The 2024-25 NBA season is on the horizon, and the league's young stars are ready to shine. Among the brightest is Victor Wembanyama, who, at just 20 years old, has secured the 12th spot in the overall ranking. His post-All-Star break performance last season was nothing short of extraordinary, averaging 23.5 points, 12 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 4.5 blocks, and 1.5 steals per game. NBA analyst Sam Quinn captured the sentiment perfectly: "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 talent making waves. Jalen Green, at 22 years old, holds the 92nd spot in the Top 100. Known for his impressive athleticism, Green has been described by Jack Maloney as "supremely talented and an unbelievable athlete, even by NBA standards." His potential to become a future star in the league is undeniable.
In the ranking game, other notable young players include Jabari Smith Jr., who claimed the 100th spot, and Dereck Lively II, who stands at 90th. Jonathan Kuminga, 21, holds the 83rd spot. While the Warriors have been tempted to use Kuminga as a trade chip, they’ve decided to retain him, believing in his long-term potential. According to Brad Botkin, "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."
Further up the rankings, Jalen Johnson occupies the 80th spot, while Brandon Miller is positioned at 66th. Paolo Banchero, who earned the Rookie of the Year title last season, is ranked 29th. Banchero's impact has been instrumental in leading Orlando to its first playoff appearance in four years. Jasmyn Wimbish encapsulated Banchero’s significance well: "He earned his first All-Star nod and led Orlando to its first playoff appearance in four years."
Other young talents making significant strides include Cade Cunningham at 49th and Alperen Sengun at 47th. Cunningham, in particular, is expected to further his development under a new coach. Wimbish notes, "With a new coach, Cunningham can build upon last season and gain more attention." Sengun, on the other hand, continues to showcase a skill set that could make him a mainstay at future All-Star games.
One standout with a lot of eyes on him for the upcoming season is Chet Holmgren, ranked 30th. Holmgren's incredible potential has been praised across the board. James Herbert summed it up succinctly: "The ceiling is incredibly high."
The spotlight, however, isn't just on individual players. The collective effort these young stars contribute to their teams positions them uniquely for future success. Orlando, buoyed by Banchero’s breakout season, looks to build on their recent playoff appearance. Meanwhile, teams like the Warriors are banking on the steady development of players like Kuminga to sustain their competitive edge.
As the next generation of NBA talent continues to evolve, fans and analysts alike eagerly anticipate how these young athletes will shape the future of the league. The performances of players like Wembanyama, Banchero, Green, and others not only promise thrilling games but also signal a new era of basketball innovation and excitement.
This upcoming season will undoubtedly provide a richer understanding of who among these rising stars will take the lead. Whether it's through eye-popping stats or clutch performances, the new wave of talent is ready to make their mark on the NBA, pushing the limits of what’s possible on the court. Sam Quinn's words echo in the minds of many: "We're talking about the sort of player this sport has never seen, the next step in its evolution."