The NBA 2025 season tipped off with the right mixture of promise and pedigree —a weekend when the league’s brightest prospects shared the stage with its established superstars.
NBA Rookies Run Rampant
In Charlotte’s opening NBA recreation, the quantity 4 draft choose, Kon Knueppel, helped the Hornets get their first win of the season, for the fifth time in a row, with a press release win over the Brooklyn Nets. The rookie confirmed exceptional management and composure, posting field-goal and three-point percentages of 66.7% and 75%, respectively. His court docket imaginative and prescient and defensive hustle additionally shone, hinting at a participant able to fast-track the Hornets’ rebuild.
In the meantime, Philly’s third total choose, V.J. Edgecombe’s debut was nothing in need of historic. Dropping 34 factors, the Bahamian set a brand new 76ers franchise document for essentially the most factors scored by a debut participant and falls third on the checklist of the NBA debut all-time scorers. He appeared fearless amongst elite opposition, combining his athleticism with poise.
Wembenyama Silences Flagg Comparisons
Whereas rookies impressed, Victor Wembenyama reminded everybody that there’s a distinction between promise and proof. Going through off towards the extremely rated primary draft choose Cooper Flagg, the French phenom dominated each ends of the court docket, dropping 40 factors and dominating the boards with 3 blocks and 15 rebounds.
Flagg, who entered the season billed as a prospect to compete with Wemby, struggled beneath the burden of that comparability. By the evening’s finish, the conversations weren’t concerning the newcomer; as an alternative, they centered on how Wembenyama made Flagg’s hype look untimely. The Frenchman’s efficiency wasn’t simply commanding; it was a reminder that he was nonetheless the rising face of the NBA.
NBA Veterans Nonetheless Rule the Court docket
Giannis Antetokounmpo opened this season with typical power, scoring 37 factors, grabbing 14 rebounds and shelling out 5 assists. He mixed his energy and management to dismantle the Washington Wizards‘ defence. His pure dominance on the court docket exhibits no indicators of slowing, maintaining Milwaukee within the championship combine.
Then there was Jimmy Butler III, who stole the evening with 31 factors 5 rebounds and 4 assists. His fluidity and Rhythm reminded everybody why the Golden State’s dynasty nonetheless glints—precision, expertise, and pure basketball IQ.
If week one proved something, it’s that the NBA’s future isn’t ready, it’s right here. However with veterans like Giannis and Butler setting the usual, the subsequent era nonetheless has a solution to go.
Under, you may watch the perfect performs over the past 10 years within the opening week of the NBA:
