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25 Best NBA Players Under 25 (Updated for 2025-26)

The future of the NBA will be dominated by rising superstars, and none shine brighter than the elite group of those not yet 25. Obvious names include Anthony Edwards and Victor Wembanyama, but they are joined by an elite list of some very talented stars who impact the game - on and off the court.

For example, Dyson Daniels rewrote the defensive rulebook as the youngest player ever to notch 200 steals in a season, all while leading the NBA in deflections and earning Most Improved Player honors. And let’s not forget Jalen Williams, who elevated his Thunder squad with All-Star status, All-NBA and All-Defensive honors, and a finals run that saw him score 40 points in a Finals game before turning 25, a feat only Magic Johnson and Russell Westbrook had previously achieved at that age.

These stories are just some examples of a list that will spotlight 25 emerging superstars ready to define the next era. Let's dive into it.

25. Dylan Harper

Nov 6, 2024; Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; Rutgers Scarlet Knights guard Dylan Harper (2) reacts after making a three point basket during the first half against the Wagner Seahawks at Jersey Mike's Arena.

Nov 6, 2024; Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; Rutgers Scarlet Knights guard Dylan Harper (2) reacts after making a three point basket during the first half against the Wagner Seahawks at Jersey Mike's Arena.

Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Age: 19

2024-25 Season Stats: N/A

Dylan Harper arrived at Rutgers as a freshman, and he delivered on every ounce of the hype. The No. 2 recruit in the 2024 class shattered expectations on the court, claiming all-Big Ten honors (media and coaches), Big Ten Freshman of the Week, and setting Rutgers’ freshman scoring record with 564 points across 29 games.

He also earned Honorable Mention AP All-American and was a dominant force on both ends, showing flashes of the complete guard he can become. Now with the Spurs, Harper enters 2025-26 with both sky-high upside as he joins a youthful core alongside Victor Wembanyama and fellow rookie Stephon Castle.

24. Jaden Ivey

Nov 29, 2024; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Jaden Ivey (23) dribbles the ball while Indiana Pacers forward Obi Toppin (1) defends in the second half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Nov 29, 2024; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Jaden Ivey (23) dribbles the ball while Indiana Pacers forward Obi Toppin (1) defends in the second half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Age: 23

2024-25 Season Stats: 17.6 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 4.0 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Jaden Ivey is the exact player the Pistons envisioned when they drafted him No. 5 overall in 2022. In the 2024-25 season, Ivey averaged a robust 17.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 4.0 assists in about 30 minutes per game, while shooting 46% from the floor and a sharp 40.9% from three.

His advanced numbers (23.5 points per 40 minutes) reflect his growing offense with the Pistons. Ivey has matured into one of Detroit's go-to scorers and playmakers, adding consistency and perimeter efficiency, things that will go hand-in-hand with Cade Cunningham's presence.

23. Josh Giddey

Nov 22, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Josh Giddey (3) brings the ball up court against the Atlanta Hawks during the first half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

Nov 22, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Josh Giddey (3) brings the ball up court against the Atlanta Hawks during the first half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

Age: 22

2024-25 Season Stats: 14.6 PPG, 8.1 RPG, 7.2 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Josh Giddey is a legitimate triple-double threat, delivering a versatile stat line of 14.6 PPG, 8.1 RPG, 7.2 APG, 1.2 SPG, and 0.6 BPG across 30.2 minutes per game. His court vision and size as a 6'8" guard continue to make him a mismatch nightmare and one of the most intriguing prospects in the NBA.

Giddey’s evolution hinges on expanding his shot creation, becoming more of a scoring force from distance, while proving he can be a franchise point guard. The Bulls have not been convinced just yet, but Giddey is a top-25 player for his age without a doubt.

22. Jaden McDaniels

May 10, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels (3) dribbles upcourt against the Golden State Warriors in the third quarter during game three in the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images

May 10, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels (3) dribbles upcourt against the Golden State Warriors in the third quarter during game three in the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images

Age: 24

2024-25 Season Stats: 12.2 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 2.0 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.9 BPG

Jaden McDaniels elevated his game in 2024-25, starting all 82 games and averaging a solid 12.2 PPG, 5.7 RPG, and 2.0 APG on efficient shooting splits (47.7% FG, 33% 3PT). He not only posted a career-high 30 points against Portland in February but also played well in the playoffs, pouring in another playoff career-high 30 in Game 3 of the first round.

Often overlooked due to Minnesota’s stars that capture all the attention, McDaniels became the X-factor on both ends, using his length and versatility to frustrate the Lakers while stepping up as a reliable secondary scorer, dropping 19.8 PPG on nearly 58% efficiency when guarded by Luka Doncic. In 2025-26, McDaniels' goal is clear: shift from complementary standout to two-way focal fringe All-Star to fully emerge as the Timberwolves' secret weapon.

21. Stephon Castle

San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) looks on during the first quarter of the game against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center.

San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle (5) looks on during the first quarter of the game against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center.

Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-Imagn Images

Age: 20

2024-25 Season Stats: 14.7 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 4.1 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Stephon Castle was instrumental in the Spurs’ youth movement in 2024-25, carving out his own identity with a dependable 14.7 PPG, 3.7 RPG, and 4.1 APG as the Rookie of the Year. His handles and effective defense gave glimpses of a true backcourt star for a talented roster.

For 2025-26, Castle's trajectory heads toward expanding his offensive game while improving as a playmaker. That means he is poised to become the steady glue between veterans and fellow young stars like Victor Wembanyama and De'Aaron Fox. Hopefully, we can one day see All-Star ascension as well.

20. Jalen Suggs

Orlando Magic guard Jalen Suggs (4) looks on against the Boston Celtics in the third quarter at Kia Center.

Orlando Magic guard Jalen Suggs (4) looks on against the Boston Celtics in the third quarter at Kia Center.

Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Age: 24

2024-25 Season Stats: 16.2 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.9 BPG

Jalen Suggs’ 2024-25 season was a difficult one, landing at 16.2 PPG, 4.0 RPG, and 3.7 APG over 35 games before his campaign was halted by knee surgery in March. His absence was felt deeply, but with successful surgery and recovery, Orlando desperately needs him back firing on all cylinders.

In 2025-26, Suggs must be the Magic's consistent two-way point guard and stay healthy to anchor the Magic’s climb back toward playoff relevance. He has the talent to be effective for a legitimate playoff contender, and we can't discount how good his defense can be.

19. Brandon Miller

Jan 12, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Charlotte Hornets forward Brandon Miller (24) against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Jan 12, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Charlotte Hornets forward Brandon Miller (24) against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Age: 22

2024-25 Season Stats: 21.0 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.7 BPG

A former No. 2 pick, Brandon Miller exploded onto the scene in 2024-25, averaging an impressive 21.0 PPG, 4.9 RPG, and 3.6 APG across 27 games before a wrist injury, requiring season-ending surgery, derailed his breakout campaign. Still, we saw enough to place him within the top 20.

The flashes last season were certainly electrifying: career-high 38-point games, scoring outbursts that turned heads, and Hornets fans dared to dream. Next season, Miller’s mission is to return refreshed and even sharper to help LaMelo Ball make the team relevant sooner rather than later.

18. Jalen Green

Feb 3, 2025; New York, New York, USA; Houston Rockets guard Jalen Green (4) dribbles up court during the first half against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Feb 3, 2025; New York, New York, USA; Houston Rockets guard Jalen Green (4) dribbles up court during the first half against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Age: 23

2024-25 Season Stats: 21.0 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 3.4 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Jalen Green not only started all 82 games and averaged 21.0 PPG, 4.6 RPG, and 3.4 APG, but he also put pen to paper on a three-year, $106 million extension before his trade to Phoenix. Sure, the Rockets gave up on him, but that doesn't mean he is a bad player.

His scoring outbursts, like a 41-point explosion in November and a 38-point clinic in the playoffs with a franchise-record eight threes, cemented his reputation as a talented scorer. With the Suns, Green hopes to correct his image of being inconsistent because that is in the way of him possibly becoming a top-15 player under 25 years old.

17. Cam Thomas

Feb 28, 2025; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Brooklyn Nets guard Cam Thomas (24) reacts during the second quarter against the Portland Trail Blazers at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Feb 28, 2025; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Brooklyn Nets guard Cam Thomas (24) reacts during the second quarter against the Portland Trail Blazers at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Age: 23

2024-25 Season Stats: 24.0 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 3.8 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Cam Thomas was Brooklyn’s go-to scoring option in 2024-25, pouring in 24.0 PPG, 3.3 RPG, and 3.8 APG across just 25 games before a season-ending left hamstring strain sidelined him for good. Despite being called overrated by many, Cam Thomas is a certified bucket-getter.

His ability to drop 40-point games with the flick of a switch made him one of the league's most dangerous scorers, but Thomas must now prove he can stay healthy. No matter if he is on the Brooklyn Nets or another team, Cam Thomas has the skills to become a better all-around player.

16. Cooper Flagg

Jul 10, 2025; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg (32) dribbles against Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James (9) in the first quarter of their game at Thomas & Mack Center. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-Imagn Images

Jul 10, 2025; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg (32) dribbles against Los Angeles Lakers guard Bronny James (9) in the first quarter of their game at Thomas & Mack Center. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-Imagn Images

Age: 18

2024-25 Season Stats: N/A

Cooper Flagg might be ranked very high considering he hasn't played an NBA game yet, but we trust his potential. He will be the driving force behind the Dallas Mavericks next year alongside Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis, and we expect him to perform at a high level.

We anticipate him to be in the running for Rookie of the Year all season long and put up strong numbers. Flagg will need to stay healthy, avoid succumbing to expectations, and be the third option for his talents to be fully optimized next season and going forward.

15. Dyson Daniels

New Orleans Pelicans guard Dyson Daniels goes up for a layup during the 2024-25 season.

Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

Age: 22

2024-25 Season Stats: 14.1 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 4.4 APG, 3.0 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Dyson Daniels didn’t just burst onto the scene in 2024-25; he had a jaw-dropping 3.0 steals per game (totaling 202) to become the youngest ever to reach 200 steals in a single season, eclipsing Magic Johnson’s record by 236 days. He also led the league in deflections (366) and ended with the Most Improved Player Award, and he was the runner-up for Defensive Player of the Year.

On offense, Daniels averaged a well-rounded 14.1 PPG, 5.9 RPG, and 4.4 APG on efficient shooting and had some memorable performances, like back-to-back explosive games with five-plus steals. As the Hawks push ahead with the acquisition of Kristaps Porzingis, Daniels’ next step is to translate his defensive talents into offensive prowess to assist Trae Young in that regard.

14. Jalen Johnson

Dec 2, 2024; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson (1) dribbles against the New Orleans Pelicans in the first quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Dec 2, 2024; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson (1) dribbles against the New Orleans Pelicans in the first quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Age: 23

2024-25 Season Stats: 18.9 PPG, 10.0 RPG, 5.0 APG, 1.6 SPG, 1.0 BPG

Jalen Johnson took a massive step forward in 2024-25, averaging 18.9 PPG, 10.0 RPG, and 5.0 APG while shooting an efficient 50% from the floor over 36 games, cementing his status as a rising All-Around force for the Hawks. He probably should have received more votes for Most Improved Player as well.

His all-court game made him invaluable for Atlanta, and we expect him to take another step forward next season. The Hawks will be a better team, so Johnson should use the reinforcements around him to improve his play as a shooter and defensive star.

13. Alperen Sengun

Feb 8, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) in action during the game between the Dallas Mavericks and the Houston Rockets at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Feb 8, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) in action during the game between the Dallas Mavericks and the Houston Rockets at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Age: 23

2024-25 Season Stats: 19.1 PPG, 10.3 RPG, 4.9 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Alperen Sengun delivered his most complete campaign yet in 2024-25, averaging 19.1 PPG, 10.3 RPG, and 4.9 APG across 76 games while earning his first All-Star berth. We knew Sengun would be a better player last season, but we did not see an All-Star selection coming.

He also inked a major five-year extension and notched standout moments, from dominant opening-night double-doubles to back-to-back triple-doubles, and became the youngest center in NBA history to reach 1,000 career assists. The Rockets are a title-contender next season, and the Turkish big man has to deliver consistently to hold his place.

12. Amen Thompson

Houston Rockets forward Amen Thompson (1) walks off the court after the end of the first half against the Denver Nuggets at Toyota Center.

Houston Rockets forward Amen Thompson (1) walks off the court after the end of the first half against the Denver Nuggets at Toyota Center.

Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

Age: 22

2024-25 Season Stats: 14.1 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 3.8 APG, 1.4 SPG, 1.3 BPG

Amen Thompson broke out in his second season by becoming one of the NBA’s most dynamic defenders, earning First Team All-Defense honors, a rare feat for just his second year. We might be seeing a superstar on the horizon. He anchored Houston’s stingy defense and was almost unstoppable when he attacked the rim.

Offensively, he showed flashes of impact and improved production, although he is still extremely raw as a shooter. Looking ahead, Thompson’s value to the Rockets is crystal-clear: become the primary defender for Ime Udoka and play off Kevin Durant and Alperen Sengun as much as possible.

11. Franz Wagner

Mar 27, 2025; Orlando, Florida, USA; Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner (22) shoots a three against the Dallas Mavericks in the fourth quarter at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Reper-Imagn Images

Mar 27, 2025; Orlando, Florida, USA; Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner (22) shoots a three against the Dallas Mavericks in the fourth quarter at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Reper-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Reper-Imagn Images

Age: 23

2024-25 Season Stats: 24.2 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 4.7 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Franz Wagner rose to stardom in 2024-25 with impressive averages of 24.2 PPG, 5.7 RPG, and 4.7 APG, and showed glimpses of being a solid secondary star on a playoff contender. In the playoffs, he continued delivering, dropping 25 points in Game 5 of the first round, which we can't sniff at.

Wagner’s skills, versatile scoring, high IQ, and defensive versatility make him Orlando’s co-star next to Paolo Banchero moving forward. His next step: lead the Magic deeper into the postseason, because he will have help in the form of the arriving Desmond Bane next year and moving forward.

10. Evan Mobley

Feb 2, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward Evan Mobley (4) celebrates after hitting a three point basket during the second half against the Dallas Mavericks at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

Feb 2, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward Evan Mobley (4) celebrates after hitting a three point basket during the second half against the Dallas Mavericks at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

Age: 24

2024-25 Season Stats: 18.5 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 3.2 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.6 BPG

Evan Mobley's 2024-25 campaign was his best yet as he made the All-Star Team and won Defensive Player of the Year. He averaged 18.5 PPG, 9.3 RPG, 3.2 APG, and anchored the league’s top defense, meaning he is finally reaching his superstar potential.

In 2025-26, he will be Cleveland’s defensive engine, tasked with maintaining elite rim protection while taking the Cavaliers deeper into the postseason. We knew Mobley would one day be an untouchable piece in Cleveland, and he is certainly justifying that rising cap figure in terms of his salary as well.

9. Scottie Barnes

Feb 28, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Toronto Raptors forward Scottie Barnes (4) reacts after hitting a three-point shot during the first half against the Chicago Bulls at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images

Feb 28, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Toronto Raptors forward Scottie Barnes (4) reacts after hitting a three-point shot during the first half against the Chicago Bulls at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images

Age: 24

2024-25 Season Stats: 19.3 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 5.8 APG, 1.4 SPG, 1.0 BPG

Scottie Barnes delivered another complete season in 2024-25, putting up 19.3 PPG, 7.7 RPG, and 5.8 APG over 65 games, despite playing on a team that isn't built for long-term success. However, that could change following the arrival of Brandon Ingram.

Barnes’ multi-dimensional skills have become the Raptors’ identity on both ends of the court since he can score, rebound, and pass, meaning he is a true All-Star. In 2025-26, he has to reach All-NBA status if he wants to make the Raptors relevant in the East again, and we won't put that past him.

8. Chet Holmgren

Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Chet Holmgren (7) reacts against the Phoenix Suns during the first half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Chet Holmgren (7) reacts against the Phoenix Suns during the first half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Age: 23

2024-25 Season Stats: 15.0 PPG, 8.0 RPG, 2.0 APG, 0.7 SPG, 2.2 BPG

Even with just 32 regular-season games played, Chet Holmgren’s impact was felt, and obviously, he made a major difference in the playoffs. He averaged 15.0 PPG, 8.0 RPG, and 2.2 BPG, and capped the season as a newly minted NBA Champion with Oklahoma City.

With a massive max extension signed, Holmgren knows his future in OKC is solid, and he must continue showing improvements on both ends of the court. We anticipate that he will become more dominant as a defensive force, and the Thunder will once again approach the playoffs as the favorites.

7. Tyrese Maxey

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey (0) dribbles the ball during the first quarter against the Chicago Bulls at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey (0) dribbles the ball during the first quarter against the Chicago Bulls at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

Age: 24

2024-25 Season Stats: 26.3 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 6.1 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Tyrese Maxey took the offensive reins for the 76ers in 2024-25 in the absence of Joel Embiid and Paul George, pouring in 26.3 PPG and dishing 6.1 APG. He was off to a completely dominant individual campaign before a late-season finger issue shut him down.

We expect more of the same from Maxey next season as a potent bucket-getter and co-pilot of Philly’s star-laden assault, ready to ease the load off Embiid, thrive in crunch-time, and stake his claim as one of the game’s best players. For those under 25, Maxey is close to the top five.

6. LaMelo Ball

Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball (1) reacts during the fourth quarter against the New Orleans Pelicans at Spectrum Center.

Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball (1) reacts during the fourth quarter against the New Orleans Pelicans at Spectrum Center.

Mandatory Credit: Scott Kinser-Imagn Images

Age: 23

2024-25 Season Stats: 25.2 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 7.4 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.3 BPG

LaMelo Ball’s season last year was impressive: 25.2 PPG, 7.4 APG, and 4.9 RPG in 47 games, even with injury interruptions. He is a legitimate superstar player on the offensive end, yet durability remains the season-to-season question.

For 2025-26, consistency is key: stay upright, control the offense, and turn Charlotte’s potential up because when Melo is right, the Hornets can be very entertaining to watch. Ball hasn't had much success with the team because of poor teammates, so we can't knock him off his perch yet.

5. Cade Cunningham

Apr 24, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) celebrates in the first half against the New York Knicks during game three of first round for the 2024 NBA Playoffs at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Apr 24, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) celebrates in the first half against the New York Knicks during game three of first round for the 2024 NBA Playoffs at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Age: 23

2024-25 Season Stats: 26.1 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 9.1 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Cade Cunningham took a major step up in 2024-25, posting 26.1 PPG, 6.1 RPG, and 9.1 APG, earning his first All-Star nod and establishing himself as Detroit’s leader. He’s the definition of a modern franchise point guard because he does everything well.

Cade will likely lift the Pistons into real playoff contention next season as the blueprint of a rising contender because he has all the skills to do so. Among all the franchise cornerstones, Cade ranks among the very best right now.

4. Jalen Williams

Jun 16, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams (8) reacts during the fourth quarter of game five of the 2025 NBA Finals against the Indiana Pacers at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

Jun 16, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams (8) reacts during the fourth quarter of game five of the 2025 NBA Finals against the Indiana Pacers at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

Age: 24

2024-25 Season Stats: 21.6 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 5.1 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Jalen Williams rounded out a season by going All-Star, winning a title, and putting down 21.6 PPG, 5.3 RPG, and 5.1 APG across 69 games in 2024-25. He’s talented, humble, and the perfect co-star for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and a loaded OKC squad.

We expect Williams to amplify that impact, expand his range, become an All-NBA Defensive member, and cement himself alongside SGA and Holmgren as part of the best trio in the league. We have been impressed with Williams' growth, which is why he ranks so highly.

3. Paolo Banchero

Mar 27, 2025; Orlando, Florida, USA; Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) dribbles the ball against the Dallas Mavericks in the third quarter at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Reper-Imagn Images

Mar 27, 2025; Orlando, Florida, USA; Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) dribbles the ball against the Dallas Mavericks in the third quarter at Kia Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Reper-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Reper-Imagn Images

Age: 22

2024-25 Season Stats: 25.9 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 4.8 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Paolo Banchero is the undipisted superstar for the Magic, averaging 25.9 PPG, 7.5 RPG, and 4.8 APG while shooting 45.2% from the field over 46 games last season, despite missing significant time with a torn oblique. If he is healthy, the Magic will be a major problem, and all we have to do is look at what Paolo did last year to make this determination.

He opened the season on a ridiculous level, dropping 33 points with 11 rebounds in his season debut and even erupting for 50 points, 13 boards, and nine assists in late October, joining Magic legends Shaquille O’Neal and Tracy McGrady as the only Orlando players ever to do so.

2. Victor Wembanyama

San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) reacts after drawing a foul while scoring against the Denver Nuggets during the first half at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images

San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) reacts after drawing a foul while scoring against the Denver Nuggets during the first half at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images

Age: 21

2024-25 Season Stats: 24.3 PPG, 11.0 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.1 SPG, 3.8 BPG

Victor Wembanyama is one of the most electrifying talents the league has ever seen, averaging 24.3 PPG, 11.0 RPG, 3.7 APG, and an NBA-leading 3.8 BPG in only 46 games last season. His sophomore campaign was cut short by a serious blood clot in his right shoulder, forcing him to miss out on the Defensive Player of the Year award.

The good news? Wembanyama has officially been cleared to return ahead of the 2025-26 season, and with his unique blend of freakish size, mobility, and skill, the Spurs will be one of the most exciting teams to watch. Only one player is ahead of Wemby in the 25 under 25 rankings.

1. Anthony Edwards

Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) smiles after making a shot against the Miami Heat in the second half at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images

Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) smiles after making a shot against the Miami Heat in the second half at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images

Age: 24

2024-25 Season Stats: 27.6 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 4.5 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Anthony Edwards is the best player under 25 years old in the NBA, and right now, it isn't close. Posting 27.6 PPG (4th in NBA), 5.7 RPG, and 4.5 APG while earning his third consecutive All-Star nod, he showed everything that a future face of the NBA should.

Edwards had some incredible moments last year, including dropping a career-high 53 points (including ten threes) in January and becoming Minnesota’s all-time leader in three-pointers, highlighted by a dazzling 49-point outing just days later. As the undisputed alpha of a hungry Timberwolves squad, Edwards is here to stay as the best young player in the world.

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