Victor Wembanyama tops the list of breakout players with the potential to become first-time All-Stars this season.
These players are positioned to make their first All-Star appearances this season.
Over the past decade, there has been an average of 5.7 first-time All-Stars per season, with a peak of 10 in 2020. Last season, four players made their All-Star debuts, all from the Eastern Conference: Paolo Banchero, Scottie Barnes, Jalen Brunson, and Tyrese Maxey.
Here are six potential candidates (eight players in total) for a first-time All-Star selection in 2025:
- Victor Wembanyama, Spurs
The top pick is clear. Wembanyama demonstrated during his rookie season—especially in the latter half—that he’s the real deal. With league GMs already considering him the best defensive player, Wembanyama’s stats should make him a standout candidate, even if the Spurs don’t have a winning record by All-Star selection time. - Chet Holmgren and/or Jalen Williams, Thunder
The Thunder are projected to be a top team in the Western Conference, potentially warranting multiple All-Stars. Both Holmgren, 22, and Williams, 23, have the potential to join Kia MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as All-Stars. The biggest challenge will be the depth of talent in the West. - Alperen Sengun, Rockets
Sengun was an All-Star contender last season, averaging 21.1 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game. However, the Rockets’ low standing in the West hindered his chances. Should the team improve, partly due to the development of Jalen Green and Jabari Smith Jr., Sengun could benefit from the added attention when it comes to All-Star selection. - Evan Mobley, Cavaliers
Mobley is a strong candidate among potential first-time All-Stars in the East. With the Cavaliers expected to be a top-10 team on both ends of the floor, Mobley could be a standout player alongside Donovan Mitchell. Should Cleveland take a big step forward, it’s likely Mobley will have played a significant role in that progress. - Cade Cunningham, Pistons
With the addition of experienced players, the Pistons are on track for improvement. Cunningham, who was the No. 1 pick in 2021 and received a max extension this summer, is poised for a breakout. Detroit may not win half their games, but with the precedent set by Barnes and Trae Young as injury replacements last season, Cunningham could still earn a nod. - OG Anunoby or Mikal Bridges, Knicks
If winning teams drive All-Star decisions, either Anunoby or Mikal Bridges could be the next addition for the Knicks, joining Jalen Brunson and potentially Karl-Anthony Towns. While Bridges is likely to score more, Anunoby’s impact on the Knicks can’t be understated, especially as they went 26-6 with him last season, including playoffs.
