The 25 Greatest Freshman Seasons in College Basketball History

The 25 Greatest Freshman Efforts of the Past 25 Seasons

When it comes to hype, few players in recent memory have entered the college basketball scene with as much buzz as Cooper Flagg. The 6-foot-9 freshman phenom is already being touted as the projected top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, and the spotlight on him is as bright as it gets. With a Gatorade sponsorship and other lucrative NIL deals already in his portfolio, Flagg is not just a player to watch—he’s a player under the microscope.

Through his first four games, Flagg has been putting up impressive numbers: 16.3 points per game (PPG), 9.5 rebounds per game (RPG), and 4.0 assists per game (APG). But to etch his name into the annals of college basketball history, he’ll need to elevate his game to match some of the greatest freshman seasons we’ve seen in the past 25 years. The pressure is immense, but the potential is undeniable.

To give you an idea of the level Flagg will need to reach, here’s a look at the top 25 freshman seasons in men’s college basketball since the 1999-2000 season. These players didn’t just meet expectations—they shattered them. Let’s dive into the list and see what makes these performances so legendary.

25. Paolo Banchero, F (Duke, 2021-22)

Before retiring, Coach K nearly capped his illustrious career with a sixth national championship, thanks in large part to Paolo Banchero. The freshman averaged 17.2 PPG and 7.8 RPG, leading Duke to the Final Four. Banchero’s dominance earned him a third-team AP All-American nod and the No. 1 pick in the 2022 NBA Draft by the Orlando Magic.

24. Brandon Miller, F (Alabama, 2022-23)

Brandon Miller’s lone season at Alabama was nothing short of spectacular. The 6-foot-9 forward averaged 18.8 PPG and shot 38% from beyond the arc. Despite a tough NCAA tournament showing, Miller’s nine games with 24 or more points and his SEC Player of the Year award cemented his place among the greats.

23. Malik Monk, G (Kentucky, 2016-17)

Part of a star-studded Kentucky freshman trio, Malik Monk stood out with his scoring prowess. Averaging 19.8 PPG, Monk earned SEC Player of the Year honors and led the Wildcats to the Elite Eight. His electrifying performances made him a fan favorite and a key figure in Kentucky’s storied history.

22. Lonzo Ball, G (UCLA, 2016-17)

Lonzo Ball’s court vision and playmaking ability were on full display during his freshman year at UCLA. Leading the nation with 7.6 APG, Ball also averaged 14.6 PPG and shot 41% from three-point range. His efforts propelled the Bruins to the Sweet 16 and solidified his status as one of the best passers in recent memory.

21. RJ Barrett, G (Duke, 2018-19)

While Zion Williamson grabbed headlines, RJ Barrett was the steadying force for Duke during the 2018-19 season. Starting all 38 games, Barrett averaged 22.6 PPG and earned first-team AP All-American honors. His consistency helped the Blue Devils reach the Elite Eight.

20. DeMarcus Cousins, C (Kentucky, 2009-10)

DeMarcus Cousins was a dominant force in the paint during his freshman year at Kentucky. Averaging 15.1 PPG, 9.8 RPG, and 1.8 BPG, Cousins helped the Wildcats to a 35-3 record and an Elite Eight appearance. His physicality and skill earned him first-team AP All-American honors.

19. Ben Simmons, F (LSU, 2015-16)

Ben Simmons’ versatility was unmatched during his time at LSU. The 6-foot-10 forward averaged 19.2 PPG, 11.8 RPG, and 4.8 APG, showcasing his ability to impact the game in multiple ways. Despite LSU’s struggles, Simmons’ individual brilliance earned him second-team AP All-American honors.

18. Marvin Bagley III, F (Duke, 2017-18)

Marvin Bagley III wasted no time making an impact at Duke. Averaging 21.0 PPG and 11.1 RPG, Bagley was a double-double machine. His efforts earned him first-team AP All-American honors and helped the Blue Devils reach the Elite Eight.

17. Karl-Anthony Towns, C (Kentucky, 2014-15)

On a loaded Kentucky team, Karl-Anthony Towns stood out with his efficiency and defensive prowess. Averaging 10.2 PPG, 6.7 RPG, and 2.3 BPG in just 21 minutes per game, Towns was a key piece of a team that went 38-1 and reached the Final Four.

And that’s just the beginning! The list continues with even more jaw-dropping performances from players like Kevin Love, Zion Williamson, and Anthony Davis. These players didn’t just meet the hype—they redefined what it means to be a freshman in college basketball. Can Cooper Flagg join their ranks? Only time will tell, but the bar has been set sky-high.