The countdown to the 2024-25 NBA season is in full swing, and basketball enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an exhilarating season. Among the young talents making waves, 20-year-old Victor Wembanyama stands out. Securing the 12th spot in the overall ranking, Wembanyama has quickly become one of the most talked-about players. His 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. "We're not just talking about the next great NBA player here," Sam Quinn observes. "We're talking about the sort of player this sport has never seen, the next step in its evolution."
Wembanyama is not the only young player capturing the league's attention. Jalen Green, ranked 92nd in the Top 100, is 22 years old and is also making significant strides. "Green is supremely talented and an unbelievable athlete, even by NBA standards," says Jack Maloney, echoing the sentiment felt by many fans and analysts alike. Meanwhile, Jabari Smith Jr. claimed the 100th spot, and other emerging stars such as Dereck Lively II and Jonathan Kuminga are ranked 90th and 83rd, respectively. Kuminga, who is 21 years old, has garnered considerable attention from the Golden State Warriors. Brad Botkin notes, "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."
Atlanta's Jalen Johnson, occupying the 80th spot in the rankings, continues to show promise, while Brandon Miller, ranked 66th, is another young player to watch closely. Cade Cunningham, ranked 49th, is poised for another breakout season. Jasmyn Wimbish asserts, "With a new coach, Cunningham can build upon last season and gain more attention." Cunningham's trajectory suggests he will be a mainstay at the All-Star Game for years to come.
Alperen Sengun, who sits at the 47th spot, and Chet Holmgren, positioned at 30th, are also making their marks in the league. However, it's 29th-ranked Paolo Banchero who has truly shined. Banchero earned the Rookie of the Year title and led Orlando to its first playoff appearance in four years. Jasmyn Wimbish commends his accomplishments: "He earned his first All-Star nod and led Orlando to its first playoff appearance in four years."
The NBA landscape is indeed evolving, with these young talents pushing the boundaries and redefining what is possible in professional basketball. As we approach the opening of the 2024-25 season, the anticipation is palpable. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how these players will perform and whether they will meet or exceed the expectations set before them. One thing is for sure: the future of the NBA is in capable and exciting hands.