JuJu Watkins, Hannah Hidalgo and MiLaysia Fulwiley burst onto the scene in 2023, but it’s a new season with a new crop of talented freshmen.
Here are eight college basketball rookies who will make a big impact on their teams this season.
Sarah Sterk, Connecticut: There was a lot of hype for the No. 1 recruit coming to UConn, and Strong is already delivering results. Geno Auriemma called her one of the “most prepared” freshmen he has ever coached, citing her ability to do a little bit of everything. Strong started for the Huskies in their first two games, tallying 15 points, 5.5 rebounds, 4 steals and 3.5 assists per game. The 6-foot-4 forward faces a big test when the No. 2 Huskies take on No. 14 North Carolina on Friday.
Jaloni Cambridge, Ohio State: The Buckeyes’ newest point guard had about as impressive a debut as possible, leading her team to a win over Cleveland State with 31 points, six rebounds, six assists and five steals. She was also extremely efficient, making 12 of her 14 shot attempts. Cambridge will face tougher opponents as the season progresses, especially in the Big Ten, but her first match is indicative of her talent. Cambridge is a three-level scorer who also creates for others and defends at a high level.
Syla Swords, Michigan: It takes a lot of poise and confidence to do what Swords did against No. 1 South Carolina in her first collegiate match. The guard nearly led the Wolverines to an upset with 27 points and 12 rebounds in a 68-62 loss to the Gamecocks. Swords showed her ability to attack the rim and finish through contact, while also dominating on the glass and fast break. South Carolina is an experienced, defensive-minded team, but Swords had no trouble asserting its offensive game. She will be a force for Michigan all season long.
Kennedy Smith, USC: The Trojans have an experienced, talented core of Watkins, Kiki Iriafen, Talia von Oelhoffen and Rayah Marshall, and in her first game of the season, Smith proved she was capable of contributing alongside them. In a close battle with Ole Miss, Smith played 37 minutes – the second most of any Trojan – and finished with 12 points and seven rebounds. She wasn’t afraid to attack the Rebels’ defense and showed strength atypical for a freshman.
Mikayla Blakes, Vanderbilt: Blakes is currently flying under the radar because Vanderbilt isn’t a big program, but she’s still a can’t miss player. The guard leads her team with 19.5 points per game through the first two games while shooting 53.8% from the field and 36.4% from beyond the arc. Blakes will have plenty of opportunities to make a name for himself during SEC play, when the Commodores compete against teams like South Carolina and LSU. For now, she’s already taking Vanderbilt to new heights. The Commodores received votes in this week’s AP poll.
Toby Fournier, Duke: Even before she committed to Duke, Fournier was making headlines for her dunking skills. The Canadian forward hasn’t played in a college game yet, but she has shown a post-game display that makes her an exciting prospect for the Blue Devils. Through three games, Fournier is averaging 12.7 points and 5.3 rebounds, including a 15-point, nine-rebound performance against No. 18 Maryland earlier this week. Fournier is a high-level athlete with solid instincts and polished footwork around the rim.
Liv McGill, Florida: Landing McGill was huge for Florida. The No. 15 freshman is the highest-ranked recruit in program history, and so far she’s living up to expectations. McGill is a creative guard with elite handles capable of attacking himself and others. She is Florida’s second leading scorer and leading assist getter through three games with 18.7 points and 6.7 assists per game.
Tajianna Roberts, Louisville: The Cardinals lost their opener to UCLA 66-59, but Roberts held his own in the matchup and was one of the best players on the court. She was a fearless shot creator, finishing at the rim and pulling from long range. Roberts finished with 21 points and was 4 of 10 from beyond the arc. Through three games, she leads the Cardinals with 15 points per game.