Preseason College Basketball Awards Outlook
With a remarkable freshman class joining a collegiate basketball scene already buzzing about its star potential, the competition for individual honors is shaping up to be particularly intense this season. There’s a certain unpredictability in who might take home the accolades.
As we prepare for the tip-off of the season, let’s explore the top 10 contenders for the 2025-26 Wooden Award.
1. Braden Smith (Purdue)
Braden Smith, frequently mentioned as a frontrunner for national player of the year, returns to West Lafayette after an outstanding 2024-25 season. His stats were quite impressive: 15.8 points, 8.7 assists (the second highest in the nation), along with 4.5 rebounds and 2.2 steals per game. He shot efficiently as well, with 42.8% from the field and 38.1% from three-point range.
Leading the No. 1 team in the preseason is no small task, but if Smith meets expectations, he could become the fourth Boilermaker to secure the prestigious title.
2. JT Toppin (Texas Tech University)
Coming off a successful season, JT Toppin returns to Texas Tech after leading the Red Raiders to the regional finals. This versatile 6’9″ forward averaged 18.2 points and 9.4 rebounds, notably shining during crucial moments for his coach, Grant McCasland.
3. Divantha (BYU)
The only true freshman on the Associated Press preseason first-team All-American list, Divantha enters the season with heightened expectations. His recent exhibition performance against Nebraska only intensified the buzz surrounding his first (and likely only) season in Provo.
If he can capitalize on opportunities early in BYU’s challenging non-conference schedule, he might catch the eyes of Wooden voters.
4. Jaksel Lendeborg (Michigan)
After a couple of quiet years at UAB, Jaksel Lendeborg is ready to make a name for himself in a bigger arena. The all-around forward averaged 17.7 points, 11.4 rebounds, 4.2 assists, along with solid defensive statistics last season. His dramatic performance against East Carolina in the AAC Tournament, recording 30 points and 20 rebounds, showcased his potential.
5. Darrin Peterson (Kansas State)
Peterson has emerged as a strong candidate for national player of the year, should DiVanza not take the title. Described by Bill Self as “the best freshman I’ve ever recruited,” Peterson is expected to take on a significant scoring role this season. If he can handle this pressure, he could establish himself as a standout player.
6. Ball (Villanova)
After receiving second-team All-Big East honors last season, Ball seems set for superstardom. With impressive averages of 14.4 points and 3.6 rebounds, he led his team with a notable shooting percentage. His scoring could improve further this year, thanks to new teammates who can ease the pressure.
7. Trey Kaufman Len (Purdue)
Braden Smith’s teammates recognize that while he shone last season, Kaufman-Len actually led the Boilermakers in scoring and rebounding. This 6’9″ senior forward is a double-double machine and could become one of the most dominant players in the nation.
8. Alex Condon (Florida)
After a solid season averaging 10.6 points and 7.5 rebounds, Condon is looking to take a leap this year. His impressive shot-blocking skills and return to Gainesville after considering the NBA demonstrate his commitment to success at the collegiate level.
9. Dent (UCLA)
Recognized as a coveted guard from the transfer portal, Dent makes his mark after a stellar season at New Mexico State. He has noteworthy achievements under his belt, making an impactful debut in Westwood. If he can harness his talent effectively, he could be in line for high honors this season.
10. Tahad Pettiford (Auburn)
With recent changes in Auburn’s coaching, Pettiford stands as one of the finest pure scorers in the country. After averaging 11.6 points as a freshman, expectations are high for his second season. If he ignites his game, watching him play could prove to be quite the experience.
