JuJu Watkins, Hannah Hidalgo and MiLaysia Fulwiley stormed 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 have a major impact for their teams this season.
Sarah Strong, Connecticut: There was a lot of hype for the No. 1 overall recruit coming into UConn, and Strong is already delivering. Geno Auriemma called her one of the “most prepared” freshmen he’s ever coached, citing her ability to do a little bit of everything. Strong started for the Huskies in their first two games, putting up 15 points, 5.5 rebounds, 4 steals and 3.5 assists per game. The 6-foot-2 forward has a major test coming up 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 of 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 wildly efficient, making 12 of her 14 shot attempts. Cambridge will face more difficult opponents as the season goes on, especially in the Big Ten, but her first game is an indication 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 game. The guard nearly led the Wolverines to an upset with 27 points and 12 rebounds in a 68-62 loss to the Gamecocks. Swords showcased her ability to attack the rim and finish through contact, while also dominating on the glass and the fast break. South Carolina is an experienced, defensive-minded team, but Swords had no trouble asserting her offensive game. She’s going to be a force throughout the season for Michigan.
Kennedy Smith, USC: The Trojans boast an experienced, talented core in Watkins, Kiki Iriafen, Talia von Oelhoffen and Rayah Marshall, and in her first game of the season, Smith proved herself capable of contributing alongside them. In a tight contest with Ole Miss, Smith played 37 minutes — the second most out of any Trojan — and finished with 12 points and seven rebounds. She was unafraid to attack the Rebel defense and displayed strength that’s atypical for a freshman.
Mikayla Blakes, Vanderbilt: Blakes is currently flying under the radar because Vanderbilt isn’t a big-name program, but she’s still a can’t-miss player. The guard is leading her team in scoring through its first two games with 19.5 points per game, while shooting 53.8% from the field and 36.4% from beyond the arc. Blakes will have plenty of chances to make a name for herself during SEC play when the Commodores battle 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 due to her dunking abilities. The Canadian forward hasn’t yet dunked in a college game, but she has showcased a post game 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-ranked freshman is the highest recruit in program history, and so far, she’s living up to the expectations. McGill is a creative guard with elite handles who is capable of initiating offense for herself and others. She’s Florida’s second-leading scorer and top assist-getter through three games with 18.7 points and 6.7 assists per contest.
Tajianna Roberts, Louisville: The Cardinals lost their opener to UCLA, 66-59, but Roberts held her 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 is leading the Cardinals with 15 points per game.
