The whispers are turning into roars: the 2024 NBA Draft class, once dismissed as a "down year," is now commanding respect, talent, and attention across the league! These sophomores are not just surviving; they're thriving, rewriting narratives and proving that potential often takes more than one season to blossom. From breakout stars to foundational bigs, the Class of 2024 is making a definitive statement.
Key Takeaways from the Sophomore Surge
- Stephon Castle is not just building on his Rookie of the Year campaign; he's elevating his game, taking command as a primary playmaker.
- The 2024 Draft class, initially criticized, is collectively showcasing immense growth and significant impact for their respective teams.
- A compelling argument is emerging for the NBA All-Star Weekend to revert its Rising Stars Challenge to the classic Rookies vs. Sophomores format, given the talent pipeline.
- Unsung heroes and late bloomers are emerging, highlighting the depth and untapped potential within this "underestimated" group.
The 2024 Draft Class: From Doubted to Dominant
Remember the talk? The 2024 NBA Draft was labeled a "tweener" class, sandwiched between the generational talent of Victor Wembanyama and the highly anticipated Cooper Flagg class. Critics suggested a lack of immediate superstars. But guess what? These sophomores heard the noise, and they're responding with undeniable on-court brilliance.
"I think we’re a little bit slept on," said Memphis Grizzlies swingman Jaylen Wells at All-Star Weekend. "There were a lot of narratives going into the Draft about how we were going to perform. You look down the line, there’s a lot of good players." Wells, a 39th overall pick, powered his way onto the All-Rookie First Team. Even Kia Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle from the San Antonio Spurs felt the class kinship, stating, "We might be overshadowed by how good the next two classes have been, but we still have a pretty good class." They're not just "pretty good" anymore; they're vital.
A Call for Classic Showdowns: Rookies vs. Sophomores?
While the mini-tournament format for the Castrol Rising Stars Challenge has its fans, the electrifying potential of upcoming draft classes has sparked an interesting debate: should we bring back the epic Rookies vs. Sophomores format for All-Star Weekend in Phoenix next year? Imagine the future stars. The 2025 draftees like Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel clashing with today's impactful sophomores like Stephon Castle and Alex Sarr. The storylines would write themselves, no target scores needed.
This pause in the regular season provides the perfect moment to check in on the Class of 2024. We're rolling out our inaugural "Sophomore" Ladder, tracking who's climbed, who's emerged, and who's defining their NBA future.
Sophomore Standouts: Who's Leading the Charge?
Here's how the 2024 NBA Draft class is stacking up, based on their stellar play through Thursday, February 12, 2026. This isn't just about stats; it's about impact, growth, and the undeniable trajectory of future stars.
1. Stephon Castle, San Antonio Spurs
- Season stats: 16.5 ppg, 5 rpg, 7 apg
- 2024 Draft pick: No. 4
- All-Rookie team?: Yes, First Team
The undisputed leader of this class, Castle is doing more than just avoiding a sophomore slump – he's exploding! Transitioning to a primary point guard role, his production has soared across the board. His jaw-dropping 40 points, 12 rebounds, 12 assists triple-double against Dallas wasn't a fluke; it was his second of the season, a clear indicator of his escalating star power and maturity. He's earning massive respect from league veterans, not just for his numbers, but for his poise.
2. Donovan Clingan, Portland Trail Blazers
- Season stats: 11.6 ppg, 11.5 rpg, 1.4 bpg
- 2024 Draft pick: No. 7
- All-Rookie team?: Yes, Second Team
The Portland Trail Blazers big man is a force of nature in the paint. Clingan is the only player from this class averaging a double-double, consistently dominating the glass and protecting the rim. With 21 games of 10+ points and 10+ boards, his impactful performances are putting him in truly rare company for a sophomore center. He's rapidly becoming a cornerstone for the Blazers' future.
3. Alex Sarr, Washington Wizards
- Season stats: 17.2 ppg, 7.8 rpg, 2 bpg
- 2024 Draft pick: No. 2
- All-Rookie team?: Yes, First Team
Sarr is showcasing why he was such a high draft pick. His scoring efficiency has jumped dramatically from 39.9% to 49.6% from the field, and he's pouring in nearly 22 points per 36 minutes. But it's his imposing defensive presence, averaging 2 blocks per game, that truly justifies his significant minutes and makes him an invaluable asset for the Washington Wizards. He's a two-way threat in the making.
4. Ajay Mitchell, Oklahoma City Thunder
- Season stats: 14.1 ppg, 3.5 rpg, 3.7 apg
- 2024 Draft pick: No. 38
- All-Rookie team?: No
Don't let the "no All-Rookie team" fool you. Mitchell's impact on the Oklahoma City Thunder is undeniable. Though sidelined since January 21 with an abdominal strain, his absence has only highlighted his value: the Thunder are a phenomenal 37-6 with him and a struggling 5-8 without. His league-leading sophomore class plus/minus of +401 speaks volumes about his profound, often subtle, influence on winning. He's the ultimate unsung hero.
5. Matas Buzelis, Chicago Bulls
- Season stats: 15.2 ppg, 5.4 rpg, 2.1 apg
- 2024 Draft pick: No. 11
- All-Rookie team?: Yes, Second Team
The Chicago Bulls' rotation has seen changes, but Matas Buzelis continues to flash star potential. Despite ongoing challenges like adding strength, the lanky forward's confidence remains unshaken. "I’m fully capable of becoming a great player, and this is just the process it’s going to be for me," he asserted. His flashes of skill and determination suggest patience will be rewarded as he adapts to the evolving team dynamic.
6. Kyshawn George, Washington Wizards
- Season stats: 15.1 ppg, 5.4 rpg, 4.8 apg
- 2024 Draft pick: No. 24
- All-Rookie team?: No
Few players in the entire league, let alone this class, have made such a dramatic leap from their rookie to sophomore season as Kyshawn George. His statistics have surged across the board, reflecting increased trust and on-ball responsibilities from the Wizards. Leading his team in touches, George is demonstrating he's ready to orchestrate the offense and grow into a key backcourt piece.
7. Isaiah Collier, Utah Jazz
- Season stats: 10.4 ppg, 2.6 rpg, 7.4 apg
- 2024 Draft pick: No. 29
- All-Rookie team?: No
The Utah Jazz point guard is an assist maestro. Averaging more assists and fewer turnovers than the starter he backs up, Collier's per-36 numbers are elite, placing him second in the entire NBA with 10.5 assists, trailing only MVP candidate Nikola Jokić. His cumulative 802 assists and 6.7 assists per game lead the entire Class of 2024, showcasing his exceptional playmaking vision.
8. Kel’el Ware, Miami Heat
- Season stats: 11.3 ppg, 9.2 rpg, 1 bpg
- 2024 Draft pick: No. 15
- All-Rookie team?: Yes, Second Team
Once tagged as a "Wemby Lite" for his intriguing build and versatile skillset, Ware is now carving his own path with the Miami Heat. His determination to navigate Erik Spoelstra's demanding coaching style is clearly paying off. "Just staying true to it all," he stated. "If something is meant for you, it will find its way to you." His growing impact is a testament to his resilience and dedication.
9. Reed Sheppard, Houston Rockets
- Season stats: 12.7 ppg, 2.6 rpg, 3 apg
- 2024 Draft pick: No. 3
- All-Rookie team?: No
The Houston Rockets have found a reliable force off the bench in Reed Sheppard. The Kentucky combo guard has dramatically increased his scoring output, hitting double digits in 34 of 53 games this season, a huge jump from his rookie year. He's also making a conscious effort to improve against physical defense, solidifying his role as a crucial spark plug and steady contributor.
10. Jaylon Tyson, Cleveland Cavaliers
- Season stats: 13.9 ppg, 5.4 rpg, 2.3 apg
- 2024 Draft pick: No. 20
- All-Rookie team?: No
Talk about a breakout! Jaylon Tyson is a prime candidate for the mythical "Most Improved Rookie" honor, averaging over 10 points per game more than his first season thanks to nearly tripling his minutes. His three-point accuracy has skyrocketed from a respectable 34.5% to an elite 47.5%, making him the second-best shooter in the entire NBA. He's become an unexpected offensive weapon for the Cleveland Cavaliers.
