The reigning champion UConn Huskies, currently celebrated as two-time national champions, could see Solomon Ball emerge as a standout performer this season. Ball, who averaged 3.3 points per game last season, is one of several players across different programs poised for a breakout year.

Continuity within a roster is a powerful indicator of success in college basketball, despite the increasing prevalence of transfers. UConn's success last year was largely driven by internal development from players like Donovan Clingan, Alex Karaban, and Tristen Newton. Now, all eyes are on Ball, who showed promise in a recent exhibition game against Rhode Island, scoring 18 points with impressive shooting efficiency.

Alex Condon of the Florida Gators is another exciting prospect. Standing almost 7 feet tall, Condon averaged 7.7 points and 6.4 rebounds per game last season. His mix of rim protection and offensive potential makes him a crucial part of coach Todd Golden's plans. With his ability to shoot threes, finish around the basket, and score in the low block, Condon's multifaceted game could see him rise significantly in the coming months.

Jaland Lowe of the Pittsburgh Panthers also commands attention. Despite sharing the spotlight with star freshman Bub Carrington last season, Lowe's performance improved notably as the season progressed. He averaged 13.5 points and 4.2 assists per game from mid-January onwards and shot 39% from three-point range. With Carrington now in the NBA, Lowe is set to be the Panthers' leading guard.

At Michigan State, Jeremy Fears Jr. is back from an injury that cut his freshman season short. Known for his excellent passing skills, Fears is expected to take on a significant role as the team's main facilitator. Head coach Tom Izzo has a history of developing great point guards, and Fears could be the next in line.

Purdue's Trey Kaufman-Renn is another player to watch. Having shared the frontcourt with Zach Edey for the past two years, Kaufman-Renn now has the opportunity to shine. Known for his mobility and speed, he complements star point guard Braden Smith well and offers a different dynamic to Purdue's offense.

Meanwhile, Arizona Wildcats’ Motiejus Krivas is generating buzz. The Lithuanian big man, who averaged 5.4 points and 4.2 rebounds last season, is expected to play a bigger role this year. His combination of length and soft touch around the basket makes him a valuable asset for Arizona’s frontcourt.

The Cincinnati Bearcats will be looking to Jizzle James, who averaged 8.8 points and 2.1 assists last year, to elevate his game. With his talent as a dynamic ballhandler, James has the potential to become one of the country's top guards. For Cincinnati to achieve its goals, James needs to enhance his shooting consistency and develop as a point guard.

Marquette's Chase Ross, who averaged 6.1 points per game last season, is also on the rise. With the departure of stars Tyler Kolek and Oso Ighodaro, Ross is expected to take on a more significant role. His defensive versatility and ability to attack in transition will be key for the Golden Eagles.

Caleb Foster of the Duke Blue Devils, with his strong shooting and ballhandling skills, could be a decisive player this season. Foster, who averaged 7.7 points per game last season, will be pushed by a talented freshman class but looks set to make a significant impact.

Finally, Dailyn Swain of the Xavier Musketeers, who averaged 4.6 points and 3.0 rebounds last season, is another player showing great potential. Injuries last season gave Swain more playing time, and he took advantage of the opportunity. With his athleticism and size, Swain is expected to take significant strides forward.

As these players prepare for the new season, their performances could shape the narrative of college basketball and position them as top prospects for the NBA draft.