Chambana Sun

The University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics (DIA) has announced its Freshman of the Year honorees for the 2024-25 season. Kasparas Jakucionis, representing basketball, was recognized as the top male freshman athlete. Chloe Cho from gymnastics and Melissa Wullschleger from track & field were named co-winners for the top female freshman athletes.

Jakucionis led his team in scoring and assists with averages of 15.2 points per game and 4.7 assists per game. He also ranked third in rebounding with an average of 5.7 rebounds per game. His performance included setting a rookie season record by shooting 84.5% from the free throw line and scoring eight games with at least 20 points each.

Chloe Cho participated in all but one event during her freshman year, earning multiple titles across various categories including vault, bars, beam, floor, and all-around competitions. She was recognized as Big Ten Freshman of the Year and set a program record by receiving four Big Ten Freshman of the Week honors.

Melissa Wullschleger achieved first-team All-American status in heptathlon with a school-record score at the NCAA Outdoor Championships. Her accomplishments include throwing one of the program's longest javelin distances and placing high in both indoor and outdoor championships.

These recognitions highlight their significant contributions to their respective sports during their inaugural collegiate seasons.