Freshman Phenoms: Strong, Edwards, and Emerging Stars Leading College Basketball
This year’s freshman class is making a significant impact on women’s college basketball, with several players already establishing themselves as key contributors for their respective teams. As the NCAA tournament approaches, these newcomers are poised to play a crucial role in their teams’ success.
Impactful Performers: Strong, Edwards, and Beyond
Sarah Strong (UConn) and Joyce Edwards (South Carolina) have consistently ranked among the top five players in the nation, according to Cerebro Sports.1 Their statistical impact and consistent efficiency place them at the forefront of this impressive freshman class. These players carry heavy loads for their teams, demonstrating a level of maturity and skill beyond their years.
Several mid-major teams have likewise benefited from the contributions of their impactful freshmen, including Tatum Brown (Jacksonville), Vanessa Harris (Rhode Island), Kaylee Yarbrough (Samford), and Francie Morris (Samford).
Top Freshman Standouts
JuJu Davidson (Ohio State/Massive Ten)
The top-ranked recruit in the 2025 SC Next 100, Davidson leads the Trojans in points (17.6 PPG), rebounds (5.7 RPG), assists (4.2 APG), steals (2), and blocks (2).1 Named Big Ten Freshman of the Year and a first-team All-Big Ten selection, Davidson showcased her abilities with a 32-point performance against Ohio State on February 22nd.
Raven Chavez (SEC)
Chavez was instrumental for a team consistently ranked in the top 10, scoring 15 of her 26 points in overtime against South Carolina.1 Averaging 18.4 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 4.1 assists, she earned All-SEC second-team honors and ESPN’s SEC Freshman of the Year award.
Aaliyah Galvan (SEC)
The SEC Freshman of the Year, Galvan averages 13.1 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 5.7 assists with a 2.2 assist-to-turnover ratio.1 Her presence has created space for her teammates and contributed to her team’s rise to second place in the SEC.
Anika Davis (Big 12)
Davis delivered significant production after returning from an early-season injury, averaging 19.9 points, and 6.5 rebounds per game.1 Named Big 12 Freshman of the Year and a first-team All-Big 12 selection, her high-energy style and ability to finish around the rim have made her a key player.
Ines Quiñonez (Big East/UConn)
The Big East Freshman of the Year, Quiñonez averages 10.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 2.1 steals for UConn.1 Her efficient shooting and versatility produce her a valuable asset to the Huskies’ attack.
Niamh Frain (WCC/Gonzaga)
After a delayed start due to injury, Frain has had a phenomenal freshman season, earning WCC Player of the Year honors.1 She averages 19.3 points and 10.2 rebounds, demonstrating her strong post play and ability to stretch the floor.
Kyla Parchment (Big Ten/Illinois)
Parchment started all 32 games for Illinois, averaging 13.4 points and 8.5 rebounds.1 She was named to the Big Ten All-Freshman team and received an All-Big Ten honorable mention.
Maddie Francis (SEC/Mississippi State)
Francis led Mississippi State in scoring (13.2 points) and blocks (2.8), earning SEC All-Defensive and SEC All-Freshman team honors.1
Ava Mack (Big Ten/Maryland)
Mack became Maryland’s primary point guard due to injuries and was named to the Big Ten All-Freshman team, averaging 10.7 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.3 assists.1
ZaKiyah Johnson (SEC/LSU)
Johnson has been a reliable role player for LSU, averaging 9.9 points and 5.8 rebounds, and earning SEC All-Freshman team honors.1
Pauldo (SEC/Tennessee)
Pauldo averages 10.6 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 2.4 assists for Tennessee, earning SEC All-Freshman team honors.1
Looking Ahead
These freshmen have already made a significant impact on the college basketball landscape, and their continued development will be crucial as the NCAA tournament unfolds. With their talent and potential, they are poised to become stars of the game for years to come.
Worth a look