20 Freshmen to Watch in NCAA Women's Basketball

The landscape of NCAA women's basketball is continually evolving, with fresh talent emerging every season. With the introduction of the transfer portal, it's easy to assume that opportunities for freshmen might be dwindling. However, upon closer inspection, it becomes evident that the class of 2023 is loaded with exceptional talent. In this article, we'll delve into the stories of 20 freshmen who are poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming NCAA women's basketball season.

• JuJu Watkins - USC Guard (6-2)

The No. 1 player in the 2023 class is set to live up to the hype.

Coach Lindsay Gottlieb sees her as a key to rebuilding the Trojans into a powerhouse.

• Mikaylah Williams - LSU Guard (6-0)

Physically ready for the college game, Williams is expected to shine for the Tigers.

LSU aims to build around freshmen like Williams for a brighter future.

• Milaysia Fulwiley - South Carolina Guard (5-10)

A versatile player who can impact games in multiple ways.

Fulwiley's impact depends on how much trust the Gamecocks coaching staff places in her.

• Qadence Samuels - UConn Guard (6-2)

Samuels is poised to make an immediate impact in a stacked UConn roster.

Her versatility at the wing position makes her a top choice for early contributions.

• Hannah Hidalgo - Notre Dame Guard (5-6)

Expected to fill in for Olivia Miles at point guard for the Irish.

Hidalgo's impressive stats in high school demonstrate her potential to shine.

• Addy Brown - Iowa State Forward (6-2)

With Iowa State losing key players, Brown has an opportunity to make an impact.

Her versatility as a scorer positions her as a top contender for Big 12 freshman of the year.

• Aga Makurat - Vanderbilt Guard (6-2)

Aga, sister to Anna and Ola Makurat, brings pro experience to the Commodores.

Her size and outside shooting add depth to the Vanderbilt roster.

• Madison Booker - Texas Forward (6-1)

Booker's efficiency in limited minutes makes her a potential standout for the Longhorns.

Her presence on defense and ability to complement Rori Harmon's play are vital for Texas.

• Courtney Ogden - Stanford Forward (6-1)

Stanford's shortened bench opens doors for freshmen like Ogden.

Her scoring and defensive abilities could play a pivotal role for the Cardinal.

• Gretchen Dolan - Illinois Guard (5-11)

Dolan's deep 3-point range sets her apart in the Illini's stacked lineup.

Her scoring abilities position her as a valuable asset for the team.

• Karlee White - Harvard Guard (5-10)

White might have the opportunity to shine in a highly competitive Ivy League.

Her year off the court could bring a unique perspective to her game.

• Hawa Doumbouya - Maryland Center (6-7)

Brenda Frese's first 6-7 player in a decade, Doumbouya aims to boost the Terps' rebounding.

Her presence can initiate fast breaks, adding a new dimension to Maryland's game.

• Breya Cunningham - Arizona Forward (6-4)

A traditional low-block presence, Cunningham can create problems for opponents.

She adds an important inside presence to the Wildcats' game.

• Taliah Scott - Arkansas Guard (5-9)

Despite a crowded backcourt, Scott's deep shooting abilities are crucial for the Razorbacks.

Her automatic 3-pointers can address a previous shooting weakness in the team.

• Amari Whiting - BYU Guard (5-10)

Whiting steps into a team with experienced players, making her transition smoother.

Her hunger after an ACL injury and her coach's familiarity can be a winning combination.

• Taylor Woodson - Michigan Forward (6-0)

Woodson's high school background at Hopkins helps her fit into the Wolverines' system.

Her versatility positions her as a valuable asset for Michigan.

• Sofia Bell - Oregon Guard (6-1)

Bell can potentially replicate the dynamic backcourt play that Oregon thrives on.

Her abilities to play positions 1-3 make her a vital asset for coach Kelly Graves.

• Marija Avlijas - Ole Miss Guard (5-11)

Despite competition, Avlijas could surprise SEC opponents with her performance.

International experience could give her an edge in adapting to college basketball.

• Zoe Brooks - NC State Guard (5-10)

With NC State losing its top scorers, Brooks is poised to make an impact.

Her scoring abilities and physicality could make her a key contributor.

• Aalyah Del Rosario - LSU Center (6-6)

Del Rosario, though unlikely to see extensive minutes, has significant potential.

Her development throughout the season will be intriguing to watch.

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These 20 freshmen represent the future stars of NCAA women's basketball, each bringing unique skills and potential to their respective teams. As the season unfolds, their performances will be closely watched, and they may well be the ones to define the future of women's college basketball.

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