Projecting Cal's starting five ahead of season opener

Fresh faces expected to make an immediate impact

With the college basketball season rapidly approaching, it is time to start taking a look at how teams might line up come opening night. Cal, coming off a disappointing season, will be looking to make a statement in 2023-24. With a good recruiting class coming in, there are a few new faces that could make an immediate impact for the Bears.

Point Guard: Devin Askew

Askew transferred to Cal after spending two seasons at Kentucky. He was a five-star recruit coming out of high school and is known for his playmaking ability. He will likely be the starter at point guard for Cal and will be responsible for leading the offense.

Shooting Guard: Jalen Celestine

Celestine is a four-star recruit from Pontiac, Michigan. He is a 6'7" shooting guard who can also play small forward. Celestine is a versatile player who can score from anywhere on the court. He will likely start at shooting guard for Cal and will be expected to be a primary scorer.

Small Forward: Kuany Kuany

Kuany is a 6'9" small forward who was a three-star recruit coming out of high school. He is known for his athleticism and defense. He will likely start at small forward for Cal and will be expected to be a big contributor on the defensive side of the ball.

Power Forward: Grant Newell

Newell is a 6'8" power forward who transferred to Cal from George Washington. He was a three-star recruit coming out of high school. Newell is a skilled big man who can score inside and out. He will likely start at power forward for Cal and will be expected to be a big contributor on the offensive end of the ball.

Center: Lars Thiemann

Thiemann is a 6'11" center who transferred to Cal from Florida Gulf Coast. He was a three-star recruit coming out of high school. Thiemann is a physical presence in the paint and is known for his rebounding. He will likely start at center for Cal and will be expected to be a major contributor on the defensive end of the ball.