Nolan Traore, the 19-year-old rookie guard for the Brooklyn Nets, is starting to make a name for himself as the team’s lead ball-handler. His steady presence on the court was evident in a recent game against the San Antonio Spurs, where he also faced off against fellow Frenchman Victor Wembanyama. Traore’s rise in the Nets’ lineup comes as the team rebuilds and looks to develop young talent.
Wembanyama, who practiced alongside Traore while preparing for the 2024 Olympics with the French national team, spoke highly of Traore’s abilities and potential growth.
From Early Challenges to Emerging Team Leader
Traore began his NBA journey with some difficulties, initially struggling in his first appearances and spending time in the G League with the Long Island Nets. However, after a productive run there, he has now established himself as a central figure in Brooklyn’s offense throughout the latter half of the season.
In 15 starts, Traore is averaging 11.9 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 5.3 assists, shooting 44% from the field, 30% from three-point range, and 76% from the free-throw line. Notably, he is the only rookie currently averaging over 11 points and five assists per game. His 6.2 assists per 100 possessions rank third among rookies who have logged more than 800 minutes, just behind Walter Clayton Jr. and Dylan Harper.
Endorsements from Coaching Staff and Peers Highlight Traore’s Determination
Nets head coach Jordi Fernandez has expressed confidence in Traore’s mindset and progress, emphasizing his belief in the player’s capacity to grow further.
Nolan’s always believed that he belongs,
Fernandez said.
He always fights back, and he’s getting to be the voice and the presence that we believe he is. He’s not there yet because we also believe his ceiling is much higher. These last 23 games are huge for him, huge for the group going into the summer, which will be the biggest summer of our lives.
Echoing that sentiment, Victor Wembanyama praised Traore’s maturity and composure on the court.
[Nolan’s] very young, and he was even younger in 2024 when we were preparing for the Olympics,
Wembanyama said.
And already, what I noticed from him was the maturity and the way he could control the game. And the way that whoever the opponent is doesn’t matter. He’s got real guts, and I believe that’s a guy who will have incredible growth over his career.
Looking Ahead: A Crucial Period for Traore and the Nets
Traore entered the 2025 pre-draft process widely regarded as a top-five prospect but was ultimately selected 19th by Brooklyn after an uneven season. As the Nets continue rebuilding, he is expected to play a pivotal role in the team’s future success. His ongoing development in these final games of the season will be critical both for his career trajectory and for the Nets’ ambitions moving forward.
With his unique combination of youth, skill, and poise, Nolan Traore represents a beacon of hope for Brooklyn as they aim to reestablish themselves in the NBA. His ability to lead the offense as a rookie point guard places him among the league’s promising new talents, and all eyes will be on his progress during this transformative period.
Victor Wembanyama had high praise for Nolan Traore, who he practiced with leading up to the 2024 Olympics:
“What I noticed from him was the maturity and the way he could control the game. And the way that whoever the opponent is doesn’t matter. He’s got real guts. I believe… pic.twitter.com/rAr5i8lfj4
— Erik Slater (@erikslater_) February 27, 2026
