Get ready for an exciting journey as we dive into the world of NCAA swimming! The 2026 season is shaping up to be a game-changer, with some unexpected stars rising to the top. Today, we're spotlighting the men's breakout swimmers who are making waves and challenging the status quo.
As the dual meet season comes to a close, schools across the nation are gearing up for their conference championships and the highly anticipated NCAA championships in March. While many swimmers are yet to showcase their best performances, some have already taken the plunge and made a remarkable impact.
You might be wondering, who are these swimmers? Well, get ready to be surprised! We've got a list of seven athletes who might not be on your radar but are definitely worth keeping an eye on over the next few weeks. And here's the twist: none of them are freshmen! We're highlighting the veterans who have stepped up their game and are ready to leave their mark on the NCAA.
But here's where it gets controversial... not everyone on this list will make it. If you think we've missed someone, let us know in the comments! We want to hear your thoughts and opinions on these rising stars.
Now, let's dive into the stories of these remarkable swimmers:
Raekwon Noel (Indiana, Sophomore):
Indiana, known as "Breaststroke U," has produced some incredible swimmers in various strokes. Raekwon Noel is the latest addition to this elite group. With impressive swims in the fly/back combo, Noel is carrying on the legacy of swimmers like Brendan Burns and Gabriel Fantoni. Noel's versatility is his strength, as he has dropped time in multiple events, including the 100 back, 100 free, 100 fly, and 200 fly. His improvement is evident, and he is now a key player for Indiana, especially with the team's recent graduations.
JT Ewing (ASU, Senior):
JT Ewing, a transfer from NC State, has quickly proven why Herbie Behm is one of the top coaches in the NCAA. Ewing has set new personal bests in multiple events, particularly in his primary event, the 200 back. He has also expanded his repertoire, becoming an elite conference-level IM swimmer. His 200 IM time has seen a significant drop, ranking him 14th in the NCAA this season. Ewing's backstroke improvements have positioned him as a contender to score his first NCAA points, and his senior season is shaping up to be his best yet, making a significant impact for ASU.
Josh Staples (Northwestern, Sophomore):
Last season, Josh Staples was a dedicated distance freestyler, focusing on the 500 free and the mile. However, this season, he has switched gears and is reaping the rewards. Staples has not only improved his times in shorter freestyle events but has also excelled in breaststroke and IM, strokes he barely touched as a freshman. His breakout performance in the 400 IM (3:40.05) has secured his NCAA qualification, and he is now Northwestern's go-to medley relay breaststroker. Staples' transformation is inspiring, and his potential to score points for his team is a game-changer.
Lucca Battaglini (Cal, Sophomore):
Lucca Battaglini is following in the footsteps of Jack Alexy, who made a breakthrough in his second year at Cal. Battaglini was an ACC 'B' finalist last season in the 50 free but just missed out on NCAA qualification. This year, he has dropped significant time in all his events, breaking the 19-second barrier in the 50 free and shaving off a second from his 100 free best. He is now Cal's go-to sprint freestyler and a top swimmer for the Bears in a transitional year.
Julian Koch (Pitt, Sophomore):
Julian Koch had a successful long course season, and he has carried that momentum into the short course season. His improvements in the 100 free and 100 fly are impressive, and he is now a dark horse for an ACC podium and NCAA 'A' final in the 100 free. Koch's versatility in multiple events makes him a threat at ACCs, and he is poised to score significantly more points than last year.
Elliot Woodburn (Georgia, Sophomore):
Elliot Woodburn, a multi-time British age group champion, is making his mark at Georgia. He has dropped time in his 100 and 200 breast, and his 200 IM time has also improved. Woodburn's 50 breast split of 22.56 is a stunning performance, ranking as the 12th best in history. His potential to excel at SECs next week is immense.
Garrett Gould (Texas, Sophomore):
Texas has had a gap in their elite sprint freestylers, but Garrett Gould has stepped up to fill that void. He has improved his times in the 50 and 100 free, breaking the 19-second barrier for the first time. Gould's consistency and speed make him a key part of the Texas team at SECs and NCAAs this year.
These swimmers are challenging the norms and proving that sometimes, the unexpected can be the most exciting. Who will be the breakout stars of the 2026 NCAA championships? Only time will tell. But one thing is for sure: these athletes are ready to make a splash and leave their mark on the swimming world.
So, what do you think? Are there any swimmers you think we missed? Join the discussion in the comments and let's celebrate these incredible athletes!
