The highly anticipated 2024-25 NBA season is right around the corner, and the league’s young talents are poised to make monumental strides. At the forefront of this burgeoning era is Victor Wembanyama, a 20-year-old phenom who has captivated the basketball world. Ranked 12th overall, Wembanyama's post-All-Star break stat line is nothing short of extraordinary—23.5 points, 12 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 4.5 blocks, and 1.5 steals per game. As Sam Quinn poignantly 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."
Meanwhile, the NBA's budding stars are scattered across the Top 100 rankings with varying degrees of promise and potential. Jalen Green, the 22-year-old prodigy, stands at 92nd and continues to draw attention for his athleticism and natural talent. "Green is supremely talented and an unbelievable athlete, even by NBA standards," says Jack Maloney. The sky's the limit for Green, and his trajectory suggests he will soon climb higher up the ranks.
Dereck Lively II, a robust presence on the court, occupies the 90th spot, followed closely by Jonathan Kuminga at 83rd. At 21 years old, Kuminga is seen as a future cornerstone for the Golden State Warriors. "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," observes Brad Botkin.
Further up the list, we find Jalen Johnson at 80th and Brandon Miller at 66th. These young athletes each bring unique skill sets to their respective teams, promising to carve out significant roles as their careers progress. Rising higher still, Cade Cunningham lands at 49th, where his potential continues to blossom. "With a new coach, Cunningham can build upon last season and gain more attention," according to Jasmyn Wimbish, who adds, "He's on a career trajectory to be a mainstay at the All-Star Game."
Alperen Sengun, securing the 47th spot, and Chet Holmgren, sitting at 30th, are also generating significant buzz. Holmgren, a unique blend of size and skill, offers tantalizing possibilities for his team's future success. Then, there's Paolo Banchero, ranked 29th, whose rookie season was nothing short of spectacular. Banchero not only earned the Rookie of the Year title but also led the Orlando Magic to their first playoff appearance in four years. "He earned his first All-Star nod and led Orlando to its first playoff appearance in four years," says Wimbish, encapsulating the impact Banchero has already made.
As excitement builds for the new season, it's clear that the next generation of NBA stars is ready to take the mantle. These young athletes represent the future of the league, each bringing their distinct talents and aspirations to the court. From Wembanyama's awe-inspiring versatility to Banchero's leadership in Orlando, the upcoming season promises to be a showcase of emerging superstars poised to redefine the game.
In this vibrant landscape, fans and analysts alike will eagerly watch as these players develop, overcome challenges, and strive for greatness. Their journeys are poised to be compelling narratives of ambition, skill, and the relentless pursuit of basketball excellence.