Expectations for high-profile freshmen are typically through the roof. You couldn't fault any of them for being a little behind schedule in their impact on the college hoops scene this season.
The lack of a normal offseason wiped away practice time, exhibitions and early nonconference games that can speed up the adjustment period.
"The biggest adjustment is the physicality," said Gophers freshman guard Jamal Mashburn Jr., averaging 4.9 points and 1.2 assists in 15.6 minutes this season. "Everybody is older and bigger and stronger. I've been kind of able to get myself used to that."
There are freshmen like Mashburn making mistakes but showing glimpses of talent. And there are others already leading their teams in a strange and difficult season.
Here are my 10 most impactful freshmen in college basketball:
Jalen Suggs, Gonzaga: The former Minnehaha Academy star delivered on the biggest stage with 24 points vs. Kansas and 27 points vs. Iowa. He missed recent games because of a leg injury, but the point guard and potential NBA lottery pick is the key to the Zags' national title hopes.
Hunter Dickinson, Michigan: The 7-1 center opened eyes of the entire country even before his 28-point performance Wednesday night in a blowout win against the Gophers. The Wolverines have emerged as arguably the Big Ten's top team with Dickinson leading them in scoring and rebounding.
Cade Cunningham, Oklahoma State: The discussion about the No. 1 pick in the NBA draft typically doesn't begin without mentioning Cunningham. But the 6-8 guard has made the Cowboys relevant in the Big 12 almost with his presence alone, averaging 19 points, six rebounds and four assists.
