Chet Holmgren: The Next Star of the NBA?

By Edcel Panganiban June 28, 2024 15:34

credit. Alex Goodlett/Getty Images

Chet Holmgren, the Rookie sensation for Oklahoma City Thunder is a name that has gotten more and popular as we get deeper into this 2023-24 NBA season which raises questions about whether or not he could be an emerging star in the next to early years of his career. We are going to get into the nitty-gritty and talk about what separates him, his impact on this league & how he stacks up against fellow rookie standout Victor Wembanyama.

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Chet Holmgren's Meteoric Rise

This evolution has been an incredible, yet surreal tale of Chet Holmgren's path from the college basketball scene to his inevitable destination in the NBA. The No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft was ruled out for his rookie season due to a foot injury, but he has returned with some fireworks here in Year 3 of his career. He is averaging 17.6 points, 7.6 rebounds, and a nation-leading 2.7 blocks per game this season - showcasing his versatility and the impact he makes at both ends of the floor with an impressive stat line on offense as well as defense becoming nearly impossible to overlook it for opposing teams trying to overcome him in Gonzaga Nation!

The Wembanyama Factor

Likewise, do not overlook the ascension of the San Antonio Spurs' Victor Wembanyama. Wembanyama has been an absolute monster in the 2023 season and is currently leading the league with his defensive work, reaching averages of 20.6 points +10.1 rebounds while also dishing out some assists a game (4 apg), together with solid D stats like steals per ninety minutes. Analysis The 7-footer, who can do it all on the court is sure to command interest from NBA fans around the globe.

A Clash of Titans

The duel between Holmgren and Wembanyama has been epic, evoking memories of classic past NBA rivalries. We caught a glimpse of Holmgren and Duren facing off on the court recently in an early summer contest won by Holmgren's Thunder, which provided even more anticipation for two incredible players like these. The intense competition and possible future rivalry between them have created an exciting future in the NBA.

Holmgren Potential Grade

To reveal his game, we must consider whether Chet Holmgren can be the next breakout star in college basketball -- with a chance to fill that archetype at the NBA level. Holmgren - a versatile big man with the ability to score, rebound, and protect the rim has parallels drawn by some of the biggest NBA legends. His effect on the Thunder, his nightly involvement within it, and their wins have combined to put him in the cross-hairs.

The Impact and Beyond

The ripple effect of the 76ers hiring Holmgren could be league-changing and goes far beyond individual awards. His arrival signals a new age of talent, one that will entertain the league and change it. His NBA ceiling is whatever it wants to be as long as he continues progressing and developing.

In the End

Chet Holmgren has answered his star in the NBA - it is a story, and yes! His skillset coupled with other rookie appearances has brought excitement and anticipation to the NBA's future. Throughout his season, attention on Holmgren will continue to grow as he writes a brand new chapter in Summit League history that could stand last for quite some time.
With a captivating future for both Holmgren and the NBA, what is guaranteed without needing an answer is that he will forever be remembered as one of those special players who inject all this competitive fire into the game.