2025-26 NBA Season: Sophomore Prospects to Watch
As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, the consensus among analysts is that the 2024 draft class was not particularly strong, yet there are still several players whose development is worth paying attention to. Notably, though many rookies didn’t shine, plenty displayed potential and began carving out their niches on their respective teams. Among them, standout players like Stephon Castle, the Rookie of the Year, and Reed Sheppard, the No. 3 pick, emerged as players to watch in their sophomore campaigns.
Top 10 Captivating Sophomore Prospects
Here’s a look at ten of the most captivating sophomore prospects ahead of the upcoming season, each making their mark in various ways during their rookie years.
10. Nikola Topic, Oklahoma City Thunder
Topic didn’t play a single game during his rookie season due to a torn ACL but still celebrated a championship with the Thunder. Despite officially being a rookie for the next season, his potential excites the team. He was able to showcase his skills at the summer league, specifically his playmaking with an impressive average of 7.3 assists across three games. The uncertainty of his role, given the depth of Oklahoma City’s backcourt, makes him a player to keep an eye on.
9. Jared McCain, Philadelphia 76ers
McCain had a limited 23-game rookie stint after injuring his knee, but he showed promise by averaging 15.3 points with a strong shooting percentage. The construction of Philadelphia’s backcourt will be critical to McCain’s development alongside Tyrese Maxey and newly acquired pick VJ Edgecombe. This coming season is pivotal for McCain as he hopes to solidify his role in the club’s future amidst the aging core of Joel Embiid and Paul George.
8. Jaylen Wells, Memphis Grizzlies
Taken as the No. 39 pick, Wells made a notable splash in his rookie year, starting 74 games and averaging over 10 points per game. With the trade of Desmond Bane, Wells is poised to take on a larger offensive role. His versatility as a scorer and defense could provide Memphis with critical contributions, making him an exciting player as he continues to develop.
7. Kel’el Ware, Miami Heat
Ware snagged a spot on the All-Rookie second team, establishing himself as a valuable center with impressive stats after stepping up midseason. The Heat’s management has made it clear they expect improvement from him, particularly based on earlier criticisms regarding his work ethic. Given these factors, his capacity to tap into his potential will be vital for Miami’s current retool.
6. Alex Sarr, Washington Wizards
Posited as the second overall pick in the last draft, Sarr brought promise to the Wizards despite still being a work in progress. Averaging 13 points and exhibiting defensive skills, Sarr is part of a larger movement in D.C. to nurture young talent. Expected improvement with more experience on the court could solidify his standing as a cornerstone for the franchise.
5. Donovan Clingan, Portland Trail Blazers
Leading the rookie class in blocks, Clingan had a solid showing in his debut year, clinching a spot on the All-Rookie second team. With the Trail Blazers positioned to maximize his potential, how they manage his minutes alongside veteran Robert Williams III will be key. Clingan is on the verge of breaking out as an impactful defender in the league.
4. Matas Buzelis, Chicago Bulls
Having drafted him at No. 11, the Bulls saw Buzelis flourish midseason, earning a spot on the All-Rookie second team after averaging over 31 points in his final stretches. His significant upside as a perimeter scorer makes him vital for Chicago, especially with the team’s uncertain playoff aspirations. This year will be crucial for him, particularly as he continues his development.
3. Zaccharie Risacher, Atlanta Hawks
Risacher was a valuable contributor to the Hawks, starting most games as a rookie. With the team enhancing their roster, his growth as a two-way player will be essential for Atlanta’s ambitions to compete seriously. His adaptability in scoring and defense will be significant as the Hawks seek to capitalize on their current opportunity to win.
2. Stephon Castle, San Antonio Spurs
Castle’s remarkable rookie year earned him the title of Rookie of the Year, with notable averages in points and assists. His role could shift this coming season, especially with the addition of De’Aaron Fox in the backcourt and the emergence of new talent. The brewing dynamic in San Antonio could see Castle evolve into a key player as they build around their star, Victor Wembanyama.
1. Reed Sheppard, Houston Rockets
Following a rookie year where he played limited minutes, Sheppard is primed for a more substantial role after the Rockets cleared space by trading Jalen Green. His fit within Houston’s system as a playmaker and off-ball shooter will be vital as the team pushes towards contention. This season is critical, as Sheppard’s development could shape the direction of the Rockets’ roster moving forward.
