2016 Freshman Xxl Class

2016 Freshman XXL Class is often remembered as one of the most transformative groups in recent memory, not just for college basketball but for the broader landscape of sports and culture. This class didn’t just bring talent—it brought a seismic shift in how young athletes were perceived, recruited, and ultimately, how they impacted the game. From future NBA stars to under-the-radar gems, the 2016 class redefined what it meant to be a freshman in college basketball, setting a new standard for excellence and influence.

The Standout Stars of the 2016 Freshman XXL Class

The 2016 freshman class was stacked with players who would go on to dominate both the college and professional ranks. Eleven of the top 12 picks in the 2017 NBA Draft came from this class, a testament to its depth and quality. While none of these players won the National Player of the Year award in college, their collective impact was undeniable. Players like Lonzo Ball, Markelle Fultz, and Jayson Tatum became household names, each bringing a unique skill set that left a lasting impression on the sport

Underrated Gems and Surprise Performers

Not every standout from the 2016 class was a five-star recruit. Cassius Winston, for example, was ranked 35th in his class but went on to become one of the greatest players in Michigan State history. His leadership and clutch performances proved that rankings aren’t always indicative of future success. Similarly, Zach Collins at Gonzaga was the program’s first McDonald’s All-American and played a pivotal role in their historic Final Four run as a freshman

Impact on College Basketball Programs

The 2016 class didn’t just produce individual stars—it transformed entire programs. Duke and Kentucky continued their dominance, but schools like Penn State and Auburn saw significant boosts thanks to their freshman recruits. Penn State’s Tony Carr and Lamar Stevens helped turn the Nittany Lions into a credible Big Ten threat, while Auburn’s Mustapha Heron was a cornerstone of their resurgence under Bruce Pearl

Cultural and Long-Term Influence

Beyond the court, the 2016 Freshman XXL Class had a cultural impact. The class’s success helped solidify the “one-and-done” era, where top recruits would spend a single season in college before jumping to the NBA. This shift changed how programs recruited and developed talent, emphasizing immediate impact over long-term development. The class also highlighted the importance of versatility, as many of its members excelled in multiple facets of the game

Player	School	NBA Draft Position	Notable Achievement
Lonzo Ball	UCLA	2nd Overall (2017)	Led nation in assists, transformed UCLA’s offense
Markelle Fultz	Washington	1st Overall (2017)	First overall pick, explosive scorer
Jayson Tatum	Duke	3rd Overall (2017)	Versatile forward, key to Duke’s success
Cassius Winston	Michigan State	Undrafted	All-American, led MSU to multiple deep tournament runs
Zach Collins	Gonzaga	10th Overall (2017)	First McDonald’s All-American at Gonzaga, Final Four run

�� Note: While the 2016 class is often celebrated for its NBA success, its true legacy lies in how it reshaped college basketball, from program-building to cultural influence.

The 2016 Freshman XXL Class wasn’t just a collection of talented players—it was a movement. Its members set new benchmarks for what freshmen could achieve, both on and off the court. The class’s influence extended beyond individual accolades, shaping the trajectory of programs and the expectations for future recruits. As we look back, it’s clear that the 2016 class didn’t just leave a mark; it redefined an era.