Rising Stars 2025: The New Generation Set to Transform the NBA
The NBA is entering an exciting phase, with a fresh wave of young talent poised to redefine the league’s future. Several teenagers and early 20-somethings have already begun to impress in college, the G League, and international competitions. Their advanced skill sets, maturity, and athleticism hint that they could become the next generation of superstars within just a few seasons.
Cooper Flagg – A Two-Way Force in the Making
Cooper Flagg, hailing from Maine, has emerged as one of the most hyped prospects heading into the 2025 NBA Draft. Standing at 6’9”, Flagg is a versatile forward who excels on both ends of the court. In his first college season at Duke, he has averaged over 21 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 blocks per game, demonstrating elite scoring and defensive instincts.
Flagg’s combination of length, anticipation, and agility allows him to guard multiple positions effectively. He is already considered one of the best defensive prospects in years, with the ability to disrupt passing lanes and protect the rim while staying mobile on the perimeter.
Offensively, he blends polished shooting mechanics with strong passing vision, enabling him to initiate plays or stretch the floor. Many scouts project him as a future franchise cornerstone capable of leading a contending team within a few years.
Projected Role and Impact
Flagg is expected to be a top-three pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and could contribute immediately as a two-way starter. His defensive prowess will likely earn him early minutes, while his offensive game will continue to develop under professional coaching.
Analysts believe that by his third season, Flagg could evolve into a legitimate All-Star candidate, anchoring his team on defence while providing 20+ points per night. His ceiling is often compared to players like Kevin Garnett or Jayson Tatum due to his intensity and all-around skill set.
If he remains healthy and continues improving his decision-making, Flagg could become the face of a franchise and one of the league’s most complete forwards by 2028.
Matas Buzelis – The Versatile Playmaker
Matas Buzelis, a 6’10” forward from Chicago with Lithuanian roots, has shown flashes of brilliance in the NBA G League Ignite. Averaging 17 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 assists, he has impressed with his ball-handling and fluidity for his size, giving him a unique edge among his peers.
His ability to create off the dribble and operate as a secondary playmaker has attracted comparisons to versatile wings like Luka Dončić and Franz Wagner. Buzelis thrives in transition, attacks closeouts effectively, and has improved his perimeter shooting during the 2024–25 season.
Defensively, his length and mobility allow him to contest shots and switch across multiple positions. Coaches see his defensive potential as untapped, with room to become a reliable two-way wing in the NBA.
Projected Role and Impact
Buzelis is widely expected to be drafted in the top five and to develop into a modern point forward. His combination of size, creativity, and court vision makes him a potential offensive engine for a rebuilding franchise.
Within two or three seasons, he could emerge as a primary scorer while also facilitating offence for his teammates. If his shooting continues to improve, he might become a perennial All-Star candidate.
His unique skill blend positions him to thrive in the increasingly positionless nature of today’s NBA, where versatility is highly valued and rewarded.
Ron Holland – The Explosive Wing
Ron Holland, a former five-star recruit, has used his time with G League Ignite to prove his elite athleticism and relentless energy. Averaging 19 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 steals, Holland stands out as one of the most aggressive and high-motor prospects available in 2025.
His quick first step, powerful drives, and ability to pressure defenders have made him a feared slasher. On defence, he uses his speed and instincts to force turnovers and create fast-break opportunities.
While his shooting remains a work in progress, Holland’s competitive drive and leadership qualities have impressed coaches and teammates, who praise his work ethic and constant motor.
Projected Role and Impact
Holland is projected as a top-ten draft pick and could quickly carve out a role as a two-way wing who brings energy off the bench before moving into a starting role. His defensive intensity will likely make him valuable early on.
If he can develop a consistent jump shot, Holland’s ceiling becomes much higher, potentially turning him into an elite two-way wing similar to Jaylen Brown or Jimmy Butler. His athletic gifts give him a strong foundation to build upon.
By 2027–28, Holland could be one of the most dynamic perimeter players in the league, capable of defending stars while also attacking the rim with authority.
