What a difference a year makes. In sports, life, and everything in between, 365 days can flip the script entirely — turning doubt into belief, setbacks into breakthroughs, and underdogs into contenders. The phrase might be cliché, but it’s true now more than ever, especially in the NBA, where stories evolve fast and fortunes can change overnight.
Just look around the league.
This time last year, the Houston Rockets were deep in the rebuilding phase. Questions swirled about whether their young core had what it took, and wins were hard to come by. Fast forward to now — they’re one of the most exciting young teams in the league, upsetting top contenders like the Thunder and Cavaliers twice, and playing with a toughness that’s caught everyone off guard. The addition of head coach Ime Udoka, veteran leadership from Fred VanVleet, and the leap from Alperen Şengün have completely changed the vibe. The Rockets have gone from a team to overlook to a team no one wants to face.
And how about the Minnesota Timberwolves? Last season, they were inconsistent and surrounded by drama — from locker room tension to doubts about the Rudy Gobert trade. This season? They’re sitting near the top of the Western Conference. Anthony Edwards has taken a superstar leap, the defense is elite, and the chemistry has finally clicked. A team that felt like it was teetering on the edge now looks like a legitimate playoff threat.
On the flip side, some things can fall apart in a year, too. The Golden State Warriors were still seen as title contenders in 2023, but fast forward to now, and they’re fighting just to stay in the Play-In race. Draymond’s suspensions, Klay’s inconsistency, and questions about the future have shifted the narrative. It’s a reminder that nothing is guaranteed — even for dynasties.
It’s not just teams either — the difference a year makes is showing up in the players.
Take Tyrese Maxey, for example. A year ago, he was an exciting young piece for the Sixers, but still behind Joel Embiid and James Harden in the pecking order. This year? He’s an All-Star, a franchise cornerstone, and one of the most electric guards in the league. When Harden left, many wondered how Philly would stay afloat. Maxey answered that with career-high numbers and jaw-dropping performances.
Or look at Jalen Brunson. Last season, people questioned whether he was worth the big contract the Knicks gave him. Now? He’s arguably the best free-agent signing of the last five years. Brunson has become the heart of New York’s offense, putting up superstar numbers and leading with confidence, consistency, and grit.
Even injuries can tell the story of a year’s difference. Zion Williamson, who missed the end of last season with yet another setback, has returned this year more focused and physically locked in. He’s not only playing — he’s playing like the dominant force he was projected to be. The Pelicans, once treading water, now look like they could make noise in the playoffs if Zion stays healthy.
Fans too can feel the change. Cities that were quiet last spring are buzzing with playoff hope. Teams that were buried in the standings are now fighting for top seeds. The offseason trades, new coaching hires, young players leveling up — it all adds up to a league that never stays still.
And that’s the beauty of the NBA. Every season tells a new story. Every player gets a chance to rewrite their legacy. Every team has the chance to shock the world.
A year ago, things looked one way. Now, they look completely different.
So whatever you’re going through — in sports or in life — just remember: the difference a year makes 🙌
