Chris Beard labels Texas freshman class as 'winners'

Since arriving in Austin, Texas head coach Chris Beard has not been afraid to dip into the transfer portal. He’s been active in acquiring some of the best talent in the country, making his teams instantly competitive in the Big 12. But in his first full cycle in recruiting, Beard was able to haul in one of the best crops of freshman college basketball will see this season.

Of the four players Texas signed in the 2022 recruiting class, all of them appeared in a state championship game. Two got wins but Beard said it proves they are winners on the court. He is now hoping that translates at the next level, with the season beginning on Monday vs. UTEP.

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“It’s interesting to dive into our roster,” Beard said. “Every one of our freshmen in this class played in a state championship game. Two guys won it but every one of our freshmen won. Step back and watch their summer seasons — they’re all winners. They’ve all played for great programs. Anything that could be labeled on all of our young guys is winning.

“Part of that is great coaching. They all played for great high school coaches and great summer coaches. I would agree with that, winning is part of all of our freshman’s identity.”

Beard brought in a top 10 class, being ranked No. 9 in the country per the On3 Consensus. Two five-star features, while another ranks inside the top 100. It’s an impressive group for a head coach coaching through their first cycle — even if it’s a coach with a profile such as Beard.

Dillon Mitchell was the jewel crown of the class and is expected to be a huge factor for Texas this season. He was the No. 4 overall player and No. 2 in the state of Florida, just behind Duke’s Dariq Whitehead. Mitchell will link up with fellow five-star Arterio Morris when on the court in a few days.

Texas was such an experienced team in 2021-2022, both from the transfer portal and with players Beard inherited from Shaka Smart. Some freshman flavor is now brought into the program, hoping to establish themselves in the Big 12 and make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.