NBA Player Rankings: Top 100 Biggest Risers and Fallers
Our annual Top 100 NBA player rankings at CBS Sports has become a tradition, eagerly awaited by basketball fans everywhere. The 2024-25 version of the list was released on Tuesday morning, sparking conversations and debates among fans about the upcoming season.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the ranking process is examining how players have moved up or down compared to the previous year. It’s always fascinating to see which players have made significant strides in their performance and which ones have faced challenges.
The rankings are not just a reflection of the past season’s performance but also an aggregate projection of how players are expected to perform in the upcoming season. This involves some level of speculation and educated guesswork, as we consider factors like player development, team dynamics, and potential breakout performances.
Last year saw three rookies – Victor Wembanyama, Chet Holmgren, and Scoot Henderson – make the list. Two of them, Wembanyama and Holmgren, had outstanding debut seasons, and we anticipate even greater success from them in their second year. This is reflected in the significant jumps they made on this year’s list, with both players climbing a combined 84 spots.
Now, let’s delve into the top 10 biggest risers and fallers from last season to this season, highlighting the players who have seen the most dramatic changes in their rankings.
Biggest Risers
1. **Victor Wembanyama: +46 (58 to 12)**
Wembanyama’s meteoric rise in the rankings is well-deserved, given his exceptional performance in the latter half of the previous season. His impressive stat line after the All-Star break – averaging 23.5 points, 12 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 4.5 blocks, and 1.5 steals per game – showcased his versatility and impact on the court. As a rookie playing on a rebuilding team, Wembanyama demonstrated rare talent and potential, hinting at a future as a transcendent player in the league.
2. **Chet Holmgren, Thunder: +38 (68 to 30)**
Holmgren’s delayed debut in the NBA proved to be worth the wait, as he seamlessly integrated into the Oklahoma City Thunder’s roster. Standing at 7-foot-1, Holmgren’s unique skill set – combining guard-like handles with sharpshooting and shot-blocking prowess – set him apart as a rising star in the league. His trajectory suggests future All-Star appearances and recognition in end-of-season awards.
3. **Alperen Sengun, Rockets: +38 (85 to 47)**
Sengun’s rapid ascent in the rankings reflects his promising performance in a shortened rookie season, where he showcased shades of Nikola Jokic’s playmaking and scoring abilities. His impact on the court, both offensively and defensively, positions him as a cornerstone for the Houston Rockets’ future success. Sengun’s potential to emulate Jokic’s career trajectory bodes well for his future in the league.
Biggest Fallers
1. **Andrew Wiggins, Warriors: -53 (48 to NR)**
Wiggins’ decline in the rankings highlights a challenging period in his career, marked by personal loss and inconsistency on the court. Despite his previous All-Star accolades, Wiggins faces the task of reclaiming his top-100 status through improved performance and resilience in the upcoming season.
2. **Josh Giddey, Bulls: -40 (61 to NR)**
Giddey’s drop in the rankings raises questions about his role and potential impact with the Chicago Bulls, given the team’s existing backcourt dynamics. However, his versatility and playmaking abilities suggest the potential for a rebound in his performance and a return to the top-100 rankings.
3. **Brook Lopez, Bucks: -38 (50 to 88)**
Lopez’s slide in the rankings underscores his unique skill set as a rim-protecting center with exceptional shooting range. Despite his age, Lopez’s value to the Milwaukee Bucks lies in his defensive presence and offensive versatility, making him a valuable asset on the court.
In conclusion, the NBA player rankings reflect the dynamic nature of the league, with players experiencing both rises and falls in their performances and rankings. As the new season approaches, fans eagerly anticipate the on-court performances of these players and how they will impact their teams’ success.