NBA All-Rookie First Team Highlights Upcoming Stars of 2023–24 Season – Did They Get It Right?

The NBA revealed its All-Rookie First Team for the 2023–24 season this week, displaying some of the league’s best young talent. The San Antonio Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama is leading the roster, the highly anticipated No. 1 pick from last year’s draft. Joining him is Oklahoma City Thunder’s Chet Holmgren, the 2022 draftee who missed his debut season due to a foot injury.

During Wembanyama’s rookie season, he lived up to his potential, with the French phenomenon showcasing his unique blend of skill and versatility. Holmgren impressed with his averages of 15.6 points and 7.2 rebounds per game during his first postseason run despite the Thunder’s playoff elimination by the Dallas Mavericks.

Brandon Miller, the No. 2 pick from last year’s draft, also earned a spot on the first team. Selected by the Charlotte Hornets, Miller’s 17.3 points per game were instrumental in securing his place among the top rookies.

Rounding out the All-Rookie First Team are two later first-round selections who exceeded expectations. Miami Heat’s Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Golden State Warriors’ Brandin Podziemski contributed in their inaugural seasons. Jaquez Jr. started in 20 games, while Podziemski began in 28, showcasing their readiness to compete at the highest level despite their teams’ early playoff exits.

The announcement of the All-Rookie Second Team also highlighted rising stars. Dallas Mavericks’ Dereck Lively II, who got the most votes for the second team, Utah Jazz’s Keyonte George, Memphis Grizzlies’ GG Jackson II, Houston Rockets’ Amen Thompson and the Thunder’s Cason Wallace were recognized for their noteworthy performances. Lively, in particular, came close to making the first team, reflecting his strong rookie campaign.

This year’s All-Rookie selections show a promising future for the NBA, with a new wave of talent ready to make their mark in the league. As these young stars continue to develop, fans can look forward to their contributions to shaping the future of basketball.

Article by Nathaniel Marshall