
The 2024-25 NBA rookie class has been exciting, though no player has yet emerged as a surefire future All-Star. That said, plenty of young players are making an impact on their teams, and as the season progresses, their rankings and rookie card values will fluctuate quite at bit
While this list reflects the current top rookies at the time of writing, these rankings could shift weekly based on performance, opportunity, and team dynamics. Yeah, that’s obvious. But this year, in particular, it seems more volatile than ever.
Here’s a look at the current top 14 rookies to watch in this year’s basketball card products (Jan 30, 2025)
Stephon Castle, the fourth overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, has quickly become one of the most exciting rookies in the class.
Playing for the San Antonio Spurs, he has carved out a key role alongside Victor Wembanyama, averaging 11.6 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game. His combination of size, playmaking, and defensive ability makes him a valuable two-way player, and he’s already delivered multiple standout performances, including several 20+ point games.
Castle’s early success and strong all-around game make his rookie cards some of the most sought-after in this class.
Shop for Stephon Castle rookie cards on eBay
Jaylen Wells has been one of the biggest surprises of the season. Drafted 39th overall, the Memphis Grizzlies forward has exceeded expectations, averaging 11.8 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game.
He has played his way into a regular rotation spot and continues to impress with his efficiency and confidence. While he wasn’t considered a top prospect heading into the draft, his early production has quickly boosted interest in his rookie cards, and if he continues this pace, his value could skyrocket.
Shop for Jaylen Wells rookie cards on eBay
The second overall pick in the draft, Alex Sarr, has wasted no time establishing himself as an elite defensive prospect. The 7-foot center leads all rookies in blocks per game (1.6) while also contributing 11.6 points and 6.7 rebounds per contest.
His length, mobility, and rim protection give him a high ceiling, and while his offensive game is still developing, his ability to anchor a defense makes him one of the most promising young big men in the league. If he expands his offensive skill set, his rookie cards could become some of the most valuable in this class.
Shop for Alex Sarr rookie cards on eBay
Kel’el Ware has quickly made a name for himself with the Miami Heat, emerging as a legitimate Rookie of the Year candidate. Selected 15th overall, Ware’s blend of athleticism, size, and shooting touch has made him a key piece of Miami’s rotation.
Playing in the Heat’s well-regarded development system, he has shown steady improvement, and if he continues to build on his early success, his rookie cards could see a major uptick in value.
Shop for Kel’el Ware rookie cards on eBay
At 7’4″, Zach Edey entered the league with questions about how his dominant college game would translate to the NBA.
So far, he has answered them in a big way for the Memphis Grizzlies, averaging 9.6 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game. His sheer size and physicality make him a force in the paint, and while he may not have the versatility of some of his rookie counterparts, his impact on both ends of the floor has been undeniable.
Collectors looking for a high-upside investment in a unique big man should keep an eye on Edey’s rookie cards.
Shop for Zach Edey rookie cards on eBay
Reed Sheppard, the third overall pick by the Houston Rockets, has shown flashes of his immense shooting talent, though he has had an up-and-down start to his rookie season.
Averaging 3.2 points, 1.3 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game, he has struggled to find consistent minutes, but his three-point shooting remains a major asset. Long-term, Sheppard has the tools to develop into an elite shooter, making him a potential sleeper in the rookie card market.
Shop for Reed Sheppard rookie cards on eBay
Jared McCain has emerged as one of the most exciting scoring rookies in the league. Selected 16th overall by the Philadelphia 76ers, he averaged 15.3 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game before his season was ended by an injury.
His ability to put up big numbers has been on full display, including a massive 34-point, 10-assist game. As one of the highest-scoring rookies in the class, McCain’s cards are quickly gaining attention, and if he maintains his scoring pace when he gets back on the court, his long-term value in the hobby could be significant.
Shop for Jared McCain rookie cards on eBay
Dalton Knecht has been a reliable bench scorer for the Los Angeles Lakers, averaging 9.5 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 0.9 assists per game.
His ability to knock down shots has made him a valuable asset for the team, and as his role expands, he could become an even more important piece of the Lakers’ offense. For collectors, Knecht’s rookie cards present an interesting mid-tier option with room for growth.
Shop for Dalton Knecht rookie cards on eBay
Yves Missi has quietly been one of the most productive rookies in the class. An undrafted gem for the New Orleans Pelicans, he has been a defensive presence, averaging 8.8 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game.
His hustle, rebounding, and shot-blocking make him an essential part of the Pelicans’ rotation. If he continues to play at this level, his cards could become an underrated investment in this class.
Shop for Yves Missi rookie cards on eBay
Matas Buzelis came into the season with high expectations, and while he hasn’t dominated statistically, his versatility remains intriguing.
A smooth 6’10” forward with guard-like skills, Buzelis has flashed glimpses of his high ceiling. If he carves out a bigger role with the Bulls, he could see a jump in production—and in the value of his rookie cards.
Shop for Matas Buzelis rookie cards on eBay
Tristan da Silva has been a perfect fit for the Warriors’ system, showing off his smooth shooting stroke and high basketball IQ.
His ability to space the floor and play within Golden State’s motion offense has made him an immediate contributor, and his rookie cards could gain value as he establishes himself as a key role player on a playoff-caliber team.
Shop for Tristan de Silva rookie cards on eBay
Bub Carrington has been one of the more intriguing rookie guards, showing flashes of elite scoring ability for the Toronto Raptors. With his smooth handle and ability to create his own shot, he has the potential to develop into a dynamic offensive weapon.
If he gets more opportunities in the second half of the season, his rookie cards could become an exciting investment.
Shop for Bub Carrington rookie cards on eBay
Zaccharie Risacher has all the physical tools to be a star, but he’s still adjusting to the NBA game. As a long, athletic wing for the Atlanta Hawks, he has shown flashes of defensive brilliance and shot-making potential.
If he continues to develop, he could become one of the steals of the draft, making his rookie cards a great long-term play.
Shop for Zaccharie Risacher rookie cards on eBay
Donovan Clingan has been a solid presence for the Trail Blazers, using his size and strength to impact the game defensively.
He’s a strong rebounder and rim protector, and while his offensive game is still evolving, his potential as a dominant interior force makes him an intriguing rookie to watch.
Shop for Donovan Clingan rookie cards on eBay
While the 2024-25 rookie class hasn’t yet produced a clear-cut superstar, several players have made strong cases as future impact players.
With rankings changing each week, keeping an eye on rising rookies is essential for collectors and investors looking to make smart moves in the card market.
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