MIAMI — The NBA All-Rookie team for the previous season featured some anticipated names. San Antonio’s Victor Wembanyama, who was the top overall selection in the 2023 draft and received the unanimous rookie of the year title, was an expected inclusion. Oklahoma City’s Chet Holmgren, selected second in the 2022 draft and eligible last season due to injury, also earned his spot. Brandon Miller of Charlotte, chosen second in 2023, was another predictable pick.
These three players met the expectations set for them, while two other first-team selections exceeded theirs. Jaime Jaquez Jr. from Miami and Brandin Podziemski of Golden State were both selected outside the lottery but found themselves as standout performers on the All-Rookie first team. As the new season approaches, both Jaquez and Podziemski are prepared to step into expanded roles as sophomore players aiming for significant growth.
“During the pre-draft process, I informed all the front offices that if there was a re-draft, I would be a top-five pick,” Podziemski stated. “Some looked at me incredulously, while others believed my potential. Being named to the first-team All-Rookie solidifies my stance.”
The voting results from last season underlined their achievements. A total of 99 ballots from reporters and broadcasters were collected for the NBA’s awards process, and all 99 featured Wembanyama, Holmgren, and Jaquez. Miller appeared on 98 of the ballots, with Podziemski on 97.
It’s noteworthy that Jaquez and Podziemski were frequently alongside each other throughout their journeys. They were drafted sequentially in 2023, with Jaquez going at 18 and Podziemski at 19. Both hail from the West Coast — Jaquez from UCLA and Podziemski from Santa Clara. They even trained together leading up to their rookie seasons and joined the USA Basketball Select Team over the summer, contributing to preparations for the senior national team aimed at winning gold in the Paris Olympics.
“I don’t view draft position as a make-or-break factor,” Jaquez expressed. “Regardless of where you’re selected, you’ve got to perform. A lot depends on where you fit into a team. During workouts, I recognized Podziemski’s talent and knew he’d present challenges in this league. Both of us possess extensive basketball experience and a solid understanding of the game, which we will leverage as we move into this season.”
Both the Miami Heat and Golden State Warriors are eager for the growth of their respective players. Jaquez ranked fifth in scoring and third in steals among rookies last season, while Podziemski was notable for ranking third in total rebounds, only behind Wembanyama and Holmgren, and fourth in assists. Additionally, both will need to shoulder additional responsibilities following roster changes; Klay Thompson departed the Warriors for Dallas, and Caleb Martin left the Heat for Philadelphia in free agency.
Expectations are mounting for both players, but how they adapt remains to be seen. “Growth varies for each player,” noted Golden State forward Draymond Green. “For instance, Steph Curry had substantial development between his fourth and fifth years, while LeBron James became an All-Star in his second. Analyzing their progress over time illustrates that growth does not follow a set path.”
As for Wembanyama, he is already recognized as the face of the Spurs, anticipated to play a crucial role in returning the team to postseason contention. Holmgren is central to the Oklahoma City squad, which boasts MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and is viewed as a legitimate title contender. Meanwhile, Miller is expected to serve as a vital piece in Charlotte’s rebuilding efforts.
For Jaquez and Podziemski, their goal is to continue to develop and mature in their roles, as both franchises look for steady progression. “I believe I can enhance my defensive skills significantly,” Jaquez said. “It’s about challenging shots effectively and applying pressure on opposing players without overcommitting.”
Alongside Jaquez and Podziemski, several other NBA sophomores, excluding Wembanyama who is anticipated to be in the MVP and defensive player of the year discussions, are expected to elevate their games. Other notable players making strides include Portland’s Scoot Henderson, Dereck Lively II from Dallas, and Utah’s Keyonte George. The transition from Year 1 to Year 2 can be substantial, and Podziemski feels confident about the upcoming season. “I understand the expectations from my role,” he reflected. “This year, I know exactly what I’m supposed to conquer, unlike last season, where I was still finding my footing.”