Top 10 NBA Players 25 and under

The NBA is filled with talent all across the board. From benchwarmers to starters, from rookies to veterans, there is no shortage of talented basketball players. Given the massive talent pool there is in the NBA, today, we are going to break down the top 10 players in the NBA that are under the age of 25.

These hoopers are the future of the league:

10. Evan Mobley | 22 years old

2023-2024 Season Stats: 15.7 PPG, 10.0 REB, 2.0 AST, 58.7 FG%

Despite his slender frame, Evan Mobley has established himself as a league-wide threat at the center position. He has played a significant role in Cleveland’s success this season, showcasing his ability to dominate the boards, distribute the ball when necessary and consistently score within the arc.

While he excels in inside scoring and rebounding, his biggest limitation lies in his ability to shoot from long range.

In today’s NBA, centers are expected to possess some level of proficiency in three-point shooting. While Mobley’s stats demonstrate his effectiveness in other areas, he has struggled from beyond the arc, converting on only 25% of his attempts throughout his career.

However, at just 22 years old and averaging a double-double with almost three assists per game, there is immense potential for Mobley to develop a more consistent long-distance shooting ability in the future. Especially working with teammates like Donovan Mitchell and Max Strus.

9. Alperen Sengun | 21 years old

2023-2024 Season Stats: 21 PPG, 9.2 REB, 4.9 AST, 53.9 FG%

Already drawing comparisons to Nikola Jokic, Alperen Sengun has emerged as one of the brightest young stars in the NBA. Like Jokic, Sengun possesses a diverse skill set that greatly benefits the Rockets. He excels at finishing through contact, defending in the paint, facilitating the ball and demonstrating craftiness from the post.

Standing at 6-foot-11 and weighing 243 pounds, Sengun has become an indispensable asset for the Rockets this year.

In just his third season, Alperen Sengun has rapidly developed his game, easily surpassing the talent of many seasoned NBA players. With another year of development, we could witness Sengun emerge as a consistent All-Star and become a top target for franchises to pursue in the off-season.

8. Paolo Banchero | 21 years old

2023-2024 Stats: 22.7 PPG, 6.8 REB, 5.2 AST, 45.6 FG%

Since the 2022 draft, Paolo Banchero has demonstrated his ability to lead a team, putting up impressive numbers and displaying signs of leadership. He has quickly established himself as one of the top players in the league even outside of the 25 and under category. Standing at 6-foot-10 and weighing 250 pounds, Banchero offers a diverse skill set for the Magic, being capable of handling the ball, playing in the post and hitting tough shots.

Banchero’s buzzer-beater helped the Magic pick up a huge win against the Pistons. Banchero had 15 points, 2 blocks, 3 assists and 5 rebounds in that game. Let’s take another look at that shot:

Similar to Mobley, Banchero struggles with his three-point shooting. He has shown improvement this year, shooting nearly 37% from long distance, but his career average only stands at 32.8%. However, his dominance in the paint compensates for this deficiency, making him a lethal threat against any defense inside the arc.

Banchero and the Magic (+150) have the second-best odds on the top Michigan sportsbooks to win their division. The Heat (-190) are currently the favorite.

7. Scottie Barnes | 22 years old

2023-2024 Stats: 20.0 PPG, 8.2 REB, 6.0 AST, 47.6 FG%

Scottie Barnes is the ultimate versatile asset that any team would desire. Whether it’s running in transition, playing in the post, guarding the post, playing the point guard role or crashing the boards, Barnes excels in every aspect of the game.

In his third year and nearly averaging a triple-double, it’s clear why the Raptors are looking to build their future around Scottie Barnes.

What truly stands out about Scottie Barnes, aside from his offensive versatility, is his defense. His ability to defend positions 1 through 5 sets him apart from other rising stars. Considering Barnes’ capabilities in just his third season, it highlights promise for his future.

6. LaMelo Ball | 22 years old

2023-2024 Stats: 23.9 PPG, 5.1 REB, 8.0 AST, 43.3 FG%

LaMelo Ball has been a basketball prodigy for years, captivating audiences from his high school YouTube mixtapes up to his draft day in 2020. Widely known for his flashy style, no-look passes, showboat attitude and entertaining outfits on the sidelines, Ball stands out as one of the league’s most exciting players.

However, labeling LaMelo Ball as just an average young player would be false. The emerging star has become a key leader for the Hornets, driving their fast-paced run-and-gun style of play. Despite being sidelined due to an ankle injury, in his last game before the injury on January 27th, he finished with 15 points, 8 assists, 2 steals and 3 rebounds.

LaMelo Ball demonstrates strong potential as a leader, but his attitude sometimes stunts his growth from assuming that role. Playing for a team composed solely of young talent like himself limits his exposure to NBA veterans who could provide valuable mentorship and guidance.

Despite occasional concerns about his demeanor, Ball has the potential to become an even bigger offensive threat. Again, the question remains: will he mature and grow into the leadership role?

5. Chet Holmgren | 21 years old

2023-2024 Stats: 17.1 PPG, 7.7 REB, 2.7 AST 54.4%

After missing his rookie season due to an off-season ankle injury, Chet Holmgren has made a remarkable comeback this season, emerging as a two-way powerhouse on the court. Spectators and analysts have frequently noted similarities between Holmgren’s offensive style of play and that of Kevin Durant.

Holmgren has a unique skill set, superb rim protection, finishing through contact, three-point shooting and even ball-handling. Standing at seven feet tall, it’s no wonder why there’s high praise for this young star. In the Thunder’s most recent game, Holmgren recorded an impressive stat line of 29 points, 7 assists and 8 rebounds.

With his size and statistics, Holmgren has already entered the discussion for Rookie of the Year. Check out our futures betting guide to make the most informed bets on NBA awards.

4. Ja Morant | 24 years old

2023-2024 Stats: 25.1 PPG, 5.6 REB, 8.1 AST, 47.1 FG%

Ja Morant was immediately placed at the forefront of this Grizzlies team. Known for his speed, quick footwork and explosiveness, Morant poses a next-level threat to any opposing team.

However, this season has been challenging for Morant. He missed the first 25 games due to a suspension for possession of an illegal firearm and later suffered a season-ending shoulder injury. How will he come back?

Morant has demonstrated his fearlessness in attacking the basket and competing against NBA veterans. This is the mindset a younger player needs to be among the best. We believe next season we will see Ja Morant get selected as an All-Star and make a playoff run with the Grizzlies.

3. Anthony Edwards | 22 years old

2023-2024 Season Stats: 26.3 PPG, 5.4 REB, 5.2 AST, 46.8 FG%

Anthony Edwards has been everything a franchise wants and needs when it comes to a leader. Communicating on defense, taking control of the offense, hitting tough shots - he can do a bit of everything. He’s already solidified himself as one of the top shooting guards in the NBA, and he’s only 22 years old.

Several NBA vets have come forward and have stated that Edwards is a special player and may even be the face of the NBA soon.

With Edwards’ performance this year, Minnesota has emerged as a serious playoff contender and can pose significant challenges in the Western Conference. With a young core supporting him and the leadership of Mike Conley and Karl-Anthony Towns guiding him, Edwards is on track to be among the best guards in the league.

2. Tyrese Haliburton | 23 years old

2023-2024 Season Stats: 21.8 PPG, 3.8 REB, 11.7 AST, 49.4 FG%

When people think about the Indiana Pacers, the first name that comes to mind now isn’t Reggie Miller - it’s Tyrese Haliburton. The Pacers point guard is having a breakout year putting up incredible numbers on top of shooting 39.7% from the three-point territory. He leads the league with 11.7 assists per game.

Despite Haliburton’s unique shooting form, he possesses all the qualities of a leader. With an incredibly young roster surrounding him, the Pacers will undoubtedly become a dangerous opponent in the Eastern Conference in the coming years.

1. Luka Doncic | 24 years old

2023-2024 Season Stats: 34.3 PPG, 8.8 REB, 9.5 AST, 49.2 FG%

It’s no surprise that Luka Doncic is number one on the list. Since his debut game in the NBA, Luka has consistently proved to the world that he carries the skills and mindset of a champion. Whether it’s scoring 50-point games, hitting buzzer-beaters or making a crucial defensive stop, Luka’s impact on the court is undeniable.

With an average just shy of a triple-double, shooting 49% from the floor and 38% from range, it would be an insult not to place him at the forefront of the best players in the NBA under the age of 25.

Doncic has already shattered numerous scoring records and secured several All-Star selections. The only accolade missing from his resume is an NBA championship. With his ability to put up big numbers consistently, it’s only a matter of time before we see the Mavericks in the NBA Finals.

Doncic has a shot at taking home the NBA MVP award this season and you can capitalize on that bet.

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