High-level returners. Blue-chip freshmen. Transfers with upside. A roster loaded with length, versatility, and five-star talent from top to bottom.
But behind closed doors, inside summer practices? That dream is already turning into a high-stakes fight for survival.
Because there are only so many minutes to go around — and nobody on this roster is planning to sit quietly.
Cameron Boozer was supposed to ease in. He didn’t get the memo. From the very first session, he’s been loud, physical, and impossible to ignore. He’s not waiting his turn. He’s making a case now.
Nikolas Khamenia is doing all the little things that coaches love — talking on defense, chasing rebounds, rotating early. He’s a glue guy, but one that’s demanding more than just hustle minutes.
And then there’s Dame Sarr — the wing who was viewed as a long-term project. Turns out, he’s playing like he’s ready now. The confidence, the pace, the poise… he looks like someone who’s about to crash the rotation party in a major way.
Meanwhile, Sebastian Wilkins is winning reps with pure grit. Coaches have taken notice. He’s not flashy — just relentless. If practice is about earning trust, he’s doing it daily.
So where does that leave the veterans?
Caleb Foster’s voice is louder than ever. His handle looks sharper, and his feel is undeniable. But even he knows: leadership doesn’t guarantee playing time. Performance does.
Isaiah Evans still has the tools, the length, and the talent. But with this many hungry bodies, even the returning guys are playing like they’re on trial.
Because the truth is… when the rotation gets trimmed, someone you like is going to lose minutes. Maybe even someone you thought was a lock to start.
The fans love this roster now — and rightfully so.
But when the depth starts to squeeze and the minutes get split?
Let’s just say, that love might be tested.
