The upcoming 2024-25 women’s college basketball season promises to be extraordinary as we witness the growth of some of the brightest young superstars in the sport. Last year, USC’s JuJu Watkins stood out as one of the best players in the country during her freshman year. Now, as a sophomore, Watkins brings valuable experience, while a new class of rookies awaits.
We are witnessing an exciting era in college basketball, with talent spread across the country, offering exciting players to watch at every corner. Here are 10 of the most thrilling freshmen to keep an eye on:
Sarah Strong (UConn)
As the top recruit for the 2024 class, Sarah Strong had the luxury of choosing where to continue her college basketball journey. Standing tall at 6-foot-2, this forward possesses a blend of size, strength, and basketball IQ that UConn’s head coach Geno Auriemma highly values in his players.
Fresh off a senior year where she was the Naismith Player of the Year and a McDonald’s All-American, Strong is prepared for the challenges of college basketball. With an impressive double-double average of 21 points and 16.8 rebounds per game in her senior year, along with experience competing at the FIBA level in U18 5×5 and 3×3 competitions, Strong’s versatility as a player will be fascinating to watch as she transitions to the college game.
Paired with former No. 1 recruits Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd, UConn, ranked No. 2 in the AP preseason poll, will benefit greatly from Strong’s contributions, especially in addressing their frontcourt size and depth.
Syla Swords (Michigan)
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I am a big fan of Syla Swords, and let me tell you why you should be too. Swords, a native of Sudbury, Canada, is the daughter of former Canadian basketball player Shawn Swords from the 2000 men’s Olympic basketball team. Moving to New York after her father accepted a coaching position with the Long Island Nets, Swords showcased her talent at Long Island Lutheran High School, where all five 2024 seniors went on to play Division I basketball.
Swords made a name for herself by becoming a McDonald’s All-American and the New York Gatorade Player of the Year. Ranked as the No. 4 recruit in the class, Swords committed to Michigan. With a successful experience at the Olympics in Paris, Swords demonstrated her defensive prowess against top players and showcased her basketball IQ. Her transition to the college game will be exciting to witness.
Heading to college with extensive experience puts Swords in a unique position to make an impact. Paired with her former Team Canada teammate Natalie Achonwa, who now serves as an assistant coach at Michigan, the future looks bright for Swords and the Wolverines.
Kate Koval (Notre Dame)
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