Top 20 Freshman Phenoms in NCAA March Madness History

20. Derrick Coleman, Syracuse (1987) Derrick Coleman, despite not clinching the championship, made a significant impact in the 1987 NCAA tournament. Averaging 10.5 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks, Coleman led Syracuse to victories over teams with future NBA stars before losing to Indiana in the title game.

19. Gene Banks, Duke (1978) Gene Banks was pivotal in Duke's journey to the national title game in 1978, averaging 19.2 points and 10.0 rebounds in the tournament. His efforts laid the groundwork for Duke's future successes.

18. Gerry McNamara Jr., Syracuse (2003) While Carmelo Anthony was the star, Gerry McNamara played a crucial role in Syracuse's 2003 championship run, averaging 13.3 points and 2.5 steals, and hitting 41% of his 3-point attempts.

17. Stephon Castle, UConn (2024) Stephon Castle's defensive prowess was key in UConn's consecutive national championships, averaging 12.5 points per game and applying relentless pressure on opponents.

16. Patrick Ewing, Georgetown (1982) Patrick Ewing nearly overshadowed Michael Jordan in the 1982 title game, recording 23 points, 11 rebounds, 3 steals, and 2 blocks in a narrow loss to North Carolina.

15. Mike Conley Jr., Ohio State (2007) Mike Conley Jr. showcased his maturity and skill, averaging 16.0 points, 4.8 assists, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.0 steals in Ohio State's run to the championship game.

14. Chris Webber, Michigan (1992) Chris Webber was phenomenal in the 1992 tournament, averaging 16.3 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks, leading Michigan to the title game.

13. Jalen Rose, Michigan (1992) Jalen Rose complemented Webber's efforts with 17.8 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game in the 1992 tournament.

12. Toby Bailey, UCLA (1995) Toby Bailey's performance in UCLA's 1995 championship win over Arkansas, with 26 points and 9 rebounds, solidified his legacy.

11. Jeremy Lamb, UConn (2011) Jeremy Lamb was crucial in UConn's 2011 championship, averaging 16.1 points and hitting an incredible 63% of his 3-point attempts.

10. Arnie Ferrin, Utah (1944) Arnie Ferrin, the first freshman to win the Most Outstanding Player, scored 22 points in Utah's 42-40 title game win over Dartmouth.

9. Greg Oden, Ohio State (2007) Despite playing injured, Greg Oden averaged 16.1 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks, showcasing his talent in the 2007 tournament.

8. Mark Aguirre, DePaul (1979) Mark Aguirre nearly stopped Magic Johnson and Larry Bird's historic final with a 19-point performance in DePaul's Final Four loss.

7. Derrick Rose, Memphis (2008) Derrick Rose had a stellar tournament, averaging 20.8 points, 6.0 assists, and 1.3 steals, narrowly missing a championship due to a game-tying 3-pointer.

6. Michael Jordan, North Carolina (1982) Michael Jordan's freshman year included a game-winning shot in the title game, hinting at his future greatness.

5. Tyus Jones, Duke (2015) Tyus Jones led Duke to the 2015 championship, averaging 13.0 points, 4.5 assists, and 1.6 steals, earning Most Outstanding Player honors.

4. Mike Bibby, Arizona (1997) Mike Bibby was instrumental in Arizona's 1997 title, averaging 18.0 points and shooting 49% from 3-point range.

3. Pervis Ellison, Louisville (1986) Pervis 'Never Nervous' Ellison earned his nickname with clutch performances, including 25 points and 11 rebounds in the championship game.

2. Anthony Davis, Kentucky (2012) Anthony Davis dominated defensively, leading Kentucky to the 2012 title with averages of 13.6 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 4.8 blocks.

1. Carmelo Anthony, Syracuse (2003) Carmelo Anthony's freshman year culminated in a national championship, averaging 20.1 points and 9.8 rebounds, earning Most Outstanding Player honors.