6 rookies set to make headlines in the 2025‑26 NBA season

A highly anticipated new generation of talent is entering the NBA, and all eyes are on top picks like Cooper Flagg and Dylan Harper. This season’s rookie class is loaded with prospects expected to make an immediate impact, while others will need time to adapt. Among them is Spain’s Hugo González, joining the Boston Celtics as they continue their team transformation.

Cooper Flagg (18 years old, No. 1 Pick, Dallas Mavericks, Forward)

Flagg is considered a potential future All-Star and could one day rank among the league’s very best. Born in December, he advanced his NBA debut by a year and brings maturity, work ethic, and the ability to elevate teammates. He’s seen as a complete player who can score, defend, and change games. After the Mavericks traded Luka Dončić in a move many found hard to understand, landing Flagg gave Dallas a fresh start and a highly coveted No. 1 pick that few expected to come their way.

Dylan Harper (19 years old, No. 2 Pick, San Antonio Spurs, Point Guard)

The Spurs are a team building for the future. Harper has shown in preseason that he could be more than a secondary piece alongside Victor Wembanyama. With size, basketball IQ, and versatility, he could form a lethal pick-and-roll pairing with the Spurs’ star center. Despite questions about how he fits with the existing roster, Harper’s talent seems to have made him a perfect addition.

VJ Edgecombe (20 years old, No. 3 Pick, Philadelphia 76ers, Shooting Guard)

Philadelphia aimed to contend last season but faced injuries and chemistry problems. Edgecombe now joins a roster led by Joel Embiid and Paul George, alongside rising young players. He must find his place, but his abilities make him someone to watch. If circumstances shift, like injuries to key players, Edgecombe could become a key contributor even this season.

Ace Bailey (19 years old, No. 5 Pick, Utah Jazz, Forward)

After a summer of drama involving his draft process, Bailey changed agents and committed fully to Utah. Preseason has shown he has star-level potential, with scoring ability, a broad skill set, and NBA-ready physical tools. He could make a significant impact as a rookie.

Yang Hansen (20 years old, No. 16 Pick, Portland Trail Blazers, Center)

Hansen is the first Chinese player drafted in the first round since 2007. Nicknamed the “Chinese Jokic” for his passing skills, he may face challenges adapting to the NBA’s pace, but his intelligence, touch, and finesse suggest he can succeed. Portland took a calculated risk on this mid-first-round pick, betting on his high ceiling.

Hugo González (19 years old, Boston Celtics, Forward)

González joins the Celtics during a period of transition as the team reshapes its roster. His strengths so far are his intensity, defensive attitude, and energy. To become a consistent rotation player, he will need to refine his three-point shooting and composure in half-court sets. If he does, he could thrive in Boston’s historic environment.

This 2025 rookie class is full of intrigue. Some will shine immediately, others will grow into their roles, and all have the potential to shape the NBA’s next chapter.

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