The top sophomores for the 2024-25 men's college basketball season, ranked by Andy Katz

1. JT Toppin, Texas Tech

Officially ✍

Help us welcome JT Toppin to the Red Raider family!

— Texas Tech Basketball (@TexasTechMBB)

Toppin, the 2024 Mountain West Freshman of the Year, transferred to Texas Tech after an impressive season at New Mexico. The 6-foot-9 forward averaged 12.4 points, 9.1 rebounds and 1.9 blocks per game while shooting 62.3% from the field. Known for his physicality and rebounding prowess, Toppin’s presence in the paint will be crucial for Texas Tech. His ability to dominate the boards and protect the rim makes him one of the top sophomores to watch this season.

2. Josh Hubbard, Mississippi State

Hubbard, the SEC's top 3-point shooter and Mississippi State’s leading scorer, returns after a standout freshman season where he averaged 17.1 points per game. He set school freshman records for total points (598) and 3-pointers made (108), earning Second Team All-SEC and SEC All-Freshman Team honors. Hubbard's return solidifies Mississippi State's backcourt as the Bulldogs aim to build on last season’s success.

3. Mackenzie Mgbako, Indiana

Mgbako, the 2024 Big Ten Co-Freshman of the Year, returns to Indiana after a strong finish to his freshman season where he averaged 12.2 points and 4.1 rebounds. Known for his improved defense and outside shooting, Mgbako became Indiana's top 3-point option, hitting 37.8% in Big Ten games. The 6-foot-8 forward’s scoring ability and versatility make him a key piece for the Hoosiers heading into his sophomore year. 

MORE: Katz's top 16 wings

4. Aden Holloway, Alabama

Holloway, a former 5-star recruit and McDonald’s All-American, transferred to Alabama after a freshman season at Auburn where he averaged 7.3 points and 2.7 assists. Known for his playmaking potential, Holloway will look to regain his confidence and improve his shooting in Alabama’s high-paced offense. His experience as a starter makes him a key addition to the Crimson Tide’s backcourt, where he’ll provide valuable depth and secondary ball-handling. 

5. Jackson Shelstad, Oregon

Shelstad, a key contributor in Oregon’s NCAA tournament run, returns for his sophomore season after averaging 12.8 points and 2.8 assists as a freshman. Known for his clutch shooting, Shelstad hit a game-winning 3-pointer against Michigan in overtime last season. With Oregon transitioning to the Big Ten, his scoring and playmaking will be crucial as the Ducks face new challenges. 

6. Caleb Foster, Duke

Foster returns to Duke for his sophomore season after averaging 7.7 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in his freshman campaign. Despite missing the postseason due to injury, Foster showed his potential as a key ball-handler and sharpshooter, especially from beyond the arc, where he shot 40.6%. With Duke bringing in a top recruiting class, Foster is expected to take on an even bigger role, potentially as the primary point guard. 

7. Elliot Cadeau, North Carolina

Cadeau, now sporting the No. 3 jersey, returns to North Carolina after a strong freshman season where he averaged 7.3 points, 4.1 assists, and 2.2 rebounds per game. Known for his elite speed and passing, Cadeau quickly became a key playmaker for the Tar Heels, energizing the offense with his court vision and quickness. While his shooting remains an area of growth, his ability to create opportunities for his teammates makes him one of the most dynamic guards in college basketball. 

8. Aaron Bradshaw, Ohio State

Bradshaw, a 7-foot-1 transfer from Kentucky, joins Ohio State after averaging 4.9 points, 3.3 rebounds and 0.7 blocks in limited minutes during his freshman season. Known for his athleticism and shot-blocking ability, Bradshaw has the potential to be a dynamic force in the Buckeyes’ front court. His ability to run the floor and finish at the rim makes him a great fit for Ohio State’s up-tempo system.

9. DJ Wagner, Arkansas

Wagner, a former 5-star recruit and Kentucky’s starting guard, has transferred to Arkansas for his sophomore season, following head coach John Calipari. In his freshman year, Wagner averaged 9.9 points, 3.3 assists and 1.9 rebounds per game while starting 28 of 29 games. Wagner’s toughness and competitive spirit make him a key addition to the Razorbacks’ backcourt. 

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10. Collin Murray-Boyles, South Carolina

Big guy came to play. 🐔🏀 //

— Gamecock Men's Basketball (@GamecockMBB)

Murray-Boyles, an emerging force in the SEC, returns to South Carolina after a breakout freshman season where he averaged 10.4 points and 5.7 rebounds. Known for his strong post play and basketball IQ, the 6-foot-7 forward excels at attacking the rim and using his footwork to create scoring opportunities.

11. Camden Heide, Purdue

Heide, a versatile 6-foot-7 wing, enters his sophomore season at Purdue after showing flashes of his potential in limited minutes last year. Known for his athleticism and perimeter shooting (45% from three), Heide has the ability to defend multiple positions and provide highlight-reel plays.

12. Jeremy Fears, Michigan State

After missing most of his freshman season due to injury, Fears returns healthy and ready to lead Michigan State as the starting point guard in 2024. Known for his high basketball IQ and defensive intensity, Fears was one of the top-rated point guard recruits and has shown flashes of his potential during the Spartans' offseason trip to Spain.