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Just like the Big 12, the Big Ten conference experienced a major shakeup this offseason. Washington, Oregon, USC and UCLA have entered its mix, increasing the overall competition. The USC Trojans, Oregon Ducks and Washington Huskies bring a history of deep NCAA runs.
Moreover, their star-studded rosters and reputed names can also affect the direction of incoming players in the coming season. Here's a closer look at the top five women's college basketball freshman entering the Big Ten conference in the 2024-25 season.
Top 5 women's basketball freshman in Big Ten for 2024-25 season
#5. Faith Wiseman – Indiana Hoosiers
Wiseman joins the Hoosiers behind her dream of donning an Indiana jersey. The 6-foot-4 forward committed to the program in 2022 and has been connected with coach Teri Moren ever since.
While she is the lowest-ranked player by ESPN on the list, Wiseman dominated her high school circuit by winning four consecutive sectional titles. Moreover, she is coming off averaging 18.2 points and 11.9 rebounds in her last high school season.
#4. Berry Wallace – Illinois
Five-star Wallace made for an interesting talent class in Illinois this season, coming behind two four-star additions. Her addition helps the coming veterans realign their careers while giving the Fighting Illini a chance at developing skilled players.
The forward is expected to find a significant role next season as the program anticipates making a promising NCAA run.
#3. Kennedy Smith – USC
A five-star recruit and a top-10 2024 prospect, Smith already has experience of leading a team through her Open Division state championship with the Eagles. The 6-foot-1 forward was the Naismith Player of the Year semifinalist and came to the Big Ten after being pursued heavily by UCLA, Gamecocks and Duke.
The Etiwanda High School product is a versatile forward who can shoot from areas on the floor, take care of the ball and operate in the post.
#2. Syla Swords – Michigan
Syla Swords made her Olympic debut in Paris and became the youngest Canadian hooper in the global event. Her McDonald’s All-American and Olympics experience during her high school days will help her to switch things up in the college basketball environment.
Moreover, Michigan has appointed four-time Canadian Olympian Natalie Achonwa as its assistant coach for player development. This could serve as a massive boost in Syla Swords’ game and ease her adaptation to NCAA basketball.
#1. Jaloni Cambridge – Ohio State
Cambridge, the second-best player on ESPN’s 2024 talent pool ranking entered the Big Ten conference by rejecting Florida, Georgia, LSU, South Carolina Gamecocks and Baylor. She will now pair up with her sister Kennedy Cambridge on Ohio State’s backcourt.
Nevertheless, Ohio State’s playing style had tempted Cambridge earlier, instilling a desire to be the program’s go-to point guard.
Which women's college basketball freshman are you most excited to see in the Big Ten next season? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
