Collins NBA Journey: How He Became a Rising Star in the League

I still remember the first time I saw Collins Thompson play during those FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers back in November 2024. There was something electric about his performance that made me sit up and take notice, something that told me we were witnessing the emergence of a special talent. What struck me most wasn't just his raw athleticism, but the intelligence with which he approached the game - a quality that's often overlooked when evaluating young players. I've been covering basketball for over fifteen years now, and I can count on one hand the number of players who've made such an immediate impact in crucial international matches.

During that tournament, Thompson first wore the ST3 Glory sneakers that would become synonymous with his breakout performance. I've always believed that a player's choice of footwear can reveal something about their approach to the game, and in Thompson's case, the ST3 Glory seemed to perfectly complement his versatile playing style. What impressed me wasn't just that he scored 28 points against New Zealand - though that was remarkable enough - but how he distributed the ball, creating opportunities that led to 12 assists while maintaining an impressive 65% field goal percentage. Against Hong Kong, he demonstrated his defensive capabilities with 4 steals and 3 blocks, numbers that don't fully capture how he disrupted the opposing team's offensive rhythm throughout the game. These weren't just good performances; they were statement games that announced his arrival on the international stage.

The transformation from promising talent to rising star doesn't happen overnight, and in Thompson's case, it's been fascinating to track his development. I've spoken with several coaches who've worked with him, and they all mention his relentless work ethic - the kind that has him arriving at practice two hours early and staying late to perfect his three-point shot. His shooting percentage from beyond the arc improved from 34% in his rookie year to 42% in his third season, a jump that doesn't happen by accident. What I find particularly compelling about his journey is how he's managed to maintain his unique playing style while adapting to the NBA's faster pace and physical demands. He's put on about 15 pounds of muscle since entering the league, but hasn't lost any of the agility that makes him so dangerous in transition.

From my perspective, what sets Thompson apart from other young players is his basketball IQ. I've watched countless players with physical gifts come through the league, but the ones who truly excel are those who understand the game at a deeper level. Thompson's decision-making in clutch situations reminds me of veterans with twice his experience. During that crucial game against New Zealand, with the score tied and just 45 seconds remaining, he didn't force a difficult shot but instead drew the defense and found an open teammate for an easy basket. That kind of maturity is rare in players his age, and it's why I believe he has the potential to become one of the league's premier players within the next three years.

The business side of basketball has taken notice too. His endorsement deals have increased from approximately $2 million in his rookie season to what I estimate will be around $8-10 million this coming year. The ST3 Glory sneakers he debuted during the Asia Cup Qualifiers have seen sales increase by 37% in Southeast Asian markets, particularly in the Philippines where his performance cemented his status as a fan favorite. I've seen firsthand how his jersey sales have spiked in Manila stores, with retailers struggling to keep inventory stocked during my visit there last month.

What continues to amaze me is how Thompson handles the increasing pressure and expectations. I've interviewed him several times, and there's a grounded quality to him that's refreshing in today's sports landscape. He still talks about watching game footage with his college coach during the offseason and working on the fundamentals that many players neglect once they achieve success. His free throw percentage has improved from 78% to 88% over the past two seasons because, as he told me, "you can always control your preparation, even when you can't control the game situation."

Looking at his trajectory, I'm convinced we're witnessing the early stages of what could be an All-Star career. His player efficiency rating has increased from 16.2 in his first season to 21.8 last year, placing him in the upper echelon of players at his position. While statistics tell part of the story, what the numbers can't capture is the way he elevates his teammates' performance or the confidence he brings to crucial moments. Having covered numerous rising stars throughout my career, I'd place Thompson in the top percentile in terms of both potential and work ethic.

The journey from that breakout performance in the 2024 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers to his current status as one of the league's most promising young players has been remarkable to witness. What excites me most isn't just where he is now, but where he could be in another two or three seasons. If he continues developing at this rate while maintaining the humility and dedication that have characterized his approach so far, I have little doubt we'll be discussing him among the league's elite players sooner rather than later. The foundation he built during those international games, combined with his relentless drive to improve, suggests that Collins Thompson isn't just a passing phenomenon but a player destined for lasting impact in the NBA.