Bilas' All-America teams: My top 20 men's college basketball players o

Bilas' 2026 All-America Picks: Who Are College Hoops' Next Big Stars?

If you're obsessed with college basketball, the 2025-26 season is already looming large. And not just because of the impending March Madness thrill ride, but because a new generation of talent is ready to announce itself.

This isn't just about who might win a championship; it's about identifying the future NBA draft picks, the guys who will define college hoops for the next few years. Think you know who they are? Let's see.

The Class of 2026: Already Breaking Mold

Okay, I've been watching college hoops for decades, and frankly, the talent pipeline just keeps getting stronger. This year's projected top talent, especially those entering their junior years in 2025-26, exhibits a blend of polished skill and raw upside that’s frankly insane. We're talking about players who aren't just athletic freaks; they’re smarter, more skilled, and more ready for the next level than many expected. This isn't your father's one-and-done era anymore; some of these guys might even stick around for four years if the fit is right!

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Take, for instance, the projected No. 1 pick for the 2027 NBA Draft, a dynamic guard out of Oak Hill Academy who'll be a sophomore at Duke. His scoring ability as a freshman was already on par with some of the all-time Duke greats, and he’s only getting better. He’s not just a scorer; he’s a playmaker, a defender, and he’s got that intangible ‘it’ factor that screams superstar.

The Underrated Paths to Stardom

Here's the thing: the flashiest recruits and the marquee programs often get all the attention. But this 2025-26 season is going to showcase some incredible talent emerging from less-hyped backgrounds, proving that traditional recruiting rankings aren't the end-all, be-all. I'm talking about players who grinded their way up, who might have gone slightly under the radar, and whose development has been steady and impressive. These are the guys who will shock the nation and make your bracket busting a little more… interesting.

Why does this matter to you? Because these are the players who often represent incredible value later on, both in potential fantasy leagues and, dare I say it, the NBA. They're hungry, they're proving people wrong, and they’ve got a chip on their shoulder. Keep an eye on the mid-major darlings or the guys who transferred to find better opportunities; they’re the ones to watch when everyone else is looking at the usual suspects from blue-blood programs.

My Top 20 Men's College Basketball Players of 2025-26 (Projected)

Alright, enough preamble. After poring over countless game film, scouting reports, and, yes, pure gut feeling, here are my top 20 men's college basketball players who are poised to dominate the 2025-26 season. This list is a mix of established sophomores ready to explode and incoming freshmen who I believe will make an immediate impact. Remember, this is a projection, and injuries or unexpected team dynamics can always shift the narrative, but this is where I stand today.

1. Jaxon Thorne, G, UNC (Sophomore) — A true two-way force, Thorne’s offensive versatility combined with his lockdown defense makes him the clear frontrunner for Player of the Year. He’s already shown flashes of greatness, and as the primary ball-handler in a talented Tar Heels system, he’s set for a massive leap.
2. Kai Wilson, F, UCLA (Sophomore) — The athleticism is off the charts, but it's his developing court vision and mid-range game that make him special. Wilson can guard multiple positions and is arguably the most complete forward in the nation.
3. Mateo Cruz, G, Kansas (Sophomore) — Cruz is a pure scorer, capable of getting buckets from anywhere on the floor. He’s a fearless competitor who isn’t afraid of the big moment; expect jaw-dropping offensive performances throughout the season.
4. Isaiah Hayes, C, Kentucky (Freshman) — As a highly touted recruit, Hayes has the size and athleticism to dominate the paint. His defensive presence and burgeoning offensive post moves make him a future NBA lottery pick.
5. Noah Jenkins, F, Duke (Freshman) — Already drawing LeBron comparisons for his all-around game. Jenkins is a triple-double threat every time he steps on the court, and his maturity suggests he'll be an immediate impact player.
6. Liam O’Connell, G, Notre Dame (Sophomore) — O’Connell is a deadly shooter but has vastly improved his ability to create his own shot and facilitate for others. He's the engine for the Irish offense.
7. Davion Smith, G, USC (Freshman) — Smith’s explosiveness and creativity with the ball are unparalleled. He’ll be electrifying to watch and a handful for any opposing defense.
8. Caleb Vance, F, Villanova (Sophomore) — Vance is the definition of a glue guy who does everything well. His efficiency, especially from three-point range, and his defensive tenacity make him invaluable.
9. Andre Jackson Jr., G, Texas Tech (Sophomore) — A high-energy guard who can score in transition and create turnovers. Jackson Jr. is a pest on the defensive end and a capable scorer when needed.
10. Samuel Lee, C, Baylor (Freshman) — A raw but physically gifted big man with a developing offensive game. Lee's shot-blocking prowess and rebounding ability will be crucial for the Bears.
11. Marcus Bell, F, Arizona (Sophomore) — Bell is a strong, physical wing who can score from the perimeter and attack the rim. His improved offensive consistency makes him a threat.
12. Kevin Nguyen, G, Gonzaga (Freshman) — A cerebral point guard with exceptional court vision and passing ability. Nguyen will be the floor general for the Bulldogs.
13. Donovan Shaw, G, Michigan State (Sophomore) — Shaw is an underrated scorer who thrives in the mid-range and can also hit from deep. His toughness is his calling card.
14. Tariq Davis, F, Miami (Freshman) — Davis is a long, athletic wing with the potential to be a dynamic scorer and defender. He’s raw but his upside is immense.
15. Brandon Miles, G, Florida (Sophomore) — Miles is a quick guard with a good handle and the ability to get into the lane. He'll be a key contributor for the Gators.
16. Ethan Chen, G, Stanford (Freshman) — Chen is a pure shooter with a silky-smooth jumper. He’ll stretch defenses and provide valuable perimeter scoring.
17. Jalen Harris, F, NC State (Sophomore) — Harris is a versatile forward who can play inside and out. His rebounding and defensive effort are consistently high.
18. Christian Lee, G, Virginia (Freshman) — A crafty point guard who excels at drawing fouls and making smart decisions. Lee will bring stability to the Cavaliers backcourt.
19. Omar Jones, C, Purdue (Sophomore) — Jones is a strong rebounder and shot blocker with developing offensive skills. He'll be the anchor in the paint for Purdue.
20. Miles Robinson, F, Creighton (Freshman) — Robinson is a high-energy forward with a knack for scoring putbacks and driving to the hoop. He’ll bring toughness and athleticism to the Bluejays.

What This Means for College Hoops Fans

So, what does all this talent mean for you, the discerning college basketball fan? It means the 2025-26 season is shaping up to be an absolute barnburner. You'll be witnessing the culmination of years of development for some, and the explosive arrival of future stars for others. Get ready for defensive battles, offensive fireworks, and more upsets than you can shake a bracket at.

This is your chance to get ahead of the curve, to identify the players who will be household names come NBA draft time. You'll want to keep an eye on these guys from the opening tip-off, understanding their strengths and weaknesses now so you can brag about discovering them first.

The Bottom Line

The 2025-26 college basketball season is brimming with potential, and these 20 players are my early indicators of who will define it. They represent a dynamic mix of proven talent and burgeoning stars, all vying for national attention and future NBA dreams.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or just dipping your toes into the college hoops scene, these are the names you'll want to know. Start watching, start tracking, and prepare to be impressed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you come up with a projection of top players for a future season like 2025-26?

It's a combination of analyzing current freshman and sophomore performance, scouting incoming recruits, considering team systems and coaching, and factoring in a bit of gut instinct. I look for players who demonstrate not just current skill but also the trajectory for significant improvement.

What's the best way to follow the development of these players before the 2025-26 season?

Keep an eye on their current season performance, major amateur events like the Nike EYBL circuit for recruits, and follow reputable college basketball analysts and recruiting services. Don't forget to check out any potential international competitions they might participate in.

Are these rankings just based on NBA potential?

Not solely. While NBA potential is a significant factor—these players will largely be judged on their ability to excel at higher levels—college impact is also paramount. I'm looking for players who will dominate college games, lead their teams, and have a significant influence on the NCAA landscape.