There are still two months remaining on the 2024 tennis calendar, but it’s not too early to start looking ahead to next season. Who are five players who could make big jumps on the ATP Tour in 2025? Let’s take a look.
- Ben Shelton
- Jack Draper
- Flavio Cobolli
- Zizou Bergs
- Joao Fonseca
Shelton is already up to No. 17 in the rankings at 21 years old, although he was probably expected to make an even bigger climb in 2024. That could come in 2025, as the American is one of the biggest servers and best athletes in the game.
Draper, 22, is up to 20th in the world thanks in part to a semifinal run at the U.S. Open.
Cobolli, 22, isn’t as well known as Shelton and Draper. However, the Italian has risen to 32nd in the rankings and is poised to make a big name for himself next season. Cobolli is part of an epic youth movement in Italy, spearheaded by two-time Grand Slam champion Jannik Sinner.
Bergs is more of a late bloomer at 25, but he is really coming into his own this season. The Belgian has earned 11 of his 17 main-tour match wins this year, propelling him to No. 74 in the world. Things should get even better for him in 2025.
Fonseca is the only player on this list outside the top 100 (No. 157), but keep in mind that he is only 18 years old. The Brazilian is one of the top prospects–if not the top prospect–in men’s tennis. It would not be a surprise if he breaks all the way into the top 30 as early as 2025.
Meanwhile, every NBA season brings surprises and unveils new talents. Some players, who were previously in the shadows, suddenly come to the forefront, showing impressive progress and making us reassess their potential. In this article, we’ll look at five promising and established basketball players who have a strong chance of making their All-Star debut this season.
Jamal Murray: Seeking Stability
Jamal Murray, the point guard for the Denver Nuggets, is going through a challenging period in his career. Last season, Murray posted his best statistical averages, scoring 21.2 points and providing 6.5 assists per game. However, injuries and fatigue towards the end of the season negatively impacted his performance in critical games.
Despite this, the 27-year-old player has a good chance to redeem himself in the eyes of fans and experts. If Murray can avoid injuries and demonstrate consistent play in the first half of the season, he could well earn his first All-Star invitation. Notably, bookmaker Mostbet ranks Denver as one of the favorites for the upcoming season, and you can place long-term bets. You can also play over 7,000 casino games on the Mostbet site – mostbetazn.casino.
Evan Mobley: The Foundation of the Cavaliers’ Future
Evan Mobley, 23, enters the new season with high expectations. The Cleveland Cavaliers, under new head coach Kenny Atkinson, look like a more stable team, and the core of four key players, including Mobley, are under long-term contracts.
Last season, Mobley showed significant progress in various aspects of the game. He improved his stats in assists, three-point shooting, and interior play. Although he did not make the first All-Defensive Team due to a limited number of games played, Mobley remains one of the league’s top defenders.
While the presence of Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland may limit Mobley’s offensive opportunities, his all-around development and impact on the team could be key factors in earning an All-Star spot.
Desmond Bane: The New Leader of the Grizzlies
Desmond Bane’s opportunity to step up as the primary playmaker for the Memphis Grizzlies during Ja Morant’s absence last season allowed him to significantly expand his offensive repertoire.
Despite a decrease in three-point shooting percentage to 38.1%, Bane showed his ability to create opportunities for himself, reducing his dependence on teammates’ assists. This highlights his growth as a versatile offensive player.
Before his injury in January, Bane averaged an impressive 24.4 points, 5.3 assists, and 4.6 rebounds per game. If he can maintain such a level of play throughout the season, his chances of making the All-Star Game will increase significantly.
Franz Wagner: The Future of the Magic
Despite a disappointing last season in terms of three-point shooting accuracy (28.1%), the Orlando Magic showed faith in Franz Wagner’s potential by extending his contract for five years worth $224 million.
Wagner’s previous seasons, where he shot over 35% from beyond the arc, along with his success in mid-range shots and free throws, suggest that last year’s decline might have been temporary.
The presence of Paolo Banchero and newcomer Kentavious Caldwell-Pope could create more space on the floor for Wagner. If the German forward can capitalize on this advantage and reach averages of 20 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists per game, his chances of making the All-Star Game will increase.
Leading bookmakers are predicting a breakthrough season for Orlando. Check out the odds for NBA favorites with the top bookmakers in the country – azbukmeker.com.
Jonathan Kuminga: Unleashing Potential for the Warriors
21-year-old Jonathan Kuminga showcases impressive physical attributes and potential to become an NBA star. Last season, he posted statistics that no player his age has ever achieved in NBA history: 21.9 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per 36 minutes, with a shooting percentage of 52.9%.
However, Kuminga still has areas to improve. He needs to enhance his three-point shooting accuracy (34.1% last season) and become more consistent defensively. The Golden State Warriors’ coaching staff also expects him to be more active on the boards.
Given his youth, athleticism, and desire to improve, Kuminga has every chance to make significant progress in his development. Although he is only 22, making the All-Star Game this season is a possibility that cannot be ruled out.
