### Rising Stars and Veteran Leaders: College Basketball's Top Talents

As the 2024 college basketball season approaches, several standout players and emerging stars are gearing up to make their mark. From seasoned seniors to promising freshmen, the roster is filled with talent ready to lead their teams to victory.

Dylan Harper, the 6'6" lefty and son of former NBA guard Ron Harper, is poised to take on a significant role at Rutgers. Ranked among the top five recruits in the 2024 class, Harper’s playmaking ability will be central to Rutgers' ambitions from the very start.

Indiana's Oumar Ballo, who has already earned 1st-Team All-Pac 12 and All-Pac 12 Defense honors, is another key player to watch. Standing at seven feet tall, Ballo’s impact in the paint will be crucial for an Indiana team aiming high this season.

South Carolina’s Collin Murray-Boyles not only returns as the team’s undisputed leader but also carries the praise of reigning SEC Coach of the Year, Lamont Paris. After a strong NCAA Tournament run last season, expectations are high for Murray-Boyles and his squad.

Josh Hubbard from Mississippi State, a 2nd-team All-SEC freshman, looks to build on his impressive debut season. Averaging 17.1 points per game, Hubbard's sophomore year is anticipated to be a significant one as Mississippi State aims for its third consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance.

Alabama’s Grant Nelson is expected to solidify his place in the post after a standout performance in the Final Four, where he amassed 91 points and 15 rebounds. Nelson brings a blend of length, skill, and toughness that makes him a formidable presence on the court.

In the Big East, Kadary Richmond of St. John’s, coming off a season where he led Seton Hall to an NIT Championship, is gearing up for another impactful year. Richmond will be central to Rick Pitino’s plans as St. John’s look to crack the top-25 rankings.

Florida’s Walter Clayton returns to carry the offensive load once more, leading a Gators team that has shown steady improvement under Todd Golden. With two of their top three perimeter scorers returning, Florida is set for another competitive season.

Freshman VJ Edgecombe of Baylor enters the season with high expectations following a stellar summer with the senior national team from the Bahamas. Ranked No. 4 in the On3 150, Edgecombe’s debut is highly anticipated as Baylor aims to maintain its high ranking.

Purdue’s Braden Smith, a 1st-team All-Big 10 performer, is back to lead a team with high expectations. Following a season where Purdue reached the National Championship game, Smith's expanded role will be critical as Purdue looks to build on their recent success.

Rounding out the group is Stanford’s Maxime Raynaud, who decided to stay with the team despite entering the transfer portal. Last season’s PAC 12 Most Improved Player, Raynaud is expected to be a key figure in the ACC, adding to Stanford's depth and aspirations.

These players, alongside many others, highlight the depth of talent across college basketball this season. Their performances will be pivotal in shaping their teams' fortunes and making the 2024 season one to remember.