As I sit here scrolling through preseason highlights, I can't help but feel that special buzz that only comes with a new NBA season. What makes this year particularly fascinating isn't just the usual superstar narratives, but rather the exceptional rookie class that's about to take the league by storm. Having followed basketball for over fifteen years, I've developed a pretty good sense for which newcomers are worth getting excited about, and this year's group might just be one of the most compelling I've seen in recent memory.
Let's start with Victor Wembanyama, because how could we not? The French phenom stands at an almost unbelievable 7'4" with an 8-foot wingspan, making him the most anticipated prospect since LeBron James entered the league twenty years ago. I watched his preseason game against Golden State where he scored 22 points in just 21 minutes, and what struck me wasn't just his length but his fluidity - he moves like a guard despite his incredible height. The Spurs have been carefully managing his development, but I believe he'll average around 19 points and 9 rebounds this season while completely transforming their defense from day one.
What's interesting to me about this rookie class is how it contrasts with the scheduling challenges facing other leagues. While we're enjoying this NBA season, other basketball organizations like the PBA, PVL, UAAP, and NCAA are navigating complex scheduling conflicts during the 16-day World Championship run. This context actually makes me appreciate even more how the NBA maintains its consistency, allowing talents like Scoot Henderson to shine on a predictable stage. Henderson, who went third to Portland, brings an explosive athleticism that reminds me of a young Derrick Rose. I caught him play for the G League Ignite last year where he averaged 21.7 points and 6.7 assists, and his combination of speed and power is simply breathtaking.
Then there's Chet Holmgren, who technically qualifies as a rookie after missing all of last season with that foot injury. I've been particularly impressed with his preseason performances - he's shooting 47% from three-point range while still protecting the rim at an elite level. The Thunder have been carefully managing his minutes, but I predict he'll be in the Rookie of the Year conversation by season's end. What makes him special in my view is his basketball IQ - he always seems to be in the right position defensively and makes smart decisions with the ball.
Brandon Miller at Charlotte is another fascinating case. While some questioned the Hornets' decision to take him second overall, I actually love the fit. At 6'9" with a smooth shooting stroke, he reminds me of a young Paul George. I watched him closely during Summer League where he averaged 18.3 points, and what stood out was his offensive versatility - he can score at all three levels and has shown flashes of playmaking ability that surprised me. The Jordan brand signing tells me the industry sees his potential too.
Rounding out my top five is Amen Thompson, who brings athleticism that's just off the charts. His vertical leap measured at 44 inches during pre-draft workouts, which is absolutely ridiculous. While his shooting needs work - I'd estimate he shot about 28% from three in the G League - his court vision and defensive potential are exceptional. Having watched his twin brother Ausar develop alongside him, I believe Amen's unique combination of size, speed, and playmaking will translate immediately to Houston's system.
Looking at this group collectively, what strikes me is how each brings something completely different to the table. From Wembanyama's unprecedented physical profile to Henderson's explosive athleticism, Holmgren's two-way versatility, Miller's scoring polish, and Thompson's raw athletic gifts - this might be the most diverse and talented rookie class we've seen since 2018. While other leagues navigate scheduling uncertainties, we NBA fans get to enjoy watching these five exceptional talents develop right on schedule, and I for one can't wait to see how their stories unfold.