The anticipation for the 2024-25 NBA season continues to build, with fans and analysts alike buzzing about the rising talents that promise to reshape the landscape of the league. Among the most talked-about young stars is Victor Wembanyama, who, at just 20 years old, has carved out a significant niche in the basketball world.
Wembanyama has secured the 12th spot in the overall ranking, cementing his status as one of the premier players to watch this season. His post-All-Star break performance was nothing short of remarkable, boasting an average of 23.5 points, 12 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 4.5 blocks, and 1.5 steals per game. These stats underscore his expansive skill set and his potential to revolutionize the game. As Sam Quinn aptly notes, "We're not just talking about the next great NBA player here. We're talking about the sort of player this sport has never seen, the next step in its evolution."
In addition to Wembanyama, the wave of young talent continues with Jabari Smith Jr., who ranks 100th, and Jalen Green, who at 22 years old sits at 92nd in the Top 100. Green’s athleticism and talent have not gone unnoticed. "Green is supremely talented and an unbelievable athlete, even by NBA standards," says Jack Maloney, emphasizing Green’s potential to make a significant impact this season.
Closer to the middle of the rankings, we find players like Dereck Lively II at 90th and Jonathan Kuminga at 83rd. Kuminga, at 21, represents a key piece for the Warriors. Brad Botkin explains, "The Warriors have all resisted Kuminga as a trade chip, believing he can be not just a future tentpole but a key piece of a team that still believes it can make one last run at honest contention."
Other rising stars include Jalen Johnson in the 80th spot and Brandon Miller, who lands at 66th. Each of these players has shown flashes of brilliance, suggesting that they are on the cusp of becoming essential contributors to their teams.
Alperen Sengun and Chet Holmgren, ranked 47th and 30th respectively, are also making waves. But it’s Paolo Banchero, ranked 29th, who perhaps has the most impressive accolades among the young talent. Banchero earned the Rookie of the Year title and led Orlando to its first playoff appearance in four years. Jasmyn Wimbish highlights his achievements, noting, "He earned his first All-Star nod and led Orlando to its first playoff appearance in four years."
Cade Cunningham, another young luminary, is ranked 49th with a promising trajectory ahead. Wimbish adds, "With a new coach, Cunningham can build upon last season and gain more attention," suggesting that this season could be a breakout year for the talented guard. Additionally, Wimbish believes that Cunningham is "on a career trajectory to be a mainstay at the All-Star Game."
In such a vibrant landscape of emerging talent, these young players not only showcase their individual skills but also signify the dawn of a new era in the NBA. They carry the hopes and dreams of franchises and fans, embodying the future of the sport.
As these athletes prepare to take the court for the 2024-25 NBA season, the league stands on the cusp of witnessing incredible athletic feats, groundbreaking performances, and the persistent evolution of basketball excellence. Whether it's Wembanyama's revolutionary play, Banchero’s climb to stardom, or Cunningham’s steady rise, the season promises a compelling narrative fueled by youthful vigor and undeniable talent.