The 2024-25 NBA season is upon us, and anticipation is at an all-time high, especially with young stars making waves in the league. Among the noteworthy names is Victor Wembanyama, the 20-year-old phenom who has secured the 12th spot in the overall rankings. Wembanyama has been a revelation, posting an impressive post-All-Star break stat line of 23.5 points, 12 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 4.5 blocks, and 1.5 steals per game. The hype surrounding Wembanyama is palpable. As Sam Quinn noted, "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."
Not far behind in the rankings is Jabari Smith Jr., who claimed the 100th spot. Smith Jr. may have his work cut out for him, but his potential still intrigues fans and analysts alike. Another young star, 22-year-old Jalen Green, stands at 92 in the Top 100. Green's athleticism and talent haven't gone unnoticed. As Jack Maloney observed, "Green is supremely talented and an unbelievable athlete, even by NBA standards."
Moving up the rankings, Dereck Lively II is positioned at 90th, while Jonathan Kuminga, at 21 years old, finds himself ranked 83rd. The Golden State Warriors have high hopes for Kuminga, as Brad Botkin explained, "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."
Jalen Johnson occupies the 80th spot, continuing his journey in the NBA with determination. Brandon Miller's performance has earned him the 66th rank, showcasing the promise of future success. Meanwhile, Cade Cunningham, ranked 49th, is another player under the spotlight. With a new coach, his trajectory seems promising. Jasmyn Wimbish highlighted, "With a new coach, Cunningham can build upon last season and gain more attention." She further emphasized his potential by adding, "He's on a career trajectory to be a mainstay at the All-Star Game."
Alperen Sengun, ranked 47th, and Chet Holmgren, at 30th, are also players to watch. Holmgren, often compared with the league's elite, is closely tailed by Paolo Banchero. Banchero, ranked 29th, recently earned the Rookie of the Year title and led Orlando to its first playoff appearance in four years. Wimbish celebrated his achievement, noting, "He earned his first All-Star nod and led Orlando to its first playoff appearance in four years."
Banchero's journey so far has been nothing short of spectacular. "He has that kind of ability, and he won't be lacking for opportunity," said Brad Botkin. His ceiling seems boundless, as James Herbert pointed out, "The ceiling is incredibly high."
As the season progresses, the performance of these young stars will be under constant scrutiny. Their growth and contributions are vital to their respective teams, driving forward the momentum and excitement of the league. The mix of established names and emerging talents continues to promise a thrilling NBA season ahead, with many eyes firmly fixed on how these players will shape the future of the sport.