The 2024 rookie draft class wasn’t as highly regarded, with no top-of-the-line names. However, the 2023 draft class had a lot of promising NBA talent, headlined by Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren. Both had remarkable seasons, breaking or setting multiple records. Nonetheless, other rookies last year showed great potential but weren’t headlined enough because of what Wembanyama and Holmgren did. Now that these players are entering their second year, here are five other sophomores to watch.
Top 5 NBA Sophomores to Watch in the 2024-2025 Season
5. Ausar Thompson, Detroit Pistons
Last year, there were few bright spots for the Detroit Pistons. But one of them was Ausur Thompson. Even though he struggled shooting from the outside, he still showed much promise. He still converted 48% of his shots from the field, which is impressive for a rookie. However, his biggest attribute was his ability to cover guys on the defensive side. He will have to rely on his defense until his outside shooting can improve.
The Pistons hope their young core of Cade Cunningham, Jaden Ivey, Thompson, and newly acquired Ron Holland can all mesh together. Detroit also brought over the New Orleans Pelicans’ well-reputed shooting coach, Fred Vinson. This should help improve Thompson’s shooting from the perimeter. Regardless, the Pistons hope to see developments from Thompson.
4. Amen Thompson, Houston Rockets
Next up is the other Thompson twin in Amen Thompson. Just like his brother, Thompson struggled to shoot from the perimeter. Regardless of his issues outside, he still showed a lot of progress in other areas. Those were rebounding, athleticism, and defense. Last year, he grabbed 6.6 rebounds per game, which is impressive for a guard. However, until he gets a reliable shot, he must lean on his defense and rebounding ability.
Last season, the Rockets barely missed the Play-In Tournament and finished as the 11th seed. This year, with another year of head coach Ime Udoka’s system, the team is hoping for massive jumps in a loaded Western Conference. One player who could help them take that leap is Thompson. During the draft process last year, there was an argument that he had the highest upside of anyone outside of Wembanyama. Because of that, he is an NBA sophomore you want to keep your eye on to see his growth and development.
3. Scoot Henderson, Portland Trail Blazers
Turning to the number three overall draft choice last year, Scoot Henderson had a lot of hype surrounding him. However, he was unable to live up to those expectations. He struggled with turning the ball over and shot just 38% from the field. Since Henderson played in the G League before he was drafted, people thought he would better transition into the NBA. Even with all his problems, he did show flashes of potential and why he had a lot of hype going into the draft.
The Portland Trail Blazers entered a rebuild when they traded away their long-time star Damian Lillard. There are no expectations for them next season, which should help Henderson focus on becoming a better basketball player. This will be a big year for him to help move the needle in the right direction and show people his skills.
2. Jaime Jaquez Jr., Miami Heat
The runner-up on this list is Jaime Jaquez Jr. He had a very good year for Miami, averaging 11.9 points per game and playing a major role when the injuries piled up. He fits the Heat culture very well as he tries to make the right plays to help the team win.
Furthermore, he may not have the big numbers or the highlight reel plays, but he does what the Heat coaching staff asks of him. Going into his NBA sophomore season, the Heat hope to see another leap from him in his development as they look to regain their ground in the Eastern Conference.
1. Brandon Miller, Charlotte Hornets
Finally, the top NBA sophomore to watch is Brandon Miller. Last year, he played like the third-best rookie but was overshadowed by the historic seasons from Wembanyama and Holmgren. He was the second overall pick because he was among the best college players. He averaged 17.3 points per game, second only to Wembanyama amongst rookies. To go along with that, he shot 37.3% from three.
Going into his second season with the Charlotte Hornets, the team has low expectations. That said, like Henderson, Miller can focus on his game without worrying about competing for a championship. Finally, the Hornets hope to see a big leap from him as they build the team around him and LaMelo Ball moving forward. Miller is one of the sophomores you want to watch, as he has the potential to become great in the NBA.
