The 2025-26 NBA season has kicked off with an incredible first week, setting a high standard for the next six months. Fans were treated to amazing performances from both new and established stars, surprising games, and memorable moments. From a 7-foot-4 phenom doing the unbelievable to veteran superstars who are still at the top of their game, the opening week gave us a glimpse of what promises to be an exciting season.
The main takeaways from the first seven days include the continued rise of Victor Wembanyama, the steady excellence of former MVPs, a surprisingly strong rookie class, and a breakout performance from a fan favorite. These early trends suggest we’re in for a season full of talent, competition, and unforgettable basketball.
👽 Wembanyama’s Incredible Start
Victor Wembanyama is already showing that his potential is as high as everyone predicted. At his size, he’s performing moves that seem impossible, like behind-the-back dribbles and fadeaway 3-pointers. He looks comfortable and confident in his role as a dominant player, proving he is ready to lead.
He even spent the summer training with legend Hakeem Olajuwon to improve his footwork, showing a maturity beyond his years. Instead of just relying on his natural talent, he is dedicated to getting better each season, just like the all-time greats. His opening week performance, where he averaged 31 points, 14 rebounds, and nearly five blocks while leading the Spurs to a 4-0 record, has put the entire league on notice.
🏆 Veteran Stars Are Still on Top
The league’s former MVPs are proving they are still hungry for success. Stephen Curry, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander all started the season with incredible performances. At 37, Curry scored 42 points in one game and 35 in the next, showing he can still carry the Warriors. “He loves the show,” said his teammate Draymond Green.
Meanwhile, Antetokounmpo made history as the first player to record over 100 points, 40 rebounds, and 15 assists in the first three games of a season. Gilgeous-Alexander also shined, hitting a game-winner against the Rockets and scoring 55 points in a Finals rematch with the Pacers. Each of these stars is in a different situation with their team, but they all share one thing: they are playing at an MVP level right from the start.
✨ New Rookies Making a Name for Themselves
While new players often need time to adjust to the NBA, this year’s rookie class is already making a strong impression. Players like VJ Edgecombe, Dylan Harper, Cedric Coward, and Tre Johnson have all had solid starts and look comfortable on the court. Harper shows a maturity and skill that may be thanks to his father, former NBA champion Ron Harper.
Coward has been an amazing shooter for the Grizzlies, scoring 27 points in one game by making all six of his 3-point attempts. Johnson is providing much-needed shooting for the Wizards, while Edgecombe has been a key player for the Sixers from day one, scoring 34 points in his debut. “We all trust him… he’s scoring at a high level,” said his teammate Tyrese Maxey.
🔥 Austin Reaves Has a Breakout Week
Austin Reaves, who entered the league as an undrafted player, has quickly become a key contributor for the Lakers. This season, he took his game to another level with a massive 51-point performance against the Kings, stepping up while other stars were out. He proved it wasn’t a one-time event by scoring 41 points the very next night.
In these games, Reaves showed he could be a team leader, and his aggressive play earned him a lot of respect, as he shot 36 free throws over two games. His coach, JJ Redick, praised his journey, saying, “This is a small town kid from Arkansas who went undrafted… just had a 50-ball. These moments are incredible for him.”
