This season's Rookie of the year race isn't close but it is interesting

In just a few weeks, Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs will likely win this season's Rookie of the Year. There is good reason for that, as the Spurs star is showing amazing promise in his first year and is already putting up incredible numbers. Within a few years, he will likely win MVP and could even lead his team to a championship if he continues to play like this.

But even though Wembanyama will probably be ROTY, there are other strong first-year stars who are proving their worth throughout the league.

Jaime Jaquez Jr. of the Miami Heat is one of those people. He is averaging 11.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1 steal per game and has surprised many by being such a vital part of the Heat this year. With the recent return of Tyler Herro, Jaquez has gotten a little bit less time on the court but he is showing just how special he is.

Brandin Podziemski of the Golden State Warriors has been a surprise this year, posting 9.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game. Because of how great he has been, he has earned a starting role in place of Klay Thompson, which was seen as a huge change for the team. He could be the future of the Warriors after Curry and Thompson retire.

Brandon Miller was the second pick in last year's draft and he has been a huge part of the excitement around the Charlotte Hornets this year. Although the team is still a few seasons away from true greatness, Miller has been sensational already, scoring 21.3 points per game. There are a few young stars in Charlotte and Miller is one of the best. Alongside LaMelo Ball, he could lead the team to the playoffs very soon.

Finally, there is Chet Holmgren of the Oklahoma City Thunder. For a while, it looked like Holmgren could take Rookie of the Year away from Wembanyama but now the Spurs star has pulled ahead in the race.

Holmgren is averaging 18 points, 8 rebounds, and 2 blocks per game. He had to sit out of last season because of a nasty leg injury but Holmgren is now back and making up for lost time.