As the 2025 college basketball season approaches, the landscape of NCAA hoops continues to evolve with an influx of highly talented forwards from some of the most prestigious programs in the country. Among the programs consistently producing top-tier talent are Arkansas, Kentucky, Tennessee, Duke, and Louisville—each with a storied history and rich recruiting pipelines. In this analysis, we will delve into the top-five forward picks from each of these programs, examining their skills, potential, and future impacts on the college basketball scene.
1. Arkansas Razorbacks
Under head coach Eric Musselman, the Arkansas Razorbacks have become a powerhouse in both recruiting and player development. Musselman’s aggressive style of play and commitment to high-tempo offense has attracted a number of talented forwards to the program. In 2025, the Razorbacks boast some of the top forward prospects who have the potential to elevate the program further.
1.1. Jordan Walsh (6’7”, 215 lbs, Freshman)
A 5-star recruit from Texas, Walsh enters Arkansas as one of the most highly touted forwards in the country. Known for his elite athleticism, high motor, and defensive prowess, Walsh is a versatile forward who can guard multiple positions. His offensive game is still developing, but his ability to finish at the rim and attack in transition will make him an immediate contributor. Expect Walsh to play a key role in Arkansas’ aggressive defensive schemes while adding scoring punch on offense.
1.2. Trevon Brazile (6’9”, 220 lbs, Sophomore)
A transfer from Missouri, Brazile has the physical tools to thrive in Musselman’s system. With a combination of size, length, and skill, Brazile is an excellent rebounder and shot-blocker. His ability to stretch the floor with a reliable three-point shot gives him an edge over traditional forwards. With a year of SEC experience under his belt, Brazile could become one of the top forwards in the conference, showcasing his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor.
1.3. Makai Mitchell (6’9”, 235 lbs, Junior)
Mitchell is a bruising forward who excels in the paint. His physicality and rebounding ability will make him a force on the boards for the Razorbacks. Although his offensive game is limited, his size and defensive presence make him a valuable asset in Musselman’s fast-paced system. He could emerge as one of the top forwards for Arkansas due to his ability to anchor the paint and provide toughness for the team.
1.4. Kamani Johnson (6’7”, 230 lbs, Senior)
A seasoned veteran, Johnson brings stability and experience to the forward position. Known for his ability to stretch the floor and score in a variety of ways, Johnson will be expected to provide leadership and consistency on both ends of the court. His strong defensive abilities and rebounding skills make him a key figure in the Razorbacks’ frontcourt rotation.
1.5. Jalen Graham (6’8”, 210 lbs, Senior)
Graham is another veteran forward for Arkansas, providing valuable depth and versatility. Known for his ability to defend multiple positions and finish around the rim, he plays with high energy and will be crucial in providing quality minutes off the bench. His athleticism and work ethic will make him a reliable contributor throughout the season.
2. Kentucky Wildcats
As one of the most decorated programs in college basketball, Kentucky consistently produces NBA-caliber forwards, and the 2025 class is no different. With head coach John Calipari at the helm, Kentucky has a reputation for developing players who excel on both ends of the court. The Wildcats’ forward group is loaded with talent, offering a mix of athleticism, scoring ability, and size.
2.1. Cason Wallace (6’9”, 225 lbs, Freshman)
A highly touted 5-star recruit, Wallace enters Kentucky with a lot of expectations. His blend of size, length, and perimeter shooting sets him apart as a versatile forward who can stretch the floor and create mismatches. Wallace is a tough, physical player who isn’t afraid to mix it up in the paint, and his defensive prowess will be key for Calipari’s system. As a potential lottery pick, Wallace will have an immediate impact for the Wildcats.
2.2. Chris Livingston (6’6”, 210 lbs, Freshman)
Livingston is a high-flying, athletic forward who excels in transition and attacking the rim. While he’s still developing as a shooter, Livingston’s explosiveness and high basketball IQ allow him to excel in fast-break situations and create havoc on defense. His versatility will make him a key piece for Kentucky in 2025, and as his outside shooting improves, he could become one of the top forwards in the SEC.
2.3. T.J. Robinson (6’8”, 220 lbs, Sophomore)
After a promising freshman season, Robinson has the potential to take a major leap in 2025. A strong, athletic forward with a well-rounded offensive game, Robinson is capable of both scoring inside and stretching the floor with his perimeter shooting. His physicality and rebounding ability will be crucial for Kentucky’s success, especially in the paint where he can dominate on both ends.
2.4. Jacob Toppin (6’9”, 205 lbs, Senior)
A veteran presence on the Kentucky roster, Toppin is a skilled forward who provides leadership and experience. Known for his length and shot-blocking ability, Toppin also has a smooth mid-range jumper and can finish with authority around the rim. His all-around game and basketball IQ make him an essential part of Kentucky’s forward rotation. He will be relied upon to provide scoring and defensive stability for the Wildcats.
2.5. Lance Ware (6’9”, 230 lbs, Junior)
A physical, gritty forward, Ware has a reputation for his rebounding ability and tenacious defense. While not as offensively polished as some of his teammates, Ware’s energy and hustle make him an indispensable asset on the court. He is an ideal role player who will thrive in Kentucky’s fast-paced style, providing rebounding and rim protection while contributing on offense when needed.
3. Tennessee Volunteers
Under Rick Barnes, Tennessee has established itself as a tough, defensive-minded program. The Vols have a number of talented forwards in 2025 who will be key in continuing the program’s upward trajectory. These forwards are known for their defensive prowess, physicality, and leadership on the court.
3.1. Jonas Aidoo (6’10”, 240 lbs, Sophomore)
Aidoo has the potential to become one of the top forwards in the SEC. Standing at 6’10” and possessing a solid frame, Aidoo is an excellent shot-blocker and rebounder. His ability to protect the rim will make him a cornerstone of Tennessee’s defense. As he develops offensively, Aidoo’s upside as a versatile forward who can step out and shoot the three-ball gives him a high ceiling for 2025.
3.2. Josiah Jordan-James (6’6”, 215 lbs, Senior)
A versatile forward who can play both inside and on the perimeter, James brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the Tennessee frontcourt. Known for his defense, rebounding, and ability to stretch the floor, James will be a key contributor for Tennessee in 2025. His ability to guard multiple positions and create mismatches on offense will be crucial to the Vols’ success.
3.3. Santiago Vescovi (6’4”, 205 lbs, Senior)
Though more of a guard than a traditional forward, Vescovi’s ability to play both roles and contribute on both ends of the floor makes him an important part of Tennessee’s forward rotation. His shooting ability, basketball IQ, and leadership will provide a steadying presence for the team, particularly when it comes to stretching the floor and spacing out the defense.
3.4. Zakai Zeigler (6’0”, 180 lbs, Sophomore)
Zeigler, while not a prototypical forward, provides exceptional speed, energy, and basketball IQ. His defensive tenacity and playmaking ability will make him a difference-maker for Tennessee, especially in transition. Though he plays a different role from other forwards, Zeigler’s energy and ability to make plays on both ends of the floor will be key in 2025.
3.5. Uros Plavsic (6’11”, 250 lbs, Senior)
A physical presence in the paint, Plavsic is known for his ability to finish strong around the rim and his imposing size. Though not a flashy player, his rebounding and shot-blocking abilities will provide valuable depth for Tennessee’s frontcourt.
4. Duke Blue Devils
Duke has consistently produced NBA talent under Coach K and now Jon Scheyer. The 2025 recruiting class is loaded with talented forwards who fit the Blue Devils’ style of fast-paced basketball, physicality, and defense.
4.1. Kyle Filipowski (6’9”, 230 lbs, Freshman)
Filipowski is one of the most highly anticipated forwards in the 2025 class. With a solid frame, elite basketball IQ, and versatile skill set, Filipowski is capable of dominating inside and outside. His scoring ability, combined with his rebounding and defense, makes him an immediate contributor for Duke.
4.2. Mark Mitchell (6’7”, 215 lbs, Freshman)
Mitchell is a tough, versatile forward known for his athleticism and defensive prowess. While his shooting is still a work in progress, Mitchell’s ability to attack the rim and play lockdown defense will make him a key contributor for Duke.
4.3. Tyrese Proctor (6’6”, 215 lbs, Freshman)
Proctor is a dynamic forward who can play multiple roles for Duke. His length and basketball IQ make him a versatile defender, while his offensive game allows him to impact both the interior and perimeter.
4.4. Jacob Grandison (6’6”, 210 lbs, Senior)
A veteran presence for Duke, Grandison brings leadership and shooting ability. His experience on both ends of the court will be valuable in 2025, particularly in Duke’s fast-paced offense.
4.5. Dariq Whitehead (6’7”, 205 lbs, Freshman)
Whitehead has the potential to become one of the top forwards in the ACC. With his combination of size, athleticism, and scoring ability, he is poised to make an immediate impact for Duke.
5. Louisville Cardinals
Louisville has undergone a transformation under coach Kenny Payne. The Cardinals’ 2025 class is filled with talented forwards who can contribute immediately. With a mix of skill and athleticism, Louisville’s forwards will be pivotal in the team’s success in 2025.
5.1. Jae’Lyn Withers (6’9”, 220 lbs, Senior)
Withers is a skilled forward who excels at both ends of the floor. His ability to score from inside and outside, combined with his rebounding and defensive prowess, makes him a key player for Louisville in 2025.
5.2. Kamari Lands (6’7”, 200 lbs, Freshman)
A talented forward known for his athleticism, Lands has the ability to play both forward positions for Louisville. His slashing ability and defensive capabilities make him an intriguing prospect for the Cardinals.
5.3. Matt Cross (6’7”, 220 lbs, Sophomore)
Cross is a versatile forward who brings toughness and skill to Louisville’s frontcourt. Known for his ability to defend and score, Cross will be a key piece for the Cardinals in 2025.
5.4. Siani N’Diaye (6’8”, 230 lbs, Freshman)
N’Diaye brings size and skill to Louisville’s forward rotation. With his ability to protect the rim and score inside, he has the potential to become a key player for the Cardinals in 2025.
5.5. El Ellis (6’2”, 190 lbs, Senior)
Though primarily a guard, Ellis has the ability to impact the forward positions due to his athleticism and scoring ability. His leadership and playmaking will be essential for Louisville in 2025.
In conclusion, the forward positions at Arkansas, Kentucky, Tennessee, Duke, and Louisville are stacked with talent heading into the 2025 season. Each of these programs boasts standout forwards with unique skill sets, athleticism, and potential to make an immediate impact at the collegiate level. Whether it’s on the offensive end, defensive end, or in both facets, these forwards will be instrumental in shaping the success of their respective teams. As the season progresses, fans will undoubtedly witness exciting developments and breakout performances from these talented forwards, with many likely to make their mark on the NBA in the years to come.
