Jalen Johnson is just behind Victor Wembanyama in wild preseason ranking

Johnson is earning the respect he deserves, being placed one spot behind Wembanyama in wild under-25 ranking.

By Zach Langley · Soaring Down South

Published: Sunday, 11 October 2026 at 3:10 PM

Key Things to Know

Sports Illustrated ranked Atlanta forward Jalen Johnson as the second-best NBA player under 25, behind Victor Wembanyama.
Johnson was ranked ahead of notable young stars including Cooper Flagg, Chet Holmgren, and Paolo Banchero.
Writer Zach Langley notes Johnson is entering his first full season as Atlanta's undisputed top option.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson was ranked as the second-best NBA player under 25 by Sports Illustrated's Liam McKeone. Johnson placed directly behind San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama in the preseason list. Zach Langley of Soaring Down South highlights the ranking as proof of Johnson's ascent to becoming the face of the franchise.

The 24-year-old earned All-NBA honors in 2025-26 and enters his sixth season as Atlanta's primary option following previous departures of Trae Young and Kristaps Porzingis. In McKeone's rankings, Johnson was placed ahead of several notable young stars, including Cooper Flagg, Chet Holmgren, and Paolo Banchero.

Read the full article on Soaring Down South

Jalen Johnson is just behind Victor Wembanyama in wild preseason ranking

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