After another chaotic college hoops offseason defined by player movement, eligibility cases and the Protect College Sports Act, it’s finally time to play some basketball.
The 2026-27 campaign officially kicks off on Nov. 1 with a historic matchup between Villanova and Notre Dame in Rome. To get you ready for all the action ahead, Hoops HQ has put together a comprehensive ranking of the top 100 players in the sport this season. Our staff assembled this list with help from our friends at The Portal Report, analytics expert Colin Hanley and other reliable ranking sites covering the game. In addition to individual metrics, a player’s projected impact on winning factored heavily into our decisions.
It’s important to note that this list excludes all fifth-year players, as eligibility questions continue to swirl. Players such as Tamin Lipsey, Donovan Dent, Darrion Williams, Mark Mitchell and more certainly would have made the cut.
Without further ado: The Top 100.
J.P. Estrella
Michigan Wolverines
6'11" / 241
Forward
100. J.P. Estrella, 6-foot-11 junior forward, Michigan
2025-26: 10.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, 59.6 FG% (Tennessee)
One of the most efficient backup bigs in the country, J.P. Estrella adapted to power conference play over three seasons at Tennessee. As a junior in 2025-26, Estrella shot 59.6 percent from the field and logged a career-high 5.4 rebounds. Of his 13 starts last season, four came during the NCAA Tournament, including a dominant seven-rebound performance against Michigan. Estrella closed SEC play with back-to-back 20-point games off the bench. At Michigan, he’ll slot in nicely beside Cincinnati transfer Moustapha Thiam.
Kwame Evans Jr.
Villanova Wildcats
6'9" / 200
Forward
99. Kwame Evans Jr., 6-foot-10 senior forward, Villanova
2025-26: 13.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.3 blocks, 45.4 FG% (Oregon)
Once an NBA hopeful, Evans Jr. is looking for a better fit at Villanova. The No. 17 transfer in Hoops HQ’s transfer ranking thrived on increased usage last season while maintaining efficiency. Evans also had a breakout year defensively, nearly doubling his blocks, steals and defensive rebounds. The former five-star recruit has elite positional size and versatility. He’s an All-Big East-caliber forward with all the tools to dominate at Villanova.
Mouhamed Dioubate
LSU Tigers
6'7" / 215
Forward
98. Mouhamed Dioubate, 6-foot-7 senior forward, LSU
2025-26: 8.8 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1.0 blocks, 54.2 FG% (Kentucky)
The first commit to Will Wade’s new-look LSU is also its most explosive. Dioubate was an awkward fit at Kentucky, but led the Wildcats in two-point accuracy (60.3 percent) and ranked second in offensive and total rebounds. Across tenures at Alabama and Kentucky, Dioubate earned a reputation for hounding defense and intense effort. The senior forward still struggles to score from midrange and beyond, but is otherwise an invaluable piece for a transitional LSU lineup.
Pharrel Payne
Maryland Terrapins
6'9" / 255
Forward
97. Pharrel Payne, 6-foot-9 senior forward, Maryland
2025-26 (10 games): 17.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, 1.1 blocks, 62.4 FG%
The first entry from last year’s Top 100, Payne suffered a season-ending leg injury versus Michigan in December. Before that, the Texas A&M transfer enjoyed a breakout fall at Maryland, leading the Terps in points (17.5), blocks (1.1) and field goal percentage (62.4) while averaging 7.2 rebounds. Payne is weighed down by questions about his physical health. If he can return to form, he will be the Terrapin to watch — and deserves a spot much higher on this list.
Jaden Toombs
SMU Mustangs
6'10" / 230
Forward
96. Jaden Toombs, 6-foot-10 sophomore forward, SMU
2025-26: 8.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, 56.8 FG%
Toombs entered last season injured and exceeded expectations. Playing backup to Samet Yigitoglu, he logged a series of standout performances, including a 23-point, 7-rebound, 1-steal masterpiece versus Duke in January. Toombs is a competent rim protector and adept scorer (56.8 FG%) whose usage climbed over ACC play. Anticipate more starts and more field goal attempts this season for the projected 2027 NBA Draft pick.
Blake Buchanan
Iowa State Cyclones
6'11" / 215
Forward
95. Blake Buchanan, 6-foot-10 senior forward, Iowa State
2025-26: 8.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 63.6 FG%
Last September, Hoops HQ forecasted a breakout season for Buchanan. The kid came through. In his first season at Iowa State, the former Cavalier started 36 games and averaged a career-high 5.7 rebounds while shooting a personal-best 63.6 percent from the field. Buchanan struggled a bit off-ball, failing to contest key rebounds and playing sluggish defense during conference play. After a grueling offseason which included underwater strength training with T.J. Otzelberger, Buchanan is primed for a defensive renaissance.
Jeremiah Wilkinson
Arkansas Razorbacks
6'1" / 185
Guard
94. Jeremiah Wilkinson, 6-foot-1 junior guard, Arkansas
2025-26: 17.4 points, 2.0 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1.6 steals, 35.7 3FG% (Georgia)
Wilkinson was one of the most prolific scorers in the transfer portal. The heartbeat of last year’s Georgia Bulldogs, Wilkinson led the team in points (17.4) and steals (1.6) while proving himself against SEC competition. At Arkansas, the true junior will work to deepen his bag. Despite serviceable defense and recurring starts at point guard, Wilkinson was a sub-par passer and rebounder. Expect guard mogul John Calipari to teach him unselfish basketball — and weaponize his superhuman scoring.
Kevin Overton
Auburn Tigers
6'5" / 180
Guard
93. Kevin Overton, 6-foot-5 senior guard, Auburn
2025-26: 14.1 points, 3.3 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 1.1 steals, 44.6 FG%, 41.3 3FG%
Overton started his junior season as a third option and ended it as Auburn’s go-to guy. The former Texas Tech transfer had a game-high 26 points in the NIT final, and announced his return to Auburn just days later. Initially a streaky shooter, Overton gained confidence and developed into a premier three-and-D player. He will benefit from increased usage and the confidence boost of an NIT championship run.
Barrington Hargress
Colorado Buffaloes
6'0" / 195
Guard
92. Barrington Hargress, 6-foot-1 senior guard, Colorado
2025-26: 14.7 points, 4.5 assists, 2.2 rebounds, 53.2 FG%, 48.1 3FG%
The face of Colorado’s re-tuned backcourt, Hargress ranks among the most efficient scorers in the Big 12. After two seasons at UC Riverside, Hargress made the jump to power conference play without missing a step. In 33 starts, he led the Buffaloes in assists and logged impressive 53.2/83.5/48.1 shooting splits. After losing top scorer Isaiah Johnson to the transfer portal, Hargress will be expected to lead Colorado’s guards and create space for frontcourt bruisers like Justin Neely.
Mercy Miller
Houston Cougars
6'4" / 200
Guard
91. Mercy Miller, 6-foot-4 junior guard, Houston
2025-26: 5.0 points, 1.8 rebounds, 48.2 FG%
Miller is the key to Houston’s success this season. With Kingston Flemings, Emanuel Sharp and Milos Uzan lost to the NBA Draft, the Cougars have holes to fill in the backcourt. Master P’s youngest son had a solid year as a sophomore, doubling his field goal and three-point percentages on dramatically increased usage. Offseason highlights indicate Miller is working on his dunk package and ready to make a leap.
Mikey Lewis
Texas Longhorns
6'3" / 180
Guard
90. Mikey Lewis, 6-foot-3 junior guard, Texas
2025-26: 13.9 points, 2.7 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 36.8 3FG% (Saint Mary’s)
The former WCC Sixth Man of the Year went First-Team All-WCC as a sophomore starter. Lewis was engineered in a lab to make the SEC jump: He has great positional size, a high clip from three and improves every time his usage jumps. The Longhorns lineup he joins is stacked with transfer talent, including TCU forward David Punch and Colorado guard Isaiah Johnson. Lewis will miss the beginning of the season with a right foot fracture sustained in preseason. Upon return, he will be expected to mentor a cohort of young guards and end the shooting droughts that sometimes afflicted him at Saint Mary’s.
Dame Sarr
Duke Blue Devils
6'8" / 190
Guard
89. Dame Sarr, 6-foot-8 sophomore guard, Duke
2025-26: 6.5 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.0 steals, 40.4 FG%
A product of Spain’s FC Barcelona system, Sarr ranks among the best imports in the ACC. The sophomore wing boasts impressive positional size, including a 7-foot wingspan that made him one of Duke’s top rebounders. Sarr played behind Cameron Boozer, but flexed elite guard skills and efficient shooting across 30 starts. While he’ll need to button up his handles and shot creation, Sarr has a clear NBA ceiling and the work ethic to reach it.
Eric Dailey Jr.
UCLA Bruins
6'8" / 230
Guard
88. Eric Dailey Jr., 6-foot-8 senior guard, UCLA
2025-26: 11.6 points, 5.8 rebounds, 48.6 FG%
Dailey Jr. is a unicorn: a 6-foot-8 power forward with guard skills and lockdown defense. His UCLA role has been confusing at times, vacillating between primary creation and low-attempt, rebound-focused games. Dailey is perhaps the most athletic Bruin, but struggles with inconsistency and passivity as a shooter. In his third year at UCLA, he’ll need to gain confidence.
Terrence Hill Jr.
Tennessee Volunteers
6'3" / 180
Guard
87. Terrence Hill Jr., 6-foot-3 junior guard, Tennessee
2025-26: 15.0 points, 2.8 assists, 2.7 rebounds, 46.6 FG%, 37.0 3FG% (VCU)
One of the crown jewels of a top portal class for Tennessee, Hill Jr. was the engine behind the VCU squad that knocked out North Carolina in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. Hill ranks among the top pick-and-roll specialists in the nation, and boasts a deep bag including crafty passing and midrange shooting. He joins a diverse transfer class, and will serve as Tennessee’s lead facilitator to start the season.
Neoklis Avdalas
North Carolina Tar Heels
6'9" / 215
Guard
86. Neoklis Avdalas, 6-foot-9 sophomore guard, North Carolina
2025-26: 12.1 points, 4.6 assists, 3.1 rebounds, 38.6 FG% (Virginia Tech)
Avdalas had a monster start to the 2025-26 season, drawing comps to Luka Doncic for his court vision, positional size and freeform distribution. But as the season progressed, he struggled. By conference play, Avdalas was seen as a poor decision-maker lacking the guts to attack the basket or the finesse to score from the arc. His comeback (or lack thereof) will be one of the key storylines to watch this season. If Avdalas can toughen up and maintain his nonconference form, he will be an All-ACC level talent. If confidence issues persist, he will be a weak link on a solid UNC squad.
Markus Burton
Indiana Hoosiers
6'0" / 166
Guard
85. Markus Burton, 6-foot senior guard, Indiana
2025-26 (10 games): 18.5 points, 3.7 assists, 2.8 rebounds, 48.9 FG% (Notre Dame)
Burton led the ACC in scoring in 2024-25 with 21.3 points per game and looked poised to repeat until an ankle injury ended his junior season in December. The Hoosiers are hoping Burton will replace outbound guard Lamar Wilkerson as Indiana’s primary scorer. He will work with Darian DeVries to close holes in his defense and improve his distribution. A steady increase in Burton’s shooting splits bode well for Indiana’s new-look backcourt.
Zvonimir Ivisic
Illinois Fighting Illini
7'2" / 234
Center
84. Zvonimir Ivisic, 7-foot-2 senior center, Illinois
2025-26: 6.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1.9 blocks, 50.9 FG%
An overnight celebrity thanks to Illinois’ “Balkan Five” Final Four team, Ivisic is a capable rim protector and dunker. The Croatia native flashed three-point talent at Kentucky and Arkansas, but receded a bit with the Illini, dropping from a 37.6-percent clip with the Razorbacks. Ivisic’s biggest flaw is a lack of mobility — he occasionally lags and struggles to position himself for rebounds. If his conditioning improves this offseason, he will form one of the nation’s strongest frontcourts beside twin brother Tomislav.
Derrion Reid
Oklahoma Sooners
6'8" / 220
Forward
83. Derrion Reid, 6-foot-8 junior forward, Oklahoma
2025-26: 11.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, 50.9 FG%, 35.8 3FG%
After a hamstring injury derailed his freshman season, Reid proved himself at Oklahoma. The 2025-26 Hoops HQ breakout candidate developed an impressive finish at the rim and thrived on increased minutes and good health. The former five-star recruit was Oklahoma’s primary option at times, and flexed a jumpshot and first step that was missing at Alabama. This year’s Sooners are built to complement his talents, so expect a true breakout for Reid.
Alijah Arenas
USC Trojans
6'6" / 199
Guard
82. Alijah Arenas, 6-foot-6 sophomore guard, USC
2025-26 (14 games): 14.1 points, 2.9 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 34.1 FG%
Between his NBA father and a near-death experience last offseason, all eyes will be on Arenas. The rising sophomore was a prolific but inefficient scorer last season, and will lose his offensive carte blanche with the return of injured star Rodney Rice. Arena’s explosiveness, basketball IQ and bucket-getting make him an NBA talent. Whether he’ll increase his efficiency enough to impress at USC, though, remains to be seen.
Collin Chandler
BYU Cougars
6'5" / 202
Guard
81. Collin Chandler, 6-foot-5 junior guard, BYU
2025-26: 9.7 points, 2.8 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.2 steals, 43.5 FG%, 41.0 3FG% (Kentucky)
Chandler is the ideal replacement for NBA-bound Richie Saunders. The Utah native is capable from the arc with a knack for off-catch and off-screen scoring. He improved as a defender at Kentucky, and now demonstrates good off-ball movement and defensive rebounding in addition to standard guard skills. Chandler eased into the background over nonconference play and was a non-factor in Kentucky’s NCAA Tournament stint. His performance this season will depend on him improving his efficiency from short and midrange.
Jason Crowe Jr.
Missouri Tigers
6'4" / 190
Guard
80. Jason Crowe Jr., 6-foot-4 freshman guard, Missouri
2025-26: N/A
Crowe is one of the highest-ranked prospects out of high school to join Missouri, and one of the top point guards in the 2026 class. He’s a dynamic scoring playmaker who can put up numbers and it wouldn’t be a shock if he leads the Tigers in scoring this year.
Killyan Toure
Iowa State Cyclones
6'3" / 205
Guard
79. Killyan Toure, 6-foot-3 sophomore guard, Iowa State
2025-26: 8.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.5 steals, 46 FG%
Despite being a freshman, Toure started 37 games for the Cyclones last season. He had a few major outings, including 25 points and 11 rebounds in the NCAA Tournament round of 64 win over Tennessee State. An offseason shoulder injury has Toure likely missing the first part of the season, but the team will greatly benefit from his return at some point.
Tyler Perkins
Villanova Wildcats
6'4" / 212
Guard
78. Tyler Perkins, 6-foot-4 senior guard, Villanova
2025-26: 13.7 points, 5.4 rebounds, 36.9 3FG%
After a rough first year at Villanova, Perkins thrived with the new coaching staff, more than doubling his production to lead the team in scoring. The Big East Most Improved Player of the Year had 18 games of at least 15 points, including 23 against St. John’s. Even with a completely new supporting cast, look for Perkins to still remain a focal point of the offense.
John Mobley Jr.
Ohio State Buckeyes
6'1" / 190
Guard
77. John Mobley Jr., 6-foot-1 junior guard, Ohio State
2025-26: 15.7 points, 2.8 assists, 41.1 3FG%
Mobley started 53 games for the Buckeyes in his first two years, with a big increase in efficiency as a sophomore. With four-year starting guard Bruce Thornton finally gone, the offense is clearly Mobley’s now and based on his past production, he has a chance to be one of the top individual scorers in the Big Ten.
Ian Jackson
St. John's Red Storm
6'5" / 195
Guard
76. Ian Jackson, 6-foot-5 junior guard, St. John’s
2025-26: 9.4 points, 2.3 rebounds, 40.9 FG%
After a strong freshman year at North Carolina, Jackson’s production and minutes dipped in his first year at St. John’s. But the former five-star prospect still had his moments, including 19 points and 5 steals against Villanova. Jackson has a chance to thrive in year two for Coach Rick Pitino, as his talent is clearly there to be an all-league performer.
CJ Cox
Purdue Boilermakers
6'3" / 205
Guard
75. C.J. Cox, 6-foot-3 junior guard, Purdue
2025-26: 8.5 points, 2.8 rebounds, 37.3 3FG%
Surrounded by seniors, Cox started all 39 games for the Boilermakers, scoring 14-plus points on seven different occasions. The 27-point outing at Northwestern is an example of Cox’s ability to be a go-to scorer for the Boilermakers. He’ll be tasked with that after the team lost its top four scorers from last season.
KJ Lewis
USC Trojans
6'4" / 210
Guard
74. KJ Lewis, 6-foot-4 senior guard, USC
2025-26: 14.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, 2.1 steals, 40.8 FG% (Georgetown)
Lewis led the Hoyas in scoring last season, earning All-Big East honors overall. He’s a capable defender as well, getting 2.1 steals per game (including five thefts along with 24 points on the road at UConn). Lewis adds depth in the Trojans’ backcourt, giving them a legit double-digit scoring option who can also defend the opposing team’s best perimeter threat.
Caleb Foster
Duke Blue Devils
6'5" / 200
Guard
73. Caleb Foster, 6-foot-5 senior guard, Duke
2025-26: 8.3 points, 3.5 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 39.8 3FG%
In his first year as a full-time starter for Duke, Foster posted career-high numbers and efficiency, including shooting around 40 percent from deep. He showed he can score when given the opportunity, including a 20-point outing against Louisville. Foster remains in the rotation for Duke as an experienced veteran, whether as a starter or a sixth man.
Blue Cain
Georgia Bulldogs
6'5" / 195
Guard
72. Blue Cain, 6-foot-5 senior guard, Georgia
2025-26: 13.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.4 steals, 46.8 FG%
Cain started all 66 games for the Bulldogs the last two years, posting career-high numbers across the board. That includes four games of at least 20 points, with two coming back-to-back on the road against Oklahoma and Kentucky. With leading scorer Jeremiah Wilkinson off to Arkansas, look for Cain to have an even bigger role in his fourth year with the program.
Stefan Vaaks
Illinois Fighting Illini
6'7" / 215
Guard
71. Stefan Vaaks, 6-foot-7 sophomore guard, Illinois
2025-26: 15.8 points, 3.2 assists, 2.5 rebounds, 35 3FG% (Providence)
The Big East All-Freshman guard was the top shooter in the conference, making three a game to lead the league in all three three-point shooting categories. He’s set to run point for the Illini as the replacement for Kylan Boswell. With the quality frontcourt Illinois has returning, look for Vaaks to again be one of the top three-point shooters nationally.
Jake Hall
New Mexico Lobos
6'4" / 200
Guard
70. Jake Hall, 6-foot-4 sophomore guard, New Mexico
2025-26: 16.4 points, 3.2 rebounds, 43.8 3FG%
Hall was the Freshman of the Year in the Mountain West last season, leading the Lobos in scoring while being one of the top three-point shooters in the nation. Coming into the 2026-27 campaign, he’s a clear frontcourt for Mountain West Player of the Year due to the realignment, giving New Mexico a legit chance to win the conference to get back to the NCAA Tournament.
Najai Hines
UConn Huskies
6'11" / 278
Center
69. Najai Hines, 6-foot-10 sophomore center, UConn
2025-26: 6.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, 2.2 blocks, 60.2 FG% (Seton Hall)
Despite playing just 18 minutes per game as a freshman, Hines was highly effective at Seton Hall, turning the Pirates into one of the top defensive units in the nation. He averaged 2.2 blocks per game, including seven in one game versus Monmouth, and while Hines isn’t as good a natural scorer as Tarris Reed, he’ll give UConn’s interior defense a major boost.
Massamba Diop
Gonzaga Bulldogs
7'1" / 230
Center
68. Massamba Diop, 7-foot-1 sophomore center, Gonzaga
2025-26: 13.6 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.1 blocks, 56.9 FG% (Arizona State)
Diop started all 33 games for the Sun Devils, averaging 2.1 blocks per game. The athletic big man had a trio of games scoring 20-plus, including 22 points against BYU. He’s slated to start at center for the Bulldogs, joining returning 6-foot-9 senior forward Braden Huff to form one of the top frontcourts in the country.
Somto Cyril
Miami Hurricanes
6'11" / 260
Center
67. Somto Cyril, 6-foot-11 junior center, Miami
2025-26: 9.3 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.2 blocks, 75.9 FG% (Georgia)
Cyril was one of the top interior defenders in the country last season, earning All-SEC honors. That included 2.2 blocks per game, with eight coming in one game against Arkansas. Look for Cyril to have a similar role at Miami, improving the Hurricanes’ interior defense and giving the guards an athletic rim-rolling center to work with on offense.
Johann Grunloh
Virginia Cavaliers
7'0" / 238
Center
66. Johann Grunloh, 7-foot sophomore center, Virginia
2025-26: 7.1 points, 5.2 rebounds, 2.2 blocks, 53.3 FG%
While another first-year big man got most of the attention at Virginia last season, Grunloh also proved to be effective, starting all 36 games. He produced nine double-digit scoring outings, including 16 points and 7 rebounds against Louisville on the road. Look for his role to be even larger this season for the Cavaliers.
Cayden Boozer
Duke Blue Devils
6'4" / 195
Guard
65. Cayden Boozer, 6-foot-4 sophomore guard, Duke
2025-26: 7.7 points, 3.0 assists, 2.3 rebounds, 50 FG%
The former five-star prospect started 11 games as a freshman, having a much stronger final 10 games when junior guard Caleb Foster went down with a foot injury. Boozer was on the All-ACC Tournament Team and went for 15 points in the Elite Eight loss to UConn. He’s a sophomore breakout candidate to watch and a potential starter for the Blue Devils.
Jackson Shelstad
Louisville Cardinals
6'1" / 185
Guard
64. Jackson Shelstad, 6-foot-1 senior guard, Louisville
2025-26 (12 games): 15.6 points, 4.9 assists, 2.9 rebounds, 1.4 steals, 39.1 FG% (Oregon)
In the two years that Shelstad was fully healthy, he was named to all-conference teams. He is a career 35-percent three-point shooter and has nearly 20 career outings of 20-plus points. Now Shelstad is set to be the lead guard for the Cardinals, running a very offense-friendly system under Coach Pat Kelsey.
Zoom Diallo
Kentucky Wildcats
6'6" / 195
Guard
63. Zoom Diallo, 6-foot-6 junior guard, Kentucky
2025-26: 15.7 points, 4.5 assists, 3.9 rebounds, 48.9 FG% (Washington)
Diallo started 51 games in the last two years for Washington, ranking top-10 in the Big Ten in assists. Kentucky is set to give Diallo the keys to the offense as its lead guard, entrusting him as a proven high-major performer and efficient overall scorer.
Billy Richmond III
Arkansas Razorbacks
6'7" / 205
Guard
62. Billy Richmond III, 6-foot-7 junior guard, Arkansas
2025-26: 11.2 points, 4.3 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 56.3 FG%
Richmond is a former top-30 prospect out of high school who had a strong sophomore campaign, including earning All-SEC defensive honors. With wing Karter Knox now off to Louisville, look for Richmond’s playing time to increase even more, with an expected production increase to follow.
Miles Byrd
Providence Friars
6'6" / 190
Guard
61. Miles Byrd, 6-foot-6 senior guard, Providence
2025-26: 10.4 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.9 steals, 1.2 blocks, 40.5 FG% (San Diego State)
Byrd was a double-digit scorer his last two years with the Aztecs but his calling card is on defense. He not only is a two-time all-conference defender, but the reigning Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year. A natural two-way player, look for Byrd to have a key role with the Friars, who fielded arguably the worst defensive unit in the Big East last season.
Braden Frager
Nebraska Cornhuskers
6'7" / 221
Forward
60. Braden Frager, 6-foot-7 sophomore forward, Nebraska
2025-26: 11.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, 48.7 FG%, 35.2 3FG%
Frager was crowned Big Ten Sixth Man of the Year as a freshman. He will join Fred Hoiberg’s starting lineup this season and is expected to make a sophomore leap. “He is a very, very gifted offensive player — as talented as anybody we’ve got, especially for a guy his age,” Hoiberg told Hoops HQ in September. “Now it’s about becoming that consistent two-way guy you’re always going to be able to rely on on the defensive end. He’s done a good job with that. He’s accepted the challenge.”
Joshua Dent
Saint Mary's Gaels
6'3" / 190
Guard
59. Joshua Dent, 6-foot-3 junior guard, Saint Mary’s
2025-26: 13.2 points, 5.6 assists, 2.5 rebounds, 1.6 steals, 46.7 FG%, 40.4 3FG%
Dent took over as the Gaels’ starting point guard last season and thrived, earning First Team All-WCC honors. He opted to stay with the program despite Randy Bennett’s departure for Arizona State, which is the main reason why Saint Mary’s is projected to win the league. The sharpshooting guard will have to carry a heavier burden offensively with leading scorers Paulius Murauskas and Mikey Lewis gone.
Trent Perry
UCLA Bruins
6'4" / 195
Guard
58. Trent Perry, 6-foot-4 junior guard, UCLA
2025-26: 12.6 points, 3.0 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 39.2 3FG%
After a highly productive sophomore campaign, Perry is UCLA’s key returnee in the backcourt. He will run the show alongside two promising newcomers in Texas Tech transfer Jaylen Petty and international star Nikola Kusturica. With more on-ball opportunities, a strong supporting cast and experience in Mick Cronin’s system, expect Perry to be among the best guards in the Big Ten.
Paul McNeil Jr.
NC State Wolfpack
6'6" / 190
Guard
57. Paul McNeil Jr., 6-foot-6 junior guard, NC State
2025-26: 13.8 points, 3.6 rebounds, 42.7 3FG%
One of the nation’s best shooters, McNeil knocked down 105 three-pointers for the Wolfpack in 2025-26, tied for the most in a single season in program history. His 42.7 three-point percentage led the ACC. In a win over Texas Southern on Dec. 17, the junior wing erupted for a career-high 47 points on 12-of-18 shooting. He will have the ultimate green light on an NC State team with just one other returnee (redshirt freshman Zymicah Wilkins).
Cameron Williams
Duke Blue Devils
7'0" / 215
Forward
56. Cameron Williams, 7-foot freshman forward, Duke
2025-26: N/A
The highly touted Williams wrapped up his high school career ranked No. 4 in the Class of 2026, per the 247Sports Composite. He joins a crowded frontcourt in Durham but should have plenty of opportunities to showcase the two-way skill set that made him a priority for Jon Scheyer on the recruiting trail. “Cam possesses a unique set of tools you just don’t find very often,” Scheyer said. “At 7-feet with the ability to guard one through five, elite shooting range, ball-handling ability, and connective playmaking. Cam impacts the game in so many ways, but what excites us most is how coachable and intelligent he is.”
Sananda Fru
Marquette Golden Eagles
6'11" / 250
Forward
55. Sananda Fru, 6-foot-11 senior forward, Marquette
2025-26: 9.0 points, 6.1 rebounds, 1.4 blocks, 75.3 FG% (Louisville)
Shaka Smart has barely utilized the transfer portal during his tenure at Marquette, but he dove in this spring to get Fru, an experienced big man originally from Germany. At 6-foot-11, 250 pounds, Fru is an imposing presence in the paint who will help out tremendously on the glass (Marquette ranked 247th in rebounding last season). He also moves well for his size and should be on the receiving end of a lot of lobs from sophomore guard Nigel James Jr.
Amani Hansberry
Virginia Tech Hokies
6'8" / 240
Forward
54. Amani Hansberry, 6-foot-8 senior forward, Virginia Tech
2025-26: 14.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 1.5 steals, 49.2 FG%, 35.4 3FG%
Hansberry flew under the radar in 2025-26, mainly because Virginia Tech stumbled to an 11th-place finish in the ACC and failed to reach the NCAA Tournament. Still, the big man stuffed the stat sheet in his first year under Mike Young, averaging career highs across the board. The Hokies should be better this season, which should put more of a spotlight on their emerging star.
Matas Vokietaitis
Texas Longhorns
7'0" / 255
Center
53. Matas Vokietaitis, 7-foot junior center, Texas
2025-26: 15.6 points, 7.1 rebounds, 61.9 FG%
Many fans were introduced to Vokietaitis during the first round of the NCAA Tournament, when he put up 23 points and 16 rebounds in an upset win over AJ Dybantsa and BYU. The Lithuanian big man was a dominant force inside for the Longhorns all season long. While the additions of TCU transfer David Punch and five-star freshman Marcus Spears Jr. may lighten his load a bit, Vokietaitis will still be the primary enforcer for a Texas team with national title aspirations.
Xavier Edmonds
TCU Horned Frogs
6'8" / 252
Forward
52. Xavier Edmonds, 6-foot-8 senior forward, TCU
2025-26: 12.7 points, 6.5 rebounds, 1.0 steals, 57.0 FG%, 43.6 3FG%
Two years ago, Edmonds was hooping at Salt Lake Community College. Now he’s the unquestioned centerpiece of TCU and one of the best big men in all of Division I. He ended last season on a high note, registering 11 double-doubles during Big 12 play (first in the conference) and scoring in double figures in 14 of his last 17 games. With David Punch gone, Edmonds will take on more responsibility for the Horned Frogs this year.
Ivan Kharchenkov
Arizona Wildcats
6'7" / 230
Forward
51. Ivan Kharchenkov, 6-foot-7 sophomore forward, Arizona
2025-26: 10.4 points, 4.3 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.4 steals, 49.2 FG%
A native of Germany, Kharchenkov was in FC Bayern Munich’s system for eight years before joining the Wildcats, so he was more than ready to contribute from day one. In fact, he became just the fifth freshman ever to record a double-double in his Arizona debut (12 points, 10 rebounds against Florida). Kharchenkov went on to start all 39 games for a historically dominant AU team. With a year of college hoops under his belt, he is poised for a big sophomore season.
Andrej Stojakovic
Illinois Fighting Illini
6'7" / 205
Guard
50. Andrej Stojakovic, 6-foot-7 senior guard, Illinois
2025-26: 13.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, 50 FG%
Stojakovic, the son of former NBA All-Star Peja Stojakovic, bounced from Stanford (2023-24) to Cal (2024-25) to Illinois, where he became a major piece of a Final Four squad. Andrej’s positional size, versatility and fearlessness attacking the basket made him an excellent fit in Brad Underwood’s system. To ascend a level and boost his NBA Draft stock, the rising senior will have to shoot it better from behind the arc this season (24.4 percent in 2025-26). If he becomes a more complete offensive weapon, the Illini could very well find themselves back on college basketball’s biggest stage.
Dedan Thomas Jr.
Houston Cougars
6'1" / 180
Guard
49. Dedan Thomas Jr., 6-foot-1 senior guard, Houston
2025-26 (16 games): 15.3 points, 6.5 assists, 2.7 rebounds, 45.9 FG% (LSU)
After transferring from UNLV to LSU in 2025, Thomas saw his junior campaign cut short by a foot injury. A hard-nosed, unselfish floor general who plays with tremendous poise, Thomas makes perfect sense on a Houston team that lost Kingston Flemings and Milos Uzan this offseason. “Our point guard position has been the strength of our program. We have never not had a great point guard. Now, we slide to Dedan Thomas Jr., and we will just keep going,” Kelvin Sampson said. “DJ is a point guard’s point guard. He can manage the game, and he understands the game at a freakishly high level.”
Davis Fogle
Gonzaga Bulldogs
6'7" / 200
Guard
48. Davis Fogle, 6-foot-7 sophomore guard, Gonzaga
2025-26: 8.6 points, 3.1 rebounds, 51.8 FG%, 35 3FG%
Scroll through any list of sophomore breakout candidates (including this one from Hoops HQ) and you’re bound to see Fogle’s name. He was a major spark off the bench for the Bulldogs last season, earning WCC All-Freshman honors. His playing time increased following the injury to Braden Huff in January, and Fogle took full advantage. Given his high motor and two-way versatility, the jumbo wing should put up impressive numbers in a heightened role.
Shelton Henderson
Miami Hurricanes
6'6" / 239
Forward
47. Shelton Henderson, 6-foot-6 sophomore forward, Miami
2025-26: 13.8 points, 4.9 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 1.1 steals, 56.7 FG%
The last time we saw Henderson, he registered 18 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists and 2 steals in a round-of-32 clash with Purdue. The former five-star prospect started all 35 games as a freshman, helping the Hurricanes go 26-9 and place third in the ACC. His size, physicality and athleticism make him extremely difficult to stop when attacking the basket. Henderson needs to take a step up as a shooter, but that should be easier given the abundance of offensive weapons on Miami’s 2026-27 roster.
Coen Carr
Michigan State Spartans
6'6" / 230
Forward
46. Coen Carr, 6-foot-6 senior forward, Michigan State
2025-26: 12.0 points, 5.4 rebounds, 51.8 FG%
A high-flying, rim-rocking forward, Carr is the best show in college basketball. The explosive big man is good for at least one momentum-changing, jaw-dropping highlight per week. But he isn’t just a dunker. Carr has improved his all-around game every year under Tom Izzo, while developing exceptional chemistry with junior point guard Jeremy Fears Jr. He was the Spartans’ leading scorer in the NCAA Tournament (17 points per game) and could be in the 2026-27 campaign.
Amari Allen
Alabama Crimson Tide
6'8" / 212
Forward
45. Amari Allen, 6-foot-8 sophomore forward, Alabama
2025-26: 11.4 points, 6.9 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 1.0 steals, 44.6 FG%, 34.1 3FG%
The Tide are counting on Allen to make the jump from elite role player to star this season. As a freshman, the versatile forward had multiple games of 20-plus points and ranked sixth in the SEC in rebounds. He was one of just three underclassmen who earned preseason All-SEC honors (Kentucky’s Malachi Moreno and Arkansas’ Jordan Smith Jr. were the other two). Look for Allen and senior guard Aden Holloway to assume control of Alabama’s high-powered offense.
Isaiah Johnson
Texas Longhorns
6'2" / 182
Guard
44. Isaiah Johnson, 6-foot-2 sophomore guard, Texas
2025-26: 16.9 points, 3.0 assists, 2.9 rebounds, 1.0 steals, 48.6 FG%, 37.8 3FG% (Colorado)
Johnson arrived at Colorado as the No. 294-ranked prospect in the Class of 2025, per the 247Sports Composite. Less than a year later, when he decided to enter the portal, he was one of the most sought-after players in the country. The smooth guard broke the Buffaloes’ freshman scoring record (540 total points), reaching double figures in 29 of 32 games. Now he’s assuming the reins of a Texas team with the firepower to contend for an SEC title.
Acaden Lewis
Miami Hurricanes
6'2" / 182
Guard
43. Acaden Lewis, 6-foot-2 sophomore guard, Miami
2025-26: 12.2 points, 5.3 assists, 3.0 rebounds, 1.9 steals, 45.6 FG% (Villanova)
Upon signing Lewis in mid-April, Jai Lucas described his new floor general perfectly: “Acaden is a true point guard who makes everyone around him better.” In one season at Villanova, Lewis set the program freshman records for assists (176) and steals (63), and became the first Wildcat to average at least 5.3 assists per game since 1998-99. At Miami, he has two elite pick-and-roll partners in center Somto Cyril and forward Malik Reneau (pending eligibility).
Tahaad Pettiford
Auburn Tigers
6'1" / 180
Guard
42. Tahaad Pettiford, 6-foot-1 junior guard, Auburn
2025-26: 15.4 points, 3.8 assists, 3.0 rebounds, 1.1 steals, 39.3 FG%
After helping Auburn reach the Final Four as a freshman, Pettiford had a disappointing 2025-26 campaign. As the program’s centerpiece, he averaged more points but was highly inefficient. The Tigers finished 22-16 (7-11 in the SEC), missing the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2021. Pettiford is primed for a major bounceback year, and has the talent, experience and opportunity to be among the top offensive weapons in the country.
Nigel James Jr.
Marquette Golden Eagles
6'0" / 195
Guard
41. Nigel James Jr., 6-foot sophomore guard, Marquette
2025-26: 16.4 points, 4.9 assists, 3.4 rebounds, 1.9 steals, 47 FG%, 34.7 3FG%
A former four-star prospect, James exceeded expectations in his first season at Marquette, earning All-Big East Third Team honors. The talented floor general was one of just two freshmen in the nation to average at least 19 points, 5 assists and 3 rebounds in league games (Arkansas’ Darius Acuff Jr. was the other). The Golden Eagles have a better supporting cast this year, including the aforementioned Sananda Fru (No. 55 on this list), so expect James to level up and contend for Big East Player of the Year honors.
Moustapha Thiam
Michigan Wolverines
7'2" / 250
Center
40. Moustapha Thiam, 7-foot-2 junior center, Michigan
2025-26: 12.8 points, 7.1 rebounds, 1.6 blocks, 52.5 FG% (Cincinnati)
Originally a Dusty May signing, Thiam stuck around for Michigan’s Mike Boynton era. The former Cincinnati center ranked second among big men in the transfer portal and brings an elite frontcourt skillset to the reigning national champions. Like outbound center Aday Mara, Thiam is a legit rim protector with great mobility for his 7-foot-2 frame (7-foot-6 wingspan). At Cincinnati, he developed a three-point shot and is now capable of opening lanes and stretching defenses at the high-major level.
David Punch
Texas Longhorns
6'7" / 246
Forward
39. David Punch, 6-foot-7 junior forward, Texas
2025-26: 14.1 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.9 blocks, 1.3 steals, 50.3 FG% (TCU)
Punch is a one-man loaded box score. The junior transfer averaged 1.3 steals, 1.9 blocks and 2 assists while leading the Horned Frogs in points and rebounds. At TCU, Punch drew comparisons to Draymond Green for his lateral mobility, paint finishing and ability to play as an undersized center. At Texas, he’ll slot in nicely beside Matas Vokietaitis, a high-gravity center capable of opening his lanes. Sean Miller called them his “one-two Punch.” Get it?
Nolan Winter
Wisconsin Badgers
7'0" / 235
Forward
38. Nolan Winter, 7-foot senior forward, Wisconsin
2025-26: 13.1 points, 8.5 rebounds, 1.2 blocks, 56.9 FG%
Thanks to a nine-inch growth spurt ahead of his freshman season, Winter has one of the best guard packages among NCAA big men. The three-year Badgers veteran led the team in rebounding last season (8.5 rebounds per game) while logging one of the highest two-point clips in the NCAA (69.9 percent). Winter has seen a gradual uptick in usage, and could play north of 32 minutes per night next season. With co-stars John Blackwell and Nick Boyd out, he’ll take over as Wisconsin’s offensive centerpiece and gun for all-conference honors.
Paulius Murauskas
Arizona State Sun Devils
6'8" / 235
Forward
27. Paulius Murauskas, 6-foot-8 senior forward, Arizona State
2025-26: 18.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 48.2 FG%, 33.3 3FG% (Saint Mary’s)
After a breakout junior season, Murauskas followed Randy Bennett from Saint Mary’s to Arizona State. The double-double machine led the Gaels in points last year while averaging 7.6 rebounds per game. After a lackluster freshman season at Arizona, Murauskas improved his defense in the WCC and returns to the Big 12 with a newfound ability to block shots and grab rebounds. He remains a legit three-level scorer and looks poised to run ASU’s reconstituted frontcourt.
Aiden Sherrell
Indiana Hoosiers
6'10" / 255
Forward
36. Aiden Sherrell, 6-foot-10 junior forward, Indiana
2025-26: 11.1 points, 6.2 rebounds, 2.2 blocks, 53.9 FG% (Alabama)
Sherrell is a candidate for a breakout season at Indiana. As a sophomore, he emerged as one of the best shot blockers in college basketball while oscillating between roles as a power forward and stretch five. The former five-star recruit is excellent in transition and brings great court vision, distribution and perimeter shooting to Indiana. Sherell is somewhat lumbering and lacks the explosiveness to be an elite finisher at the rim. If he can improve his conditioning, he’ll be a nightmare match-up — and an NBA first-rounder.
Malachi Moreno
Kentucky Wildcats
7'0" / 250
Center
35. Malachi Moreno, 7-foot sophomore center, Kentucky
2025-26: 7.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, 1.5 blocks, 58.2 FG%
Moreno is all upside. Coming out of high school, he was considered a long-term project, but exceeded expectations as he racked up double-doubles and became one of the best passing bigs in the nation. Moreno is a solid rebounder and midrange shooter, but truly excels in basketball IQ, touch and intangibles. If he can add strength and improve his lateral footwork, Moreno could go All-SEC two years ahead of schedule.
Tomislav Ivišić
Illinois Fighting Illini
7'1" / 255
Center
34. Tomislav Ivišić, 7-foot-1 senior center, Illinois
2025-26: 10.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, 48.3 FG%, 31.3 3FG%
The other half of Illinois’ “Balkan 5” frontcourt (twin brother Zvonomir ranked No. 84), Ivišić is a bona fide unicorn. The 7-foot-1 center is a strong rebounder and defender, and can operate as a primary creator as needed. Ivišić was paramount for Illinois in the NCAA Tournament, where he shot 52.3 percent from the field and 100 percent (11 of 11) from the line. He struggled a bit through 2026, regressing in mobility and three-point shooting on identical usage. Ivišić’s midrange shot remains high variance and led to a number of lost possessions down the stretch. Consistency is key this season: At his best, Ivišić ranks among the top big men in the nation.
Boogie Fland
Florida Gators
6'3" / 185
Guard
33. Boogie Fland, 6-foot-3 junior guard, Florida
2025-26: 11.6 points, 2.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.7 steals, 44.7 FG%
Fland is an elite isolation player. The twitchy lead guard made his mark at Arkansas, then transferred to Florida where he regressed in a less ball-dominant role. Often compared to Darius Garland for his pull-up game, distribution and crafty passing, Fland is all upside. If he improves off-ball, he’ll be a key piece on the nation’s best preseason roster.
Chance Mallory
Virginia Cavaliers
5'10" / 186
Guard
32. Chance Mallory, 5-foot-10 sophomore guard, Virginia
2025-26: 9.3 points, 3.7 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 1.6 steals, 42.2 FG%
A strong second round showing against Tennessee in the NCAA Tournament, a gradual uptick in usage and a new starting role portend a breakout for Mallory. As a freshman, the Virginia native out-scored, out-rebounded and out-stole his starting option on 24 minutes per game. Mallory has incredible lateral and vertical quickness, and seems capable of controlling pace. His small frame and low dribble enable him to take great care of the ball. On a sky-high roster, expect Mallory to set lobs, score out of pick-and-rolls and dominate as floor general.
Rodney Rice
USC Trojans
6'5" / 199
Guard
31. Rodney Rice, 6-foot-5 senior guard, USC
2025-26: 20.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, 6.0 assists, 38.5 3FG%
Rice is the man behind the prettiest jump shot in the NCAA. The Preseason All-Big Ten entry led the Trojans in points, assists and three-point percentage last season before going down with a right shoulder injury in November. Rice is a proven playmaker and three-level scorer, and he’s phenomenal out of pick-and-rolls. To dominate at USC, he must beat the injury bug that’s trailed him from Virginia Tech to Los Angeles.
Josh Hubbard
Mississippi State Bulldogs
6'0" / 190
Guard
30. Josh Hubbard, 6-foot senior guard, Mississippi State
2025-26: 22.1 points, 2.5 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 42.2 FG%, 34.7 3FG%
Hubbard is bringing parity back to the SEC. The Bulldogs veteran has been expected to enter the transfer portal in each of the last three offseasons, and each time opted for another season with Mississippi State. As a junior, Hubbard logged eight performances of 25-plus points, including 46- and 42-point masterpieces versus Auburn and UGA. His skillset is elevated traditional guard skills: self-creation, deep three-point shooting and high strength-to-weight ratio. The clock is ticking for Mississippi State to make use of Hubbard in a legit postseason run.
Tounde Yessoufou
St. John's Red Storm
6'5" / 220
Guard
29. Tounde Yessoufou, 6-foot-5 sophomore guard, St. John’s
2025-26: 17.8 points, 5.9 rebounds, 2.0 steals, 46.5 FG% (Baylor)
The linchpin of Rick Pitino’s aggressive offseason, Yessoufou withdrew from the NBA Draft to ride with the Red Storm. The Benin native is a bruiser, excellent at battling for rebounds and finishing through contact. Yessoufou’s most remarkable skill is a limitless motor, which makes him an inescapable two-way threat. In order to reach the next level, Yessoufou must hone his three-point shot and improve on-ball. He’ll have plenty of opportunities as the face of a transfer-heavy St. John’s squad.
PJ Haggerty
Texas A&M Aggies
6'4" / 195
Guard
28. PJ Haggerty, 6-foot-4 senior guard, Texas A&M
2025-26: 23.4 points, 5.3 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 48.9 FG%, 35.1 3FG% (Kansas State)
A mercenary slasher, Haggerty is prepared to dominate at his fifth school in five years. The combo guard was K-State’s offensive engine last season, leading the team in rebounds and trailing only AJ Dybantsa in Big 12 points per game. Haggerty is a foul magnet and shoots a respectable 76.8 percent from the arc. Conversely, the 2025 Second-Team All-American remains a turnover liability. If he doesn’t tighten his handles, the holes in his game will be apparent against SEC competition. For now, he’s a prize pickup for an Aggies squad in need of volume scoring.
Jordan Smith Jr.
Arkansas Razorbacks
6'2" / 210
Guard
27. Jordan Smith Jr., 6-foot-2 freshman guard, Arkansas
2025-26: N/A
John Calipari got his hands on another five-star guard. Despite his stature, Smith Jr. has a 6-foot-9 wingspan, which he leverages to rebound and steal at a high level. In three exhibition games with Arkansas, Smith logged a 7.66 assist-to-turnover ratio, demonstrating incredible court vision and ball-handling. There may be some growing pangs as he oscillates between roles, but Smith has the makings of an elite floor general. The biggest deficiencies in his game are explosiveness and inconsistency from the arc. If he patches those up, prepare for a season of Scoot Henderson comps.
Elliot Cadeau
Michigan Wolverines
6'1" / 180
Guard
26. Elliot Cadeau, 6-foot-1 senior guard, Michigan
2025-26: 10.5 points, 2.7 rebounds, 5.9 assists, 41.1 FG%, 37.6 3FG%
After dropping 19 points in the national title game versus UConn, Cadeau tested NBA Draft waters and got valuable advice: Fix the three-point shot and get stronger. The Final Four Most Outstanding Player was pure clutch last season, increasing his statistics in every major category over tournament play. Cadeau thrived in Dusty May’s system, where he could focus on playmaking and distribution — his NBA-caliber skills — while offloading scoring. On a Michigan squad without titans like Yaxel Lendeborg and Morez Johnson Jr., Cadeau’s shooting will be more important than ever. If he can maintain last year’s momentum, Cadeau will be an invaluable leader for the Boynton-era Wolverines.
Aden Holloway
Alabama Crimson Tide
6'1" / 180
Guard
25. Aden Holloway, 6-foot-1 senior guard, Alabama
2025-26: 16.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 48.1 FG%, 43.8 3FG%
In two years at Bama, Holloway has closed every hole in his Auburn game. As a junior he was more explosive and twitchier and his three-point shot — once a topic of debate — looked perfect. Holloway has seen an increase in confidence proportionate to his increase in usage. As Alabama’s go-to guy, he’s developed brilliant court vision, nearly doubling his assists and rebounds year-over-year. Holloway’s biggest problem remains his stature — at 6-foot-1, 185 pounds he’s bullied by defenders and struggles in isolation. Bad matchups affect Holloway’s confidence, and he sometimes reverts to the streaky shooting of his Auburn days. Holloway will miss the first two games of the season as a disciplinary measure after he was arrested on a marijuana possession charge in March.
Mason Falslev
Utah State Aggies
6'4" / 200
Guard
24. Mason Falslev, 6-foot-4 senior guard, Utah State
2025-26: 16.0 points, 5.7 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 1.9 steals, 51.4 FG%
Through four years and three coaches at Utah State, Falslev has established himself as the best player in mid-major basketball. The 2026 Mountain West Player of the Year has great physical traits for a guard, including strength, frame and deceleration. As a junior, Falslev proved capable of shutting down opposing guards and earned Mountain West All-Defensive honors on the way to a third-consecutive NCAA Tournament berth. He’s capable of volume scoring on high efficiency, and benefits from a rapid release. The biggest flaws in his game are lateral quickness and court vision, which sometimes leave him stranded on the offensive end.
Trey McKenney
Michigan Wolverines
6'4" / 225
Guard
23. Trey McKenney, 6-foot-4 sophomore guard, Michigan
2025-26: 9.9 points, 2.8 rebounds, 46.2 FG%, 39.1 3FG%
McKenney made the All Big-Ten Freshman team without utilizing half of his offensive bag. The Michigan-native came off the bench in all 40 games to rain hellfire from the arc and space the floor. In a higher usage role for Boynton’s Wolverines, McKenney should employ the skills that made him an EYBL star: Driving, perimeter defense and three-level scoring. Despite his average height, the former McDonald’s All-American has a 6-foot-9 wingspan, which enables him to defend and rebound up. With their entire core (save Cadeau) lost to the NBA Draft, McKenney will be the Wolverines’ primary scoring wing and top breakout candidate.
Robert Wright III
BYU Cougars
6'1" / 183
Guard
22. Robert Wright III, 6-foot-1 junior guard, BYU
2025-26: 18.1 points, 3.5 rebounds, 4.6 assists, 46.7 FG%, 41.0 3FG%
Wright III went All-Big 12 as a second option. Through his sophomore season, the Monteverde alum flashed tempo control, crafty playmaking and three-point shooting — the perfect complements to AJ Dybantsa’s skillset. With Dybantsa out, Wright is free to focus on self-creation and will likely climb from an already-impressive 18.1 points per night. The holes in his game are obvious: Wright often charges into mismatches. His distribution is serviceable but needs work for a contender-level point guard. Like other guards outside of the top 20, his defense leaves much to be desired. With an increased burden in a post-Dybantsa world, Wright will have plenty of opportunities to make himself into an elite floor general.
Silas Demary Jr.
UConn Huskies
6'4" / 195
Guard
21. Silas Demary Jr., 6-foot-4 senior guard, UConn
2025-26: 10.1 points, 4.5 rebounds, 5.9 assists, 44.6 FG%, 38.5 3FG%
Turns out a trip to Connecticut is just what Demary Jr. needed. The former four-star recruit went First-Team All-Big East as a junior and emerged as UConn’s best perimeter defender, a role he’ll reprise in 2026-27. Demary is the king of dirty work — with Tarris Reed Jr. and Alex Karaban as UConn’s public faces, Demary led the Huskies in assists and steals. His dishing made UConn’s All-American frontcourt perennial lob threats, while his three-point shooting stretched defenses and empowered his backcourt teammates. Emblematic of his role: Storrs commemorated Braylon Mullins’ Elite Eight-winning trey with a mural. They didn’t feature the Demary block that set it up. Don’t be surprised if the Preseason Big East Player of the Year goes All-American this season.
Braylon Mullins
UConn Huskies
6'6" / 196
Guard
20. Braylon Mullins, 6-foot-6 sophomore guard, UConn
2025-26: 12.0 points, 3.5 rebounds, 1.0 steals, 33.5 3FG%
Six months ago, Mullins hit one of the most memorable shots in NCAA Tournament history: a near-halfcourt game-winner to lift UConn over Duke in the Elite Eight. He had a chance to turn pro this summer but opted to return for his sophomore campaign. After serving as a secondary scoring option on last year’s squad, Mullins should be the focal point of the Huskies’ offense in 2026-27.
Joseph Tugler
Houston Cougars
6'8" / 230
Forward
19. Joseph Tugler, 6-foot-8 senior forward, Houston
2025-26: 8.4 points, 5.3 rebounds, 1.5 blocks, 1.3 steals, 57.6 FG%
Houston lost a bulk of its core this offseason, but Tugler is back to anchor the team’s defense again. The 2024-25 Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year had a productive junior campaign, starting all 37 games and helping the Cougars rank fourth in defensive efficiency, per KenPom. Expect more of the same in 2026-27, and perhaps an expanded offensive role for the athletic big man.
Braden Huff
Gonzaga Bulldogs
6'10" / 250
Forward
18. Braden Huff, 6-foot-10 senior forward, Gonzaga
2025-26 (18 games): 17.8 points, 5.6 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 66.2 FG%
Huff’s junior season was cut short due to a dislocated kneecap, but the big man was dominant throughout nonconference play. All indications are that he’s back to full health, so there’s no reason to believe he won’t pick up exactly where he left off. With star forward Graham Ike gone, Huff will take on more responsibility on both ends of the floor. He should contend for All-America honors.
Caleb Holt
Arizona Wildcats
6'5" / 215
Guard
17. Caleb Holt, 6-foot-5 freshman guard, Arizona
2025-26: N/A
Jaden Bradley, Brayden Burries and Koa Peat — Arizona’s three leading scorers from last season — have all moved on to the NBA, so Tommy Lloyd is handing the keys to his high-profile freshman. Holt, a five-star prospect out of powerhouse Prolific Prep in Florida, has the skill, athleticism and mentality to be an elite go-to guy from day one. With an abundance of weapons around him, the 18-year-old is in the perfect position to thrive.
Juke Harris
Tennessee Volunteers
6'7" / 200
Guard
16. Juke Harris, 6-foot-7 junior guard, Tennessee
2025-26: 21.4 points, 6.5 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 1.3 steals, 44.4 FG%, 33.2 3FG% (Wake Forest)
Harris is the headliner of Tennessee’s star-studded transfer class. Plain and simple, there aren’t many offensive talents in college basketball at his level. The reigning ACC Most Improved Player scored 730 points in 2025-26, the second most ever recorded by a Wake Forest player in a single season. He also broke a program record by scoring double digits in 35 straight outings. If the new-look Volunteers live up to the hype (No. 8 in the preseason AP Top 25), Harris could be in the mix for the Wooden Award.
Pryce Sandfort
Nebraska Cornhuskers
6'7" / 215
Forward
15. Pryce Sandfort, 6-foot-7 senior forward, Nebraska
2025-26: 18.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.0 steals, 47.9 FG%, 41.6 3FG%
After a breakout junior campaign that earned him All-Big Ten honors, Sandfort is back at Nebraska and — according to coach Fred Hoiberg — more than ready to take the next step. “There’s no doubt in my mind he’s a better player than he was a year ago,” Hoiberg told Hoops HQ in September. “He really worked on his playmaking, ball handling and decision making. He was a better rebounder than he was the previous season, but he can still take the next step in that area and we’re going to need him.”
Thijs De Ridder
Virginia Cavaliers
6'9" / 246
Forward
14. Thijs De Ridder, 6-foot-9 sophomore forward, Virginia
2025-26: 15.6 points, 6.2 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 50.8 FG%, 35.7 3FG%
A former pro in Belgium and Spain, De Ridder led Virginia in scoring and rebounding as a freshman. With a year of college hoops under his belt and a strong supporting cast around him (UVA retained most of its core from last season), the versatile forward should be even better this year. De Ridder was named ACC Preseason Player of the Year and should have the Cavaliers contending with Duke for the league crown.
Milan Momcilovic
Kentucky Wildcats
6'8" / 225
Forward
13. Milan Momcilovic, 6-foot-8 senior forward, Kentucky
2025-26: 16.9 points, 3.1 rebounds, 50.6 FG%, 48.7 3FG% (Iowa State)
When Momcilovic withdrew his name from the NBA Draft in late May, he immediately became the top player in the portal, with several blue bloods battling for his commitment. The former Iowa State star eventually chose Kentucky, where he will be the primary scoring option for a reconstructed team. No one in college basketball is a more dangerous threat from behind the arc. Last season, Momcilovic knocked down 136 three-pointers — the second highest mark in Big 12 history — at a Division I-best 48.7-percent clip.
Patrick Ngongba II
Duke Blue Devils
6'11" / 250
Center
12. Patrick Ngongba II, 6-foot-11 junior center, Duke
2025-26: 10.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.1 blocks, 60.6 FG%
Ngongba was hampered by a foot injury for the last month of the 2025-26 campaign, limiting his availability for the postseason. Before then, the big man was the anchor of Duke’s stellar defense and a reliable source of interior buckets. He led the team in blocks, ranked second in rebounds and scored in double figures 20 times. Despite being projected as a first-rounder, Ngongba decided to return to Durham and headline another loaded Blue Devils frontcourt
Alex Condon
Florida Gators
6'11" / 230
Forward
11. Alex Condon, 6-foot-11 senior forward, Florida
2025-26: 15.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.4 blocks, 55.6 FG%
Entering his fourth season at Florida, Condon has established himself as one of the most productive all-around bigs in the country. In 2025-26, he ranked second on the Gators in points, rebounds and assists, and registered a team-high 48 blocks. He is an offensive hub, often orchestrating the action from the low or high post, and defensive stalwart. Condon has earned All-SEC honors the past two years and could find himself in the mix for SEC Player of the Year this season, especially if he improves as a three-point shooter.
Rueben Chinyelu
Florida Gators
6'10" / 255
Center
10. Rueben Chinyelu, 6-foot-10 senior center, Florida
2025-26: 10.9 points, 11.2 rebounds, 1.0 blocks, 58.4 FG%
Arguably the most dominant paint presence in the country, Chinyelu led the SEC in rebounding last season and became the first Gator ever to win the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year award. The big man also broke the Florida records for offensive boards (137) and double-doubles (19). He set the tone and established the identity for a UF team that claimed the SEC regular-season crown, and should do so again for a 2026-27 squad with national championship aspirations.
Motiejus Krivas
Arizona Wildcats
7'2" / 260
Center
9. Motiejus Krivas, 7-foot-2 senior center, Arizona
2025-26: 10.4 points, 8.2 rebounds, 1.9 blocks, 56.9 FG%
Many believed Krivas would make the jump to the NBA following an impressive junior campaign in which he earned First Team All-Big 12 honors and helped the Wildcats reach the Final Four. But the Lithuanian center opted to return for another season, significantly boosting Arizona’s chances of reaching college basketball’s biggest stage once again. Like Chinyelu, Krivas is the ultimate enforcer. Opponents shot 36.7 percent from the floor when Krivas was on the court last season, the lowest opponent field goal percentage in the country, per CBBAnalytics.
John Blackwell
Duke Blue Devils
6'4" / 203
Guard
8. John Blackwell, 6-foot-4 senior guard, Duke
2025-26: 19.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.1 steals, 43 FG%, 38.9 3FG% (Wisconsin)
One of the top-rated guards in the portal this spring, Blackwell enters his first season at Duke with tremendous expectations. The former Wisconsin star ranked seventh in the Big Ten in scoring last season and had nine games with 25-plus points. On a stacked Blue Devils roster, the senior wing won’t be asked to carry as heavy a burden, but he is undoubtedly the team’s offensive engine and go-to option in crunch time.
Tyran Stokes
Kansas Jayhawks
6'8" / 230
Forward
7. Tyran Stokes, 6-foot-7 freshman forward, Kansas
2025-26: N/A
The consensus No. 1 player in the Class of 2026, Stokes is the likeliest candidate to keep the streak of freshmen Wooden Award winners alive. An explosive forward who stuffs the stat sheet, he averaged 31 points, 13 rebounds, 6 assists and 4 steals as a senior at Rainier Beach High School in Seattle. “Tyran is as versatile a youngster that I’ve ever recruited,” coach Bill Self said. “He’s had far more exposure to basketball than most kids his age and will come in here with the ability to live up to the lofty expectations that will be placed on him by others.”
Flory Bidunga
Louisville Cardinals
6'10" / 235
Forward
6. Flory Bidunga, 6-foot-10 junior forward, Louisville
2025-26: 13.3 points, 9.0 rebounds, 2.6 blocks, 64 FG% (Kansas)
Louisville had one of the best offenses in college basketball last season but its defense often faltered, ranking 136th nationally in points allowed per game. Enter Bidunga, the reigning Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year. As a sophomore at Kansas, the high-flying forward ranked fourth in the country in blocks. In addition to being an elite rim protector and rebounder, Bidunga is an outstanding lob threat whose offensive repertoire continues to expand.
David Mirkovic
Illinois Fighting Illini
6'9" / 255
Forward
5. David Mirkovic, 6-foot-9 sophomore forward, Illinois
2025-26: 13.3 points, 8.0 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 48.4 FG%, 37.5 3FG%
A native of Montenegro who previously played professionally in the ABA, Mirkovic had a historic debut season at Illinois, setting the program freshman records for total rebounds (297) and points in an NCAA Tournament game (29 against Penn). With their top two playmakers (Keaton Wagler and Kylan Boswell) gone, the Illini are counting on Mirk to assume a larger role offensively, giving him more opportunities to showcase his unique skill set. The dynamic forward should put up major numbers for another Final Four-caliber squad.
Tyler Tanner
Vanderbilt Commodores
6'0" / 173
Guard
20
4. Tyler Tanner, 6-foot junior guard, Vanderbilt
2025-26: 19.5 points, 5.1 assists, 3.6 rebounds, 2.4 steals, 48.5 FG%, 36.8 3FG%
Tanner tested the NBA Draft waters this spring but ultimately re-committed to Vanderbilt, where he’ll assume the reins of a young roster with a ton of potential. In 2025-26, the lightning quick guard became just the second Commodore ever to score 700 points in a season and also set the program records for total assists (184) and steals (86). He’s expected to shatter those marks this season. “He’s put on 14 pounds since last season,” coach Mark Byington told Hoops HQ. “It does a lot of things to impact his game. The other growth I think you’ll see with him is just improving his decision making.”
JT Toppin
Texas Tech Red Raiders
6'9" / 225
Forward
3. JT Toppin, 6-foot-9 senior forward, Texas Tech
2025-26 (25 games): 21.8 points, 10.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 1.7 blocks, 1.4 steals, 54.8 FG%
After tearing his ACL in mid-February, Toppin won’t be ready for the start of the 2026-27 campaign, and the Red Raiders will exercise patience with his rehab. But assuming he’s fully healthy when he returns, the big man should be among the most dominant forces in college basketball again. Prior to his injury, Toppin was leading the country in field goals (234) and ranked in the top 10 in scoring, rebounding and double-doubles. Texas Tech has the firepower to keep things afloat until he gets back. With him in the mix, the program should contend for the Big 12 title.
Jeremy Fears Jr.
Michigan State Spartans
6'2" / 190
Guard
2. Jeremy Fears Jr., 6-foot-2 junior guard, Michigan State
2025-26: 15.2 points, 9.4 assists, 2.4 rebounds, 1.3 steals, 43.1 FG%
The consummate floor general, Fears led the nation in assists per game last season on his way to earning All-America honors. He’s back to run the Spartans again, headlining a team that will kick off the 2026-27 campaign ranked No. 6 in the country. The rising junior is expected to win another assist title, especially given Michigan State’s roster continuity. If he takes a leap as a scorer and MSU finishes atop the Big Ten, Fears will likely become the first guard since Villanova’s Jalen Brunson to win the Wooden Award (2018).
Thomas Haugh
Florida Gators
6'9" / 215
Forward
1. Thomas Haugh, 6-foot-9 senior forward, Florida
2025-26: 17.1 points, 6.1 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 1.1 steals, 1.0 blocks, 46 FG%
Haugh was projected as a first-round pick this summer but chose to return to Florida and chase another national title alongside Condon (No. 11 on this list ) and Chinyelu (No. 10). The versatile wing is the centerpiece of the Gators, who will open the 2026-27 season ranked No. 1 in the country. With his size, athleticism, skill and high motor, Haugh impacts the game in so many different ways. As a junior, he became just the second player in UF history (Walter Clayton Jr. is the other) to earn All-America honors from all four major selectors. In 2026-27, he could become the program’s first National Player of the Year.
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