10 Rising NBA Stars Under 22 Years Old

At just 21 years old, Paolo Banchero has become a key player for the Orlando Magic, contributing significantly to their 21-16 record, securing the 8th spot in the Eastern Conference. Banchero's individual statistics are nothing short of remarkable, averaging an impressive 23.1 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game. These numbers not only highlight his scoring ability but also underscore his versatility and playmaking skills.

The young phenom has continued to build on his stellar rookie campaign, where he claimed the Rookie of the Year title. This achievement speaks volumes about Banchero's immediate impact in the league and foreshadows a promising future. His ability to score efficiently, crash the boards, and create opportunities for his teammates has made him a vital asset for the Magic.

As Banchero develops further, his potential seems boundless. The combination of his scoring prowess and well-rounded skill set positions him as one of the most exciting prospects in the NBA. If he maintains this trajectory, Banchero has the potential not only to be a perennial All-Star but also to elevate the Orlando Magic into playoff contention for years to come.

2. Victor Wembanyama

The San Antonio Spurs, currently positioned 15th in the Western Conference with a challenging 5-30 record, made a wise move by selecting Victor Wembanyama as the No. 1 overall pick in the recent draft. Despite the team's struggles, Wembanyama has emerged as a bright spot and is currently leading the race for Rookie of the Year.

Wembanyama's statistical contributions are particularly noteworthy, boasting an impressive stat line of 19.3 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 3.3 blocks per game. These numbers not only reflect his scoring ability but also highlight his prowess on the defensive end, where his shot-blocking skills have become a significant deterrent for opposing teams.

The 7-foot-5 prodigy's impact goes beyond the box score. His presence on the court has injected a sense of optimism into the Spurs' fan base, as they witness the potential of their young star. Wembanyama's ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor is reminiscent of some of the league's elite big men, signaling a promising future for the French sensation.

While the team's record may not reflect immediate success, Wembanyama's development is crucial for the Spurs' rebuilding efforts. As he continues to acclimate to the NBA and fine-tune his skills, the prospect of him becoming a cornerstone for San Antonio's future becomes increasingly likely.

3. Chet Holmgren

Chet Holmgren of the Oklahoma City Thunder has quickly become a focal point of attention. The Thunder currently find themselves in an impressive second place in the Western Conference, boasting a commendable 24-11 record. Holmgren's impact has been pivotal in this success, as he navigates his inaugural NBA season, vying for the Rookie of the Year alongside Victor Wembanyama.

Holmgren's statistical contributions underscore his versatility on both ends of the court. Averaging 16.9 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game, he showcases not only scoring proficiency but also shot-blocking prowess. His ability to protect the rim and alter opponents' shots has been a defensive anchor for the Thunder, contributing significantly to their success.

Having missed his first year due to injury, Holmgren has displayed resilience and determination in making an immediate impact in his official rookie season. The race for ROTY between Holmgren and Wembanyama adds an extra layer of intrigue to the league, as fans witness the emergence of two promising big men who have the potential to shape the future of the NBA.

As Holmgren continues to adapt to the pace and demands of the NBA, his development becomes a crucial storyline for the Thunder's future. With an already impressive stat line, there's no doubt that Holmgren has the potential to become a cornerstone for Oklahoma City, and his journey will undoubtedly be one to follow closely in the seasons to come.

4. Alperen Sengun

In the midst of a competitive Western Conference, the Houston Rockets find themselves in the playoff mix, currently holding the eighth spot with an 18-17 record. A significant catalyst for their success this season has been the emergence of Alperen Sengun, who has surpassed recent Top 3 draft selections like Jalen Green and Jabari Smith Jr. to become the franchise player for the Rockets.

Now in his third NBA season, Sengun has showcased remarkable growth and development, solidifying his status as a key figure for Houston. His well-rounded game has made a substantial impact, with impressive statistics across the board. Averaging an impressive 21.5 points, 9.0 rebounds, 5.0 assists, and 1.1 steals per game, Sengun's contributions extend beyond traditional big man responsibilities.

What sets Sengun apart is not just his scoring ability in the paint but also his playmaking skills, a rare and valuable trait for a player of his position. Acting as a focal point for the Rockets' offense, he not only provides scoring but also facilitates ball movement and creates opportunities for his teammates.

Sengun's ascent to the status of franchise player highlights the Rockets' commitment to building around his unique skill set. As a versatile big man, he has the potential to redefine the role of centers in the modern NBA. The combination of scoring, rebounding, playmaking, and defensive contributions positions Sengun as a player to watch not only in the present but also as a cornerstone for the Rockets' future success.

5. Shaedon Sharpe

As the NBA landscape undergoes significant transformations, one of the notable storylines is the relocation of seasoned veteran Damian Lillard from the Portland Trail Blazers to the Milwaukee Bucks. Amidst this transition, Shaedon Sharpe has stepped into a more prominent role for the Blazers, currently situated at the 14th spot in the competitive Western Conference with a 10-25 record.

In just his second NBA season, Sharpe has embraced the increased responsibilities, showcasing significant improvement and growth. With an average of 16.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game, he has become a key contributor to the Blazers' offensive schemes. The departure of Lillard has opened up opportunities for Sharpe to shine, and he has seized the moment with a combination of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking.

Sharpe's scoring prowess is evident in his ability to put up consistent points for the Blazers. However, his versatility extends beyond scoring, as he contributes on the boards and facilitates ball movement, reflecting a well-rounded skill set. As a young player, Sharpe's development is crucial for the Blazers as they navigate a transitional phase and look to build a competitive roster for the future.

The Blazers' decision to entrust Sharpe with an expanded role speaks to their confidence in his potential to become a cornerstone for the franchise. His contributions will play a pivotal role in shaping the team's identity post-Lillard and setting the course for their rebuilding efforts.

6. Jalen Green

In a season of transition for the Houston Rockets, Jalen Green stands as a beacon of promise and potential. The Rockets find themselves in a competitive position, holding the eighth spot in the Western Conference with an 18-17 record. Green, in his second NBA season, has been a key contributor to the team's success.

The acquisition of key players and the emergence of young talents like Alperen Sengun have reshaped the Rockets' roster dynamics. Amidst these changes, Green has maintained his status as a dynamic scorer and playmaker. With an impressive stat line of 17.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game, Green continues to showcase his offensive versatility and ability to impact various facets of the game.

The competitive nature of the Western Conference demands that young talents like Green continue to evolve and elevate their games. With each game, he gains valuable experience and hones his skills, setting the stage for a promising future. The Rockets' decision to invest in Green as a foundational piece underscores their belief in his ability to lead the team to greater heights.

7. Benedict Mathurin

In the competitive landscape of the Eastern Conference, Benedict Mathurin has emerged as a key contributor for the Indiana Pacers, currently holding the sixth spot with a commendable 21-15 record. The rookie's impact on the team has been substantial, adding a layer of excitement to the Pacers' campaign.

Mathurin, with a stat line of 14.7 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game, has quickly found his footing in the NBA. His scoring ability, coupled with a well-rounded skill set, has been instrumental in the Pacers' success this season. As a versatile player, Mathurin has demonstrated an ability to impact the game both offensively and defensively, making him a valuable asset for Indiana.

For a sophomore, Mathurin's poise and maturity on the court have been noteworthy. His contributions extend beyond scoring, showcasing an understanding of the game that belies his experience. The Pacers' decision to entrust Mathurin with a significant role speaks to their confidence in his ability to make an immediate impact.

8. Jalen Duren

In a challenging season for the Detroit Pistons, Jalen Duren has been a bright spot, showcasing his potential as a force in the paint. Despite the team's struggles, currently sitting at the 15th spot in the Eastern Conference with a 3-34 record, Duren's individual performances have garnered attention and provide a glimmer of hope for the future.

Duren's stat line of 13.6 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game underscores his impact as a dominant presence in the frontcourt. His ability to control the boards and contribute on the offensive end highlights his versatility and potential to become a focal point for the Pistons' rebuilding efforts.

As a sophomore navigating the challenges of the NBA, Duren's development is a key storyline for the Pistons. The decision to invest in his playing time speaks to the organization's commitment to nurturing young talent. Duren's contributions, particularly in rebounding, have been crucial for a team looking to establish a foundation for future success.

While the Pistons may face immediate challenges, Duren's presence provides a glimpse into a promising future. His double-double performances and all-around contributions showcase a player who can impact the game on both ends of the floor. As Duren continues to adapt to the rigors of the NBA, his growth will be closely monitored as the Pistons aim to build a competitive roster.

9. Jabari Smith Jr.

In the competitive landscape of the Western Conference, Jabari Smith Jr. has made a notable impact for the Houston Rockets, currently positioned at the eighth spot with an 18-17 record. The rookie's performances have contributed to the Rockets' success, adding depth and versatility to their roster.

Jabari Smith Jr.'s stat line of 13.3 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game reflects his well-rounded game and ability to impact various facets of play. His scoring proficiency, coupled with a knack for rebounding, has made him a valuable asset for the Rockets as they navigate the challenges of a competitive conference.

In his second NBA campaign, Smith Jr. has shown maturity beyond his years, adapting quickly to the pace and demands of the NBA. His contributions extend beyond scoring, as he plays a crucial role in the Rockets' efforts on the boards and contributes to ball movement. The Rockets' decision to integrate Smith Jr. into their rotation underscores their belief in his ability to contribute immediately.

10. Brandon Miller

Amidst the challenges of a rebuilding season for the Charlotte Hornets, rookie Brandon Miller has emerged as a beacon of promise and potential. Selected as the second pick in the most recent draft, Miller's impact on the court has been a silver lining for a team currently holding the 13th spot in the Eastern Conference with an 8-26 record.

Miller's individual performances, boasting a stat line of 14.3 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game, reflect his immediate ability to contribute on multiple fronts. The rookie's scoring prowess, coupled with his playmaking skills, has injected a sense of optimism into Charlotte's fan base. In a season that serves as a foundation for future success, Miller's growth is integral to the Hornets' rebuilding efforts.

As a rookie, Miller's adaptation to the NBA has been commendable. His ability to navigate the challenges of professional basketball and contribute meaningfully to the team's efforts speaks to his potential as a cornerstone for the franchise.

While the team's current record may not reflect immediate competitiveness, Miller's performances add a layer of excitement to Charlotte's future. The rookie's development will continue to be a storyline to watch, as he refines his skills, gains valuable experience, and contributes to the team's ongoing pursuit of success in the Eastern Conference.