The 2024-25 NBA season is on the horizon, and anticipation is building as fans and analysts alike look forward to the performance of some of the league's most promising young talents. Among them, Victor Wembanyama stands out as a player poised to leave an indelible mark on the sport. At just 20 years old, Wembanyama has already secured the 12th spot in the overall ranking, an impressive feat that reflects his potential and current ability.
Wembanyama's post-All-Star break stats—23.5 points, 12 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 4.5 blocks, and 1.5 steals per game—underline his all-around capability and promise a bright future ahead. His unique skill set has led some analysts to see him as more than just the next great NBA player. 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."
Emerging Stars
Victor Wembanyama isn't the only young player creating buzz. Jabari Smith Jr. and Jalen Green have also made their presence felt. Though Smith Jr. claimed the 100th spot in the overall rankings, his potential remains evident. Jalen Green, at 22 years old, occupies the 92nd spot, and his athleticism and talent have not gone unnoticed. Jack Maloney emphasized Green's extraordinary abilities, saying, "Green is supremely talented and an unbelievable athlete, even by NBA standards."
In the same vein, Dereck Lively II and Jonathan Kuminga also merit attention. Lively, ranked 90th, is just beginning to carve out his place in the league. Kuminga, 21 years old and ranked 83rd, has shown great promise. His immense potential has kept him off the trade table for the Warriors, who believe he can be a cornerstone for their team's future. Brad Botkin pointed out, "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."
Rising Through the Ranks
Further up the rankings, Cade Cunningham and Alperen Sengun stand at 49th and 47th respectively. Cunningham, with the support of a new coach, has a chance to build on last season's performance. Jasmyn Wimbish believes this could be a pivotal year for him, stating, "With a new coach, Cunningham can build upon last season and gain more attention."
Chet Holmgren and Paolo Banchero, ranked 30th and 29th respectively, are also key players to watch. Banchero, who earned the Rookie of the Year title, has already proven his value by leading Orlando to its first playoff appearance in four years. As Wimbish highlighted, "He earned his first All-Star nod and led Orlando to its first playoff appearance in four years."
The Next Generation of Talent
The potential of these young athletes indicates a promising era for the NBA. As Brad Botkin succinctly put it, "He has that kind of ability, and he won't be lacking for opportunity." Whether it's Wembanyama redefining expectations for big men or Green dazzling audiences with his athletic prowess, the league is brimming with talent poised to make substantial impacts.
James Herbert further accentuated the high expectations for these players, simply stating, "The ceiling is incredibly high." The upcoming NBA season promises exciting developments, not just for individual players, but for teams seeking to leverage their young stars for greater success. As these players develop and hone their skills, the league—and the fans—stand to benefit significantly from their growth.