. The previous record was set by the class of 2007, which averaged 16.1 points. Additionally, these top prospects have collectively recorded 45 games with 20 or more points, further emphasizing their impact on the court.
Top Freshmen Making Waves
1. **Cameron Boozer, Duke**
Boozer has emerged as a force in college basketball, averaging 22.9 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists. His performance has guided Duke to a 15-1 record. Notable games include scoring 35 points against Indiana State and repeating the feat against Arkansas.
2. **AJ Dybantsa, BYU**
Dybantsa has made headlines by becoming the first Division I freshman in 30 years to score at least 20 points in nine consecutive games while shooting over 50% from the field. His December averages of 27.8 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 5.7 assists underscore his growth this season.
3. **Caleb Wilson, North Carolina**
Wilson has positioned himself in the All-American conversation, with averages of 19.5 points and 11.0 rebounds. He has demonstrated a well-rounded game with eight double-doubles, including six in his last eight outings.
4. **Darius Acuff Jr., Arkansas**
Acuff has burst onto the scene, averaging 21.7 points and 6.7 assists against ranked opponents. His standout performance against Duke, where he scored 21 points, marked his arrival as a top player.
5. **Kingston Flemings, Houston**
Flemings has become a notable two-way guard, putting up 15.7 points, 5.1 assists, and 2.0 steals. His ability to contribute significantly in high-pressure games has solidified his status among the elite.
6. **Keaton Wagler, Illinois**
Wagler, despite being an unranked recruit, has emerged as a potential lottery pick, averaging 12.9 points and shooting over 41% from three-point range. His versatility has been key to Illinois’ success.
7. **Ebuka Okorie, Stanford**
Okorie has been a scoring machine, ranking among the top freshmen with an average of 22.9 points. His recent performance against North Carolina, where he scored 36 points, has drawn attention from scouts.
8. **Brayden Burries and Koa Peat, Arizona**
Both players have made significant contributions, with Peat scoring 30 points in the season opener and Burries consistently averaging 18.8 points over a ten-game stretch.
9. **Hannes Steinbach, Washington**
Steinbach has established himself as a top international player, averaging 18.4 points and 11.0 rebounds, while maintaining impressive shooting percentages.
10. **Thijs De Ridder, Virginia**
De Ridder has returned to form after a slow December, averaging 16.4 points and leading Virginia in scoring.
Surprises and Emerging Talent
The 2025 class has also seen unexpected performances from several players. Notably, Massamba Diop of Arizona State is averaging 14.6 points, demonstrating his potential as a dominant center. Isaiah Johnson from Colorado has become a formidable sixth man, averaging 15.9 points without starting a single game.
In addition, players like Amari Allen from Alabama and Chance Mallory of Virginia have made significant impacts despite being overlooked in preseason expectations. Allen is averaging 14.3 points and 8.8 rebounds, while Mallory has managed 10.8 points and has contributed defensively.
As the season progresses, the spotlight remains on this talented group of freshmen. With potential lottery picks and remarkable performances, the 2025 class is set to leave a lasting mark on college basketball. The NBA is already taking note, with ESPN’s latest mock draft featuring 16 freshmen in the projected first round, including the top seven picks.
As teams move into the second half of the season, it will be fascinating to see how these young players continue to develop and if they can maintain their momentum heading into the postseason.
