As the 2024-25 NBA season approaches, the league is abuzz with young talent ready to make their mark. A focal point of this new wave is Victor Wembanyama, who, at just 20 years old, has already secured the 12th spot in the overall ranking. His post-All-Star break performances have been nothing short of spectacular, averaging 23.5 points, 12 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 4.5 blocks, and 1.5 steals per game. It's no wonder Sam Quinn remarked, "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."
Wembanyama isn’t the only young star generating excitement. Jalen Green, now 22 years old, has claimed the 92nd spot in the Top 100 ranking. According to Jack Maloney, "Green is supremely talented and an unbelievable athlete, even by NBA standards." Green's combination of raw talent and athletic prowess makes him a player to watch this season.
Moving up the rankings, Jonathan Kuminga at 21 years old, holds the 83rd position. The Golden State Warriors see immense potential in him, resisting trade offers to keep him as a pivotal part of their future plans. Brad Botkin articulated this sentiment clearly: "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, occupying the 80th spot, continues to develop his game, while Brandon Miller sits at the 66th rank. Cade Cunningham and Alperen Sengun, holding the 49th and 47th positions respectively, are also set to make significant impacts this season. Jasmyn Wimbish noted of Cunningham, "With a new coach, Cunningham can build upon last season and gain more attention."
Chet Holmgren, impressively ranked 30th, and Paolo Banchero, just above him at 29th, are among the top young players expected to shine. Banchero's exceptional rookie season not only earned him the Rookie of the Year title but also led the Orlando Magic to their first playoff appearance in four years. Wimbish further highlighted, "He earned his first All-Star nod and led Orlando to its first playoff appearance in four years." Banchero’s rapid ascent in the league has set high expectations for his upcoming season performances.
For each of these players, the upcoming season represents both a challenge and an opportunity. As James Herbert observed, "The ceiling is incredibly high" for these young talents. Whether it's breaking into the All-Star circle, leading their teams to playoff glory, or redefining the game itself, the future of the NBA looks incredibly bright with these players leading the charge.
Jabari Smith Jr., currently ranked 100th, and Dereck Lively II at 90th, might not have the same spotlight as Wembanyama or Banchero, but they too come into the new season with the potential to surprise and exceed expectations. Each player’s development is a testament to their resilience and dedication to their craft.
As the 2024-25 season tips off, fans and analysts alike will be keeping a close watch on these burgeoning stars. Their journeys are a narrative of talent meeting opportunity, as witnessed through their climbs in the rankings and the remarkable performances quoted by experts. Wembanyama's words encapsulate the sentiment perfectly: "He has that kind of ability, and he won't be lacking for opportunity," as opined by Brad Botkin. Each game, each play, and each stat line will contribute to the evolving story of the next great stars of the NBA.