The world of college basketball is poised to witness an exciting generation of players for the 2025-26 season, highlighted by sons of former NBA stars taking to the court. These players not only carry the legacy of their illustrious fathers but also aim to forge their own paths in the sport.
Among them are Cameron and Cayden Boozer, who will suit up for Duke. The fraternal twins, following in the footsteps of their father, Carlos Boozer, are set to make an impact as standout freshmen in the ACC. With Cameron rated as a five-star prospect and ranked No. 3 in his class, and Cayden listed as a four-star prospect at No. 23, both forward positions will be well-covered.
At Syracuse, Kiyan Anthony is ready to step into the spotlight as well, continuing the legacy of his father, Carmelo Anthony. Kiyan, a four-star recruit ranked No. 32 nationally, will look to lead the Orange back to glory, much like his father did when he secured the national title in 2003.
On the West Coast, Bryce James, son of LeBron James, will begin his college career at Arizona. As a three-star prospect, he is ranked No. 324 and is part of an exciting season where he can prove himself among his father’s legacy while LeBron continues to shine in the NBA.
Andrej Stojakovic, following his father Peja Stojakovic’s footsteps, is set to play for Illinois after a transformative start to his collegiate journey. With a solid ranking of four-star and No. 19 in his high school class, the young talent looks to add to the impressive shooting legacy of his father.
Ashton Hardaway returns to Memphis where he’ll play under his father’s watchful eye, Penny Hardaway, who has been the head coach since 2018. Ashton, a three-star prospect and No. 110 in his class, aims to bring a powerhouse presence back to Memphis.
Meanwhile, Jake Wilkins at Georgia, Gicarri Harris at Purdue, and Jermaine O’Neal Jr. at SMU are poised to invigorate their respective teams, each drawing inspiration from their fathers’ celebrated careers. Jake, known as “Baby Highlight,” is following the illustrious path set by Dominique Wilkins, whereas Gicarri seeks to establish his legacy at Purdue, where his father, Glenn Robinson, is revered.
In other noteworthy mentions, Alijah Arenas at USC admits that a knee injury could keep him sidelined for the season but is a five-star talent with considerable potential. Shaqir O’Neal, wrapping up his college career at Sacramento State, aims to honor his father, Shaquille O’Neal, while Justin Pippen and Stephon Marbury II are also making names for themselves at California.
This generation of players brings a unique blend of legacy and fresh potential to college basketball, fostering excitement among fans eager to see how these young talents develop on the court. As they embark on their journeys, their fathers’ remarkable histories will surely loom large, serving as both inspiration and motivation in their quests for success.