IN recent years, basketball experts have often argued that the NBA lacks fresh athletes capable of eventually replacing the LeBron–Durant–Curry generation.
Not everyone can become an All-Star in their rookie season, yet the best basketball league in the world still has plenty of players with tremendous potential. Here is a list of the most promising young NBA talents who will still be under 23 at the start of the 2025/26 season.
Cooper Flagg
The youngest player in the league was selected first overall in this year’s draft and immediately found himself in a difficult situation. Dallas fans expect a lot from the athlete who is supposed to replace Luka Dončić – not by position, but by status. Coach Jason Kidd initially tried using the forward as a point guard but quickly concluded that it was better to let Flagg play in his natural role. Cooper instantly improved his effectiveness, scoring 20+ points in three consecutive games. Previously, at 18, only LeBron James had achieved this.
Amen and Ausar Thompson
Twin brothers are playing for Houston and Detroit, respectively. Both squads are among the league leaders in the 2025/26 season, and much of that success is thanks to these young players. Each of them is already being mentioned as a contender for the All-Defensive Teams. In addition, Amen has been excellent on offense, averaging 17.2 points per game. Ausar currently looks stronger on defense, but his value is evident: when Detroit tried to trade for star Lauri Markkanen, they were immediately rebuffed unless Thompson was part of the offer.
Paolo Banchero
The Orlando player has reached the level a true star and is on track to add the “super” prefix to that status in the near future. This powerful forward with playmaking skills can bulldoze through defenses on drives and then dish out passes to teammates using his high basketball IQ. Last year’s playoffs showed that Banchero is capable of causing serious problems for the conference’s top squads. If he manages to become more efficient from long range, Paolo is guaranteed a spot in the All-Star Game for years to come.
Victor Wembanyama
By 2025/2026, the French phenomenon has completed two full seasons in the league and entered his third as a candidate for the status of a truly dominant elite player. Thanks to his incredible height (224 cm) and wingspan, he is already one of the best rim protectors in the NBA. Wembanyama has also become more selective with his shots, no longer attempting threes right after crossing half court, and he now has stronger teammates around him. If injuries don’t interfere, Victor is almost guaranteed the Defensive Player of the Year award and a spot on one of the All-NBA teams. However, what everyone really wants to see is how the Frenchman will perform in the playoffs with support from Fox, Castle, and the rest of the roster.
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