Freshman Hoops Stars Shine Bright: 2025 Class Dominates Early Season

UPDATE: The 2025 men’s college basketball freshman class is making waves, showcasing a level of talent that has NBA scouts buzzing. With the season halfway through, top prospects like Cameron Boozer from Duke and AJ Dybantsa from BYU are proving they are ready for the big stage, leading their teams to impressive victories.

As of January 12, 2025, Boozer is averaging an astounding 22.9 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists, propelling Duke to a stellar 15-1 record. Dybantsa is not far behind, having scored at least 20 points in nine consecutive games, a feat not seen from a Division I freshman in 30 years.

This year’s freshman cohort is one of the most celebrated in recent memory. The top ten freshmen are collectively averaging an impressive 17.8 points per game, the highest since the ESPN recruiting database began in 2007. This surge in performance is attracting serious attention from NBA scouts, with 16 freshmen projected to be selected in the first round of the upcoming draft.

Here’s a closer look at the standout players so far this season:

1. Cameron Boozer, Duke
Boozer is dominating the court, highlighted by a pair of games where he scored 35 points against both Indiana State and Arkansas. His ability to contribute significantly in rebounds and assists makes him a key player to watch.

2. AJ Dybantsa, BYU
Dybantsa’s recent performance includes an impressive average of 27.8 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 5.7 assists, leading BYU to critical wins. His record-setting streak is captivating fans and analysts alike.

3. Caleb Wilson, North Carolina
Wilson is making a name for himself with an average of 19.5 points and 11.0 rebounds, consistently performing at a high level and earning recognition as a potential All-American candidate.

4. Darius Acuff Jr., Arkansas
Acuff has emerged as a scoring machine with 21.7 points and 6.7 assists per game, positioning himself as a strong contender for a lottery pick.

5. Kingston Flemings, Houston
Flemings is establishing himself as an elite two-way player, averaging 15.7 points and 5.1 assists while impressing in high-stakes matchups.

Other notable freshmen include Ebuka Okorie from Stanford, who is also averaging 22.9 points, and Hannes Steinbach, leading in rebounding with 11.0 rebounds per game.

As the season progresses, the impact of these freshmen on their teams and the broader college basketball landscape is undeniable. Their performances not only raise the stakes for the current season but also set the stage for an exciting 2026 NBA Draft.

Fans and analysts alike should stay tuned for more updates as these young stars continue to redefine their teams’ fortunes and capture the attention of the basketball world. The second half of the season promises even more thrilling action as the race for player of the year heats up.