11 One-and-Done Players Who Changed College Basketball
College basketball has always been about passion, tradition, and the pursuit of championships. But in the last two decades, a new type of star began showing up—players who stayed for just one season before heading to the NBA. These “one-and-done” athletes didn’t stick around long, but they made the most of their short time.
Here’s a look at a few one-and-done players who left a real mark on college basketball.
Kevin Durant – Texas (2006–07)
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Stat sheets couldn’t fully capture what he meant to Texas. With nearly 26 points and 11 rebounds a night, Durant’s smooth plays made defenders guess wrong every time. Opponents changed their entire plan just to slow him down. By the end of the season, the old thinking about freshmen had shifted—guys like Durant weren’t waiting their turn anymore.
Anthony Davis – Kentucky (2011–12)
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Every blocked shot by Davis was a statement. He disrupted offenses before they even crossed half-court. His 38–2 Kentucky team leaned on his instincts, length, and timing. With a wingspan that made guards second-guess drives, he helped them win a title and made defense a highlight again.
Zion Williamson – Duke (2018–19)
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Every match with Williamson felt like something might explode. Whether it was a soaring dunk or a block from out of nowhere, he made people lean forward in their seats. His 22.6 points per night was just the baseline. Zion was powerful, and he had touch, feel, and charisma. People who didn’t even follow basketball started watching Duke again just to see him.
Derrick Rose – Memphis (2007–08)
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Calm at the top of the key and lightning in transition; Rose managed the court like a veteran. His presence lifted Memphis, and the good news was that high stakes didn’t rattle him. He set the tempo, hit tough shots, and made the right reads. For one season, everything Memphis did was through a freshman who already looked pro-ready.
Carmelo Anthony – Syracuse (2002–03)
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This is the only freshman on this list who walked away with a ring. Melo took over without forcing shots, scoring 22 a night and crashing the boards like a power forward. In the Final Four, he played like he’d been there before. One year was all it took—he gave Syracuse its only NCAA title and set the one-and-done standard early.
John Wall – Kentucky (2009–10)
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Speed and flair defined his plays, but it was the control Wall had that stood out. He brought Kentucky back to national relevance by averaging 16.6 points and 6.5 assists while leading a loaded roster. His signature dances and fast breaks made him a star, and his leadership in big moments set the tone for future Calipari guards.
Jahlil Okafor – Duke (2014–15)
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On the low block, few defenders stood a chance. Okafor used finesse over force by wearing down opponents with footwork and patience. His post-play gave Duke an anchor—and a rhythm. While guards lit up highlight reels, Okafor reminded everyone that inside dominance could still win titles.
Deandre Ayton – Arizona (2017–18)
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Built like an NBA vet and skilled like a forward, Ayton put together a season that was impossible to ignore. Arizona’s early exit in March didn’t dull the shine, as scouts already had their minds made up. His size and fluidity made him a top-tier pro prospect.
Michael Beasley – Kansas State (2007–08)
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Beasley had over 26 points and 12 boards a game and overwhelmed defenses, even when everyone knew he was the main option. Kansas State hadn’t made headlines in years, but he changed that quickly. His season was all about proving that dominance could come from anywhere, even outside the national spotlight.
Joel Embiid – Kansas (2013–14)
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In less than 30 games, Embiid went from raw prospect to potential franchise centerpiece. His instincts on defense, nimble footwork, and soft touch stood out in a position that usually takes years to develop. Injury kept him out of the tournament, but his ceiling was obvious, and Kansas had already seen enough.
Brandon Ingram – Duke (2015–16)
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Length, rhythm, and a jumper that floated—Ingram kept defenders guessing. He picked his spots and slipped through defenses like smoke. Though quiet by nature, his skills spoke for themselves. And while Duke didn’t go far in March, Ingram played like someone who saw the floor two steps ahead of everyone else.
Jabari Parker – Duke (2013–14)
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Parker was one of the most polished freshmen Duke has ever had. He focused on scoring inside, stretching the floor, and rebounding like a veteran. His poise stood out more than any single stat. When Duke stumbled early in the tournament, it was clear what he did that year: made Coach K’s system feel accessible to the next generation of one-year stars.
Paolo Banchero – Duke (2021–22)
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Smart decisions and big plays defined Banchero’s run to the Final Four. He averaged 17.2 points and nearly eight rebounds and was steady when it counted. In Coach K’s final season, he delivered in the spotlight without forcing shots or chasing stats. That kind of presence from a freshman is rare, and it helped Duke go further than expected.
Markelle Fultz – Washington (2016–17)
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Fultz’s team success was limited, but individual talent was undeniable. He averaged 23.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, and nearly six assists. His smooth handle, efficient scoring, and strong court vision made him a top pick—even on a losing team. Fultz reminded everyone that NBA teams draft skills, not just wins and that great players can come from anywhere.
Karl-Anthony Towns – Kentucky (2014–15)
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On a team filled with talent, Towns’s role was clear and crucial. He played smart, protected the rim, and hit big shots when needed. Kentucky went 38–1 and reached the Final Four. He didn’t need gaudy stats to impress because he showed that fitting into a system, playing unselfishly, and dominating your matchup still earns a top draft spot.
Cooper Flagg – Duke (Incoming, 2024–25)
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The season hasn’t started yet, but the spotlight is already there. Flagg is known for hustle, instincts, and shot-blocking, and he’s expected to anchor Duke’s defense by leading as a freshman. If he meets expectations, he could join this list with ease. After all, his arrival has already shaped recruiting and drawn comparisons to past greats before stepping on the court.
Marvin Bagley III – Duke (2017–18)
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Bagley was reclassified to play early, then put up 21 points and 11.1 rebounds. His energy and rebounding gave Duke an inside presence they badly needed. He finished everything near the rim and kept up with faster lineups. Though the team fell in the Elite Eight, Bagley’s early college entry paid off and showed how reclassification can work.