Top College Women’s Basketball Freshmen to Watch

As of April 2025, several freshmen and international players have distinguished themselves in women’s college basketball. These standout players have made significant contributions to their teams, showcasing impressive skills and immediately impacting the court. Freshman players have been particularly notable for their versatility, scoring ability, and overall athleticism, helping to elevate the level of competition across the league. International players have also added a unique dynamic to the game with their diverse playing styles and global experience, further enhancing the depth and talent in college basketball. These rising stars are expected to play key roles in shaping the future of the sport.

Mikayla Blakes, a 5’8 guard from New Jersey and standout freshman guard for the Vanderbilt Commodores, has quickly made a name for herself in collegiate basketball. Born in Somerset, New Jersey, Blakes was a five-star recruit out of Rutgers Preparatory School, where she led her team to multiple state championships. In her freshman season at Vanderbilt, Blakes set the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and Vanderbilt single-game scoring records with 53 points against Florida, later surpassing this with 55 points in an overtime win against Auburn, breaking the NCAA Division I freshman scoring record. Her remarkable achievements earned her First-team All-SEC honors, SEC Freshman of the Year, and All-American recognition from the United States Basketball Writers Association and the Associated Press. Blakes’ performance has positioned her as one of the brightest young stars in the sport.

Sarah Strong is a standout 6-foot-2 forward for the UConn Huskies, known for her exceptional skills on the court. Hailing from Spain and later moving to North Carolina, she earned the prestigious North Carolina Miss Basketball award in both 2023 and 2024, alongside national honors such as the Naismith High School Player of the Year. As a freshman at UConn, Strong made an immediate impact, starting all 40 games and averaging 16.4 points, 8.9 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 2.3 steals, and 1.7 blocks per game. She played a pivotal role in UConn’s NCAA tournament victory, contributing 24 points and 15 rebounds in the championship game, leading the Huskies to their 12th national title. Strong’s remarkable performance earned her multiple accolades, including First-team All-Big East honors and Big East Freshman of the Year. With a rich sports background, as her mother was a former WNBA player and her father played college basketball, Strong’s potential continues to shine brightly in the world of women’s college basketball.

Joyce Edwards, a 6-foot-3 forward for the South Carolina Gamecocks, has quickly established herself as one of the top talents in women’s college basketball. Hailing from Camden, South Carolina, Edwards had an outstanding high school career, earning accolades such as the Gatorade National Player of the Year and Morgan Wootten National Player of the Year in 2024. As a freshman at South Carolina, she continued to impress, leading the team in scoring with 12.7 points per game and contributing 5.0 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per game. Her performance earned her first-team All-SEC honors and a spot on the SEC All-Freshman Team. On the international stage, Edwards helped lead Team USA to gold at both the 2023 FIBA Under-19 Women’s Basketball World Cup and the 2024 FIBA Under-18 Women’s AmeriCup, earning MVP honors. Off the court, Edwards is committed to academics and community service, with plans to pursue a pre-law track and a career as an environmental engineer. Her impressive skill set, leadership, and academic focus make her a player to watch in the future.

Olivia Olson has quickly emerged as a cornerstone for the Michigan Wolverines in her freshman season, earning Big Ten Freshman of the Year honors. A highly touted recruit, Olson has lived up to the hype with her ability to control the game from the guard position. She brings a polished offensive game with elite scoring instincts, court vision, and decision-making. Her maturity and poise under pressure have made her a reliable playmaker for Michigan, especially in tight Big Ten matchups. Olson’s strong debut season signals that she is poised to be one of the conference’s elite players for years to come.

Kiyomi McMiller has brought a dynamic spark to Rutgers, emerging as a leader and offensive catalyst in her very first season. Known for her elite ball-handling skills, fearless shot selection, and high motor, McMiller has been a fan favorite and a bright spot for the Scarlet Knights during a transitional season. She has shown the ability to take over games, attacking defenses creatively and confidently. McMiller’s flash and flair are balanced by a strong work ethic and a competitive edge, making her one of the most exciting young guards in the country and a building block for the future of Rutgers basketball.

Top International Freshman Players

Agot Makeer, a 6’1″ guard from Toronto, is one of the most versatile and exciting prospects in the 2025 class. After starring at Montverde Academy and representing Canada at the U17 level, she committed to South Carolina, choosing the Gamecocks over powerhouse programs like UCLA, UConn, and Michigan. Makeer is a tenacious defender who can guard multiple positions while slashing to the basket easily on offense. Her size, athleticism, and high basketball IQ make her a perfect fit for Coach Dawn Staley’s aggressive, defense-first system. Makeer is expected to be an immediate impact player and a future cornerstone for the Gamecocks.

Gandy Malou-Mamel, a 6’6″ center from Limerick, Ireland, has made history as the first Irish player to commit to the UConn women’s basketball program. Now playing at Gill St. Bernard’s in New Jersey, she’s become a dominant post player, averaging nearly a double-double with 16.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game. Her international experience with Ireland’s U20 national team has helped sharpen her game, especially on the defensive end. Coach Geno Auriemma praised her athleticism and rebounding ability, noting she brings a rare blend of size and mobility. Malou-Mamel is poised to become a major presence in the paint for the Huskies.

These freshmen, both high school boys and college girls, represent the future stars of basketball worldwide. Watch these athletes as they continue to develop and make their mark in their respective categories.