Kansas' Tyran Stokes Named Preseason Freshman of the Year for 2026-27

As the 2025-26 college basketball season approaches, Kansas' Tyran Stokes has been named the preseason Freshman of the Year for the 2026-27 season. Stokes, the top-ranked recruit in the 2026 class according to 247Sports, is anticipated to be the first overall pick in the 2027 NBA Draft.

Stokes is part of the CBS Sports All-Freshman First Team, which also includes Caleb Holt from Arizona, Jordan Smith Jr. from Arkansas, Joaquim Boumtje Boumtje from Duke, and Jason Crowe Jr. from Missouri. The second team features UCLA's Nikola Kusturica, who is seen as a top NBA prospect.

Stokes is recognized for his powerful offensive skills, while Smith is projected as a top-three pick due to his ability to drive to the basket. Boumtje Boumtje, who will need two seasons in college due to draft age rules, is noted for his shooting ability. Crowe, a prolific scorer in high school, is expected to make a significant impact this season.