Stephon Castle Dazzles as Star Newcomer

Sports Illustrated’s NBA 100 Rankings for the 2025–26 Season: Insights and Projections

The anticipation around the NBA 100 rankings has returned as Sports Illustrated gears up for the 2025–26 season. Esteemed SI writers Chris Mannix and Liam McKeone have joined forces to curate this list, showcasing the top 100 players based on current projections for the upcoming season. Rookies have been excluded from the rankings, and players with long-term injuries were nevertheless included in the evaluation. The rankings focus solely on players with at least one prior NBA season, emphasizing their all-around skill set rather than their team’s performance.

Analysis of Players Ranked 100–51

In this comprehensive breakdown, we dive into the performances, potential, and projected trajectories of players ranked from 100 to 51.

Stephon Castle – San Antonio Spurs

Stephon Castle, the Spurs’ promising point guard, averaged 14.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 4.1 assists last season. His performance surged when he stepped into a leading role during the absence of De’Aaron Fox and Victor Wembanyama, averaging 18.1 points and 6.2 assists over his final 18 starts. Despite needing to improve his shooting efficiency (42.8% FG, 28.5% 3PT), Castle’s versatility and defensive skills promise a strong sophomore season ahead.

Bradley Beal – Los Angeles Clippers

After signing with the Clippers this offseason, Bradley Beal is expected to adapt to a new role as a secondary scorer. While he averaged 17.0 points and 3.7 assists last season, his transition from a high-volume scorer in Washington to a contributor in L.A. will be closely monitored. The Clippers are hopeful that the change in scenery will rejuvenate Beal’s aggressiveness within their defense-focused strategy.

Trey Murphy III – New Orleans Pelicans

Brimming with potential, Trey Murphy III had a breakout campaign, averaging 21.2 points and finishing fifth in Defensive Player of the Year voting, despite being limited by injuries. With outstanding shooting accuracy and excellent athleticism, Murphy possesses the fundamental skills to elevate his game, aiming for a fruitful season if he maintains his health.

Nikola Vucevic – Chicago Bulls

Veteran Nikola Vucevic remains a reliable force for the Bulls, recording 18.5 points and 10.1 rebounds per game. At 34, Vucevic’s consistent double-double output is significant, despite concerns regarding his defense. His ability to shoot 40% from beyond the arc coupled with his rebounding prowess makes him a key starter for a team looking to improve.

Immanuel Quickley – Toronto Raptors

Immanuel Quickley’s first full season with the Raptors provided both challenges and glimpses of potential. He struggled with injuries but showed promise with flashes of excellent play that averaged 17.1 points and 5.8 assists. Quickley’s health in the upcoming season is crucial as he looks to solidify his role as a dynamic two-way guard.

Potential and Opportunities for Emerging Stars

As we continue to evaluate players beyond the initial rankings, several athletes are positioned to break out this season:

• Lively Jr. – Dallas Mavericks: Averaged 8.7 points and 7.5 rebounds last season, Lively aims to continue developing his defensive acumen now that he has a more dynamic frontcourt role.
• Dillon Brooks – Phoenix Suns: With a career-high three-point shooting percentage of 39.7%, Brooks’s defensive impact will be crucial for Phoenix as he joins a contending team.
• Nembhard – Indiana Pacers: Aiming to take the next step in his development, Nembhard will be critical as he adapts to more significant minutes with the potential absence of Tyrese Haliburton.
• Reaves – Los Angeles Lakers: With a career-average of 20.2 points per game, Reaves brings versatile scoring options as the Lakers look to compete in the Western Conference.

Examining the Outlook for 2025–26

As the NBA season approaches, the spotlight shines on players from varying trajectories—veterans looking to redefine their roles and newcomers striving for stardom. The NBA 100 rankings will continually evolve, reflecting individual accomplishments and team dynamics throughout the season. Fans will be keen to monitor these emerging narratives as the stage is set for another thrilling basketball season.

Stay tuned as we unveil Nos. 50–11 on Wednesday, followed by the top 10 rankings on Thursday. Insightful discussions and real-time analyses will follow as the season unfolds, making it essential for avid fans to remain engaged with the developments in the league.

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