The NBA always changes, and new stars are ready to take over. Young players are stepping up, showing their talent, and proving they belong among the league’s best. Some have already made a name for themselves, while others are just getting started.
Coaches trust them more, fans pay attention, and teams give them bigger roles. This season could be their breakout moment, where potential becomes a real success. From high-flying scorers to lockdown defenders, these rising stars are set to make an impact. That said, here are the top young players to watch in the NBA this year:
Victor Wembanyama
Victor Wembanyama has been selected as a reserve for the 2025 NBA All-Star Game, marking his first All-Star appearance. The second-year Spurs standout is the youngest All-Star in franchise history and the first Spurs player to earn a selection within his first two seasons since Tim Duncan in 1998. He also becomes San Antonio’s first All-Star since Dejounte Murray in 2022.
After winning the 2023-24 Rookie of the Year award, Wembanyama has been dominant in his sophomore season, averaging 24.5 points, 10.8 rebounds, 3.95 blocks, and 3.8 assists. He leads the league in blocks with 150, holding an active streak of 34 consecutive games with both a block and a three-pointer—the longest in NBA history. His historic production has made him a key figure in conversations about the league’s top young stars.
Joining Wembanyama in the Western Conference lineup are Nikola Jokic, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and other top talents, while the Eastern Conference features Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jayson Tatum, and Damian Lillard.
Today’s odds draw attention as excitement builds for the All-Star Game, with fans eager to see how the new mini-tournament format could shake up the competition. The event tips off on Feb. 16 in San Francisco.
Amen Thompson
Amen. Thompson is the next rising star to watch for in the NBA this year. Thompson is the top emerging star for the Houston Rockets. His recent performances have been electric, and his game-winning shot over Jaylen Brown against the Celtics was the latest proof.
Scoring 33 Points on 68% shooting, along with nine rebounds, four assists, and solid defense, he showed why he’s becoming a key player.
Over the last 10 games, Thompson has averaged 18.8 points, 11 rebounds, 4.6 assists, 2.3 steals, and 1.3 blocks. His defensive presence makes waves, and his ability to attack the rim is nearly unstoppable. Some players struggle in their second year, but Thompson keeps getting better.
Since entering the starting lineup, the Rockets have gone 12-3. Thompson’s three-point shot, once a weakness, has improved, making it even more dangerous. At just 21 years old, his potential is scary for the rest of the league. Keep an eye on Thompson; he’s not just rising; he’s on his way to superstardom.
Stephon Castle
Now, let’s move on to the third NBA player named to be among the rising stars this year: Stephon Castle. Castle has been named the Western Conference KIA Rookie of the Month for January, making him just the second Spurs player in 20 years to win the award, alongside Victor Wembanyama.
His strong performances have set him apart in a talented rookie class. In 12 games, Castle averaged 14.9 points, 3.6 assists, and 3.1 rebounds in 27 minutes per game.
He scored in double figures nine times and led all rookies with five 20-point games. His best performance came on January 31 against Milwaukee, where he posted 20 points, eight rebounds, and six assists without a single turnover.
Castle is the only rookie to record 500+ points, 100+ rebounds, and 100+ assists this season. He leads all rookies in total field goals, made free throws, and steals while ranking among the top in assists and scoring. His all-around impact has made him one of the brightest young stars in the NBA.
Alexandre Sarr
Alexandre Sarr began playing basketball at four years old and later earned a spot on Real Madrid’s cadet youth team, where he played for two seasons. In 2021, he moved to the United States and joined Overtime Elite, spending one season with Team Overtime and another with the YNG Dreamerz. His strong performance in 2022-23 earned him second-team All-OTE honors. As his draft stock rose, he joined the Perth Wildcats in Australia’s NBL through the Next Stars program.
Across 30 games in 2023-24, he averaged 9.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks in 18 minutes per game.
Standing 7-foot-1, Sarr excels defensively with quick lateral movement and rim protection. His size and athleticism make him a strong pick-and-roll threat. His shooting remains a work in progress, hitting 28% from deep and 71% from the free-throw line last season. Adding a reliable three-point shot or playmaking skills could elevate his game further.
Zaccharie Risacher
Last but not least on this list is Zaccharie Risacher. Risacher is making a strong case for NBA Rookie of the Year, and his rise in form comes at the perfect time for the Atlanta Hawks. The No. 1 overall pick struggled with injuries earlier in the season and had difficulty finding his shooting rhythm.
Over the past six games, his performances have taken a significant leap, with standout moments including a 30-point game against the Cavaliers and consistent double-digit scoring efforts. In February, he is averaging 14.2 points per game on 56% shooting, including 38% from three-point range.
Atlanta recently traded De’Andre Hunter and Bogdan Bogdanovic, leaving openings at the forward spots. Risacher is stepping up, even as the team integrates new additions like Caris LeVert and Terance Mann.
Turnovers have also been minimal, showing growth in decision-making. With the Hawks pushing for a playoff spot, Risacher’s continued development could be a major factor in their success.
Conclusion
The NBA’s future is in great hands. These young stars are proving they belong, stepping up in big moments, and improving their teams. Some are already shining, while others are just getting started. This season is their chance to break out and take over.
