As 2025 kicks off, some of the most exciting new players in women’s college basketball are already making waves. Freshman athletes from the 2024 recruiting class are stepping up big time, especially as conference play heats up. Let’s dive into the latest updates on three standout first-year stars.

### Syla Swords – Michigan Wolverines

Syla Swords is back and better than ever. After recovering from a left leg injury, the 6-foot freshman guard made a powerful return, showing exactly why she’s a name to watch. Swords delivered a career-high 30 points in Michigan’s matchup against the nation’s top-ranked team, UCLA. Although Michigan, ranked No. 24, didn’t manage to pull off the upset, Swords kept her team in the fight against one of the toughest squads in the country.

What’s even more encouraging? Swords played 39 out of 40 minutes in that game, proving she’s nearly back to full strength. This could be a game-changer for Michigan as they prepare to face their biggest rival, No. 10 Ohio State. The showdown is set for Wednesday at 7 p.m. ET, and all eyes will be on Swords to see if she can deliver another stellar performance.

### Mikayla Blakes – Vanderbilt Commodores

Mikayla Blakes has been unstoppable since the New Year began. Vanderbilt may have split their last two games (1-1), but the freshman guard is doing everything she can to keep her team in the spotlight. In just two games in 2025, Blakes is averaging an impressive 30 points per game.

She scored a jaw-dropping 36 points in Vanderbilt’s big win over Georgia and followed it up with 24 points in a tough loss to No. 16 Kentucky. On the season, Blakes is averaging 20.6 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. If the Commodores can start converting her incredible efforts into more wins, they could become a surprise contender in the highly competitive SEC.

Next up, Vanderbilt will take on No. 25 Ole Miss on Thursday at 7:30 p.m. ET. With Blakes leading the charge, Vanderbilt fans have plenty of reasons to be optimistic.

### Sarah Strong – UConn Huskies

Sarah Strong continues to dominate for No. 7 UConn as they push through Big East play. The freshman forward was outstanding in UConn’s recent blowout win over Villanova, scoring a game-high 21 points. Strong shot an incredible 75% from the field and drained 66% of her three-point attempts—all in just 26 minutes of action.

But she wasn’t just scoring; Strong also contributed five rebounds, four assists, one steal, and one block in the game. Over her last three matchups, she’s averaging nearly 17 points per game, helping UConn stay atop the Big East standings.

The Huskies look poised to make a deep run when postseason play rolls around, and Strong is a big reason why. Their next game is against Xavier on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. ET, where she’ll look to keep building on her already stellar season.

These freshmen are proving they’re ready for the big stage, and their teams are counting on them as conference play ramps up. Keep an eye on these rising stars—they’re just getting started!