NCAA Basketball: Top 25 impact freshmen classes for 2022-23 season
1. Arkansas Razorbacks
Head coach Eric Musselman focused this entire offseason loading up the frontcourt via the frontcourt. That’s because the entire recruiting class, which is the highest-rated in program history, is all focused on the backcourt.
They’re led by Nick Smith, a consensus top-5 overall guard and arguably the best perimeter player in the entire 2022 NCAA Basketball recruiting class. He’s a 6’4 playmaker that can run an offense efficiently, capable of shooting from deep, driving to the basket, and making the right plays. Smith is a good defender as well and could potentially be the best guard in the entire SEC next season.
Another five-star guard coming in is Jordan Walsh, a 6’7 wing that is also a dynamic scorer and also a quality defender. His versatility allows him to play and guard up to three different positions on the court. Then there’s Anthony Black, a 6’7 guard that also is versatile and can also play anywhere in the backcourt. His measurables and athleticism make him an interesting pro prospect and he also can handle the ball, making him potentially Smith’s backup at point guard.
Arkansas has three other top-100 guards that’ll either make this season’s rotation or be part of the future core once these five-stars depart. Joseph Pinion is a 6’6 shooting wing who can wreak havoc from deep, Barry Dunning is a 6’6 guard/wing who can both score and defend well, while Derrian Ford is a combo guard and another potential ball-handler.
Next. Top 25 team backcourts for 2022-23. dark
This group of guards is so deep and talented that it wouldn’t be a surprise if the Razorbacks played four guards and stuck some of those transfers onto the bench. That’s how good guys like Walsh and Black are alongside Smith. While Duke may have the No. 1 overall class on paper, Arkansas’ group of guards will be some of the most-watched in NCAA Basketball and will be the most impactful next season.