By Nikola Miloradovic/ info@eurohoops.net
Breaking through as a young player in the EuroLeague is no easy task. Experience is a prized currency, and rosters are often filled with seasoned stars who set the standard on the court. For youngsters, every minute on the court is precious, and making an impact requires focus, skill, and confidence.
Last season’s Rising Star, Nadir Hifi, set a high bar, and now the torch passes to a new generation. To be eligible for the 2025-26 award, players must be under 22 as of July 1, 2025 (born after July 1, 2003).
A few rising stars have already made a noticeable mark this season, earning respect with energy, creativity, and fearless play, and are steadily carving out their place in EuroLeague stardom. From clutch performances to standout moments, they are beginning to show why they could shape the future of Europe’s top basketball stage.
1. Jean Montero, Valencia Basket
Season stats: 13.3 points, 4.5 assists, 15.7 PIR, 26 appearances
Jean Montero had already been dominating in the EuroCup and Spanish League, but this season he got his chance to make an impact in the EuroLeague – and he seized it immediately.
He has become the leader of Pedro Martinez’s team, which has taken the EuroLeague by storm as one of the season’s most pleasant surprises, fighting for a top spot in the standings. Montero fits perfectly into the offensive-oriented system of the experienced Spanish coach, leading the team with 13.3 points per game and posting the highest PIR on the squad at 15.7.
All that comes despite being just 22 years old and one of the youngest players on the roster. The future looks bright for the Dominican guard, who is already leaving a strong mark on the EuroLeague.
2. Saliou Niang, Virtus Bologna
Season stats: 6.4 points, 4.9 rebounds, 9.8 PIR, 31 appearances
After showcasing his skills with the Italian national team at EuroBasket 2025, Saliou Niang proved to be a breath of fresh air in Virtus Bologna’s rotation.
He quickly established himself as an important player in Dusko Ivanovic’s side, using his athleticism and boundless energy to contribute on both ends of the court.
Niang experienced some ups and downs in his rookie EuroLeague season, which is normal for a player of his age, but the highs clearly outweigh the lows – including a 17-point, 17-rebound double-double against Dubai and an 18-point, 12-rebound double-double against Baskonia – as he has begun etching his name among the best young players in Europe.
3. Momo Faye, Paris Basketball
Season stats: 4.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, 7.0 PIR, 32 appearances
After two seasons with Pallacanestro Reggiana and earning recognition as the 2024 LBA Best Young Player, Momo Faye arrived in Paris and fit right into Francesco Tabellini’s system.
He brought strength under the rim, helping his team immensely on the boards and leading Paris with an average of 2.2 offensive rebounds per game while appearing in every contest for the French side.
As a rookie, Faye has proven he belongs at this level, with his ceiling still to be discovered. At just 21, the 2.09-meter Senegalese center is only beginning to showcase his potential and make his mark on the EuroLeague stage.
4. Melvin Ajinca, LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne
Season stats: 5.4 points, 3.0 PIR, 26 appearances
Melvin Ajinca is steadily following in the footsteps of his cousin, former French national team player and NBA center Alexis Ajinca.
The 51st pick in the NBA Draft by the New York Knicks has established himself as an integral part of ASVEL’s rotation at just 21 years old, playing 26 games and starting 16 EuroLeague contests this season.
He is developing as a shooter, gaining valuable experience with each game, and possesses the frame and skill set to reach high levels in European basketball. For now, he has only scratched the surface.
5. Sergio De Larrea, Valencia Basket
Season stats: 3.7 points, 2.4 assists, 4.2 PIR, 22 appearances
De Larrea started turning heads in Valencia‘s youth system, particularly at NextGen tournaments, and then had a solid role last season in the EuroCup. Pedro Martinez continued to give him opportunities in the EuroLeague this season as well.
De Larrea had his shining moments, including a 23-point game against Virtus Bologna and 8 assists against Barcelona, showcasing his offensive versatility.
His role fluctuated throughout the season, but he still demonstrated plenty of potential, earning a spot on the list of the most promising young players in the EuroLeague.
It’s worth mentioning a few players who just missed the cut, being slightly over the age eligibility for the Rising Star award: Olimpia Milano‘s Quinn Ellis, Anadolu Efes‘s Brice Dessert, Baskonia‘s Matteo Spagnolo, and ASVEL’s Armel Traore.
A couple of even younger talents also made their EuroLeague debuts in 2025-26, showing great promise for the future – among them Baskonia’s Stefan Joksimovic, ASVEL’s Adam Atamna, Barcelona’s Sayon Keita, and Nikola Kusturica.