NBA Rookie Report: Rising Stars Shine Bright

Rookie Report: Future Stars Taking Flight

The rookie class is putting on a show. This week brought more amazing moments from the NBA's youngest stars. These first-year players are learning fast and making big plays every night.

Cooper Flagg Keeps Fighting

The number one pick keeps attacking. Cooper Flagg dropped 27 points against Phoenix, even though Dallas lost. At 6-foot-9, he moves like a guard and defends like a wall. He slashes to the basket with long strides and rises up for jumpers over defenders. Against San Antonio earlier in the week, Flagg added 14 points in another loss. The Mavericks are struggling this season, but Flagg is their bright spot. He's averaging about 20 points per game. Every night, he battles like a warrior.

Kon Knueppel Shows Off His Stroke

Charlotte's sharpshooter is on fire from deep. Kon Knueppel drained shots from downtown all week long. He scored 20 points against Detroit, hitting nearly half his three-pointers, though the Hornets lost. Earlier against Atlanta, he exploded for 23 points in a win. Knueppel moves without the ball like a chess master. He finds open spots, catches passes, and releases shots with perfect form. The ball floats through the air and splashes through the net. He's shooting an incredible 43 percent from three-point range this season.

Dylan Harper Delivers for San Antonio

The son of an NBA champion is finding his groove. Dylan Harper helped the Spurs beat the Lakers with 15 points and six assists. He sees the floor like a veteran point guard. At 6-foot-5, he can shoot over smaller defenders or pass to open teammates. Against Dallas earlier in the week, Harper scored 11 points in another San Antonio victory. The Spurs are winning big this year, and Harper is part of the reason.

Other Rookie Stars

Nolan Traore handed out 13 assists for Brooklyn in a win over Chicago. Ace Bailey grabbed eight rebounds and scored 16 points as Utah beat Miami.

The future of basketball looks bright.