Did any of the UNC basketball freshmen make Andy Katz’s top-10 list?

Men’s college basketball analyst Andy Katz continued his series of preseason lists, naming his top-10 freshmen. The list was full of electrifying first-years — many of whom could hear their names called in the 2025 NBA Draft Lottery.

The ACC received more representation on Katz’s list than any other conference, with four players named. Fans should be excited by the ACC bringing in elite young talent. More talent benefits the whole conference, better preparing ACC teams for March Madness.

To nobody’s surprise, Duke’s Cooper Flagg topped the list. At this point, he’s a household name and the heavy favorite to be selected No. 1 overall in next year’s draft. Flagg’s teammate Khaman Maluach landed at No. 7 on the list. Standing at 7-foot-2 with impressive mobility, Maluach has very intriguing upside. However, his game is still raw and might take some time to fully develop.

Syracuse’s Donavan “Donnie” Freeman comes in at No. 9 on the list. The 6-foot-9 power forward was a huge pickup for the Orange. He’s got great length on defense and has explosive yet effortless athleticism, easily skying above the rim. As reported by the NCAA, Freeman is Syracuse’s highest-rated recruit since 2012.

Ian Jackson of the UNC basketball program rounds out the list at No. 10. Listed at 6-foot-4, Jackson can play as a big guard or a smaller wing. Every Tar Heel fan is aware of his elite athleticism and high-flying dunks. Jackson has next-level quickness and an endless motor. When he gets downhill, he’s nearly impossible to stop. Jackson is a scrappy perimeter defender and runs the floor well — two things the Tar Heels need. And with continued work on his three-point shot, Jackson is as complete a scorer as you’ll see in college.

Jackson should be one of the most exciting UNC basketball players this season and potentially one of the most exciting players in the entire nation. Jackson finished as the No. 8 overall recruit in the Class of 2024, according to 247Sports. He’s been a high-pedigree recruit his entire high school career, and Tar Heel fans should expect more of the same dominance from him.

Tar Heel Nation would’ve loved seeing Jackson ranked higher by Katz, as well as Jackson’s teammate — Drake Powell — getting his respect on this list. In the Class of 2024, Powell was one of the biggest risers in the rankings, finishing at No. 11 overall, according to 247Sports. He’s garnered legit lottery buzz, and yet he still flies under the radar. However, this list should still excite the Carolina faithful. The Tar Heels bring in an elite freshmen duo, and the ACC is loaded with talent.