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On3's preseason All-Big Ten team picks

Talia-HS-white-300x300by:Talia Goodman09/06/24

TaliaGoodmanWBB

The Big Ten has always been a powerhouse, but even more so now with the additions of USCUCLAOregon and Washington. From JuJu Watkins to Lucy Olsen, some of college basketball’s biggest stars are in the Big Ten.

But there are plenty of new names in the conference that will make an immediate impact. Here’s On3’s picks for All-Big Ten teams and awards heading into the fall.

Player of the Year

JuJu Watkins, USC

The former national freshman of the year has a real shot at winning Big Ten Player of the Year in her first season in the conference. Watkins averaged 27.1 points, 7.3 rebounds and 3.3 assists as a freshman and is on a team with true national championship hopes. The Trojans loaded roster may lead to a slight decrease in Watkins’ stats, but her impact is undeniable.

Defensive Player of the Year

Serah Williams, Wisconsin

Williams looks to repeat as Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year in her junior campaign. She averaged 18.1 points and 11.3 rebounds last year, along with 2.8 blocks. Williams excels in the paint and made a big leap last year as the Badgers’ most impactful player.

Freshman of the Year

Jaloni Cambridge, Ohio State

Cambridge, ranked as the No. 2 recruit in the Class of 2024, will make an immediate impact this year. Her speed and maturity should earn her a starting spot and she was ranked among On3’s top newcomers for the season. The 5-foot-6 point guard possesses a versatility that will keep Ohio State among the top of the conference. She’s not just a capable facilitator, but can also shoot from deep and attack the basket.

Coach of the Year

Lindsay Gottlieb, USC

If Gottlieb’s Trojans can live up to expectations this season, she’s the best choice for Big Ten Coach of the Year. With a star like JuJu Watkins and the work Gottlieb has put in on the recruiting trail and in the transfer portal, this is the most talented roster in the country. There are a lot of new pieces, but if it all comes together, this honor will likely go to Gottlieb.

First team All-Big Ten

Alexis Markowski, Nebraska

Cotie McMahon, Ohio State

Serah Williams, Wisconsin

Shyanne Sellers, Maryland

JuJu Watkins, USC

Lauren Betts, UCLA

Lucy Olsen, Iowa

Kiki Iriafen, USC

Deja Kelly, Oregon

Kiki Rice, UCLA

Second Team All-Big Ten

Julia Ayrault, Michigan State

Hannah Stuelke, Iowa

Makira Cook, Illinois

Chloe Moore-McNeil, Indiana

Taylor Thierry, Ohio State

Grace VanSlooten, Michigan State

Talia von Oelhoffen, USC

Mara Braun, Minnesota

Britt Prince, Nebraska

Jaloni Cambridge, Ohio State