The NBA’s Bright Future: Top 30 Best Players Under 25

The NBA’s Bright Future: Top 30 Best Players Under 25

 I am consistently fascinated by the emerging young talents shaping the future of the league being a devoted NBA follower. The astonishing skills and eagerness to take on significant roles at such early stages in their careers are truly awe-inspiring.

This article will shed light on the top 30 promising NBA phenoms under the age of 25, poised to make a significant impact on the basketball court. Ranging from players with gravity-defying dunking abilities and actions to those exhibiting remarkable composure as floor leaders, their potential appears boundless.

Beyond mere highlights and statistics, these ascending  NBA superstars symbolize a new era of talent and athleticism in the league. Their determination and dedication to achieving excellence serve as a testament that rekindles optimism in the future of basketball.

This marks just the initial phase of their journey, and I invite you to join me as I chronicle the careers of the NBA’s top 30 players under 25, destined for greatness – a future that shines brilliantly!

1. Luka Doncic

Erik Drost, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

At the age of 24, Luka Dončić, the standout talent for the Dallas Mavericks, has swiftly emerged as one of the NBA’s most thrilling young stars. Standing at 6’7″ and possessing remarkable court vision, adept ball-handling, and scoring prowess, Dončić is recognized as an elite playmaker who not only creates opportunities for himself but also for his teammates.

During the 2021-22 season, he boasted impressive averages of 28.4 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 8.7 assists, with a shooting accuracy of 35.3% from three-point range and 45.7% overall. Leading the Mavericks to the Western Conference Semifinals for the first time since 2011, Dončić earned All-NBA First Team honors.

In the current season, he is maintaining remarkable averages of 31.4 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 8.4 assists per game. Known for his versatile scoring and exceptional court awareness, Dončić has rapidly solidified his position as a dominant force and the cornerstone of the emerging Mavericks powerhouse, showcasing breathtaking talent that positions him among the NBA’s most promising young superstars.

2. Ja Morant

All-Pro Reels, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Ja Morant, the 24-year-old point guard leading the Memphis Grizzlies, has rapidly ascended as one of the NBA’s most captivating young talents. Despite just entering his fourth season, Morant’s exceptional speed, athleticism, and basketball intelligence have positioned him as a cornerstone for the Grizzlies’ future.

Standing at 6’2″, Morant showcased remarkable statistics in the previous season, averaging over 27 points, 6 assists, and 5 rebounds per game. Notably, he improved his 3-point shooting to 34.4% with an overall field goal percentage of 49.3%.

Morant’s stellar performance propelled the Grizzlies to the playoffs’ second round for the first time since 2015, earning him All-NBA Second Team honors.

Despite a suspension sidelining him for the initial 25 games this season, Morant is anticipated to resume his pivotal role, catalyzing the young Grizzlies’ potential playoff success. His imminent return positions him as one of the most compelling and must-watch players in the 2023-2024 season.

3. Anthony Edwards

All-Pro Reels, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Anthony Edwards, hailing from Minnesota, serves as a professional basketball player for the NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves and one of the best players right now.

Despite an impressive individual performance in last season’s Game 5 playoff matchup, where he contributed 29 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists, and 2 blocks, the Timberwolves were eliminated by the eventual champions, the Denver Nuggets.

Undeterred by the setback, Edwards is exhibiting a strong determination to guide his team to a comeback this season. In the ongoing 2023-2024 campaign, he has made a remarkable start, boasting averages of over 26 points, nearly 6 rebounds, and 5 assists per game.

Unfazed by the previous postseason disappointment, the young and skilled Edwards appears poised to lead Minnesota on a redemption journey, aiming for success in the playoffs.

4. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

All-Pro Reels, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander from Canada, commonly known as SGA, is a 25-year-old point guard and shooting guard who currently plays for the NBA’s Oklahoma City Thunder. He is acknowledged as one of the league’s most captivating young talents and is notably standing out in the ongoing 2023-2024 season.

With a height of 6’6″, SGA possesses impressive speed, elite ball-handling skills, and a notable shooting ability, showcasing a dynamic playing style. In the previous season, he maintained averages of 24.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game, accompanied by shooting percentages of 45.3% from the field and 39.1% from three-point range.

His outstanding performance earned him a place on the All-NBA Second Team, a feat that played a significant role in guiding the Thunder to their first playoff appearance since 2016. SGA’s momentum continues this season, where he is averaging 29.9 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game.

5. Tyrese Haliburton

All-Pro Reels, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Hailing from Oshkosh, Wisconsin, Tyrese Haliburton is a professional basketball player currently making waves with the Indiana Pacers in the United States. Initially selected by Sacramento in 2020, Haliburton became part of the Indiana team in 2022 through a trade involving Domantas Sabonis.

His outstanding performance in the previous season led to his inaugural All-Star selection as an Eastern Conference reserve in 2023. Possessing a unique combination of scoring and playmaking skills, the youthful Haliburton is now positioned to assume a greater leadership role, guiding the Pacers into the future.

At just 23 years old, Tyrese Haliburton seems poised to contribute significantly to Indiana’s resurgence as a competitive force if his rapid developmental progress continues. With his burgeoning talent, he remains one of the most promising young point guards shaping the NBA’s future.

6. Zion Williamson

Erik Drost on Flickr, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Williamson effortlessly maneuvers around his defender, seamlessly transitioning from forceful dunks to long-range three-pointers and effortlessly sinking uncontested shots. Additionally, he showcases the ability to create space without the ball and efficiently score from midrange positions.

His versatile scoring skills across various court zones pose a formidable challenge for any defensive lineup. Williamson’s unique skill set often results in mismatches against most opponents, creating scoring opportunities not only for himself but also for his teammates.

Blessed with exceptional talent, athleticism, and leadership qualities, Williamson is on the verge of joining the NBA’s elite players. He remains a player of keen interest this season and beyond, maintaining an impressive average of 23.5 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game so far.

7. Jaren Jackson Jr.

Erik Drost, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Jaren Walter Jackson Jr., a professional basketball player from Plainfield, New Jersey, currently competes for the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA after being chosen as the fourth overall pick in the 2018 NBA draft.

In 2023, he achieved his first NBA All-Star selection and also received the Defensive Player of the Year award during the same season. Jackson has led the league in blocks per game for two consecutive seasons.

This season, he is anticipated to have a significant role alongside Ja Morant within the Memphis team. Currently, he maintains averages of 19.6 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game.

8. LaMelo Ball

Erik Drost, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

LaMelo Ball, operating as a dynamic point guard for the Charlotte Hornets in North Carolina, has rapidly emerged as a captivating talent. Despite only being in his third NBA season, the 6’6″ Ball has already solidified himself as a central figure for the future of the Hornets.

Known for his exceptional court vision and playmaking abilities, Ball is regarded as one of the league’s premier passers, consistently generating offense for both himself and his teammates.

As a scorer, his shooting proficiency covers various areas of the court. In the previous season, he maintained averages of 20 points, 8 assists, and 7 rebounds, with shooting percentages of 43.5% overall and 38.6% from beyond the arc.

In the ongoing 2023-2024 season, Ball has taken another significant leap, currently averaging 25 points, 6 rebounds, and over 8 assists per game. At just 22 years old, LaMelo Ball remains one of the most promising young point guards and a must-watch talent in today’s NBA.

9. Evan Mobley

Erik Drost, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Hailing from San Diego, California, Evan Mobley, a forward for the Cleveland Cavaliers, emerges as one of the NBA’s most promising young talents as he embarks on his third season with the team, poised for a standout performance in 2023.

Standing tall at 7 feet, Mobley possesses exceptional athleticism, versatility, and a comprehensive skill set. Beyond his notable scoring prowess, he excels in passing and rebounding.

In the preceding season, Mobley’s stats reflected averages of 15.0 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.7 blocks. Notably, he demonstrated proficiency beyond the three-point line, boasting a 38.3% success rate on three-point attempts and an impressive 50.8% field goal percentage.

Mobley’s defensive capabilities are commendable, showcased by his adeptness in guarding both quicker, smaller players on the perimeter and stronger opponents in the post within the same play.

Offensively, he presents a dual threat: setting screens for pick-and-roll plays leading to layups and sprinting in fast breaks, finishing with emphatic dunks.

Endowed with remarkable talent, versatility, and leadership qualities, Mobley is on the trajectory to join the NBA’s elite players. Undoubtedly, he remains a player to watch in the ongoing 2023-24 season and beyond, currently maintaining averages of 16.0 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game.

10. Cade Cunningham

All-Pro Reels, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Cade Cunningham from Texas, United States is making a considerable impact in the ongoing 2023-24 NBA season, marking his third year with the Detroit Pistons and solidifying himself as a standout player for the team.

Standing tall at an imposing 6-foot-8, Cunningham possesses remarkable size and athleticism, particularly notable for a point guard, showcasing scoring proficiency across the court, complemented by adept ball-handling and passing skills.

In the prior season, Cunningham achieved an impressive triple-double average of 17.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game, boasting a notable 41.6% accuracy in three-point shooting.

While acknowledging areas for improvement, Cunningham already exhibits significant talent, excelling as a playmaker and scorer while demonstrating defensive competence.

Furthermore, Cunningham displays natural leadership qualities, showcasing a level of maturity beyond his years.

With substantial offseason additions by the Pistons and surrounded by promising young talents like Jaden Ivey, Jalen Duren, and Isaiah Stewart, Cunningham plays a pivotal role in shaping the team’s prospects.

For dedicated NBA enthusiasts, closely monitoring Cade Cunningham during the 2023-2024 season is imperative, as he emerges as one of the league’s most intriguing young players, potentially on the path to achieving superstar status. Currently, he maintains averages of 22.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per game.

11. Franz Wagner

Sandro Halank, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Franz Wagner, a German basketball athlete, currently competes in the NBA as a member of the Orlando Magic. Prior to his NBA career, he showcased his basketball prowess at the University of Michigan during his college years.

Wagner’s basketball journey began in the youth teams of the German club Alba Berlin, where he earned recognition as the Best Young German Player in the top league BBL in 2019.

His international experience includes representing Germany in youth tournaments, notably securing gold at the 2018 Albert Schweitzer Tournament. In the 2021 NBA Draft, Wagner was selected by the Orlando Magic, reuniting him with his brother Moritz Wagner, a former Michigan player.

Rapidly gaining prominence, the young Wagner is emerging as one of Germany’s promising talents, credited to his versatile playing style and defensive capabilities.

12. Paolo Banchero

Al Ward, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Paolo Napoleon James Banchero, an American basketball professional from Seattle, Washington, United States, currently plays for the Orlando Magic in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Prior to his NBA career, he showcased his skills in college basketball as a member of the Duke Blue Devils.

Banchero’s outstanding performance earned him the title of Rookie of the Year in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) in 2022. Opting for the 2022 NBA draft after his freshman season, he was chosen as the first overall pick by the Orlando Magic. Banchero continued his success in the NBA, securing the title of NBA Rookie of the Year in 2023.

13. Victor Wembanyama

Thomas S, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Victor Wembanyama, commonly known as “Wemby,” is an extraordinary young French basketball talent recently selected as the top overall pick by the San Antonio Spurs.

Standing at an impressive 7 feet 4 inches, he shares the distinction of being the tallest active player in the NBA. Wembanyama commenced his professional journey in France’s premier league in 2019, securing distinctions such as Pro A MVP and Best Defender in 2023. In that remarkable season, he led the league in scoring, rebounds, and blocks.

His achievements include two league All-Star appearances and being honored thrice as the Best Young Player. Wembanyama has also excelled in international competitions, earning two silver medals, notably setting the FIBA tournament record for blocks per game at the 2019 U19 World Cup.

Regarded as one of the most promising prospects in recent years due to his extraordinary height and skills, the young Wembanyama is set for a stellar NBA career as he embarks on his rookie season, brimming with potential.

14. Tyrese Maxey

All-Pro Reels from District of Columbia, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Dallas native Maxey displays exceptional ball-handling, excelling in snatching the ball from defenders for swift layups in fast breaks. Proficient in three-point shooting, he effortlessly scores uncontested shots, creating space for effective midrange scoring.

Maxey’s versatile scoring poses a significant defensive challenge, showcasing adeptness in creating opportunities for himself and teammates. With exceptional athleticism and leadership, he’s poised for NBA stardom, warranting close attention in the 2023-24 season, boasting averages of 27.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 6.7 assists per game.

15. Josh Giddey

Erik Drost, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Josh Giddey, an Australian basketball player from Melbourne, competes for the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA after being chosen as the sixth overall pick in the 2021 NBA draft.

Giddey made history as the youngest player ever to achieve a triple-double at 19 years and 84 days. Additionally, he replicated a feat last accomplished by Hall of Famer Oscar Robertson in 1961 by recording three consecutive triple-doubles during his rookie season.

16. Scottie Barnes

Erik Drost, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Scott Barnes Jr., an American basketball player from West Palm Beach, Florida, United States, currently competes for the Toronto Raptors in the NBA. He played collegiate basketball for the Florida State Seminoles, achieving third-team all-conference honors in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) during his freshman year in 2021.

Barnes was subsequently chosen as the fourth overall pick by the Raptors in the 2021 NBA draft and went on to be honored as the NBA Rookie of the Year in 2022.

17. Jalen Williams

Marc-Gregor Campredon / MGoBlog, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Jalen Williams, commonly referred to as J-Dub, is an American pro basketball player from Denver, Colorado, United States affiliated with the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA. His collegiate basketball tenure includes three seasons with the Santa Clara Broncos before he entered the 2022 NBA draft, eventually being chosen by the Thunder in the first round.

18. Chet Holmgren

Steve Cheng, Bruin Report Online, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Chet Thomas Holmgren is an American pro basketball player associated with the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA. Selected as the second overall pick in the 2022 NBA draft, he competed in college basketball for the Gonzaga Bulldogs.

Recognized as a consensus five-star recruit and the top player in the 2021 class, Holmgren, standing at 7 feet 1 inch (2.16 meters), contributes in the center and power forward positions.

19. Tyler Herro

Thomas Savoja, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Tyler Herro is an American professional basketball player for the Miami Heat of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He spent one year playing college basketball with the Kentucky Wildcats.

Following his selection by the Heat in the first round of the 2019 NBA draft as the 13th overall pick, Herro earned a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 2020. His rookie season included reaching the NBA Finals with the Heat.

Recognized for his contributions, Herro was honored as the NBA Sixth Man of the Year in 2022, showcasing his versatility at both point guard and shooting guard positions.

20. Nicolas Claxton

Erik Drost on Flickr, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Nicolas Devir Claxton is a professional basketball player from Greenville, South Carolina, United States, currently playing for the Brooklyn Nets in the National Basketball Association (NBA). His college basketball career was with the Georgia Bulldogs.

21. Darius Garland

Erik Drost, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Basketball fans should keep their eyes on Darius Garland, a promising young player for the Cleveland Cavaliers. The 23-year-old point guard from Gary, Indiana had an impressive 2021-2022 season, averaging nearly 22 points and 8 assists per game.

With his quickness and shooting ability, Garland is a scoring threat who can also create opportunities for his teammates. After just a few years in the NBA, he has already established himself as one of the most exciting rising stars in the league.

Garland has the talent and leadership to potentially take the Cavaliers to new heights. His development in the 2022-2023 season and beyond will be something to watch closely.

22. Scoot Henderson 

19-year-old basketball phenom Scoot Henderson is already making waves in the NBA. After graduating high school early, the Marieta, Georgia native joined the G League Ignite, becoming the youngest player in league history.

His standout talent earned him captain honors in the G League Next Up Game during his second season. The Portland Trail Blazers took notice, selecting Henderson with the 3rd overall pick in the 2023 draft.

Now on the Blazers roster, Scoot is ready to step up following the departure of Damian Lillard. He aims to help lead Portland to a championship in his rookie 2023-24 season.

Though just a teenager, Henderson has the drive and skill to leave his mark on the league. He’s averaging 9.2 points, 2.7 rebounds and 4.2 assists per game so far. Scoot’s development this season will be exciting to watch.

23. Brandon Miller

Gamecock Central, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

 At just 21 years old, Brandon Miller is already making a name for himself in the NBA. After a standout career playing for the University of Alabama, the talented forward was selected 2nd overall by the Charlotte Hornets in the 2023 NBA Draft.

Hailing from Tennessee, Miller was a highly touted 5-star recruit coming out of high school. Now with the Hornets, he is looking to make an immediate impact as one of the most promising young players in the league.

With his combination of size, athleticism and shooting ability, Miller has all the tools to become a future star for Charlotte. His development and performance during his rookie season will be exciting to watch for basketball fans.

24. Keegan Murray

Alexander Jonesi, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

At 23 years old, Keegan Murray is already making his mark in the NBA with the Sacramento Kings. Selected 4th overall in the 2022 NBA Draft, the talented young forward is looking to become a cornerstone for the Kings franchise.

A native of Iowa, Murray played college basketball for the University of Iowa along with his twin brother Kris, now with the Trail Blazers. With his versatile scoring ability and rebounding skills, Murray has the potential to develop into a star player in Sacramento.

After getting his feet wet as a rookie, his growth and performance in the 2022-23 season and beyond will be exciting to follow as he aims to help lead the Kings back to contention.

25. Bennedict Mathurin

MGoBlog, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

At just 21 years old, Bennedict Mathurin is already making an impact in the NBA with the Indiana Pacers. The talented Canadian guard played college basketball at Arizona, earning All-American honors in his sophomore season.

Selected 6th overall by the Pacers in the 2022 NBA Draft, Mathurin wasted no time proving himself at the pro level. He was named to the All-Rookie First Team in 2023 and finished fourth in Rookie of the Year voting.

With his athleticism and scoring ability, Mathurin is poised to become a core piece of the Pacers’ future. His continued development in his second NBA season will be exciting to watch as he helps lead a young Indiana squad. Mathurin has the skill and drive to become a star for the Pacers for years to come.

26. Jaden Ivey

All-Pro Reels, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Jaden Ivey from Indiana, United States is a rising star for the Detroit Pistons. The 21-year-old guard played college basketball at Purdue before being drafted 5th overall by the Pistons in the 2022 NBA Draft.

With his athleticism and ability to attack the rim, Ivey is an explosive offensive threat. Now in his second NBA season, he is looking to establish himself as a core piece of Detroit’s rebuild.

If Ivey continues to develop his game and refine his jump shot, he has the potential to become an impact player for the Pistons for years to come. His growth and performance this season will be key as Detroit hopes Ivey can help lead them back to contention in the future.

27. Naz Reid 

File:Naz Reid.jpg: Thomas Savojaderivative work: Shakeydeal33, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Naz Reid is a young NBA talent aiming to make his mark with the Minnesota Timberwolves. The 24-year-old forward played college basketball for LSU before going undrafted in 2019.

However, the Timberwolves quickly signed Reid, recognizing his potential. Now in his fourth NBA season, he is looking to carve out a larger role in Minnesota’s rotation. With his size and scoring touch, Reid can provide valuable minutes off the bench.

As he continues to expand his game and improve his consistency, he has the tools to become a key contributor for the Timberwolves going forward. Reid’s development this season and beyond will be important to monitor as Minnesota hopes he can blossom into a regular in their frontcourt.

28. Jalen Green

All-Pro Reels, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Jalen Green is a rising young talent for the Houston Rockets. The 21-year-old guard was a consensus 5-star recruit coming out of high school in 2020. Rather than play college basketball, he joined the NBA G League Ignite team to develop his game.

His immense potential was realized when the Rockets selected him 2nd overall in the 2021 NBA Draft. Hailing from California and of Filipino descent, Green is now looking to become a franchise cornerstone in Houston.

After showing flashes of brilliance as a rookie, his continued growth and performance in year two will be critical. With his elite athleticism and scoring ability, Green has all the tools to become a star for the rebuilding Rockets. His development and impact this season at the age of just 21 will be exciting to monitor.

29. Jaime Jaquez

Steve Cheng, Bruin Report, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Jaime Jaquez Jr. is a promising young talent for the Miami Heat. The 22-year-old played four successful seasons at UCLA, culminating in Pac-12 Player of the Year honors as a senior in 2023.

His standout college career led to the Heat drafting him 18th overall in the 2023 NBA Draft. As a Mexican-American from California, Jaquez is poised to make an impact as a rookie in Miami. Known for his defensive versatility and scoring ability, he has the work ethic and skillset to potentially become a key contributor.

Though early in his NBA career, Jaquez has shown flashes of his two-way potential. His continued development and performance in his inaugural season will be important to monitor as the Heat hope he can blossom into a regular rotation player.

30. Anfernee Simons

Frenchieinportland, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Anfernee Simons has rapidly emerged as a rising star for the Portland Trail Blazers. The 24-year-old guard  from Florida joined the NBA straight out of high school in 2018, becoming the first player to do so since 2005.

After developing his game for several seasons under Blazers veterans, Simons broke out in the 2021-22 season, averaging over 17 points per game. With his quickness and shooting ability, he established himself as a dangerous offensive threat.

Now entering his fifth NBA season, Simons appears poised to take on an even larger role for Portland following the departure of star Damian Lillard. His continued growth as a playmaker and leader will be critical for the rebuilding Blazers.

If Simons can maintain his upward trajectory, he has the talent to potentially become the new face of the franchise.

These phenomenal young stars give me tremendous hope for the NBA’s future. Their breathtaking talent and maturity beyond their years will shape the league for years to come.

While there are many more rising prospects to watch, this glimpse underscores the next generation’s limitless potential. The legacy builds as new prodigies continue emerging.

At the rate they’re developing, it’s only a matter of time before these young phenoms take the hoops world by storm!