NCAA Basketball: 5 impact high-major freshmen players so far in 2023-24 season

Yves Missi - 6'10 Forward/Center - Baylor Bears

While there was a lot of fanfare surrounding Jakobe Walters joining the Baylor Bears rotation, big man Yves Missi has made a similar impact with his additional presence in the frontcourt. The Bears are 9-1 with Missi in the lineup as he's shown off his ability to be impactful on both ends of the floor.

The 6-foot-10 big man is averaging 10.0 points, 6.4 rebounds and 2.2 blocks per contest while shooting 62.3 percent from the field. He's yet to expand his game to the perimeter, but there's been no need to given his efficiency around the painted area and ability to protect the rim defensively.

Missi had his first "struggle" game on the young season in the Bears' 88-64 loss to Michigan State, though he still managed to have an efficient offensive surge. He finished with 11 points on 5-of-6 shooting while battling through four fouls against the Spartans. He played in just 19 minutes of action.

He understands his role in the Baylor rotation and thus far, he's been a solid anchor on the rebounding and shot-blocking front. He's already racked up a career-best 14 rebounds in a victory over Oregon State. Look for his production to increase on the rebounding front as conference play approaches for the Big 12.