The NBA's 2024-25 season is just around the corner, and it comes with a mix of emerging stars and established talents looking to make their mark. Among the fresh faces is Victor Wembanyama, a 20-year-old phenom whose impact on the game is already being felt.
Victor Wembanyama has been a subject of awe and intense speculation. Securing the 12th spot in the overall ranking, he has demonstrated his prowess on the court with a remarkable post-All-Star break stat line: 23.5 points, 12 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 4.5 blocks, and 1.5 steals per game. Sam Quinn articulates the excitement surrounding him, stating, "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."
Rising Stars in the Top 100
Alongside Wembanyama, Jabari Smith Jr. claimed the 100th spot in the overall ranking. Jalen Green, at 22 years old, stands at 92 in the Top 100, showcasing his extraordinary skill set and athleticism. As Jack Maloney mentions, "Green is supremely talented and an unbelievable athlete, even by NBA standards." Dereck Lively II is ranked 90th, followed closely by Jonathan Kuminga at 83rd. Kuminga, who is 21, is seen by the Warriors not just as potential trade leverage but as a core member for future title runs. "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," Brad Botkin reports.
Jalen Johnson occupies the 80th spot, while Brandon Miller is ranked 66th. Cade Cunningham, another promising player, holds the 49th position. With a new coach this season, Cunningham is poised for greater achievements. "With a new coach, Cunningham can build upon last season and gain more attention," says Jasmyn Wimbish. Alperen Sengun, at 47th, and Chet Holmgren, ranked 30th, are also players to watch.
A Rookie's Meteoric Rise
Paolo Banchero, who is ranked 29th after a stellar rookie season, earned the Rookie of the Year title and led Orlando to its first playoff appearance in four years. His contributions have been pivotal, as highlighted by Jasmyn Wimbish: "He earned his first All-Star nod and led Orlando to its first playoff appearance in four years." Banchero's performance has set high expectations for the upcoming season. "He's on a career trajectory to be a mainstay at the All-Star Game," Wimbish adds, emphasizing his potential longevity and impact in the league.
Future Outlook
The upcoming season is brimming with potential, driven by young talents ready to redefine the game's landscape. The infusion of youth talent like Wembanyama and Banchero, coupled with the seasoned expertise of players ranking within the Top 100, suggests a dynamic season ahead. Each player's unique abilities contribute to the overall narrative of the NBA's evolution, promising excitement and high-level competition.
As the season unfolds, storylines will emerge, and the league will undoubtedly witness standout performances that push the boundaries of what's possible in basketball. The ceiling for this new generation of players is incredibly high, as James Herbert summarizes, "The ceiling is incredibly high." Fans and analysts alike are on the edge of their seats, anticipating a season that could very well shape the future of the NBA.