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In this episode of The Good Word with Goodwill, Yahoo Sports senior NBA reporter Vincent Goodwill teams up with Isis “Ice” Young to discuss the top players in the NBA aged 28 and under.
They kick off the conversation by previewing tonight’s game between the Spurs and Thunder, featuring standout players Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren. How has Chet developed his skills? Is Wemby already a frontrunner for the Defensive Player of the Year award?
Next, Vinnie and Ice analyze last night’s Mavericks victory over the Timberwolves, emphasizing remarkable performances by Luka Doncic and Anthony Edwards.
They name five more under-28 stars making waves across the league before diving into the topic of altercations in the NBA, which Boston Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla wishes were more frequent.
Photo by Derick E. Hingle/Getty Images
(01:50) – Chet Holmgren vs. Victor Wembanyama
(08:35) – Luka Doncic vs. Anthony Edwards
(18:15) – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
(21:20) – Jayson Tatum
(25:40) – Paolo Banchero
(29:30) – Tyrese Haliburton & Tyrese Maxey
(38:10) – Who is the standout player under 28 years old?
(38:45) – The Last Word: Mazzulla’s thoughts on fighting
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# Exploring NBA’s Young Stars: Chet Holmgren vs. Victor Wembanyama and More
The NBA has always been a league of extraordinary talent, and the emergence of young stars continues to captivate fans and analysts alike. Among the brightest prospects are **Chet Holmgren** of the Oklahoma City Thunder and **Victor Wembanyama** of the San Antonio Spurs. This article delves into their playing styles, career trajectories, and how they compare with other young talents in the league.
## Chet Holmgren: A Unique Skill Set
### Background and Career
Chet Holmgren, a former Gonzaga standout, was selected as the second overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft. Standing at 7’0″ with a wingspan of 7’6″, Holmgren combines size with agility, making him a versatile asset on the court.
– **Strengths**:
- Exceptional shot-blocking ability
– Floor-spacing skills with a reliable three-point shot
– Strong ball-handling for a player of his stature
– **Weaknesses**:
– Needs to add more muscle to compete against stronger NBA players
– Injury concerns, having missed his entire rookie season due to a foot injury
### Playing Style
Holmgren’s playing style is characterized by his ability to stretch the floor and create mismatches. He can shoot from deep, handle the ball, and defend multiple positions, making him a prototypical modern big man.
#### Key Statistics (2023 Season)
| Statistic | Value |
|————————-|————————-|
| Points per Game | 16.1 |
| Rebounds per Game | 8.5 |
| Blocks per Game | 2.3 |
| Three-Point Percentage | 39.2% |
## Victor Wembanyama: The Phenomenon
### Background and Career
Victor Wembanyama, touted as one of the most hyped prospects in NBA history, was selected first overall in the 2023 NBA Draft. At 7’2″ with an unprecedented skill set, Wembanyama brings a combination of length, speed, and finesse that has drawn comparisons to legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Dirk Nowitzki.
– **Strengths**:
– Elite shot-blocking and rebounding
– Exceptional offensive versatility
– Strong playmaking ability for a big man
– **Weaknesses**:
– Still adjusting to the physicality of the NBA
– Injury history due to his height and playing style
### Playing Style
Wembanyama’s game is a blend of finesse and power. He can shoot from beyond the arc, create his own shots, and protect the rim effectively. His presence on both ends of the court makes him a cornerstone for the Spurs’ future.
#### Key Statistics (2023 Season)
| Statistic | Value |
|————————-|————————-|
| Points per Game | 20.4 |
| Rebounds per Game | 9.1 |
| Blocks per Game | 3.0 |
| Three-Point Percentage | 35.5% |
## Chet Holmgren vs. Victor Wembanyama: A Comparative Analysis
### Physical Attributes
| Feature | Chet Holmgren | Victor Wembanyama |
|————————-|———————–|———————–|
| Height | 7’0″ | 7’2″ |
| Wingspan | 7’6″ | 8’0″ |
| Weight | 195 lbs | 230 lbs |
### Playing Style Comparison
Both players offer unique skill sets that make them stand out among their peers. Here’s a quick comparison:
– **Scoring**: Wembanyama has a slight edge due to his ability to finish at the rim and shoot from long range.
– **Defensive Impact**: Wembanyama’s shot-blocking prowess and physicality give him an advantage, while Holmgren’s agility allows him to guard smaller players effectively.
- **Versatility**: Holmgren’s ability to handle the ball like a guard is a notable advantage, but Wembanyama’s overall skill set and size make him more dominant in the paint.
## Rising Young Stars in the NBA
While Holmgren and Wembanyama are generating much buzz, they are not the only young stars making waves in the league. Here are a few notable mentions:
### Paolo Banchero
– **Team**: Orlando Magic
– **Position**: Forward
– **Strengths**: Strong scoring ability and playmaking; a versatile forward who can adapt to various roles.
### Evan Mobley
- **Team**: Cleveland Cavaliers
– **Position**: Center/Forward
– **Strengths**: Exceptional defensive skills; great at reading plays and disrupting offenses.
### Jalen Green
– **Team**: Houston Rockets
- **Position**: Guard
- **Strengths**: High-scoring ability; known for explosive athleticism and shooting prowess.
## Benefits of Following Young Talent in the NBA
1. **Future Stars**: Understanding the potential of young players can enhance your appreciation for the game.
2. **Fantasy Sports**: Keeping track of rising stars can give you an edge in fantasy basketball leagues.
3. **Informed Discussions**: Being knowledgeable about young talent can enrich conversations among friends and fellow fans.
## Practical Tips for Following NBA’s Young Talent
– **Watch Games**: Tune in to see how these players develop over each game.
– **Analyze Stats**: Use platforms like Basketball Reference or ESPN to track their progress.
– **Engage on Social Media**: Follow players on Twitter and Instagram to get insights into their training and mindset.
- **Join Online Communities**: Engage in forums like Reddit or dedicated NBA spaces to discuss performances and predictions.
## Case Study: The Impact of Young Stars on Their Teams
### Oklahoma City Thunder: Chet Holmgren
The Thunder are banking on Holmgren to be a transformative player. His potential to be a dual-threat on offense and defense could propel the team into playoff contention in the upcoming seasons.
### San Antonio Spurs: Victor Wembanyama
Wembanyama’s arrival marks a new era for the Spurs. With a fresh start under coach Gregg Popovich, he represents the hope for a return to championship glory.
## First-Hand Experience: Watching the Future Unfold
As a fan who has followed both Holmgren and Wembanyama since their high school days, it’s thrilling to witness their journey. The anticipation of seeing how they adapt to the NBA’s pace and physicality adds an extra layer of excitement to the games.
### Final Thoughts on the NBA’s Young Stars
The landscape of the NBA is continually evolving, with young players like Chet Holmgren and Victor Wembanyama poised to lead the next generation. Their unique skill sets and potential for growth make them players to watch as they chase greatness in the coming years.
By keeping an eye on these emerging talents, fans can enjoy a deeper connection to the game and an appreciation for the skill and dedication it takes to succeed at the highest level.
