2026 NBA Mock Drafts

# Team Player Pos
1 AJ Dybantsa
BYU, Fr
 
SF

Dybantsa finishes his college career as the odds on favorite to be the number one overall pick. He’s a jumbo wing who is 6-foot-9 with a better than 7-foot wingspan. He’s athletic with an elastic body type, capable of creating his own shot at virtually any point, and the leading scorer in college basketball. He’s simultaneously made notable gains with his passing, finishing through contact at the rim, and even his three-point shooting.

Pro Comparison: Paul George
Summary

Dybantsa is a consensus top three prospect in the draft and a legitimate candidate to be the first overall pick in June’s draft. He’s a jumbo wing with terrific positional size, a 7-foot wingspan, good athleticism and extreme court coverage. He’s also a proven scorer with a long history of putting up big numbers at virtually all spots.

About
  • Played prep school varsity as an 8th grader and was Massachusetts Gatorade Player of the Year as a 9th grader.
  • Reclassified in October 2023 and immediately became the top ranked prospect in the Class of 2025.
  • Three-time gold medalist with USA Basketball, including this summer’s FIBA U19 World Cup, where he was named MVP.
Strengths
  • Elite physical tools with his size, length, athleticism, effortless mobility and elastic body type.
  • Polished shot creator who can rise-up into his pull-up on demand, has advanced footwork, can operate in the mid-post, attack the paint, draw fouls and make some explosive plays in the open floor.
  • Vastly improved decision-making, ability to read the floor as a passer and willingness to play through contact at the rim as a finisher.
Weaknesses
  • Inconsistent shooter who tends to have a flatter ball, both from the free-throw line and three and is more comfortable shooting off the dribble than the catch.
  • Real defensive upside with the way he can cover the court, move his feet and utilize his length, but defensive commitment can be inconsistent, as can his body language.
  • Has had virtually unlimited volume and freedom to this point, at every stop, so it remains to be seen how he will adapt to a more balanced system.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
34.8 25.5 6.8 3.7 51.0
2 Darryn Peterson
Kansas, Fr
 
PG

There are still plenty of people who believe that Peterson may be the best long-term prospect in this draft with his potential overlap of shot-making, creation, and on/off ball versatility, along with backcourt size and length. In Washington, he’d be the type of grand prize they’ve yet to find. Initially, he may split time with Trae Young and Tre Johnson, but ultimately grow into their lead guard of the future.

Pro Comparison: Tyrese Maxey
Summary

Peterson is the most dynamic guard in this draft class and potentially one of the best on-ball creators we’ve seen in the backcourt in several draft classes. He came into the 2025-26 college season as a consensus top-three prospect after averaging 30.4 points, 7.4 assists, 7.2 rebounds and 2.2 steals as a high school senior at Prolific Prep. While the narratives around his freshman season at Kansas have centered around his time missed, he’s continued his pattern of making clear gains with each passing year, despite rarely playing with the full explosiveness that we saw in high school.

About
  • No. 1 prospect in the national 2025 recruiting class.
  • Co-MVP of the McDonald’s All-American Game.
  • Naismith High School Player of the Year.
Strengths
  • Dynamic creator with an overlap of positional size, length, strength and playmaking ability.
  • Can score and make plays at all three levels with his handle, pull-up shooting, physicality as a driver, mid-post game, pick-and-roll navigation, knack for drawing fouls and ability to create for others.
  • Drastically improved shot-making and ability to make tough shots, off both the catch and the dribble.
Weaknesses
  • Availability and durability are the two biggest concerns given the amount of time he’s missed and also been noticeably less than 100% this year at Kansas.
  • High-usage player who rarely showed the same playmaking for others, or even on-ball initiating, as frequently as he did in high school.
  • Can be a little bit of a ball-stopper in the halfcourt.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
29 20.2 4.2 1.6 43.8
3 Cameron Boozer
Duke, Fr
 
PF

This may be the easiest pick of the draft. Executives are terrified of missing on Dybantsa or Peterson if they end up reaching their full potential, but there’s little doubt that Boozer will be a long-term impact player. His resume of winning is unmatched, he’s physically ready for the next level, and one of the smartest players in the draft. He’s a big-time rebounder, passer, has terrific hands, and can operate at different spots on the floor offensively.

Pro Comparison: Kevin Love
Summary

Boozer was a top three prospect throughout the entirety of his high school career and had arguably the most successful career in modern high school basketball history, winning every major championship he competed in, including two gold medals. His impact on winning has continued at Duke as he’s established himself as arguably the best player in college basketball this season. Long-term, he may have the highest floor in the class.

About
  • Led Columbus High School to four Florida state championships and the Geico Nationals championship as a senior.
  • Led Nightrydas to three consecutive Nike EYB championships, including the Peach Jam title in 2024.
  • Co-MVP of the McDonald’s All-American Game.
Strengths
  • Consummate winner with strong body, versatile floor game, mature approach and intellect for the game.
  • Magnetic hands, high-volume rebounder and advanced passer (particularly with trademark long outlets).
  • Inside-out scoring tools within offense, including notably improved perimeter shooter and underrated defensive versatility as well.
Weaknesses
  • Not a dynamic shot-creator or isolation player.
  • Positional size and vertical athleticism are both adequate, but not elite.
  • Lower release point, both on set-shot 3-pointers and even inside the lane.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33.5 22.5 10.2 4.1 55.6
4 Caleb Wilson PF

The Kings need to rebuild and Wilson is a terrific prospect to get that process started. He is a high-flying athlete with a high-motor, budding defensive versatility, and an offensive game that proved to be ahead of schedule this year at North Carolina. There may be true star potential here and on a Kings roster that isn’t built to compete for the post-season right now, he should have the benefit of playing through his mistakes form day one.

Pro Comparison: Pascal Siakam
Summary

Wilson is a wiry-built and athletic forward with good size and mobility. He came into North Carolina with extremely versatile defensive tools and having made gradual, but consistent, offensive strides. He exceeded all expectations on that end of the floor though and elevated his draft status in the process.

About
  • Was the No. 8 ranked prospect in the national class of 2025.
  • Was ranked inside the top-ten prospects in his class throughout his high school career.
  • Won a Georgia state championship as a senior at Holy Innocents Episcopal School and the EYBL championship with Nightrydas.
Strengths
  • High-level athlete who is bouncy, effortlessly mobile, flexible and has an elastic body type.
  • Scores with athleticism around the rim and soft mid-range touch. Explosive in transition, good offensive rebounder, can make short drives, pass and even start the break. Also has an advanced left hand.
  • Physical tools to be a playmaking defender who can guard multiple positions and erase mistakes with his court coverage, shot-blocking and high activity level.
Weaknesses
  • Inconsistent outside shooter and floor-spacer who can settle for lower percentage tough twos in the mid-range area.
  • Was not viewed as an offensive alpha or primary creator in high school, so remains to be seen how much of his recent offensive growth is translatable.
  • Can have defensive lapses away from the basket when he’s on the weakside of the floor and in rotations.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
31.2 19.8 9.4 2.7 57.8
5 Keaton Wagler
Illinois, Fr
 
PG

This would be a tricky spot for Utah given the breakout year of Keyonte George, another quality young point guard behind him in Isaiah Collier, and the quartet of young lead guards headlining the list of best available prospects behind the top four. Of that group, Wagler may be the best fit because of the combination of size and shooting that would give him on/off ball versatility, and allow him to pair with either George or Collier.

Pro Comparison: Austin Reaves
Summary

Wagler was an unheralded recruit who was initially viewed as a redshirt candidate. He exceeded expectations at Illinois right away in summer workouts and has continued to ascend throughout the season, establishing himself as one of college basketball’s best freshmen.

About
  • Late-bloomer who was reportedly 5-foot-8 as a high school freshman.
  • Won back-to-back state championships at Shawnee Mission Northwest High School in Kansas.
  • Gatorade Player of the Year in Kansas, but was only ranked by one national media outlet (247Sports).
Strengths
  • Overlap of positional size, skill and basketball IQ.
  • Natural shooter with versatility to make shots off the catch, dribble, or on the move.
  • Has terrific basketball instincts, feel for the game and a very deliberate pace that prevents opposing defenders from speeding him up.
Weaknesses
  • Lacks ideal quickness, length, or athleticism.
  • Can be a defensive liability if he’s pulled too far away from the basket or his help.
  • Can struggle to finish in traffic at times.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33.9 17.9 5.1 4.2 44.5
6 Darius Acuff Jr.
Arkansas, Fr
 
PG

Acuff has been the best guard in college basketball this post-season with the most advanced offensive repertoire. He’s a top five prospect on the CBS Sports Big Board and if he lands with Dallas, the Mavs have a long-term running mate for Cooper Flagg. Acuff is a potent scorer and playmaker who is a threat at all three levels, an advanced passer, and ready to put up numbers on the offensive end from day one.

Pro Comparison: Deron Williams
Summary

Acuff was as dynamic as any lead guard in high school basketball last year, showing a real ability to put his team on his back and drive to win. He finished as a top-five recruit and No. 1 overall point guard in the national class. At Arkansas, he has lived up to that billing and been as impactful as any freshman guard in the country.

About
  • 2025 EYBL Scholastic Player of the Year
  • Named McDonald’s All-American, Jordan Brand Classic, Nike Hoop Summit, & MVP of Iverson Classic.
  • MVP of the 2024 AmeriCup where he led Team USA to a gold medal.
Strengths
  • Shot-creator and multi-level scoring threat with especially good pull-up game.
  • Plays with extreme confidence which drives his ability to deliver in big games and moments.
  • Strength, balance and poise to dictate his own pace and avoid getting sped-up.
Weaknesses
  • Inconsistent defensive commitment and approach.
  • Is his role as a high-volume shot creator translatable to today’s NBA?
  • Size, length and athleticism are adequate for NBA standards, but not exemplary.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
35.2 23.5 3.1 6.4 48.4
7 Kingston Flemings
Houston, Fr
 
PG

With Ja Morant’s days in Memphis likely numbered, the Grizzlies are going to need a future point guard to add to their young core of Cedric Coward, Zach Edey, Jaylen Wells, Cam Spencer, and others. Flemings is a dynamic athlete complete with speed, burst in his first-step, and leaping ability at the rim. He’s also a threat with his pull-up game, better than expected from three, and probably the best defender of the group.

Pro Comparison: John Wall
Summary

Flemings was a consensus top-25 recruit coming out of Brennan High School in San Antonio, but he exceeded virtually all expectations right away at Houston. While he was known for his playmaking and athleticism, he was even more effective from day one as a creator. Simultaneously, his shooting, which was perceived as a major vulnerability in high school, was vastly better than expected (52% 3pt through 10 games).

About
  • Consensus top-25 recruit coming out of high school.
  • Was not initially expected to be on a one-and-done track upon his arrival at Houston.
Strengths
  • Dynamic athlete with end-to-end speed, burst in his first-step, physical strength and leaping ability. Puts constant pressure on the paint, attacks both sides off the dribble and rises up for big finishes.
  • Consistent mid-range pull-up threat with high release who has also made great strides with his passing reads off the dribble.
  • Competitive on ball defender who fights to stay in plays, is willing to be physical with his upper body and has a solid steal rate.
Weaknesses
  • Has solid positional size, but lacks great length.
  • His 3-point shot is still very streaky with questionable mechanics.
  • Can struggle with screen navigation on the defensive end of the floor.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
31.7 16.1 4.1 5.2 47.6
8 Mikel Brown Jr.
Louisville, Fr
 
PG

As Atlanta ventures into the post Trea Young era, Brown would give them their lead guard of the future. He is a late-bloomer who is exceptionally talented with the ball in his hands. He’s a deep shooter and advanced passer who now boasts good positional size along with improved strength and athleticism. If durability isn’t a problem, it’s possible he outplays this spot in the draft.

Pro Comparison: Darius Garland
Summary

Brown is a highly skilled lead guard. He is a late-bloomer who has grown almost eight inches since he was a high school underclassman and is now starting to show athletic gains as well. He was a nationally ranked prospect throughout his high school years and finished No. 6 in the Class of 2025.

About
  • Consensus five-star national prospect & McDonald’s All-American.
  • 2025 FIBA U19 World Cup gold medalist and All-Star Five selection.
  • 2024 FIBA AmeriCup gold medalist and All-Star Five selection.
Strengths
  • Exceptionally skilled with the ball in his hands, as both a handler and a passer. Excellent left hand too.
  • Very good floor-vision, passing and ability to make reads.
  • Grown into having positional size and newfound athleticism.
Weaknesses
  • Lacks strength and sometimes physicality, with a narrower frame that can limit his ability to defend and pressure the rim.
  • Can hunt high-level plays, instead of making the easy ones and that impacts both his shot selection and high turnover rate.
  • Injury history, including to his back, which could impact his durability.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
29 18.2 3.3 4.7 41.0
9 Nate Ament
Tennessee, Fr
 
PF

Whether Milwaukee enters a full rebuild or not, this could be a good fit for Ament. He’s a player who is at his best when there’s a clear void for him to fill, and in Milwaukee, that opportunity would be undeniable. The combo-forward has real size and mismatch scoring tools as a late-bloomer who has consistently taken his game to new levels in recent years.

Pro Comparison: Zaccharie Risacher
Summary

Ament is a big, late-blooming combo-forward who was a top 5-recruit coming out of high school. He struggled to live up to lofty initial expectations at Tennessee, but made a notable jump in mid-January. Long-term, he is a high upside prospect, but one with a wider degree of possible outcomes.

About
  • Consensus five-star prospect who finished ranked No. 4 overall in the 2025 recruiting class.
  • Selected for the McDonald’s All-American Game, Jordan Brand Classic and Nike Hoop Summit.
  • Naismith First-Team All-American and Gatorade Player of the Year in the state of Virginia.
Strengths
  • Overlap of positional size and skill, along with dexterity (great left hand) and fluidity as a mover.
  • Soft natural hands and touch, along with a high release point, are the basis for his mismatch skill-set. Posted 47/42/90 shooting splits on the Adidas 3SSB Circuit.
  • Shown growth as a handler and in his ability to draw fouls this year at Tennessee.
Weaknesses
  • Lack of strength and sheer force in his game which can impact his physicality.
  • Can play upright, without ideal bend or upper body elasticity, on both ends of the floor and is somewhat in between positions defensively.
  • Shooting and finishing numbers haven’t been nearly as encouraging in college as they were in high school.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
29.7 16.7 6.3 2.3 39.9
10 Brayden Burries
Arizona, Fr
 
SG

Burries is a physical guard loaded with competitive intangibles who can both get downhill and shoot the ball with range. His freshmen season got off to a slow start but he’s continued to raise the bar as the year has gone on and been arguably the best player on one of the best teams in the country. He could also be a nice fit and complement to Josh Giddey in the Bulls’ backcourt.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
29.9 16.1 4.9 2.4 49.1
11 Jayden Quaintance
Kentucky, Soph
 
C

While we really haven’t seen a healthy Quaintance for over a year now, he may be the best defensive prospect in this class with athleticism, length, shot-blocking, and natural instincts. In Golden State, he would have the opportunity to learn under a generational defender in Draymond Green, while simultaneously benefitting from their offensive system to serve as a lob threat and vertical spacer.

Pro Comparison: Jalen Duren
Summary

This is Quaintance’s second year of college basketball, but is his first year being draft-eligible after being too young last year at Arizona State. He’s one of the best defensive big men in this year’s draft class, but has an offensive game that doesn’t translate quite as well. He’s also coming off a torn ACL at the end of last season.

About
  • Averaged 9.4 points, 7.9 rebounds, 2.6 steals and 1.1 blocks in 29.7 minutes per game as a freshman at Arizona State. Named Big 12 All-Defensive Team and All-Freshman Team.
  • Transferred to Kentucky after having surgery to repair a torn ACL in his right knee.
  • Finished as a top-ten recruit in the national class of 2024, after reclassifying up from 2025.
Strengths
  • Great physical tools with extreme length (7-5 wingspan), big hands, a strong body and athleticism.
  • Playmaking frontcourt defender who thrives as a shot-blocker (9th highest block rate in the country as a freshman), generates steals (particularly when guarding the post) and has switch-ability.
  • Double-double threat who pressures the rim offensively as an offensive rebounder, changing ends and as a lob threat.
Weaknesses
  • Limited offensive skill away from the basket, despite some occasional flashes and low percentage free-throw shooter (48%).
  • Unreliable decision-maker (turnovers exceeded assists as a freshman) with questionable offensive feel for the game.
  • Lacks ideal height for an NBA big man, despite the length to compensate.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
17 5 5 0.5 57.1
12 Koa Peat
Arizona, Fr
 
PF

The other half of Arizona’s dynamic freshman duo, Peat is a powerful four-man who can play out of short rolls, get downhill, and is another culture builder. Peat’s shooting is his major swing skill, but with Donovan Clingan now stretching the floor offensively, this could provide a good fit and long-term replacement for Jerami Grant.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
27.8 14.1 5.6 2.6 52.8
13 Labaron Philon
Alabama, Fr
 
PG

Philon’s sophomore jump has made him both a shot-creator and shot-maker. What’s missing is the defensive impact he showed as a freshman, but in Miami, that end of the floor will be a requisite. With plenty of decisions looming for the Heat on the perimeter, he and Kasparas Jakucionis could be two compatible long-term pieces.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.14 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 6.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 28.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 3.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.46 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.16 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 32.5 inches

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.9 22 3.5 5 50.1
14 Thomas Haugh
Florida, Jr
 
SF

Haugh is a versatile big wing who can play multiple positions and doesn’t need to be an offensive focal point in order to impact winning. On a Charlotte team that is done rebuilding and now ready to compete, he could be a valuable piece alongside their trio of Kon Knueppel, LaMelo Ball, and Brandon Miller, particularly with Miles Bridges and Grant Williams going into contract years.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33.3 17.1 6.1 2.1 46.1
15 Chris Cenac Jr.
Houston, Fr
 
PF

What does the team who already has just about everything do when they’re loaded with draft picks? Maybe go with a high upside swing like Cenac. There’s a wealth of potential for the nearly 7-footer with massive measurables, great mobility, and the correlating defensive versatility that would be ideal for OKC. The fact that he’s a plus-athlete with some shooting potential only adds to his ceiling.

Pro Comparison: Kel'el Ware
Summary

Cenac had been a widely known high school prospect since he was an underclassman, but started to make a major jump in the summer before his senior season. His rare overlap of size, length, athleticism and budding skill provides him with all the necessary tools to be a versatile two-way big man, but there is still a gap between his potential and his production. The expectation and hope is that a year under Kelvin Sampson at Houston can improve both his approach to the game and overall reliability.

About
  • Consensus top ten prospect in the national Class of 2025.
  • Led Link Academy to the EYBL Scholastic Tournament Championship as a senior.
  • MVP of the 20244 NBA Player’s Association Top 100 Camp.
Strengths
  • Long (7-4-plus wingspan) and athletic, particularly for his size. Gets off his feet with ease as a leaper and fluid mover.
  • Developing offensive skill-set that extends to the arc to match his ability to be a lob threat and emphatic dunker at the rim.
  • Similarly versatile defensive tools with his potential to protect the rim and move his feet on the perimeter.
Weaknesses
  • His potential exceeds his production, particularly when it comes to his overall consistency.
  • Can be inefficient offensively, settling for low-percentage shots and suspect decisions with the ball.
  • Overall feel for the game and the consistency of his motor are both somewhat uncertain.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
24.8 9.5 7.9 0.7 48.5
16 Yaxel Lendeborg
Michigan, Sr
 
PF

If there’s a gap in Memphis’ young assets it’s at the forward position. Lendeborg may be old by draft standards, but he’s an extremely versatile two-way piece who plays and defends multiple positions, passes the basketball, and can be explosive in transition. If the shooting keeps trending up, he could be the type of guy to plug a variety of holes for a long-time in the league.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.2 15.1 6.8 3.2 51.5
17 Bennett Stirtz
Iowa, Sr
 
PG

This is a bit against the grain for OKC in terms of what they typically look for with body types and physicality, but he is one of the best shooters in the draft and would add to the spacing they have around their big 3 of SGA, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren. He also checks a lot of boxes when it comes to feel, character, and competitiveness, all of which could further persuade the Thunder.

Pro Comparison: Ty Jerome
Summary

Stirtz began his career at D-II Northwest Missouri State before following coach Ben McCollum to Drake, where he established himself as one of the best mid-major players in the country. Now, Stirtz has followed McCollum to Iowa, where he is expected to be one of the best guards in the country. He has a chance to play his way into the lottery with his skill-level, shot-making and overall feel for the game.

About
  • Missouri Valley Conference MVP and conference tournament Most Outstanding Player.
  • Led the NCAA in minutes played per game (39.2). Led MVC in scoring (19.2), steals (2.2) and assist-to-turnover ratio (2.86), while ranking second in assists (5.7).
  • Two-time second-team all-conference selection at Northwest Missouri State.
Strengths
  • Highly skilled with an excellent feel for the game. One of the smartest players in the draft.
  • Combines true shot-making with the ability to run a team from the point guard position. Good handle and very reliable decision-maker.
  • Very efficient pick-and-roll player (86th percentile in DI in 2024-25) who can also run off screens off the ball.
Weaknesses
  • Has solid positional size, but otherwise lacks overwhelming or ideal physical tools for NBA standards.
  • Bit of a defensive unknown against the highest levels of competition.
  • Remains to be seen how much shot-creation he can provide outside of McCollum’s system.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
37.8 19.8 2.6 4.4 47.7
18 Christian Anderson
Texas Tech, Soph
 
PG

The Hornets are committed to letting this core grow together, but it wasn’t that long ago it seemed Ball’s future in Charlotte was limited. If that ever resurfaces, Anderson provides a contingency. His season may not have ended in ideal fashion, but he’s highly skilled and equally cerebral with the ball in his hands.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
38.4 18.5 3.6 7.4 47.2
19 Karim Lopez PF

It’s very possible that Lopez is already off the board, but if not, it would be just like the Spurs to take the best international prospect in the draft, especially when he could provide a long-term running mate for Victor Wembanyama in the frontcourt. Lopez is a big and versatile forward who has been trending up this year in the NBL.

20 Hannes Steinbach
Washington, Fr
 
PF

A shooting point guard like Stirtz or Anderson would fit here, but if they’re not available, Steinbach could be a good fit. He has the combination of size and skill to play either the four or five, untapped shooting potential, good hands, and instincts as a roller. Combine him with Jakob Poeltl and Collin Murray-Boyles and he gives the Raptors another look up front.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
34.6 18.5 11.8 1.6 57.7
21 Morez Johnson Jr.
Michigan, Soph
 
C

Johnson continues to gain momentum among NBA decision-makers with his size, physicality, and increasing two-way versatility. Philadelphia badly needs some center depth behind Joel Embiid. Johnson could not only provide that but also an enforcer type to play alongside him if and when they elect to go with bigger line-ups.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
25.2 13.1 7.3 1.2 62.3
22 Cameron Carr
Baylor, Soph
 
SG

The Pistons look like they’ve played their way out of the lottery for the foreseeable future, and that means they may not have too many chances to take swings on high upside long-term prospects. Carr may take some time, but he’s that caliber prospect with his overlap of explosive athleticism, extreme length, shot-making, and scoring.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33.7 18.9 5.8 2.6 49.4
23 Aday Mara
Michigan, Jr
 
C

Having a true back-up center behind Nikola Jokic has been important this year for Denver. But Jonas Valanciunas will be a free-agent following the 2026-27 season and so Mara could ultimately slide into that spot. He’s massive even by NBA standards and his defensive impact is undeniable. He’s also clever around the rim offensively, as a screener, and a good passer.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
23.5 12.1 6.8 2.4 66.8
24 Patrick Ngongba II
Duke, Soph
 
C

Ngongba has good size, but even better length. He protects the rim and provides vertical spacing, but also has budding face-up skill. He can step to the perimeter to pass or play or play out of dribble-hand-offs, and also has some long-term shooting potential that would be developed and utilized under Quinn Snyder in Atlanta.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
21.9 10.1 5.8 2 60.6
25 Motiejus Krivas
Arizona, Jr
 
C

The Lakers could use a defensive minded center in the worst way and Krivas may be the best in college basketball this season. He has tremendous size, even by NBA standards, and is a drop coverage monster. Offensively, he knows how to play a supporting role and is the type of screener and physical interior presence who could play a valuable role without needing many shots.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
25.4 10.4 8.2 1.1 56.9
26 Flory Bidunga
Kansas, Soph
 
C

Bidunga is a big-time athlete, rim-runner, major lob threat, very mobile, and consequently one of the most versatile frontcourt defenders in the country. With Mitchell Robinson entering free agency following the year, he could step right into that role and provide immediate minutes as a back-up center or even alongside Karl-Anthony Towns in double-big line-ups.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
31.6 13.3 9 1.5 64.0
27 Henri Veesaar C

Veessaar is one of the most offensively gifted centers in the draft. The seven-footer can stretch the floor, put it on the deck, pass, play out of dribble-hand-off action, and even finish with some sneaky force. Joe Mazzulla would know just how to utilize him offensively, and if Boston can get him to defend and rebound a bit more, there’s real value here.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
31.3 17 8.7 2.1 60.8
28 Isaiah Evans
Duke, Soph
 
SG

Evans is one of the best shooters in the draft, already drilling NBA caliber shots, and gradually diversifying his offensive game. He’s going to need some time to keep filling out his frame, but one his body catches up, his offensive game is very translatable and ideal to create some floor-spacing around a dynamic creator like Anthony Edwards.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
28.2 15 3.2 1.3 43.3
29 Amari Allen
Alabama, Fr
 
SF

The Cavs have bigs and they have guards. What they don’t have is enough of the big and versatile two-way wings who typically provide the connective tissue on championship caliber teams. They drafted one such wing a couple of years ago in Jaylon Tyson, but they could use another. Allen has the size, defensive versatility, shooting, and ball-moving acumen to fit the role.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
28.1 11.4 6.9 3.1 44.6
30 Braylon Mullins
UConn, Fr
 
SG

Mullins is a pure shooter with deep range. He’s also a better defender than he gets credit for. But he’s been streaky this year at UConn, particularly down the stretch, and also needs time to build up his body. If he elects to stay in the draft, he’ll need some time, but he could be a nice long-term complement to a young core that features Flagg and Acuff in this scenario.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
28.3 12 3.5 1.4 42.1
# Team Player Pos
1 AJ Dybantsa
BYU, Fr
 
SF

The best scorer in college basketball, Dybantsa also improved steadily throughout the season. Dybantsa was also asked more on both sides of the floor once star guard Richie Saunders went down with a season-ending ACL tear. The best way to describe Dybantsa in non-human terms is that he's like a glow stick because of how bendy he is when driving to the basket. He can create advantages and weave his way through traffic even when it doesn't seem like there's an opening. As of right now, he's the favorite to go No. 1.

Pro Comparison: Paul George
Summary

Dybantsa is a consensus top three prospect in the draft and a legitimate candidate to be the first overall pick in June’s draft. He’s a jumbo wing with terrific positional size, a 7-foot wingspan, good athleticism and extreme court coverage. He’s also a proven scorer with a long history of putting up big numbers at virtually all spots.

About
  • Played prep school varsity as an 8th grader and was Massachusetts Gatorade Player of the Year as a 9th grader.
  • Reclassified in October 2023 and immediately became the top ranked prospect in the Class of 2025.
  • Three-time gold medalist with USA Basketball, including this summer’s FIBA U19 World Cup, where he was named MVP.
Strengths
  • Elite physical tools with his size, length, athleticism, effortless mobility and elastic body type.
  • Polished shot creator who can rise-up into his pull-up on demand, has advanced footwork, can operate in the mid-post, attack the paint, draw fouls and make some explosive plays in the open floor.
  • Vastly improved decision-making, ability to read the floor as a passer and willingness to play through contact at the rim as a finisher.
Weaknesses
  • Inconsistent shooter who tends to have a flatter ball, both from the free-throw line and three and is more comfortable shooting off the dribble than the catch.
  • Real defensive upside with the way he can cover the court, move his feet and utilize his length, but defensive commitment can be inconsistent, as can his body language.
  • Has had virtually unlimited volume and freedom to this point, at every stop, so it remains to be seen how he will adapt to a more balanced system.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
34.8 25.5 6.8 3.7 51.0
2 Darryn Peterson
Kansas, Fr
 
PG

Peterson played most of this season not at 100% health. During the last dozen games he played, Peterson showed flashes of what made him such an elite prospect in the first place. If you watch Peterson's tape from his time at Prolific Prep, you can see the burst and athleticism he had. Peterson played on the ball in high school and was able to get to the paint with ease. You didn't see a ton of that at Kansas this season, probably due to his health issues (cramping). You can make a case for any of the three names at No. 1. My personal preference would be Peterson. When he's on, his shot-making is second-to-none in this class.

Pro Comparison: Tyrese Maxey
Summary

Peterson is the most dynamic guard in this draft class and potentially one of the best on-ball creators we’ve seen in the backcourt in several draft classes. He came into the 2025-26 college season as a consensus top-three prospect after averaging 30.4 points, 7.4 assists, 7.2 rebounds and 2.2 steals as a high school senior at Prolific Prep. While the narratives around his freshman season at Kansas have centered around his time missed, he’s continued his pattern of making clear gains with each passing year, despite rarely playing with the full explosiveness that we saw in high school.

About
  • No. 1 prospect in the national 2025 recruiting class.
  • Co-MVP of the McDonald’s All-American Game.
  • Naismith High School Player of the Year.
Strengths
  • Dynamic creator with an overlap of positional size, length, strength and playmaking ability.
  • Can score and make plays at all three levels with his handle, pull-up shooting, physicality as a driver, mid-post game, pick-and-roll navigation, knack for drawing fouls and ability to create for others.
  • Drastically improved shot-making and ability to make tough shots, off both the catch and the dribble.
Weaknesses
  • Availability and durability are the two biggest concerns given the amount of time he’s missed and also been noticeably less than 100% this year at Kansas.
  • High-usage player who rarely showed the same playmaking for others, or even on-ball initiating, as frequently as he did in high school.
  • Can be a little bit of a ball-stopper in the halfcourt.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
29 20.2 4.2 1.6 43.8
3 Cameron Boozer
Duke, Fr
 
PF

Boozer was the most consistent player in the sport. His style of play on offense is very throwback. He uses pump fakes to draw contact and can overpower smaller defenders with his strength. There are question marks about what he will be defensively at the next level, and it's a big reason why there isn't a stronger case for him to go No. 1. Regardless, Boozer's basketball IQ is off the charts. From Day 1, he's going to be one of the best passing bigs in the league. When double teams got sent his way in the post, Boozer would calmly make the cross-court skip pass to the corner and find the open man. In an ideal world, Boozer goes to a team with a rim-protecting five.

Pro Comparison: Kevin Love
Summary

Boozer was a top three prospect throughout the entirety of his high school career and had arguably the most successful career in modern high school basketball history, winning every major championship he competed in, including two gold medals. His impact on winning has continued at Duke as he’s established himself as arguably the best player in college basketball this season. Long-term, he may have the highest floor in the class.

About
  • Led Columbus High School to four Florida state championships and the Geico Nationals championship as a senior.
  • Led Nightrydas to three consecutive Nike EYB championships, including the Peach Jam title in 2024.
  • Co-MVP of the McDonald’s All-American Game.
Strengths
  • Consummate winner with strong body, versatile floor game, mature approach and intellect for the game.
  • Magnetic hands, high-volume rebounder and advanced passer (particularly with trademark long outlets).
  • Inside-out scoring tools within offense, including notably improved perimeter shooter and underrated defensive versatility as well.
Weaknesses
  • Not a dynamic shot-creator or isolation player.
  • Positional size and vertical athleticism are both adequate, but not elite.
  • Lower release point, both on set-shot 3-pointers and even inside the lane.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33.5 22.5 10.2 4.1 55.6
4 Caleb Wilson PF

It's a shame that Wilson didn't play in March Madness because he's one of the most entertaining players to watch in the sport. What caught my eye early with Wilson is that he played like a scrappy walk-on despite being a blue-chip recruit. That was evident early in the season when UNC played Kansas. Wilson ranked No. 8 in college basketball in dunks (67) despite playing in just 24 games. My early player comp for him is Indiana Pacers star Pascal Siakam.

Pro Comparison: Pascal Siakam
Summary

Wilson is a wiry-built and athletic forward with good size and mobility. He came into North Carolina with extremely versatile defensive tools and having made gradual, but consistent, offensive strides. He exceeded all expectations on that end of the floor though and elevated his draft status in the process.

About
  • Was the No. 8 ranked prospect in the national class of 2025.
  • Was ranked inside the top-ten prospects in his class throughout his high school career.
  • Won a Georgia state championship as a senior at Holy Innocents Episcopal School and the EYBL championship with Nightrydas.
Strengths
  • High-level athlete who is bouncy, effortlessly mobile, flexible and has an elastic body type.
  • Scores with athleticism around the rim and soft mid-range touch. Explosive in transition, good offensive rebounder, can make short drives, pass and even start the break. Also has an advanced left hand.
  • Physical tools to be a playmaking defender who can guard multiple positions and erase mistakes with his court coverage, shot-blocking and high activity level.
Weaknesses
  • Inconsistent outside shooter and floor-spacer who can settle for lower percentage tough twos in the mid-range area.
  • Was not viewed as an offensive alpha or primary creator in high school, so remains to be seen how much of his recent offensive growth is translatable.
  • Can have defensive lapses away from the basket when he’s on the weakside of the floor and in rotations.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
31.2 19.8 9.4 2.7 57.8
5 Darius Acuff Jr.
Arkansas, Fr
 
PG

Acuff is one of the most polished offensive guard prospects in the last decade. The knock on Acuff is his defense. Still, he does almost everything else well. Acuff is a very good 3-point shooter who can also get to the rim. He was one of the best playmakers in the sport with nearly a 3-to-1 assist-to-turnover ratio. Any team that drafts Acuff in the early lottery will be betting on the offensive upside with a roster in place that fits his skillset.

Pro Comparison: Deron Williams
Summary

Acuff was as dynamic as any lead guard in high school basketball last year, showing a real ability to put his team on his back and drive to win. He finished as a top-five recruit and No. 1 overall point guard in the national class. At Arkansas, he has lived up to that billing and been as impactful as any freshman guard in the country.

About
  • 2025 EYBL Scholastic Player of the Year
  • Named McDonald’s All-American, Jordan Brand Classic, Nike Hoop Summit, & MVP of Iverson Classic.
  • MVP of the 2024 AmeriCup where he led Team USA to a gold medal.
Strengths
  • Shot-creator and multi-level scoring threat with especially good pull-up game.
  • Plays with extreme confidence which drives his ability to deliver in big games and moments.
  • Strength, balance and poise to dictate his own pace and avoid getting sped-up.
Weaknesses
  • Inconsistent defensive commitment and approach.
  • Is his role as a high-volume shot creator translatable to today’s NBA?
  • Size, length and athleticism are adequate for NBA standards, but not exemplary.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
35.2 23.5 3.1 6.4 48.4
6 Kingston Flemings
Houston, Fr
 
PG

Flemings is as good as anyone in this class at getting to his spots. He uses his speed and quickness to create advantages. Flemings shot 55.2% at the rim (on 181 attempts) at Houston and developed into the No. 1 option on a veteran-led team. One comparison that comes to mind for Flemings is shades of Spurs All-Star De'Aaron Fox.

Pro Comparison: John Wall
Summary

Flemings was a consensus top-25 recruit coming out of Brennan High School in San Antonio, but he exceeded virtually all expectations right away at Houston. While he was known for his playmaking and athleticism, he was even more effective from day one as a creator. Simultaneously, his shooting, which was perceived as a major vulnerability in high school, was vastly better than expected (52% 3pt through 10 games).

About
  • Consensus top-25 recruit coming out of high school.
  • Was not initially expected to be on a one-and-done track upon his arrival at Houston.
Strengths
  • Dynamic athlete with end-to-end speed, burst in his first-step, physical strength and leaping ability. Puts constant pressure on the paint, attacks both sides off the dribble and rises up for big finishes.
  • Consistent mid-range pull-up threat with high release who has also made great strides with his passing reads off the dribble.
  • Competitive on ball defender who fights to stay in plays, is willing to be physical with his upper body and has a solid steal rate.
Weaknesses
  • Has solid positional size, but lacks great length.
  • His 3-point shot is still very streaky with questionable mechanics.
  • Can struggle with screen navigation on the defensive end of the floor.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
31.7 16.1 4.1 5.2 47.6
7 Keaton Wagler
Illinois, Fr
 
PG

Wagler went from unheralded recruit to All-American at Illinois. Wagler is a jumbo guard and is taller than other guards in the lottery, such as Acuff and Flemings. The way Wagler plays on the offensive end of the floor is very methodical. He doesn't have top-end speed and won't overwhelm you with his strength, but he does play in control and can score at all three levels.

Pro Comparison: Austin Reaves
Summary

Wagler was an unheralded recruit who was initially viewed as a redshirt candidate. He exceeded expectations at Illinois right away in summer workouts and has continued to ascend throughout the season, establishing himself as one of college basketball’s best freshmen.

About
  • Late-bloomer who was reportedly 5-foot-8 as a high school freshman.
  • Won back-to-back state championships at Shawnee Mission Northwest High School in Kansas.
  • Gatorade Player of the Year in Kansas, but was only ranked by one national media outlet (247Sports).
Strengths
  • Overlap of positional size, skill and basketball IQ.
  • Natural shooter with versatility to make shots off the catch, dribble, or on the move.
  • Has terrific basketball instincts, feel for the game and a very deliberate pace that prevents opposing defenders from speeding him up.
Weaknesses
  • Lacks ideal quickness, length, or athleticism.
  • Can be a defensive liability if he’s pulled too far away from the basket or his help.
  • Can struggle to finish in traffic at times.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33.9 17.9 5.1 4.2 44.5
8 Mikel Brown Jr.
Louisville, Fr
 
PG

Brown's freshman season at Louisville was a mixed bag. He played in just 21 games and missed the stretch run of the season due to a back injury. Brown did show flashes of his elite shooting (34.4% on 7.6 3-point attempts per game) when he did play, which was highlighted by him knocking down 10 3-pointers against NC State. Brown's stock has dropped a little since the start of the year, but he should still be a top 10 pick.

Pro Comparison: Darius Garland
Summary

Brown is a highly skilled lead guard. He is a late-bloomer who has grown almost eight inches since he was a high school underclassman and is now starting to show athletic gains as well. He was a nationally ranked prospect throughout his high school years and finished No. 6 in the Class of 2025.

About
  • Consensus five-star national prospect & McDonald’s All-American.
  • 2025 FIBA U19 World Cup gold medalist and All-Star Five selection.
  • 2024 FIBA AmeriCup gold medalist and All-Star Five selection.
Strengths
  • Exceptionally skilled with the ball in his hands, as both a handler and a passer. Excellent left hand too.
  • Very good floor-vision, passing and ability to make reads.
  • Grown into having positional size and newfound athleticism.
Weaknesses
  • Lacks strength and sometimes physicality, with a narrower frame that can limit his ability to defend and pressure the rim.
  • Can hunt high-level plays, instead of making the easy ones and that impacts both his shot selection and high turnover rate.
  • Injury history, including to his back, which could impact his durability.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
29 18.2 3.3 4.7 41.0
9 Yaxel Lendeborg
Michigan, Sr
 
PF

The first non-underclassmen who could hear his name called first on draft night is Lendeborg. After bypassing the draft last year -- where he would've been a late Day 1 pick -- he returned to college, where he improved in almost every aspect of his game. Lendeborg would be the perfect fit for any team. He will be a contributor from Day 1.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.2 15.1 6.8 3.2 51.5
10 Brayden Burries
Arizona, Fr
 
SG

Burries is one of my favorite prospects in this class. After a slow start to the season, he developed into "the guy" at Arizona. Arizona didn't attempt a high volume of 3-pointers as a team, but Burries was by far its best shooter. He knocked down 70 3-pointers, which was 20 more than the second-place finisher on the team. One knock on Burries is that he turns 21 before the start of the NBA season.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
29.9 16.1 4.9 2.4 49.1
11 Jayden Quaintance
Kentucky, Soph
 
C

Quaintance will have a variance of outcomes on draft night. Last summer, he was considered a potential top-five pick. However, after logging 60 minutes total at Kentucky this season due to knee swelling, his draft stock is up in the air. Still, he's absolutely a lottery talent because of his defense. Quintance's tape as a 17-year-old freshman at Arizona State was ridiculously good. It's all going to come down to his medicals.

Pro Comparison: Jalen Duren
Summary

This is Quaintance’s second year of college basketball, but is his first year being draft-eligible after being too young last year at Arizona State. He’s one of the best defensive big men in this year’s draft class, but has an offensive game that doesn’t translate quite as well. He’s also coming off a torn ACL at the end of last season.

About
  • Averaged 9.4 points, 7.9 rebounds, 2.6 steals and 1.1 blocks in 29.7 minutes per game as a freshman at Arizona State. Named Big 12 All-Defensive Team and All-Freshman Team.
  • Transferred to Kentucky after having surgery to repair a torn ACL in his right knee.
  • Finished as a top-ten recruit in the national class of 2024, after reclassifying up from 2025.
Strengths
  • Great physical tools with extreme length (7-5 wingspan), big hands, a strong body and athleticism.
  • Playmaking frontcourt defender who thrives as a shot-blocker (9th highest block rate in the country as a freshman), generates steals (particularly when guarding the post) and has switch-ability.
  • Double-double threat who pressures the rim offensively as an offensive rebounder, changing ends and as a lob threat.
Weaknesses
  • Limited offensive skill away from the basket, despite some occasional flashes and low percentage free-throw shooter (48%).
  • Unreliable decision-maker (turnovers exceeded assists as a freshman) with questionable offensive feel for the game.
  • Lacks ideal height for an NBA big man, despite the length to compensate.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
17 5 5 0.5 57.1
12 Nate Ament
Tennessee, Fr
 
PF

Ament has a strong case to go inside the top 10. It's hard not to watch his tape from his first game at Tennessee to his last and say he didn't significantly improve. Something that Ament does extremely well is draw contact to get to the free-throw line. He attempted 248 free throws this season, which was the third most among all freshmen. He also knocked down his free throws at a 79% clip, which is a positive sign for the future despite shooting under 40% from the field.

Pro Comparison: Zaccharie Risacher
Summary

Ament is a big, late-blooming combo-forward who was a top 5-recruit coming out of high school. He struggled to live up to lofty initial expectations at Tennessee, but made a notable jump in mid-January. Long-term, he is a high upside prospect, but one with a wider degree of possible outcomes.

About
  • Consensus five-star prospect who finished ranked No. 4 overall in the 2025 recruiting class.
  • Selected for the McDonald’s All-American Game, Jordan Brand Classic and Nike Hoop Summit.
  • Naismith First-Team All-American and Gatorade Player of the Year in the state of Virginia.
Strengths
  • Overlap of positional size and skill, along with dexterity (great left hand) and fluidity as a mover.
  • Soft natural hands and touch, along with a high release point, are the basis for his mismatch skill-set. Posted 47/42/90 shooting splits on the Adidas 3SSB Circuit.
  • Shown growth as a handler and in his ability to draw fouls this year at Tennessee.
Weaknesses
  • Lack of strength and sheer force in his game which can impact his physicality.
  • Can play upright, without ideal bend or upper body elasticity, on both ends of the floor and is somewhat in between positions defensively.
  • Shooting and finishing numbers haven’t been nearly as encouraging in college as they were in high school.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
29.7 16.7 6.3 2.3 39.9
13 Labaron Philon
Alabama, Fr
 
PG

Philon is a twitchy guard who took significant strides from his freshman season to this year. Philon did an excellent job at touching paint, as he converted 66.7% of his 117 shot attempts at the rim. For context, he converted only 53.9% of his 141 attempts at the rim last season. His size and playmaking will allow him to play on or off the ball in the NBA.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.14 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 6.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 28.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 3.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.46 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.16 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 32.5 inches

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.9 22 3.5 5 50.1
14 Aday Mara
Michigan, Jr
 
C

Mara is one of the biggest draft risers in his class after being the defensive anchor on Michigan's national title team. Mara is as good a rim protector as anyone in college basketball and is also very efficient on the offensive end. Of his 305 shot attempts, 213 were at the rim. He converted 76.8% of his attempts at the rim, which is very impressive. If he can develop a consistent jumper, he's going to make a lot of money in the league.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
23.5 12.1 6.8 2.4 66.8
15 Thomas Haugh
Florida, Jr
 
SF

Haugh is a Swiss Army Knife. This season at Florida, he expanded his offensive game to become the primary scoring option after coming off the bench last season during the Gators' national title run. Haugh can scale up or scale down his role.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33.3 17.1 6.1 2.1 46.1
16 Koa Peat
Arizona, Fr
 
PF

Peat is the one name I'm keeping an eye on as far as stay-or-go decisions go. While it's likely he will enter the draft, Peat would benefit from another year of college basketball. He is a bullyball forward who can score inside at will. He's also the ultimate winner, as showcased in high school and during his freshman year at Arizona. However, his lack of an efficient mid-range jumper and 3-point shot is something that could see him drop in the middle of the first round. Again, if he hypothetically returned to Arizona, it wouldn't be shocking if he were a top-five pick in 2027.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
27.8 14.1 5.6 2.6 52.8
17 Bennett Stirtz
Iowa, Sr
 
PG

Stritz's rise to become a first-round pick is one of college basketball's best success stories. Just two years ago, Stritz was playing at Division II Northwest Missouri State. Now he's on the verge of hearing his name called in the middle of the first round after putting up an efficient season at Iowa. Stritz plays in control at his own speed, and he also doesn't turn the ball over.

Pro Comparison: Ty Jerome
Summary

Stirtz began his career at D-II Northwest Missouri State before following coach Ben McCollum to Drake, where he established himself as one of the best mid-major players in the country. Now, Stirtz has followed McCollum to Iowa, where he is expected to be one of the best guards in the country. He has a chance to play his way into the lottery with his skill-level, shot-making and overall feel for the game.

About
  • Missouri Valley Conference MVP and conference tournament Most Outstanding Player.
  • Led the NCAA in minutes played per game (39.2). Led MVC in scoring (19.2), steals (2.2) and assist-to-turnover ratio (2.86), while ranking second in assists (5.7).
  • Two-time second-team all-conference selection at Northwest Missouri State.
Strengths
  • Highly skilled with an excellent feel for the game. One of the smartest players in the draft.
  • Combines true shot-making with the ability to run a team from the point guard position. Good handle and very reliable decision-maker.
  • Very efficient pick-and-roll player (86th percentile in DI in 2024-25) who can also run off screens off the ball.
Weaknesses
  • Has solid positional size, but otherwise lacks overwhelming or ideal physical tools for NBA standards.
  • Bit of a defensive unknown against the highest levels of competition.
  • Remains to be seen how much shot-creation he can provide outside of McCollum’s system.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
37.8 19.8 2.6 4.4 47.7
18 Christian Anderson
Texas Tech, Soph
 
PG

Anderson is a true point guard who doubles as a knock-down shooter. Sixty-five of Anderson's 108 3-point shots were non-catch-and-shoot makes, which showcases his ability to create his own shot. Anderson is a smaller point guard prospect, but I think someone will take a chance on him inside the top 20 picks.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
38.4 18.5 3.6 7.4 47.2
19 Chris Cenac Jr.
Houston, Fr
 
PF

Cenac needs to go to an organization where he can continue to develop. He is one of the more raw prospects in this class, but his two-way potential down the line is worth the swing in the late teens. The Spurs would be a perfect fit for those reasons because he wouldn't be asked to do much during his rookie season.

Pro Comparison: Kel'el Ware
Summary

Cenac had been a widely known high school prospect since he was an underclassman, but started to make a major jump in the summer before his senior season. His rare overlap of size, length, athleticism and budding skill provides him with all the necessary tools to be a versatile two-way big man, but there is still a gap between his potential and his production. The expectation and hope is that a year under Kelvin Sampson at Houston can improve both his approach to the game and overall reliability.

About
  • Consensus top ten prospect in the national Class of 2025.
  • Led Link Academy to the EYBL Scholastic Tournament Championship as a senior.
  • MVP of the 20244 NBA Player’s Association Top 100 Camp.
Strengths
  • Long (7-4-plus wingspan) and athletic, particularly for his size. Gets off his feet with ease as a leaper and fluid mover.
  • Developing offensive skill-set that extends to the arc to match his ability to be a lob threat and emphatic dunker at the rim.
  • Similarly versatile defensive tools with his potential to protect the rim and move his feet on the perimeter.
Weaknesses
  • His potential exceeds his production, particularly when it comes to his overall consistency.
  • Can be inefficient offensively, settling for low-percentage shots and suspect decisions with the ball.
  • Overall feel for the game and the consistency of his motor are both somewhat uncertain.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
24.8 9.5 7.9 0.7 48.5
20 Karim Lopez PF

The only non-college player in this mock is López, who has the ideal mix of size and strength to be a forward in the NBA. His calling card will be his defensive versatility, which could appeal to almost any team in the mid/late first round. If he can improve as a shooter, the pick will be worth the investment.

21 Morez Johnson Jr.
Michigan, Soph
 
C

Johnson is a versatile forward who exploits mismatches against smaller defenders on offense. On defense, he's capable of guarding out on the perimeter against smalls. Detroit would be a great fit.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
25.2 13.1 7.3 1.2 62.3
22 Ebuka Okorie
Stanford, Fr
 
PG

Okorie appears to be all-in on the draft process. I'm very curious where Okorie gets selected on draft night, but it wouldn't be shocking if it's higher than pick No. 23. He was one of the best pure scorers in the country at Stanford, who could do so in a variety of ways. His ability to create his own shot and get to the paint off the dribble was fun to watch. He is going to be a nightmare to guard in a 1-on-1 setting in pre-draft workouts.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
35 23.2 3.6 3.6 46.5
23 Isaiah Evans
Duke, Soph
 
SG

Evans went from almost strictly a pure catch-and-shoot 3-point specialist at Duke during his freshman year to a legit No. 2 scoring option on the No. 1 overall seed in college basketball. Evans almost doubled the amount of 3-pointers he took from this year to last and still knocked them down at a 36.1% clip. Evans is a prime candidate to return to school, but if he stays in the draft, hearing his name called near the end of the first round is possible.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
28.2 15 3.2 1.3 43.3
24 Dailyn Swain
Texas, Jr
 
SF

Swain is the kind of player who will have a larger impact in the NBA than he did in college. As a two-way wing, his archetype is exactly what NBA teams covet. If he can develop a consistent 3-point jumper, he will end up as a top 15 player from the class when it's all said and done.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32.7 17.3 7.5 3.6 54.2
25 Hannes Steinbach
Washington, Fr
 
PF

Lakers coach JJ Redick made a joke last week about center Deandre Ayton not being able to catch the basketball. The perfect solution to that problem would be to draft Steinbach, who has some of the best hands in college basketball. Steinbach was a double-double machine at Washington and has a chance to go much higher than 25. I love the fit with the Lakers if it does happen.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
34.6 18.5 11.8 1.6 57.7
26 Cameron Carr
Baylor, Soph
 
SG

After playing just 41 minutes total in 2024-25 at Tennessee, Carr transferred to Baylor, where he blossomed into the Bears' leading scorer. He averaged 18.9 points on 49.4/37.4/80.1 shooting splits. A contender would be wise to take a chance on him in the late 20s because of his offensive upside.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33.7 18.9 5.8 2.6 49.4
27 Braylon Mullins
UConn, Fr
 
SG

Mullins has a very intriguing decision to make. I think it would be wise to return to school. Mullins' calling card coming out of high school was his 3-point shooting. He shot 33.5% on 6.5 attempts per night. Mullins got off to a slow start after an injury sidelined him to begin the season, but he did have some good performances in the NCAA Tournament. His athleticism and his ability to create second chances despite being a guard are something I took note of when watching him at the Final Four.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
28.3 12 3.5 1.4 42.1
28 Motiejus Krivas
Arizona, Jr
 
C

Krivas is an athletic center who doubles as a very good rim protector. He was efficient on the offensive end of the floor and converted 57.9% on 2-pointers. He did only attempt 13 total 3-pointers this season, which was an improvement from his first two seasons at Arizona, where he didn't attempt a single shot from beyond the arc. Krivas is a late first-rounder if he stays in the draft.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
25.4 10.4 8.2 1.1 56.9
29 Allen Graves PF

Graves didn't post eye-popping numbers at Santa Clara this season, but his impact went beyond the box score. He creates turnovers and blocks shots on defense, and also rebounds at a very high level. He averaged 2.8 stocks (steals and blocks) this season while also shooting 41.3% from the 3-point line. Notably, Graves entered the transfer portal, where he should have plenty of options. It also wouldn't be surprising if he stays in the draft.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
22.6 11.8 6.5 1.8 51.2
30 Meleek Thomas
Arkansas, Fr
 
SG

Thomas somewhat flew under the radar because his classmate, Darius Acuff Jr., was the best guard in college basketball. Thomas showed throughout the year that he can be a volume scorer. Thomas, like a handful of players in his mock, could come back to school. If he stays in the draft, this is probably the range (late first) where he would get selected.

2025 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.5 15.6 3.8 2.5 43.3
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