#rookie

#rookie

Coming out of UNC after a freshman season where he displayed all the traits needed to become an elite NBA-level defender, rookie Drake Powell brought plenty of upside and intrigue to the Brooklyn Nets. His offensive game was, and still is, a project, but the impact he's already made on the defensive end is blatant-and his head coach is noticing. Following Brooklyn's first win at the Barclays Center of the 2025-26 campaign, a 116-103 victory over the Charlotte Hornets, Head Coach Jordi Fernandez praised the 20-year-old's knack for making the plays that don't show up on a stat sheet.

Hugo González was drafted in the first round the summer, after playing three seasons with Real Madrid in Spain. González has yet to make his mark on the season, as he's averaged just 11.7 minutes per game this year. Against the Knicks, however, he played 22 minutes and was a key piece in helping the Celtics improve to 12-9. González only put up four points, but he garnered praise from his coaches and teammates for his defense.

In five seasons with the Rattlers, Jennings became one of the most prolific running backs in school history, appearing in 45 games and scoring 25 touchdowns.

Ingrid Lindblad secured victory at the JM Eagle LA Championship, finishing at 21-under 277 after capitalizing on fellow rookie Akie Iwai's final hole bogey.