Skip to Main Content
# Team Player Pos
1 Cooper Flagg
Duke, Fr
 
SF

The narrative has now changed in Dallas and Nico Harrison has been saved. Cooper Flagg is not only good enough to help Dallas win now (because when you're building around two 30+ players that's clearly the plan), but he can grow into being the face of the franchise in the future. He also fits the two-way mentality that Harrison has preached about and should embody everything they say they want to build with.

Rating: 98.5
Pro Comparison: Scottie Pippen
Summary

A prodigious talent who profiles as one of the five best prospects of the last decade. Flagg entered Duke as the No. 1 high school recruit and led the Blue Devils to a 35-win season that ended in the Final Four on a team he led that rated No. 1 in offensive efficiency and No. 5 in defensive efficiency. There are no obvious holes in his game and his all-around impact on both ends make him situation-proof.

About
  • Led Duke to 35 wins (T-2nd most in school history) while leading the team in scoring, rebounding, assists, steals and blocks.
  • Fourth player in college basketball history to win Naismith National Player of the Year as a freshman, joining Kevin Durant (2007), Anthony Davis (2012) and Zion Williamson (2019)
Strengths
  • Elite defensive skills with preternatural timing and instincts. Has a knack for consistently finding ways to alter and block shots.
  • Passing vision of a lead guard. Understands defensive schemes and reads defenses at a high level with great anticipation and has skills to execute intricate passes with ease.
  • Great shooting touch anywhere on the floor. Shot 38.5% from 3-point range and made 84% of his free throws.
Weaknesses
  • Has room to improve as a post-up defender. Flagg has a tendency to reach in an effort to make plays, which can at times put him out of position.
  • His post positioning as a defender can be inconsistent. At times he loses feel for where the basket is or doesn’t appropriately leverage his body between defender and the hoop.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.92 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 0 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 10.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.64 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.30 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 35.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.5 19.2 7.5 4.2 48.1
2 Dylan Harper
Rutgers, Fr
 
PG

Harper is the No. 2 player on my board and so I am mocking him here to the Spurs, but I do expect they will take a long look at Ace Bailey, who may be a better positional fit on a team that drafted Stephon Castle and traded for De'Aaron Fox within the last year. If they decide that Harper is their guy, then the question becomes whether or not that leads to anything on the trade market.

Rating: 95
Pro Comparison: Cade Cunningham
Summary

Harper is the son of former NBA player Ron Harper and the younger brother of Ron Harper Jr. A former five-star recruit, he spent one season at Rutgers where he finished second among all freshmen in points per game (19.4) and had the sixth-most assists per game (4.0) among qualifying players.

About
  • One of two five-star recruits to ever sign with Rutgers as a high school prospect.
  • Earned MVP honors at both the McDonald’s All-American Game and Jordan Brand Classic in 2024.
  • Left-handed shooter worked out with two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo before the 2024-25 season.
Strengths
  • Savvy scorer who gets to his spots with ease. Averaged 19.4 points and 4.0 assists per game – both highest on his team – while making 33.3% of his 3-pointers as a high-usage player.
  • Crafty defensive playmaker. Very tactical with poking and prodding on defense and led Rutgers in steals.
  • King of pacing. Rarely plays rushed and can control a game with his handle, passing and scoring. Had six games of 25 or more points and seven games of six or more assists.
Weaknesses
  • Missed several stints during his freshman season dealing with nagging ankle injury and a bout with the flu.
  • Also missed time leading into freshman season with right knee injury, which required a procedure.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.05 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 10.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 6 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.07 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.16 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 36.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32.6 19.4 4.6 4 48.4
3 Ace Bailey
Rutgers, Fr
 
SF

Bailey is a jumbo wing, high-level athlete, and tough shot-maker. If everything clicks in the right way, you could make a case for him having the highest upside in the draft. The problem is there's a wide-range of potential outcomes as he has to answer questions about his passing, rim pressure, and overall impact on winning. He gives the Sixers a terrific long-term asset and does nothing to compromise their ability to compete now if they get healthy.

Rating: 93
Pro Comparison: Brandon Ingram
Summary

The highest-ranked signee in Rutgers history, Bailey was a five-star recruit ranked No. 2 in the national class of 2024. He was a McDonald’s All-American and Mr. Georgia Basketball in 2024 before choosing the Scarlet Knights over Kentucky, Kansas and others. In his one college season, he earned Third Team All-Big Ten honors.

About
  • One of two five-star high school recruits to sign with Rutgers in program history. Highest-rated of the two, alongside teammate and projected top-five pick Dylan Harper Jr.
  • Parents both played college basketball in college. His mother, Ramika McGee, played at West Virginia; his father, Richard Bailey, played at Houston.
  • First name is “Airious” but he prefers to go by “Ace” — a nickname he’s held for a long time because of his ability to thrive in multiple sports.
  • Earned Georgia Gatorade Player of the Year as a senior after averaging 33.4 points, 15.5 rebounds and 3.9 assists per game for McEachern High School, leading it to a 26-6 record and a Class A title.
Strengths
  • Impressive size and skill for age. He doesn’t turn 19 years old until August 2025 and has a 6-foot-10 frame with fluid agility.
  • Scorer who can get you a bucket at any point in any game on any spot on the floor. Quick release and crafty with the ball, and doesn’t need a ton of space to rise and fire over defenders.
  • Reliable shooter — not just a scorer. He rated in the 80th percentile on catch and shoot opportunities as a freshman and was in the 94th percentile when guarded in such situations.
Weaknesses
  • Defensive effort can wax and wane not only possession-by-possession but also within the same possessions. Frequently can get caught ball-watching and lose his man. Needs to improve eye discipline defensively.
  • Worrisome free-throw shooting for a player whose best trait is his shooting. He made 69.2% from the foul line, which can be an indicator to future success/failure shooting from 3-point range.
  • As physically gifted as he is, often settles for jumpers and lacks aggressiveness/assertiveness at times. Can also tend to play off one foot when he does attack, relying on his athleticism. Developing more skill around the rim as a finisher will do wonders for his overall offensive versatility.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.78 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 0.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 27.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 11 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.97 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.12 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 34.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33.4 17.6 7.2 1.3 46.0
4 VJ Edgecombe
Baylor, Fr
 
SG

This would be a seamless fit. Edgecombe is one of the best athletes and competitors in this draft. He also has a chance to blossom into one of the best on-ball defenders, so he could help protect LaMelo Ball on that end of the floor. Conversely, his downhill rim pressure would also be very valuable alongside Ball and Brandon Miller, while their collective skill would protect him.

Rating: 92.5
Pro Comparison: Victor Oladipo
Summary

A superstar athlete with five-star credentials, Edgecombe hails from the Bahamas after a stellar one-and-done season at Baylor under national championship-winning coach Scott Drew. He was ranked as the No. 5 player in the national class entering college and earned All-Big 12 honors and Big 12 Rookie of the Year honors in 2024-25.

About
  • A Bimini, Bahamas, native, who has experience on the FIBA circuit playing alongside fellow Bahamians Buddy Hield and Deandre Ayton.
  • Ranked as a five-star, top-five recruit, he was a stellar scorer at Long Island Lutheran (LuHi) who went on to earn McDonald’s All-American honors.
  • Finished his high school career collecting back-to-back Gatorade Player of the Year honors in New York.
Strengths
  • Dynamic athlete with explosive leaping ability. If any player bangs his head on the backboard in a future basketball game while dunking, it might be him
  • Smooth operator. Athletically fluid with a buttery shot to boot. Made 34% of 3-pointers as second-leading scorer for Baylor as true freshman.
  • Long strider who plays smart basketball. Knows when to cut off the ball and has a knack for getting to the cup.
Weaknesses
  • Limited scoring diet. 21st percentile finisher on dribble jumpers and 15th percentile among short shots, per Synergy data.
  • Showed improvement but needs to continue making strides with the ball in his hands. 43rd percentile on pick-and-roll as ballhandler and averaged nearly two turnovers per game.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.93 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 7.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 5.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.27 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.20 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 38.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32.8 15 5.6 3.2 43.6
5 Tre Johnson
Texas, Fr
 
SG

This wasn't the outcome they wanted, but Johnson's shot-making and scoring prowess could still be a nice fit next to the playmaking and passing of last year's first-round pick Isaiah Collier. With Keyonte George looking less like a long-term starter, the hope is that this pairing could give Utah their backcourt of the future.

Rating: 92.5
Pro Comparison: Malik Monk
Summary

A former top-10 national recruit who is on track to be the first one-and-done Texas player taken in the top 10 of the draft since Jaxson Hayes in 2019. Led all freshmen in scoring in 2024-25, averaging 19.9 points per game — most among all SEC players.

About
  • A Dallas native, Johnson won SEC Freshman of the Year in 2024-25 and was a Second Team All-SEC performer.
  • Was seventh nationally among major conference players in points per game in 2024-25.
  • His father, Richard Johnson Jr., played college basketball in the Lone Star State at Baylor before transferring to Midwestern State.
Strengths
  • High-level scorer. Had the seventh-most points on per-game basis in 2024-25 among all major conference players and shot 39.7% on 3-pointers in a high-usage role.
  • Developing playmaker. Needs to cut down on turnovers but showed promise as a passer and has grown his feel for the game to be more than a one-trick pony.
  • Electric quick-release weapon. Rated 84th percentile on catch-and-shoot shots and knows when to be aggressive in getting release off quickly.
Weaknesses
  • Not an aggressive attacker and can settle despite his big frame; this is exacerbated by his poor finishing numbers: 28th percentile at-rim finishing, 33nd percentile on layups, per Synergy
  • Has traits of a potentially impactful defender but lacks strength; at times he could easily be pushed down by bigger bodies and worked into position inside the painted area
  • Needs to raise comfort-level shooting from top of the key; struggled taking and making shots from this area as a freshman. Improving here – and eventually taking and making shots off the dribble/in transition from this range – will make him more dynamic.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.11 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 10.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 32 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.49 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.28 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 37.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
34.6 19.9 3.1 2.7 42.7
6 Kasparas Jakucionis
Illinois, Fr
 
PG

The Wizards have drafted a variety of young assets in recent years with Bilal Coulibaly, Alex Sarr, Bub Carrington, AJ Johnson and others. What they don't have is a point guard to run that team of the future. Jakucionis could give them that with his positional size, feel for the game, and long-term shooting potential.

Rating: 90.5
Pro Comparison: Spencer Dinwiddie
Summary

A Lithuanian guard who spent one season in college leading a 22-win Illinois team in usage rate, points and assists, Jakucionis has an already-productive basketball career having played professionally from his mid-teens. He began his career with Perlas Vilnius in Lithuania playing in the NKL before several seasons with FC Barcelona — first with its junior and reserve teams and later with the first team.

About
  • Jakucionis is a one-and-done from the University of Illinois who was born and raised in Vilnius, Lithuania.
  • He played professionally with Vilnius in Lithuania and with FC Barcelona and has experience playing on the FIBA circuit, too, where he helped his home country win the U16 European Championship.
  • Named to All-Big Ten Freshmen Team
Strengths
  • Smooth lead guard who effortlessly gets to his spots and plays to his size.
  • Crafty scorer who consistently finds ways to finish. Rated in the 78th percentile finishing at the rim as an 18-year-old college freshman at Illinois and was in the 82nd percentile finishing in isolation.
  • Pace and poise the key pieces of his game. What he lacks in athletic pop he makes up for with playmaking and finesse, and he shows great promise operating as a primary facilitator.
Weaknesses
  • Turnover-prone despite flashes of passing excellence. Had a 25.4% turnover rate to a 26.2% assist rate and finishes each of his final four college games – including two NCAA Tournament outings – with six turnovers.
  • Limited success as a shooter. Shot 31.8% on 3-pointers at Illinois and rated in the 47th percentile as a jump shooter.
  • Could be role-confined at NBA level. High turnover rate may force him to become a secondary playmaker asked to play off the ball and make shots. But struggles shooting the ball dictate he may be best play-making. He needs to dramatically improve one, or both, of his shooting and turnovers to consistently stick as a winner.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.82 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 7.75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 28.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 3.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.99 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.22 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 35 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
31.6 15 5.7 4.7 44.0
7 Kon Knueppel
Duke, Fr
 
SF

The Pelicans are a franchise in the midst of extreme uncertainty as Joe Dumars arrives to take over their front office. Knueppel has one of the highest floors in this draft because he's skilled, smart, strong, and able to share the ball with other highly talented players. Being better than expected defensively doesn't hurt either.

Rating: 91
Pro Comparison: Austin Reaves
Summary

A highly-coveted shooter whose offensive game is among the most lethal in the class, Knueppel was a vital Robin to Cooper Flagg’s Batman in his one season leading a 35-win Duke team to within seconds of a national title game appearance. He’s the prince of pacing who plays with poise and control.

About
  • A prolific shooter and scorer who averaged 26.4 points per game as a senior in high school and blossomed into a five-star recruit before choosing Duke over a number of other offers.
  • Earned an invite to the Jordan Brand Classic and was named Wisconsin Mr. Basketball, joining company that includes former first-round picks Brandin Podziemski, Johnny Davis, Henry Ellenson, Kevon Looney and Sam Dekker.
  • Playing alongside Cooper Flagg at Duke, he instantly became a star, hitting 40.6% on 3-pointers and finishing as the second-leading scorer on a 35-win team.
Strengths
  • Elite shooter. Made 40.6% of 3-pointers on 207 total attempts at Duke in 2024-25 and missed only nine of his 128 total free-throw attempts.
  • Undeterred when unable to create separation; rated in the 92nd percentile on guarded shots from deep at Duke, per Synergy data.
  • Smart player who consistently overcomes lack of athleticism with savvy. Plays with good pacing and body control, and rated 70th percentile on shots at the rim.
Weaknesses
  • Room to improve his versatility as a shot-maker. Very reliable on set shots even when guarded, but was in the 33rd percentile on dribble jumpers and scored just 0.826 points per possession on handoffs.
  • Needs to improve foot speed and lateral quickness. Frequently struggled defending at the point of screens defensively at Duke. Navigating through pick-and-rolls by adding physicality and speed will be critical for his role in the NBA.
  • Too much reliance on the right hand for finishing. Becoming more comfortable and confident as a lefty scorer will add more lethality to his offensive game and make him even more potent a scorer.
Combine Data
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 6.25 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 5.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.4 14.4 4 2.7 47.9
8 Derik Queen
Maryland, Fr
 
C

Queen is a playmaking big who creates mismatches with his ability to put the ball on the floor and pass for his size. With soft natural touch and elite hands, if the shooting ever catches up, he has high upside outcomes. He may not be winning any athletic contests, but that's why a pairing with Nic Claxton could make sense.

Rating: 90.5
Pro Comparison: Alperen Sengun
Summary

A Baltimore native, Queen was part of a legendary Montverde Academy team that included Cooper Flagg, Asa Newell and Liam McNeeley before developing into a five-star, top-15 national recruit. He chose to return to his home state to play one season of college basketball at Maryland under coach Kevin Willard where he earned All-Big Ten honors and was named the league’s Freshman of the Year.

About
  • Earned McDonald’s All-American honors and was named Co-MVP of the game in 2024. Top-15 national prospect and consensus five-star.
  • Was the league’s Freshman of the Year and named to All-Big Ten First Team.
  • Voted an AP All-America Honorable Mention.
Strengths
  • Ultra-skilled for a player his size, he has nimble feet and soft hands allowing him to operate in tight spaces and catch everything.
  • Gifted with grace. Not the most athletic big but a graceful ball-handler for his size and position who can make advanced passing reads and be a playmaker.
  • Dynamic scorer. Has an old-school post game that allows him to finish at a high level around the basket and with the ability to finish with both hands.
  • High-level IQ. Seems to process the game quickly and be able to see things before they unfold. Real potential for him to be trusted as a decision-maker on short rolls and something more – perhaps a playmaking hub – in the future.
Weaknesses
  • Defensive capabilities may be limited. Maryland did a good job hiding him on that end of the floor, but it says a lot that they made it a point to do so. Not the quickest mover laterally and may struggle defending in space.
  • May need to trim down bulky frame to maximize his potential. On the thicker size and may not stand up to a full starter’s workload if he is not able to cut weight and improve his conditioning.
  • Only a theoretical stretch big at this point. Took only 35 3-pointers at Maryland, of which he made seven (20%). He’s very much a throwback big in many ways with his efficiency as a post scorer but with limitations right now of a throwback center in his inconsistency to be a reliable shooter.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.27 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 0.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 23.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 1.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 12.45 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.52 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 28.0 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.3 16.5 9 1.9 52.6
9 Khaman Maluach
Duke, Fr
 
C

Maluach has a 7-foot-6 wingspan, is mobile and athletic for his size, a massive lob threat, rim-runner and a developing shot-blocker. The Raptors have quite a bit of committed salary in the next few years and for all the pieces they've recently invested in, his archetype is one that is missing and fits the emphasis on length and athleticism that Masai Ujuri has historically been known for.

Rating: 90.25
Pro Comparison: Mitchell Robinson
Summary

Maluach is a center from South Sudan who fled the war-torn area at a young age and grew up in Uganda. He began playing basketball at 13 years old and developed playing in Senegal under NBA Academy Africa before becoming a five-star recruit. He spent one season with Duke.

About
  • Picked up basketball at 13 years old after growing up a soccer fan and flashed on the radar in Africa at a camp hosted by fellow South Sudanese sensation Luol Deng.
  • Attended Bethel Covenant College before COVID shutdown and later joined NBA Academy Africa in Senegal before garnering attention from the likes of UCLA, Duke, Kentucky and Kansas.
  • Played for South Sudan’s national team at the 2023 FIBA World Cup and helped his country qualify for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, where South Sudan narrowly lost 101-100 to Team USA.
  • Earned All-ACC Honorable Mention and ACC All-Rookie Team honors
Strengths
  • Game-altering length. Measured in at 7-2 with nearly 7-7 wingspan at NBA Draft Combine.
  • First Team All-Teammate caliber person. Cooper Flagg called him a “pure soul” and Duke coach Jon Scheyer said he’s “one of the best human beings.”
  • Frame and game of a future defensive anchor. Plays with great anticipation on the defensive end and regularly blocks or alters shots with his length.
  • Stellar finisher around the basket. Led college basketball among major conference players in KenPom’s offensive rating metric and rated in the 98th percentile on finishing at the rim.
Weaknesses
  • Still a very raw prospect. Has only played basketball five years and even shorter time than that in an organized fashion. Can improve his positioning and tweak fundamentals to become even more dynamic, which will come in time.
  • Unproven shooter. Took just 16 3-pointers at Duke, making four. Played with a glove all season because of hand injury, which could have affected his shot efficiency and selection.
  • Can be too passive. Playing next to Flagg and Kon Knueppel, he was too willing – and understandably so – to cede the floor to the team’s co-stars. To take his game to the next level he will need to understand when to be more assertive and play with more confidence, particularly on offense.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.44 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 6.75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 24.0 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 6 inches
  • Lane agility: 12.05 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.50 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 30.0 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
21.3 8.6 6.6 0.5 71.2
10 Carter Bryant
Arizona, Fr
 
SF

This feels a bit high for a guy who averaged 6 points and 4 rebounds per game, but Bryant also shot 46% on unguarded catch-and-shoot 3-pointers, defended everything from point guards to forwards, and is still just 19 years old. Shooting is a requisite around Amen Thompson and Alperen Sengun, so Bryant makes sense as a big 3-and-D prospect.

Rating: 89.75
Pro Comparison: Dorian Finney-Smith
Summary

Bryant is a California native who was a prolific high school basketball player and earned invites to the McDonald’s All-American game and Jordan Brand Classic. A top-30 national recruit, he signed with Arizona over Louisville and other suitors, and he spent one season with the Wildcats.

About
  • A prolific high school star who earned McDonald’s All-American honors, Bryant was a top-30 consensus national recruit.
  • Before college Bryant played for his father, D’Cean Bryant, played college basketball at Long Beach State.
  • One of four freshmen to have at least 150 rebounds, 35 assists, 35 blocks and 35 steals last season joining Duke’s Cooper Flagg, Maryland’s Derik Queen and Georgetown’s Thomas Sorber.
Strengths
  • Ideal frame for a big wing. Measured 6-6.5 at NBA Draft Combine without shoes and has a wingspan of 6-11.75 to go with 8-10 standing reach.
  • Projectable role. Showed immense defensive potential in a limited role at Arizona and was a 66th percentile weapon on catch-and-shoots, 80th percentile jump shooter and 92nd percentile at-rim finisher.
  • Prolific scorer in high school. Averaged 22.1 points and 13.7 rebounds per game and was named Pacific Coast MVP as a junior.
Weaknesses
  • Room for improvement with his ability to create on offense. Did not get a ton of chances to handle the ball or initiate at Arizona but looked uncomfortable when he did. Using his frame and strength to be an attacker can unlock a big piece of his potential in the NBA.
  • Made a respectable 37.1% of his 3-point attempts but has room to improve overall as a shooter given his usage in a smaller role. If he isn’t going to be a dynamic movement shooter he needs to be consistent when asked to catch and shoot in spot-up situations.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.14 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 11.75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 10 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.25 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.07 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 39.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
19.3 6.5 4.1 1 46.0
11 Jeremiah Fears
Oklahoma, Fr
 
PG

Fears is a high-upside playmaking lead guard and while he likely won't be ready to play right away, he could provide a long-term contingency plan should Portland ever reach the conclusion that the backcourt experiment of Scoot Henderson, Anfernee Simons and Shaedon Sharpe just hasn't gelled the way they hoped they might.

Rating: 91
Pro Comparison: De'Aaron Fox
Summary

A sub-60 national recruit who reclassified up a year and played his entire freshman season at Oklahoma as an 18-year-old. Carried a top-20 usage rate among all college basketball players and led Sooners to NCAA tournament appearance while averaging 17.1 points, 4.1 assists and 4.1 rebounds per game.

About
  • Reclassified up one year and played freshman season as an 18-year-old.
  • Earned SEC All-Freshman honors.
  • Has an older brother, Jeremy, who plays at Michigan State. His father, Jeremy Fears Sr., played college basketball at Ohio University and Bradley.
Strengths
  • Bursty athlete who can blow by defenders with quick-twitch and speed. Uses his angles well to leverage his frame and get around defenders.
  • Elite-level handles. Has the game of an And-1 mixtape player. Very flashy with his dribbling skills and has tremendous control.
  • Has a tendency to be big in clutch time. Made multiple game-winning plays and shots as a freshman at OU. Ice in his veins.
Weaknesses
  • Had a 20.2% turnover rate at Oklahoma. Needs to find the thin line between flash and functional passing. Can struggle with lazy passes or misreads.
  • Ball-dominant guard with ball-dominant game. Big question about how his game fits if he isn’t the lead operator. Struggled to shoot from 3-point range and isn’t additive as a cutter yet.
  • Smaller, lanky frame. Can get into the paint with his pacing and handles with ease, but needs to improve his strength and improve his finishing ability.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.09 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 5.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 32.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 2.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.95 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.05 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 36.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.1 17.1 4.1 4.1 43.4
12 Collin Murray-Boyles
S. Carolina, Soph
 
PF

Murray-Boyles is long, strong, very smart, and impactful on both ends of the floor, even if he's closer to an undersized five-man who doesn't yet space the floor. With Nikola Vucevic headed into a contract year, and big potential shooters like Jalen Smith and Matas Buzelis at the forward/wing spots, this could be a fit.

Rating: 91
Pro Comparison: Julius Randle
Summary

A two-and-done prospect who played his way from a sub-100 national recruit to a potential lottery pick in the span of two seasons at South Carolina, Murray-Boyles is an old-school big man with a back-to-the-basket interior scoring game who adds physicality on defense. He was an All-SEC performer in 2024-25 who dominated on the glass and showed impressive versatility as a passer.

About
  • A South Carolina native born and raised who stayed home to play his college basketball after starring locally at the high school level (his senior year was played in Utah after three years in Columbia, S.C.)
  • Earned SEC All-Freshman honors in his first season in 2023-24 and turned down a chance to become a potential first-round pick to return to South Carolina, where he became an All-SEC performer in 2024-25.
  • Led SEC in field-goal percentage with 58.6%.
Strengths
  • Effective and efficient interior scorer. Improved on his 59.7% eFG% in 2023-24 by finishing at 59.9% eFG% in 2024-25 for the Gamecocks.
  • Physical interior presence on defense. What he lacks in total height he compensates for with strength and girth. He’s a load to get by on defense and makes you work for every inch.
  • Has a nose for the basketball. Finished as third-leading rebounder in SEC in sophomore season.
  • Plays with great feel and skill. Willing and capable passer who can make smart reads out of the short roll and operate as a playmaking hub.
Weaknesses
  • Needs to refine shot beyond the painted area. Not a threat taking shots from 3-point range, a swing skill that could take him from a very good prospect to an elite prospect.
  • May need to improve foot speed and trim down. His bigger frame allowed him to bang down low against college bigs but being lighter on his feet and adding quickness could be a superpower for him.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.86 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, .75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 10 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.21 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.15 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 34.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.7 16.8 8.3 2.4 58.6
13 Walter Clayton Jr.
Florida, Sr
 
PG

This year's Mr. March Madness played his way into lottery consideration, not because he led Florida to a national championship, but because he showed different elements of his game and a higher upside while doing it. He's an extreme shot-maker and good scorer with on/off ball versatility and defensive potential, if not yet a consistent approach.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.81 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 4 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 1.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.52 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.14 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 37 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32.6 18.3 3.7 4.2 44.8
14 Liam McNeeley
UConn, Fr
 
SF

The Spurs are one team smart enough to see past the 32% McNeeley shot from behind the arc last season as he was thrust into a starring role by necessity. He's a vastly better shooter than that and could provide some much-needed floor spacing around Wemby while also checking boxes for his overall basketball IQ and competitiveness.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.75 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 8.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 3.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.11 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.16 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 36.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32.1 14.5 6 2.3 38.1
15 Nique Clifford
Colo. St., Sr
 
SF

Clifford is an athletic wing who thinks the game at a high-level and can also really pass the ball. If the shooting gains we've seen recently prove to be sustainable, then he looks poised to evolve into a 3-and-D wing with some secondary playmaking on top. Even OKC, a team flush with young assets, could use one of those.

Pro Comparison: Josh Hart
Summary

Clifford is already 23 years old after playing five years of college basketball. He is perceived as a plug-and-play wing who could be a nice complimentary two-way piece and crack a rotation sooner rather than later, especially if the shooting gains we saw recently prove to be sustainable.

About
  • Played 3 seasons at Colorado before transferring to Colorado State.
  • Averaged 18.9 points, 9.6 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 1.2 steals with 50/38/78 shooting splits last season.
  • Named first-team and defensive team All-Mountain West and was MVP of the MW Tournament in his final season.
Strengths
  • Versatile defender: He can guard multiple positions and also has good playmaking instincts on that end of the floor.
  • Perimeter rebounding: His 9.6 rebounds per game, and 8.1 on the defensive glass, were among the best in college basketball last year, especially for a wing.
  • Cutting, passing, and pull-up shooting: While the 3-point shooting is the single most important offensive variable, he owns a variety of complimenting skills on that end of the floor.
Weaknesses
  • One of the oldest prospects in the draft: He already turned 23 years old and so he’s 5 years older than other first-round candidates.
  • Lack of perceived upside: He took on more playmaking responsibilities this year at Colorado State, but that isn’t expected to be his role in the NBA.
  • Uncertainty about his long-term shooting consistency: While his shooting improved in the last two years at Colorado State, he was still streaky and had a somewhat inconsistent release after retooling his mechanics at CSU.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.96 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 8 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 31 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 6.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.87 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.07 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 35.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
35.4 18.9 9.6 4.4 49.6
16 Jase Richardson SG

Richardson is a southpaw combo-guard who combined efficiency with versatility this year. He played both on and off the ball and proved he was a shot-maker at multiple levels, not to mention a sneaky good finisher for someone still building up his body. He's not nearly the 6-foot-3 that Michigan State listed him at, but could still solidify Orlando's backcourt depth and perimeter spacing.

Pro Comparison: Monte Morris
Summary

A year ahead of the pace, if not two. Richardson emerged in the second half of last season, when he was inserted as a starter in Michigan State's lineup. Has pro pedigree (father Jason played 14 years in the NBA) and played his way to top-20 stock in the 2025 class. Richardson plays left-handed and his floor is higher than a lot of players in his draft range. He's been raised to be ready to find a way to make it in the NBA.

About
  • Averaged 12.1 points for the season, but was at 16 points in his final 15 games with the Spartans
  • A former high-end four-star prospect who became MSU's most important player in the final six weeks of the season
  • Was named All-Big Ten Third Team
Strengths
  • Craftiness as a playmaker and someone comfortable at going with his own speed
  • Quality 3-point shooter on sufficient freshman-year sample size (41.2% on 114 attempts)
  • Mature for his age, a plus in the huddle and the locker room
Weaknesses
  • Has to hit the weight room and get stronger. Will likely be weathered by NBA physicality in Year 1
  • Frequent critique is his lack of right-handed ability. Needs to work on dexterity to enhance his effectiveness against NBA defenders
  • Needs to form a bit more into the combo point guard he'll have to be in order to grow into an NBA starter
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.08 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 6 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 2.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.97 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.22 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 38 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
25.2 12.1 3.3 1.9 49.3
17 Asa Newell
Georgia, Fr
 
PF

With Naz Reid and Julius Randle both having player options on their contracts this summer, it may be challenging for Minnesota to keep both long-term. If that's the case, they could use some additional frontcourt depth. Newell provides a high-energy and mobile big who can split time between the four and the five. If the shooting ever clicks, this would be terrific value.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.78 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 11.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 11.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.95 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.26 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 36.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
29 15.4 6.9 0.9 54.3
18 Danny Wolf
Michigan, Jr
 
PF

Wolf is a highly skilled big who handles and passes well enough that he was Michigan's primary initiator for significant stretches this season. If the shooting catches up he would be an ideal complement next to Sarr, who could also help protect him on the defensive end of the floor.

Pro Comparison: Kelly Olynyk
Summary

Danny Wolf is a 7-foot center with guard skills who helped Michigan win the Big Ten Tournament in March after spending the previous two seasons at Yale. He can dribble. He can pass. He can shoot. And he projects as a stretch-the-floor big and above-average rebounder at the next level.

About
  • A Second Team All-Big Ten selection in 2024-25
  • In 2023-24 was named to the All-Ivy League First Team
  • Was named the Ivy League Tournament MVP in 2024
Strengths
  • Skill: Wolf can dribble, pass and shoot unusually well for a player his size and is comfortable making plays for himself or others.
  • Rebounding: Wolf had a defensive-rebounding rate of 25% at Michigan that ranked top-15 nationally among all power-conference players.
  • Motor: Wolf consistently plays hard on both ends of the court, which helps make up for a lack of athleticism and lateral quickness.
Weaknesses
  • Athleticism: As much as playing in space is a strength for Wolf, his ability to guard in space is an area of concern.
  • Turnovers: Wolf is a gifted passer but also a reckless one, evidence being his 3.2 turnovers per game at Michigan that accounted for the team’s highest turnover-rate.
  • Rim-protection: Despite standing 7-feet tall, Wolf offers little in the way of true rim-protection and averaged just 1.1 blocks per game in three years of college basketball.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.91 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 2.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 24 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 1 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.26 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.51 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 30 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.5 13.2 9.7 3.6 49.7
19 Nolan Traore PG

Traore came into the draft cycle viewed as a potential top-five pick and while his stock dipped during the course of the season, he's playing his best basketball as of late with Saint-Quentin. He has extreme speed and playmaking ability, but is also showing some recent gains with his shooting that are very encouraging.

Rating: 89.75
Pro Comparison: Andrew Nembhard
Summary

Long viewed as a likely lottery pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Traore is next in a long line of French basketball talents who have been productive professionally overseas. He played for Centre Federal from 2021-24 before spending the subsequent time leading up to the draft playing with Saint Quentin in the LNB Pro A. During that time he earned distinction as the FIBA Champions League Best Young Player and ascended into one of the best guards in the class.

About
  • Traore is a born-and-raised French product who has been identified as an elite prospect for years.
  • In 2021, he was admitted to INSEP, an elite training institute in Paris, and he has blossomed since then into one of the best international prospects in the world. He is top 10 in the LNB Pro A in assists per game.
  • Has a brother named Armel who was a 2024 prospect who went undrafted, later signed with the Lakers and is back in France playing in the Liga ACB.
Strengths
  • Solid overall build for a projected point guard. Measured 6-3 with long 6-8 wingspan. Already accustomed to playing against professionals in France and has a strong frame.
  • Crafty ballhandler who can get to his spots at will. Capable of putting pressure on the rim as an attacker and has excellent pacing and feel.
  • Innate sense for knowing how and when to get his teammates involved. Overall a selfless player who knows when to call his own number and when the defense dictates he should distribute.
Weaknesses
  • Strong shooting finish to the 2024-25 with Saint Quentin but largely has underwhelmed in that area. Shot 30% on 3-pointers in 2023-24 and only marginally improved in that area by percentage in 2024-25.
  • Can be an erratic decision-maker. Capable of making every pass in the playbook but equally capable of making dumbfounding, sometimes simple and correctable mistakes.
20 Cedric Coward
Wash. St., Sr
 
SG

Coward now looks bound to stay in the draft after previously committing to Duke. He was one of the big winners of last week's combine with terrific measurements and looks like an ideal fit for the Heat as another late-bloomer who was worked his way up from the Division III level.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.91 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 2.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 24 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 10 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.97 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.51 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 30 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33 17.7 7 3.7 55.7
21 Joan Beringer C

For all the young assets that Utah has drafted in recent seasons, Beringer would fit a hole with extreme athleticism at five. He's very young, and won't turn 19 until next November, but his archetype – as a rim-running, shot-blocking, lob threat – consistently hits, especially when you add his mobility and terrific hands.

22 Thomas Sorber
Georgetown, Fr
 
C

Atlanta is one of the teams that is believed to have significant interest in Sorber. They might consider him at No. 13 and if he's still available here, he would be a strong candidate. His massive measurements at last week's combine only fueled the enthusiasm that came from him exceeding all expectations as a freshman.

Combine Data
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 6 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 1 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
31.4 14.5 8.5 2.4 53.2
23 Noa Essengue PF

Essengue is big, mobile, athletic, and young. In fact, he won't turn 19 until next December, but we've seen notable growth in recent months for Ratiopharm Ulm, in Germany. Indiana may need some more immediate reinforcements up front, depending on how things go in free agency, but Essengue is a nice long-term asset.

24 Ben Saraf PG

Saraf is a big, playmaking lefty guard and one of the most creative passers off the dribble in the draft. OKC may not have room for this archetype after drafting Nikola Topic last year, but Saraf is the best available prospect on my board at this point so I wouldn't be surprised to see OKC take him and then manage their assets accordingly.

25 Rasheer Fleming PF

Fleming has all the makings of an effective role player with is length, power, athleticism, mobility, and high motor. He can change the game defensively and also stretch the floor offensively, which means he could create some necessary spacing for Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.72 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 5.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 27 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 1 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.95 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.24 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 32.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
31.3 14.7 8.5 1.3 53.1
26 Egor Demin
BYU, Fr
 
PG

It is very possible that Demin is off the board long before this, but in this scenario, the Nets should scoop him right up. He's 6-10 and may be the best passer in the draft. He's got to figure out what position he can defend and prove he's a reliable spot-up shooter, but has a unique combination of assets.

Rating: 90
Pro Comparison: Josh Giddey
Summary

One-and-done talent from BYU who played with the Cougars after growing up in Russia. Demin played professionally with Madrid prior to his time in college and developed into a five-star, top-20 talent.

About
  • The Moscow native played with Real Madrid’s second team in Spain during 2023-24 season prior to one season at BYU and became a five-star recruit.
  • He was named to FIBA’s Europe 20 Under 20 list.
  • Was named to the All-Big 12 Freshman team and was an All-Big 12 Honorable Mention slection with the Cougars.
Strengths
  • Excellent frame for true point guard. Measured 6-8.25 at NBA Draft Combine without shoes. Needs to add muscle and weight but owns height (and passing; more on that in a bit) similar to that of a young Ben Simmons.
  • Sensational passer. Can make every pass thanks to great anticipation skills, high IQ and big frame that allows him to see over defenders.
  • Trustworthy lead guard with skills fit for the modern game. Can make every pass and showed promise running as the lead in pick-and-roll handler. Also finished at a very high clip around the basket.
Weaknesses
  • Shooting will be his big swing skill and is an area he needs to improve. Made just 27.3% of his 3-pointers at BYU and was a 24th percentile jump shooter, per Synergy data.
  • Hoppy on defense. Showed good effort and competitiveness on that end, but struggled maintaining his defensive positioning. Staying down in his stance and being consistent in his fundamentals may help him improve.
  • Hard to project on defense. BYU played a lot of zone and Demin, with his big frame, was sometimes asked to defend out of position. He needs to either improve his lateral quickness substantially, or add a significant amount of muscle, or both, to be able to hold up on that end. Suspect that is an area he will struggle with in the NBA for the duration of his career.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.93 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 10.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 26.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 9.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.31 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.33 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 32.0 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
27.5 10.6 3.9 5.5 41.2
27 Ryan Kalkbrenner
Creighton, Sr
 
C

With four first-round picks, it only makes sense that Brooklyn will take some swings for the future and then find others who can play immediate minutes. Kalkbrenner is the latter as a defensive quarterback and drop coverage monster whose sheer size and quality hands make him serviceable offensively in a specific niche.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.10 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 6 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 4 inches
  • Lane agility: 12.05 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.34 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 33 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
34.5 19.2 8.7 1.5 65.3
28 Labaron Philon
Creighton, Fr
 
PG

A competitive and instinctive combo-guard with on-ff ball versatility, Philon seems like he would be a good fit with head coach Joe Mazzulla. The three-point shooting may not be quite where Boston would like it ideally, but the same was true at Alabama and he still made himself a critical two-way part of their attack.

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
29 Will Riley
Illinois, Fr
 
SF

Riley is likely not NBA ready, but Phoenix is in a position where they just need to start accumulating some long-term assets and Riley is that. He's multi-positional with good perimeter size and flashes of shot-making and playmaking alike. It's a swing, but at this point in the draft, it's worth it.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.08 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 8.75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 27.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 8 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.73 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.21 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 32 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
25.7 12.6 4.1 2.2 43.2
30 Tahaad Pettiford
Illinois, Fr
 
PG

Pettiford is a very fringe first-round pick, and given the uncertainty that comes with that, coupled by the NIL market, he may be better off going back to college. He's undersized but skilled, explosive, fearless, and capable of scoring in bunches.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.96 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 5.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 31 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 0 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.63 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.23 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 42 inches
# Team Player Pos
1 Cooper Flagg
Duke, Fr
 
SF

The one pick you can already write in sharpie. Dallas lands its foundational piece after blowing it up midseason by dealing Luka Doncic.

Rating: 98.5
Pro Comparison: Scottie Pippen
Summary

A prodigious talent who profiles as one of the five best prospects of the last decade. Flagg entered Duke as the No. 1 high school recruit and led the Blue Devils to a 35-win season that ended in the Final Four on a team he led that rated No. 1 in offensive efficiency and No. 5 in defensive efficiency. There are no obvious holes in his game and his all-around impact on both ends make him situation-proof.

About
  • Led Duke to 35 wins (T-2nd most in school history) while leading the team in scoring, rebounding, assists, steals and blocks.
  • Fourth player in college basketball history to win Naismith National Player of the Year as a freshman, joining Kevin Durant (2007), Anthony Davis (2012) and Zion Williamson (2019)
Strengths
  • Elite defensive skills with preternatural timing and instincts. Has a knack for consistently finding ways to alter and block shots.
  • Passing vision of a lead guard. Understands defensive schemes and reads defenses at a high level with great anticipation and has skills to execute intricate passes with ease.
  • Great shooting touch anywhere on the floor. Shot 38.5% from 3-point range and made 84% of his free throws.
Weaknesses
  • Has room to improve as a post-up defender. Flagg has a tendency to reach in an effort to make plays, which can at times put him out of position.
  • His post positioning as a defender can be inconsistent. At times he loses feel for where the basket is or doesn’t appropriately leverage his body between defender and the hoop.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.92 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 0 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 10.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.64 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.30 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 35.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.5 19.2 7.5 4.2 48.1
2 Dylan Harper
Rutgers, Fr
 
PG

It's possible San Antonio uses this pick as trade bait, but also possible: San Antonio sticks at No. 2 and picks the clear No. 2 prospect in the class despite potential fit questions around Stephon Castle and De'Aaron Fox. Increasingly, this seems like a situation where you select the best talent and figure out fit later.

Rating: 95
Pro Comparison: Cade Cunningham
Summary

Harper is the son of former NBA player Ron Harper and the younger brother of Ron Harper Jr. A former five-star recruit, he spent one season at Rutgers where he finished second among all freshmen in points per game (19.4) and had the sixth-most assists per game (4.0) among qualifying players.

About
  • One of two five-star recruits to ever sign with Rutgers as a high school prospect.
  • Earned MVP honors at both the McDonald’s All-American Game and Jordan Brand Classic in 2024.
  • Left-handed shooter worked out with two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo before the 2024-25 season.
Strengths
  • Savvy scorer who gets to his spots with ease. Averaged 19.4 points and 4.0 assists per game – both highest on his team – while making 33.3% of his 3-pointers as a high-usage player.
  • Crafty defensive playmaker. Very tactical with poking and prodding on defense and led Rutgers in steals.
  • King of pacing. Rarely plays rushed and can control a game with his handle, passing and scoring. Had six games of 25 or more points and seven games of six or more assists.
Weaknesses
  • Missed several stints during his freshman season dealing with nagging ankle injury and a bout with the flu.
  • Also missed time leading into freshman season with right knee injury, which required a procedure.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.05 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 10.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 6 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.07 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.16 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 36.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32.6 19.4 4.6 4 48.4
3 Ace Bailey
Rutgers, Fr
 
SF

I wouldn't be terribly surprised if Philly considers other players here such as VJ Edgecombe, Tre Johnson or Kon Knueppel. But most view the draft dropping off in talent *after* Bailey -- even if his prospect profile is a bit more volatile than others. He's a big wing and talented shot-maker with tremendous size and athleticism.

Rating: 93
Pro Comparison: Brandon Ingram
Summary

The highest-ranked signee in Rutgers history, Bailey was a five-star recruit ranked No. 2 in the national class of 2024. He was a McDonald’s All-American and Mr. Georgia Basketball in 2024 before choosing the Scarlet Knights over Kentucky, Kansas and others. In his one college season, he earned Third Team All-Big Ten honors.

About
  • One of two five-star high school recruits to sign with Rutgers in program history. Highest-rated of the two, alongside teammate and projected top-five pick Dylan Harper Jr.
  • Parents both played college basketball in college. His mother, Ramika McGee, played at West Virginia; his father, Richard Bailey, played at Houston.
  • First name is “Airious” but he prefers to go by “Ace” — a nickname he’s held for a long time because of his ability to thrive in multiple sports.
  • Earned Georgia Gatorade Player of the Year as a senior after averaging 33.4 points, 15.5 rebounds and 3.9 assists per game for McEachern High School, leading it to a 26-6 record and a Class A title.
Strengths
  • Impressive size and skill for age. He doesn’t turn 19 years old until August 2025 and has a 6-foot-10 frame with fluid agility.
  • Scorer who can get you a bucket at any point in any game on any spot on the floor. Quick release and crafty with the ball, and doesn’t need a ton of space to rise and fire over defenders.
  • Reliable shooter — not just a scorer. He rated in the 80th percentile on catch and shoot opportunities as a freshman and was in the 94th percentile when guarded in such situations.
Weaknesses
  • Defensive effort can wax and wane not only possession-by-possession but also within the same possessions. Frequently can get caught ball-watching and lose his man. Needs to improve eye discipline defensively.
  • Worrisome free-throw shooting for a player whose best trait is his shooting. He made 69.2% from the foul line, which can be an indicator to future success/failure shooting from 3-point range.
  • As physically gifted as he is, often settles for jumpers and lacks aggressiveness/assertiveness at times. Can also tend to play off one foot when he does attack, relying on his athleticism. Developing more skill around the rim as a finisher will do wonders for his overall offensive versatility.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.78 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 0.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 27.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 11 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.97 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.12 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 34.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33.4 17.6 7.2 1.3 46.0
4 VJ Edgecombe
Baylor, Fr
 
SG

With LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller in place, Charlotte adds a two-way guard who can make shots at a respectable clip and give the Hornets an athletic downhill driving threat. Most importantly he gives this team a complementary weapon to fit neatly around the team's top stars.

Rating: 92.5
Pro Comparison: Victor Oladipo
Summary

A superstar athlete with five-star credentials, Edgecombe hails from the Bahamas after a stellar one-and-done season at Baylor under national championship-winning coach Scott Drew. He was ranked as the No. 5 player in the national class entering college and earned All-Big 12 honors and Big 12 Rookie of the Year honors in 2024-25.

About
  • A Bimini, Bahamas, native, who has experience on the FIBA circuit playing alongside fellow Bahamians Buddy Hield and Deandre Ayton.
  • Ranked as a five-star, top-five recruit, he was a stellar scorer at Long Island Lutheran (LuHi) who went on to earn McDonald’s All-American honors.
  • Finished his high school career collecting back-to-back Gatorade Player of the Year honors in New York.
Strengths
  • Dynamic athlete with explosive leaping ability. If any player bangs his head on the backboard in a future basketball game while dunking, it might be him
  • Smooth operator. Athletically fluid with a buttery shot to boot. Made 34% of 3-pointers as second-leading scorer for Baylor as true freshman.
  • Long strider who plays smart basketball. Knows when to cut off the ball and has a knack for getting to the cup.
Weaknesses
  • Limited scoring diet. 21st percentile finisher on dribble jumpers and 15th percentile among short shots, per Synergy data.
  • Showed improvement but needs to continue making strides with the ball in his hands. 43rd percentile on pick-and-roll as ballhandler and averaged nearly two turnovers per game.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.93 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 7.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 5.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.27 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.20 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 38.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32.8 15 5.6 3.2 43.6
5 Tre Johnson
Texas, Fr
 
SG

Johnson led freshmen in Division I last season in scoring and made more 3-pointers than any player in his class to boot. He's a bucket-getter who has opened eyes not just with his versatility as a scorer, but with his rounded skill set as a playmaker, too.

Rating: 92.5
Pro Comparison: Malik Monk
Summary

A former top-10 national recruit who is on track to be the first one-and-done Texas player taken in the top 10 of the draft since Jaxson Hayes in 2019. Led all freshmen in scoring in 2024-25, averaging 19.9 points per game — most among all SEC players.

About
  • A Dallas native, Johnson won SEC Freshman of the Year in 2024-25 and was a Second Team All-SEC performer.
  • Was seventh nationally among major conference players in points per game in 2024-25.
  • His father, Richard Johnson Jr., played college basketball in the Lone Star State at Baylor before transferring to Midwestern State.
Strengths
  • High-level scorer. Had the seventh-most points on per-game basis in 2024-25 among all major conference players and shot 39.7% on 3-pointers in a high-usage role.
  • Developing playmaker. Needs to cut down on turnovers but showed promise as a passer and has grown his feel for the game to be more than a one-trick pony.
  • Electric quick-release weapon. Rated 84th percentile on catch-and-shoot shots and knows when to be aggressive in getting release off quickly.
Weaknesses
  • Not an aggressive attacker and can settle despite his big frame; this is exacerbated by his poor finishing numbers: 28th percentile at-rim finishing, 33nd percentile on layups, per Synergy
  • Has traits of a potentially impactful defender but lacks strength; at times he could easily be pushed down by bigger bodies and worked into position inside the painted area
  • Needs to raise comfort-level shooting from top of the key; struggled taking and making shots from this area as a freshman. Improving here – and eventually taking and making shots off the dribble/in transition from this range – will make him more dynamic.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.11 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 10.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 32 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.49 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.28 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 37.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
34.6 19.9 3.1 2.7 42.7
6 Jeremiah Fears
Oklahoma, Fr
 
PG

Fears is arguably the biggest boom-or-bust proposition in this draft with flashes of stardom in his one season at Oklahoma mixed in with some worrying red flags tough to overlook. He'll need to develop his shot to be a threat at the next level and cut out errant passes that were too frequently a feature of his game.

Rating: 91
Pro Comparison: De'Aaron Fox
Summary

A sub-60 national recruit who reclassified up a year and played his entire freshman season at Oklahoma as an 18-year-old. Carried a top-20 usage rate among all college basketball players and led Sooners to NCAA tournament appearance while averaging 17.1 points, 4.1 assists and 4.1 rebounds per game.

About
  • Reclassified up one year and played freshman season as an 18-year-old.
  • Earned SEC All-Freshman honors.
  • Has an older brother, Jeremy, who plays at Michigan State. His father, Jeremy Fears Sr., played college basketball at Ohio University and Bradley.
Strengths
  • Bursty athlete who can blow by defenders with quick-twitch and speed. Uses his angles well to leverage his frame and get around defenders.
  • Elite-level handles. Has the game of an And-1 mixtape player. Very flashy with his dribbling skills and has tremendous control.
  • Has a tendency to be big in clutch time. Made multiple game-winning plays and shots as a freshman at OU. Ice in his veins.
Weaknesses
  • Had a 20.2% turnover rate at Oklahoma. Needs to find the thin line between flash and functional passing. Can struggle with lazy passes or misreads.
  • Ball-dominant guard with ball-dominant game. Big question about how his game fits if he isn’t the lead operator. Struggled to shoot from 3-point range and isn’t additive as a cutter yet.
  • Smaller, lanky frame. Can get into the paint with his pacing and handles with ease, but needs to improve his strength and improve his finishing ability.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.09 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 5.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 32.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 2.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.95 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.05 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 36.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.1 17.1 4.1 4.1 43.4
7 Kon Knueppel
Duke, Fr
 
SF

New Orleans snags the Robin to Cooper Flagg's Batman in Knueppel, who is the most skilled shooter in the draft after hitting 40.6% on 3-pointers last season at Duke and rating out in the 90th percentile or better on both jump shots and catch-and-shoot attempts. He was very good playing next to a star in Flagg and there's more room for him to expand his game in a bigger role.

Rating: 91
Pro Comparison: Austin Reaves
Summary

A highly-coveted shooter whose offensive game is among the most lethal in the class, Knueppel was a vital Robin to Cooper Flagg’s Batman in his one season leading a 35-win Duke team to within seconds of a national title game appearance. He’s the prince of pacing who plays with poise and control.

About
  • A prolific shooter and scorer who averaged 26.4 points per game as a senior in high school and blossomed into a five-star recruit before choosing Duke over a number of other offers.
  • Earned an invite to the Jordan Brand Classic and was named Wisconsin Mr. Basketball, joining company that includes former first-round picks Brandin Podziemski, Johnny Davis, Henry Ellenson, Kevon Looney and Sam Dekker.
  • Playing alongside Cooper Flagg at Duke, he instantly became a star, hitting 40.6% on 3-pointers and finishing as the second-leading scorer on a 35-win team.
Strengths
  • Elite shooter. Made 40.6% of 3-pointers on 207 total attempts at Duke in 2024-25 and missed only nine of his 128 total free-throw attempts.
  • Undeterred when unable to create separation; rated in the 92nd percentile on guarded shots from deep at Duke, per Synergy data.
  • Smart player who consistently overcomes lack of athleticism with savvy. Plays with good pacing and body control, and rated 70th percentile on shots at the rim.
Weaknesses
  • Room to improve his versatility as a shot-maker. Very reliable on set shots even when guarded, but was in the 33rd percentile on dribble jumpers and scored just 0.826 points per possession on handoffs.
  • Needs to improve foot speed and lateral quickness. Frequently struggled defending at the point of screens defensively at Duke. Navigating through pick-and-rolls by adding physicality and speed will be critical for his role in the NBA.
  • Too much reliance on the right hand for finishing. Becoming more comfortable and confident as a lefty scorer will add more lethality to his offensive game and make him even more potent a scorer.
Combine Data
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 6.25 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 5.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.4 14.4 4 2.7 47.9
8 Kasparas Jakucionis
Illinois, Fr
 
PG

With a hard reset likely incoming for Brooklyn, I like the idea of the Nets refreshing their backcourt around Jakucionis -- a lead guard with great size and shooting potential.

Rating: 90.5
Pro Comparison: Spencer Dinwiddie
Summary

A Lithuanian guard who spent one season in college leading a 22-win Illinois team in usage rate, points and assists, Jakucionis has an already-productive basketball career having played professionally from his mid-teens. He began his career with Perlas Vilnius in Lithuania playing in the NKL before several seasons with FC Barcelona — first with its junior and reserve teams and later with the first team.

About
  • Jakucionis is a one-and-done from the University of Illinois who was born and raised in Vilnius, Lithuania.
  • He played professionally with Vilnius in Lithuania and with FC Barcelona and has experience playing on the FIBA circuit, too, where he helped his home country win the U16 European Championship.
  • Named to All-Big Ten Freshmen Team
Strengths
  • Smooth lead guard who effortlessly gets to his spots and plays to his size.
  • Crafty scorer who consistently finds ways to finish. Rated in the 78th percentile finishing at the rim as an 18-year-old college freshman at Illinois and was in the 82nd percentile finishing in isolation.
  • Pace and poise the key pieces of his game. What he lacks in athletic pop he makes up for with playmaking and finesse, and he shows great promise operating as a primary facilitator.
Weaknesses
  • Turnover-prone despite flashes of passing excellence. Had a 25.4% turnover rate to a 26.2% assist rate and finishes each of his final four college games – including two NCAA Tournament outings – with six turnovers.
  • Limited success as a shooter. Shot 31.8% on 3-pointers at Illinois and rated in the 47th percentile as a jump shooter.
  • Could be role-confined at NBA level. High turnover rate may force him to become a secondary playmaker asked to play off the ball and make shots. But struggles shooting the ball dictate he may be best play-making. He needs to dramatically improve one, or both, of his shooting and turnovers to consistently stick as a winner.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.82 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 7.75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 28.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 3.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.99 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.22 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 35 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
31.6 15 5.7 4.7 44.0
9 Khaman Maluach
Duke, Fr
 
C

A former soccer obsessive who only began playing basketball as a teenager after a massive growth spurt, Maluach's 7-2 frame and 7-6 wingspan make him an enticing bet for a Raptors team that is positioned to begin pushing its chips to the table. He'd make for a nice, and hard to miss, lob threat in Toronto for Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley.

Rating: 90.25
Pro Comparison: Mitchell Robinson
Summary

Maluach is a center from South Sudan who fled the war-torn area at a young age and grew up in Uganda. He began playing basketball at 13 years old and developed playing in Senegal under NBA Academy Africa before becoming a five-star recruit. He spent one season with Duke.

About
  • Picked up basketball at 13 years old after growing up a soccer fan and flashed on the radar in Africa at a camp hosted by fellow South Sudanese sensation Luol Deng.
  • Attended Bethel Covenant College before COVID shutdown and later joined NBA Academy Africa in Senegal before garnering attention from the likes of UCLA, Duke, Kentucky and Kansas.
  • Played for South Sudan’s national team at the 2023 FIBA World Cup and helped his country qualify for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, where South Sudan narrowly lost 101-100 to Team USA.
  • Earned All-ACC Honorable Mention and ACC All-Rookie Team honors
Strengths
  • Game-altering length. Measured in at 7-2 with nearly 7-7 wingspan at NBA Draft Combine.
  • First Team All-Teammate caliber person. Cooper Flagg called him a “pure soul” and Duke coach Jon Scheyer said he’s “one of the best human beings.”
  • Frame and game of a future defensive anchor. Plays with great anticipation on the defensive end and regularly blocks or alters shots with his length.
  • Stellar finisher around the basket. Led college basketball among major conference players in KenPom’s offensive rating metric and rated in the 98th percentile on finishing at the rim.
Weaknesses
  • Still a very raw prospect. Has only played basketball five years and even shorter time than that in an organized fashion. Can improve his positioning and tweak fundamentals to become even more dynamic, which will come in time.
  • Unproven shooter. Took just 16 3-pointers at Duke, making four. Played with a glove all season because of hand injury, which could have affected his shot efficiency and selection.
  • Can be too passive. Playing next to Flagg and Kon Knueppel, he was too willing – and understandably so – to cede the floor to the team’s co-stars. To take his game to the next level he will need to understand when to be more assertive and play with more confidence, particularly on offense.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.44 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 6.75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 24.0 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 6 inches
  • Lane agility: 12.05 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.50 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 30.0 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
21.3 8.6 6.6 0.5 71.2
10 Collin Murray-Boyles
S. Carolina, Soph
 
PF

Defense, defense, defense. Houston's already got a strong unit on that end and an investment in CMB is a doubling down of what has worked already with the Rockets. He'd give this team an identity in the frontcourt and could fit well alongside Alperen Sengun down low.

Rating: 91
Pro Comparison: Julius Randle
Summary

A two-and-done prospect who played his way from a sub-100 national recruit to a potential lottery pick in the span of two seasons at South Carolina, Murray-Boyles is an old-school big man with a back-to-the-basket interior scoring game who adds physicality on defense. He was an All-SEC performer in 2024-25 who dominated on the glass and showed impressive versatility as a passer.

About
  • A South Carolina native born and raised who stayed home to play his college basketball after starring locally at the high school level (his senior year was played in Utah after three years in Columbia, S.C.)
  • Earned SEC All-Freshman honors in his first season in 2023-24 and turned down a chance to become a potential first-round pick to return to South Carolina, where he became an All-SEC performer in 2024-25.
  • Led SEC in field-goal percentage with 58.6%.
Strengths
  • Effective and efficient interior scorer. Improved on his 59.7% eFG% in 2023-24 by finishing at 59.9% eFG% in 2024-25 for the Gamecocks.
  • Physical interior presence on defense. What he lacks in total height he compensates for with strength and girth. He’s a load to get by on defense and makes you work for every inch.
  • Has a nose for the basketball. Finished as third-leading rebounder in SEC in sophomore season.
  • Plays with great feel and skill. Willing and capable passer who can make smart reads out of the short roll and operate as a playmaking hub.
Weaknesses
  • Needs to refine shot beyond the painted area. Not a threat taking shots from 3-point range, a swing skill that could take him from a very good prospect to an elite prospect.
  • May need to improve foot speed and trim down. His bigger frame allowed him to bang down low against college bigs but being lighter on his feet and adding quickness could be a superpower for him.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.86 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, .75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 10 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.21 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.15 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 34.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.7 16.8 8.3 2.4 58.6
11 Egor Demin
BYU, Fr
 
PG

A potential shakeup for Portland's backcourt may give its brass reason to invest in a playmaker of Demin's caliber at No. 11. He has tremendous passing ability, though limitations with his defense and struggles with his shooting consistency has his range anywhere between mid-lottery to the 20s.

Rating: 90
Pro Comparison: Josh Giddey
Summary

One-and-done talent from BYU who played with the Cougars after growing up in Russia. Demin played professionally with Madrid prior to his time in college and developed into a five-star, top-20 talent.

About
  • The Moscow native played with Real Madrid’s second team in Spain during 2023-24 season prior to one season at BYU and became a five-star recruit.
  • He was named to FIBA’s Europe 20 Under 20 list.
  • Was named to the All-Big 12 Freshman team and was an All-Big 12 Honorable Mention slection with the Cougars.
Strengths
  • Excellent frame for true point guard. Measured 6-8.25 at NBA Draft Combine without shoes. Needs to add muscle and weight but owns height (and passing; more on that in a bit) similar to that of a young Ben Simmons.
  • Sensational passer. Can make every pass thanks to great anticipation skills, high IQ and big frame that allows him to see over defenders.
  • Trustworthy lead guard with skills fit for the modern game. Can make every pass and showed promise running as the lead in pick-and-roll handler. Also finished at a very high clip around the basket.
Weaknesses
  • Shooting will be his big swing skill and is an area he needs to improve. Made just 27.3% of his 3-pointers at BYU and was a 24th percentile jump shooter, per Synergy data.
  • Hoppy on defense. Showed good effort and competitiveness on that end, but struggled maintaining his defensive positioning. Staying down in his stance and being consistent in his fundamentals may help him improve.
  • Hard to project on defense. BYU played a lot of zone and Demin, with his big frame, was sometimes asked to defend out of position. He needs to either improve his lateral quickness substantially, or add a significant amount of muscle, or both, to be able to hold up on that end. Suspect that is an area he will struggle with in the NBA for the duration of his career.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.93 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 10.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 26.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 9.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.31 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.33 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 32.0 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
27.5 10.6 3.9 5.5 41.2
12 Derik Queen
Maryland, Fr
 
C

Chicago adding youth and size to its young roster makes Queen a perfect match of fit and need at No. 12. He has tremendous skill and feel for a big man whose passing and playmaking could open up opportunities to be an offensive hub in the NBA.

Rating: 90.5
Pro Comparison: Alperen Sengun
Summary

A Baltimore native, Queen was part of a legendary Montverde Academy team that included Cooper Flagg, Asa Newell and Liam McNeeley before developing into a five-star, top-15 national recruit. He chose to return to his home state to play one season of college basketball at Maryland under coach Kevin Willard where he earned All-Big Ten honors and was named the league’s Freshman of the Year.

About
  • Earned McDonald’s All-American honors and was named Co-MVP of the game in 2024. Top-15 national prospect and consensus five-star.
  • Was the league’s Freshman of the Year and named to All-Big Ten First Team.
  • Voted an AP All-America Honorable Mention.
Strengths
  • Ultra-skilled for a player his size, he has nimble feet and soft hands allowing him to operate in tight spaces and catch everything.
  • Gifted with grace. Not the most athletic big but a graceful ball-handler for his size and position who can make advanced passing reads and be a playmaker.
  • Dynamic scorer. Has an old-school post game that allows him to finish at a high level around the basket and with the ability to finish with both hands.
  • High-level IQ. Seems to process the game quickly and be able to see things before they unfold. Real potential for him to be trusted as a decision-maker on short rolls and something more – perhaps a playmaking hub – in the future.
Weaknesses
  • Defensive capabilities may be limited. Maryland did a good job hiding him on that end of the floor, but it says a lot that they made it a point to do so. Not the quickest mover laterally and may struggle defending in space.
  • May need to trim down bulky frame to maximize his potential. On the thicker size and may not stand up to a full starter’s workload if he is not able to cut weight and improve his conditioning.
  • Only a theoretical stretch big at this point. Took only 35 3-pointers at Maryland, of which he made seven (20%). He’s very much a throwback big in many ways with his efficiency as a post scorer but with limitations right now of a throwback center in his inconsistency to be a reliable shooter.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.27 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 0.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 23.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 1.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 12.45 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.52 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 28.0 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.3 16.5 9 1.9 52.6
13 Jase Richardson SG

Richardson has a wide draft range because of an underwhelming height measurement at the NBA Draft Combine but it wouldn't surprise if he still snuck into the lottery. He plays bigger than his measurements with a silky scoring game and long reach on the defensive end to impact winning at a high level.

Pro Comparison: Monte Morris
Summary

A year ahead of the pace, if not two. Richardson emerged in the second half of last season, when he was inserted as a starter in Michigan State's lineup. Has pro pedigree (father Jason played 14 years in the NBA) and played his way to top-20 stock in the 2025 class. Richardson plays left-handed and his floor is higher than a lot of players in his draft range. He's been raised to be ready to find a way to make it in the NBA.

About
  • Averaged 12.1 points for the season, but was at 16 points in his final 15 games with the Spartans
  • A former high-end four-star prospect who became MSU's most important player in the final six weeks of the season
  • Was named All-Big Ten Third Team
Strengths
  • Craftiness as a playmaker and someone comfortable at going with his own speed
  • Quality 3-point shooter on sufficient freshman-year sample size (41.2% on 114 attempts)
  • Mature for his age, a plus in the huddle and the locker room
Weaknesses
  • Has to hit the weight room and get stronger. Will likely be weathered by NBA physicality in Year 1
  • Frequent critique is his lack of right-handed ability. Needs to work on dexterity to enhance his effectiveness against NBA defenders
  • Needs to form a bit more into the combo point guard he'll have to be in order to grow into an NBA starter
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.08 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 6 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 2.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.97 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.22 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 38 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
25.2 12.1 3.3 1.9 49.3
14 Liam McNeeley
UConn, Fr
 
SF

It'd be hard to find a better fit for the Spurs at No. 14 than McNeeley. He's a competitive wing who plays a selfless style and has the makings of a glue guy to help in San Antonio.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.75 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 8.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 3.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.11 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.16 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 36.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32.1 14.5 6 2.3 38.1
15 Cedric Coward
Wash. St., Sr
 
SG

A late-riser whose steam over the last month has pushed him firmly into the lottery conversation, Coward and his versatility as a multipositional wing with athleticism and scoring fits the archetype that'd make perfect sense for a contender like OKC.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.91 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 2.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 24 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 10 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.97 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.51 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 30 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33 17.7 7 3.7 55.7
16 Nique Clifford
Colo. St., Sr
 
SF

Clifford is a true two-way stud who can be a weapon on offense and add length defensively. He's ready to contribute early for virtually any team with his skill set.

Pro Comparison: Josh Hart
Summary

Clifford is already 23 years old after playing five years of college basketball. He is perceived as a plug-and-play wing who could be a nice complimentary two-way piece and crack a rotation sooner rather than later, especially if the shooting gains we saw recently prove to be sustainable.

About
  • Played 3 seasons at Colorado before transferring to Colorado State.
  • Averaged 18.9 points, 9.6 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 1.2 steals with 50/38/78 shooting splits last season.
  • Named first-team and defensive team All-Mountain West and was MVP of the MW Tournament in his final season.
Strengths
  • Versatile defender: He can guard multiple positions and also has good playmaking instincts on that end of the floor.
  • Perimeter rebounding: His 9.6 rebounds per game, and 8.1 on the defensive glass, were among the best in college basketball last year, especially for a wing.
  • Cutting, passing, and pull-up shooting: While the 3-point shooting is the single most important offensive variable, he owns a variety of complimenting skills on that end of the floor.
Weaknesses
  • One of the oldest prospects in the draft: He already turned 23 years old and so he’s 5 years older than other first-round candidates.
  • Lack of perceived upside: He took on more playmaking responsibilities this year at Colorado State, but that isn’t expected to be his role in the NBA.
  • Uncertainty about his long-term shooting consistency: While his shooting improved in the last two years at Colorado State, he was still streaky and had a somewhat inconsistent release after retooling his mechanics at CSU.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.96 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 8 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 31 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 6.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.87 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.07 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 35.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
35.4 18.9 9.6 4.4 49.6
17 Carter Bryant
Arizona, Fr
 
SF

Bryant was merely a bit player in his one season at Arizona but his big frame and promise as a two-way wing who can defend and shoot make him a potential lottery pick in this year's class.

Rating: 89.75
Pro Comparison: Dorian Finney-Smith
Summary

Bryant is a California native who was a prolific high school basketball player and earned invites to the McDonald’s All-American game and Jordan Brand Classic. A top-30 national recruit, he signed with Arizona over Louisville and other suitors, and he spent one season with the Wildcats.

About
  • A prolific high school star who earned McDonald’s All-American honors, Bryant was a top-30 consensus national recruit.
  • Before college Bryant played for his father, D’Cean Bryant, played college basketball at Long Beach State.
  • One of four freshmen to have at least 150 rebounds, 35 assists, 35 blocks and 35 steals last season joining Duke’s Cooper Flagg, Maryland’s Derik Queen and Georgetown’s Thomas Sorber.
Strengths
  • Ideal frame for a big wing. Measured 6-6.5 at NBA Draft Combine without shoes and has a wingspan of 6-11.75 to go with 8-10 standing reach.
  • Projectable role. Showed immense defensive potential in a limited role at Arizona and was a 66th percentile weapon on catch-and-shoots, 80th percentile jump shooter and 92nd percentile at-rim finisher.
  • Prolific scorer in high school. Averaged 22.1 points and 13.7 rebounds per game and was named Pacific Coast MVP as a junior.
Weaknesses
  • Room for improvement with his ability to create on offense. Did not get a ton of chances to handle the ball or initiate at Arizona but looked uncomfortable when he did. Using his frame and strength to be an attacker can unlock a big piece of his potential in the NBA.
  • Made a respectable 37.1% of his 3-point attempts but has room to improve overall as a shooter given his usage in a smaller role. If he isn’t going to be a dynamic movement shooter he needs to be consistent when asked to catch and shoot in spot-up situations.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.14 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 11.75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 10 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.25 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.07 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 39.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
19.3 6.5 4.1 1 46.0
18 Danny Wolf
Michigan, Jr
 
PF

Washington adds more size to its frontcourt for a second consecutive draft with a complementary weapon to pair with Alex Sarr. Wolf has the tools of a point guard inside a 7-foot frame, and his playmaking would help elevate the young and fun pieces already in place in Washington.

Pro Comparison: Kelly Olynyk
Summary

Danny Wolf is a 7-foot center with guard skills who helped Michigan win the Big Ten Tournament in March after spending the previous two seasons at Yale. He can dribble. He can pass. He can shoot. And he projects as a stretch-the-floor big and above-average rebounder at the next level.

About
  • A Second Team All-Big Ten selection in 2024-25
  • In 2023-24 was named to the All-Ivy League First Team
  • Was named the Ivy League Tournament MVP in 2024
Strengths
  • Skill: Wolf can dribble, pass and shoot unusually well for a player his size and is comfortable making plays for himself or others.
  • Rebounding: Wolf had a defensive-rebounding rate of 25% at Michigan that ranked top-15 nationally among all power-conference players.
  • Motor: Wolf consistently plays hard on both ends of the court, which helps make up for a lack of athleticism and lateral quickness.
Weaknesses
  • Athleticism: As much as playing in space is a strength for Wolf, his ability to guard in space is an area of concern.
  • Turnovers: Wolf is a gifted passer but also a reckless one, evidence being his 3.2 turnovers per game at Michigan that accounted for the team’s highest turnover-rate.
  • Rim-protection: Despite standing 7-feet tall, Wolf offers little in the way of true rim-protection and averaged just 1.1 blocks per game in three years of college basketball.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.91 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 2.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 24 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 1 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.26 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.51 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 30 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.5 13.2 9.7 3.6 49.7
19 Asa Newell
Georgia, Fr
 
PF

Brooklyn adds a lob-finishing shot-blocker at No. 19 to add next to top-10 pick Kasparas Jakucionis. Newell is an athletic above-the-rim big who showed promise as a floor spacer in his one season at Georgia.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.78 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 11.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 11.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.95 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.26 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 36.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
29 15.4 6.9 0.9 54.3
20 Nolan Traore PG

Love the idea of Miami adding playmaking to its roster and love the idea, specifically, of Traore with the Heat. He's crafty with the ball in his hands and his decision-making could help Tyler Herro play more comfortably off the ball.

Rating: 89.75
Pro Comparison: Andrew Nembhard
Summary

Long viewed as a likely lottery pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Traore is next in a long line of French basketball talents who have been productive professionally overseas. He played for Centre Federal from 2021-24 before spending the subsequent time leading up to the draft playing with Saint Quentin in the LNB Pro A. During that time he earned distinction as the FIBA Champions League Best Young Player and ascended into one of the best guards in the class.

About
  • Traore is a born-and-raised French product who has been identified as an elite prospect for years.
  • In 2021, he was admitted to INSEP, an elite training institute in Paris, and he has blossomed since then into one of the best international prospects in the world. He is top 10 in the LNB Pro A in assists per game.
  • Has a brother named Armel who was a 2024 prospect who went undrafted, later signed with the Lakers and is back in France playing in the Liga ACB.
Strengths
  • Solid overall build for a projected point guard. Measured 6-3 with long 6-8 wingspan. Already accustomed to playing against professionals in France and has a strong frame.
  • Crafty ballhandler who can get to his spots at will. Capable of putting pressure on the rim as an attacker and has excellent pacing and feel.
  • Innate sense for knowing how and when to get his teammates involved. Overall a selfless player who knows when to call his own number and when the defense dictates he should distribute.
Weaknesses
  • Strong shooting finish to the 2024-25 with Saint Quentin but largely has underwhelmed in that area. Shot 30% on 3-pointers in 2023-24 and only marginally improved in that area by percentage in 2024-25.
  • Can be an erratic decision-maker. Capable of making every pass in the playbook but equally capable of making dumbfounding, sometimes simple and correctable mistakes.
21 Noa Essengue PF

Essengue is a French prospect with great positional size. As the second-youngest player available in this class, he's a long-term bet with defensive tools and shooting upside to grow into a potential steal in the coming years -- a luxury only a team like Utah can afford to be patient seeing through.

22 Thomas Sorber
Georgetown, Fr
 
C

This is a bit lower than where Sorber could wind up on draft night, with buzz that he could land late in the lottery, perhaps with Atlanta. That'd make landing him at No. 22 a steal for the Hawks.

Combine Data
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 6 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 1 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
31.4 14.5 8.5 2.4 53.2
23 Joan Beringer C

Beringer is a frontcourt prospect with a 7-4 wingspan who provides defensive versatility and the ability to rim-protect. Is he ready to contribute in the NBA next season? Probably not. But there's a lot to like with this 18 year old, and the Pacers' window doesn't appear to be closing soon as Tyrese Haliburton hits his prime.

24 Ryan Kalkbrenner
Creighton, Sr
 
C

There is a lot of potential value in this range for big men prospects and Kalkbrenner's fit in OKC could be tough to pass on at No. 24. He's a four-time DPOY winner in the Big East who improved every season in college and is ready to contribute right away in the NBA.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.10 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 6 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 4 inches
  • Lane agility: 12.05 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.34 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 33 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
34.5 19.2 8.7 1.5 65.3
25 Walter Clayton Jr.
Florida, Sr
 
PG

Opinions vary among evaluators on Clayton and his NBA prospects but all agree on one thing: he can be a scorer at the NBA level. I like the idea of Orlando keeping him in Florida and asking him to be a sparkplug for its offense, which rated 14th among 16 playoff teams this postseason.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.81 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 4 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 1.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.52 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.14 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 37 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32.6 18.3 3.7 4.2 44.8
26 Ben Saraf PG

Saraf is an Israeli guard who has acquitted himself well overseas as a scorer and playmaker at just 18 years old this season, and he's crafty in using his smarts to find open teammates. Brooklyn has four first-round picks in this draft and could use Saraf and Jakucionis to change the trajectory for the better of its backcourt.

27 Hugo Gonzalez SF

Gonzalez hasn't played or produced much for Real Madrid this season, which is mostly the byproduct of being a 19 year old on a first-place team in a legitimate professional league. But the athleticism and high-motor that's made him an intriguing prospect for years still exists and will likely be enough to get Gonzalez selected in the first round.

28 Noah Penda SF

A French prospect putting together a strong season with Le Mans, Penda checks several boxes as a long forward who can score inside and out and match up well physically defending multiple positions. He could give Boston some long-term flexibility as it enters a potential transition year next season.

29 Maxime Raynaud
Stanford, Sr
 
C

Raynuad quietly flourished on a floundering Stanford team last season as one of the best players in all of college basketball. The center has remarkable movement skills for his size and can not only space the floor with his shot, but can put the ball on the deck and create. A rare skill for a player his size.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.16 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 1.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 28 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 2 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.31 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.23 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 31.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33.4 20.2 10.6 1.7 46.7
30 Yanic Konan Niederhauser
Penn St., Jr
 
C

No veteran college big man had a stronger May than Niederhauser, culminating with a strong showing at the Combine. He blocked 2.3 shots per game at Penn State last season and looks the part of a late-blooming center who can provide real impact at the center position.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.84 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 3.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 33.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 3 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.45 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.2 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 37 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
25.1 12.9 6.3 0.8 61.1
# Team Player Pos
1 Cooper Flagg
Duke, Fr
 
SF

For more than a year, there's never really been any doubt about which player will go No. 1 in the 2025 NBA Draft. It was always going to be Flagg, the one-and-done star at Duke who led the Blue Devils in all five major individual categories while becoming the youngest Wooden Award winner in history. High ceiling. High floor. It's hard to imagine Flagg not being a high-level NBA player for more than a decade.

Rating: 98.5
Pro Comparison: Scottie Pippen
Summary

A prodigious talent who profiles as one of the five best prospects of the last decade. Flagg entered Duke as the No. 1 high school recruit and led the Blue Devils to a 35-win season that ended in the Final Four on a team he led that rated No. 1 in offensive efficiency and No. 5 in defensive efficiency. There are no obvious holes in his game and his all-around impact on both ends make him situation-proof.

About
  • Led Duke to 35 wins (T-2nd most in school history) while leading the team in scoring, rebounding, assists, steals and blocks.
  • Fourth player in college basketball history to win Naismith National Player of the Year as a freshman, joining Kevin Durant (2007), Anthony Davis (2012) and Zion Williamson (2019)
Strengths
  • Elite defensive skills with preternatural timing and instincts. Has a knack for consistently finding ways to alter and block shots.
  • Passing vision of a lead guard. Understands defensive schemes and reads defenses at a high level with great anticipation and has skills to execute intricate passes with ease.
  • Great shooting touch anywhere on the floor. Shot 38.5% from 3-point range and made 84% of his free throws.
Weaknesses
  • Has room to improve as a post-up defender. Flagg has a tendency to reach in an effort to make plays, which can at times put him out of position.
  • His post positioning as a defender can be inconsistent. At times he loses feel for where the basket is or doesn’t appropriately leverage his body between defender and the hoop.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.92 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 0 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 10.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.64 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.30 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 35.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.5 19.2 7.5 4.2 48.1
2 Dylan Harper
Rutgers, Fr
 
PG

Harper is the consensus No. 2 prospect in this draft and thus should be the second player selected even if he's not a perfect fit on a roster already featuring De'Aaron Fox and reigning Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle. As others have noted, that could lead to San Antonio shopping the pick to franchises more in need of a lead guard with nice positional size. So keep an eye on that. Either way, no matter which franchise selects second, Harper is likely to be the pick.

Rating: 95
Pro Comparison: Cade Cunningham
Summary

Harper is the son of former NBA player Ron Harper and the younger brother of Ron Harper Jr. A former five-star recruit, he spent one season at Rutgers where he finished second among all freshmen in points per game (19.4) and had the sixth-most assists per game (4.0) among qualifying players.

About
  • One of two five-star recruits to ever sign with Rutgers as a high school prospect.
  • Earned MVP honors at both the McDonald’s All-American Game and Jordan Brand Classic in 2024.
  • Left-handed shooter worked out with two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo before the 2024-25 season.
Strengths
  • Savvy scorer who gets to his spots with ease. Averaged 19.4 points and 4.0 assists per game – both highest on his team – while making 33.3% of his 3-pointers as a high-usage player.
  • Crafty defensive playmaker. Very tactical with poking and prodding on defense and led Rutgers in steals.
  • King of pacing. Rarely plays rushed and can control a game with his handle, passing and scoring. Had six games of 25 or more points and seven games of six or more assists.
Weaknesses
  • Missed several stints during his freshman season dealing with nagging ankle injury and a bout with the flu.
  • Also missed time leading into freshman season with right knee injury, which required a procedure.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.05 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 10.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 6 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.07 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.16 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 36.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32.6 19.4 4.6 4 48.4
3 Tre Johnson
Texas, Fr
 
SG

Some believe Philadelphia could move this pick for a veteran given where former MVP Joel Embiid is in his career. That's understandable. But if the Sixers do execute the pick, they shouldn't let the presence of talented young guards like Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain on their roster steer them away from Johnson, the player I believe is the third best prospect available. The one-and-done standout from Texas led all freshmen in scoring while shooting 39.7% from 3-point range on 6.8 attempts per contest. Impressive numbers, all around. And most of them are the type of numbers that should translate to the next level.

Rating: 92.5
Pro Comparison: Malik Monk
Summary

A former top-10 national recruit who is on track to be the first one-and-done Texas player taken in the top 10 of the draft since Jaxson Hayes in 2019. Led all freshmen in scoring in 2024-25, averaging 19.9 points per game — most among all SEC players.

About
  • A Dallas native, Johnson won SEC Freshman of the Year in 2024-25 and was a Second Team All-SEC performer.
  • Was seventh nationally among major conference players in points per game in 2024-25.
  • His father, Richard Johnson Jr., played college basketball in the Lone Star State at Baylor before transferring to Midwestern State.
Strengths
  • High-level scorer. Had the seventh-most points on per-game basis in 2024-25 among all major conference players and shot 39.7% on 3-pointers in a high-usage role.
  • Developing playmaker. Needs to cut down on turnovers but showed promise as a passer and has grown his feel for the game to be more than a one-trick pony.
  • Electric quick-release weapon. Rated 84th percentile on catch-and-shoot shots and knows when to be aggressive in getting release off quickly.
Weaknesses
  • Not an aggressive attacker and can settle despite his big frame; this is exacerbated by his poor finishing numbers: 28th percentile at-rim finishing, 33nd percentile on layups, per Synergy
  • Has traits of a potentially impactful defender but lacks strength; at times he could easily be pushed down by bigger bodies and worked into position inside the painted area
  • Needs to raise comfort-level shooting from top of the key; struggled taking and making shots from this area as a freshman. Improving here – and eventually taking and making shots off the dribble/in transition from this range – will make him more dynamic.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.11 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 10.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 32 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.49 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.28 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 37.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
34.6 19.9 3.1 2.7 42.7
4 VJ Edgecombe
Baylor, Fr
 
SG

The Hornets went from having as good of odds as anybody to land Flagg and keep him 150 miles from where he starred at Duke to sliding to fourth in this draft. That's bad luck. But they'll still have an opportunity to land a difference-maker -- among them Edgecombe, who is a top-shelf and explosive athlete capable of creating posters in transition. He's the type of prospect who is both safe and filled with upside after helping Baylor make what was a sixth straight trip to the NCAA Tournament.

Rating: 92.5
Pro Comparison: Victor Oladipo
Summary

A superstar athlete with five-star credentials, Edgecombe hails from the Bahamas after a stellar one-and-done season at Baylor under national championship-winning coach Scott Drew. He was ranked as the No. 5 player in the national class entering college and earned All-Big 12 honors and Big 12 Rookie of the Year honors in 2024-25.

About
  • A Bimini, Bahamas, native, who has experience on the FIBA circuit playing alongside fellow Bahamians Buddy Hield and Deandre Ayton.
  • Ranked as a five-star, top-five recruit, he was a stellar scorer at Long Island Lutheran (LuHi) who went on to earn McDonald’s All-American honors.
  • Finished his high school career collecting back-to-back Gatorade Player of the Year honors in New York.
Strengths
  • Dynamic athlete with explosive leaping ability. If any player bangs his head on the backboard in a future basketball game while dunking, it might be him
  • Smooth operator. Athletically fluid with a buttery shot to boot. Made 34% of 3-pointers as second-leading scorer for Baylor as true freshman.
  • Long strider who plays smart basketball. Knows when to cut off the ball and has a knack for getting to the cup.
Weaknesses
  • Limited scoring diet. 21st percentile finisher on dribble jumpers and 15th percentile among short shots, per Synergy data.
  • Showed improvement but needs to continue making strides with the ball in his hands. 43rd percentile on pick-and-roll as ballhandler and averaged nearly two turnovers per game.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.93 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 7.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 5.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.27 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.20 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 38.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32.8 15 5.6 3.2 43.6
5 Ace Bailey
Rutgers, Fr
 
SF

More evidence that Rutgers should've been better than it was this past season is the fact that the Scarlet Knights finished with a losing record despite having two projected top-five picks. Is it concerning that Baily isn't more well-rounded at this point in his development? Yes. But his upside is tremendous given that he's an electric shot-creator and shot-maker. He checks the box of the best prospect available at this point in the draft and is a sensible option for a Utah franchise still rebuilding.

Rating: 93
Pro Comparison: Brandon Ingram
Summary

The highest-ranked signee in Rutgers history, Bailey was a five-star recruit ranked No. 2 in the national class of 2024. He was a McDonald’s All-American and Mr. Georgia Basketball in 2024 before choosing the Scarlet Knights over Kentucky, Kansas and others. In his one college season, he earned Third Team All-Big Ten honors.

About
  • One of two five-star high school recruits to sign with Rutgers in program history. Highest-rated of the two, alongside teammate and projected top-five pick Dylan Harper Jr.
  • Parents both played college basketball in college. His mother, Ramika McGee, played at West Virginia; his father, Richard Bailey, played at Houston.
  • First name is “Airious” but he prefers to go by “Ace” — a nickname he’s held for a long time because of his ability to thrive in multiple sports.
  • Earned Georgia Gatorade Player of the Year as a senior after averaging 33.4 points, 15.5 rebounds and 3.9 assists per game for McEachern High School, leading it to a 26-6 record and a Class A title.
Strengths
  • Impressive size and skill for age. He doesn’t turn 19 years old until August 2025 and has a 6-foot-10 frame with fluid agility.
  • Scorer who can get you a bucket at any point in any game on any spot on the floor. Quick release and crafty with the ball, and doesn’t need a ton of space to rise and fire over defenders.
  • Reliable shooter — not just a scorer. He rated in the 80th percentile on catch and shoot opportunities as a freshman and was in the 94th percentile when guarded in such situations.
Weaknesses
  • Defensive effort can wax and wane not only possession-by-possession but also within the same possessions. Frequently can get caught ball-watching and lose his man. Needs to improve eye discipline defensively.
  • Worrisome free-throw shooting for a player whose best trait is his shooting. He made 69.2% from the foul line, which can be an indicator to future success/failure shooting from 3-point range.
  • As physically gifted as he is, often settles for jumpers and lacks aggressiveness/assertiveness at times. Can also tend to play off one foot when he does attack, relying on his athleticism. Developing more skill around the rim as a finisher will do wonders for his overall offensive versatility.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.78 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 0.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 27.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 11 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.97 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.12 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 34.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33.4 17.6 7.2 1.3 46.0
6 Jeremiah Fears
Oklahoma, Fr
 
PG

Fears is set to join the relatively short list of one-and-done lottery picks who were ranked outside of the top 60 of their high school classes. His unique ability to change speeds and keep defenders off balance is too much to ignore even if his subpar 3-point percentage is a source of concern for some front offices.

Rating: 91
Pro Comparison: De'Aaron Fox
Summary

A sub-60 national recruit who reclassified up a year and played his entire freshman season at Oklahoma as an 18-year-old. Carried a top-20 usage rate among all college basketball players and led Sooners to NCAA tournament appearance while averaging 17.1 points, 4.1 assists and 4.1 rebounds per game.

About
  • Reclassified up one year and played freshman season as an 18-year-old.
  • Earned SEC All-Freshman honors.
  • Has an older brother, Jeremy, who plays at Michigan State. His father, Jeremy Fears Sr., played college basketball at Ohio University and Bradley.
Strengths
  • Bursty athlete who can blow by defenders with quick-twitch and speed. Uses his angles well to leverage his frame and get around defenders.
  • Elite-level handles. Has the game of an And-1 mixtape player. Very flashy with his dribbling skills and has tremendous control.
  • Has a tendency to be big in clutch time. Made multiple game-winning plays and shots as a freshman at OU. Ice in his veins.
Weaknesses
  • Had a 20.2% turnover rate at Oklahoma. Needs to find the thin line between flash and functional passing. Can struggle with lazy passes or misreads.
  • Ball-dominant guard with ball-dominant game. Big question about how his game fits if he isn’t the lead operator. Struggled to shoot from 3-point range and isn’t additive as a cutter yet.
  • Smaller, lanky frame. Can get into the paint with his pacing and handles with ease, but needs to improve his strength and improve his finishing ability.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.09 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 5.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 32.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 2.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.95 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.05 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 36.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.1 17.1 4.1 4.1 43.4
7 Kon Knueppel
Duke, Fr
 
SF

Knueppel was mostly excellent through Duke's run to the Final Four, averaging 19.0 points while shooting 63.6% from beyond the arc. He's an elite shooter, obviously, but far from only a shooter — and anybody labeling him as little more than a catch-and-shoot threat is wildly underestimating Knueppel's versatility as a player who projects as a nice building block for a New Orleans franchise forever in search of floor-spacers to put alongside Zion Williamson.

Rating: 91
Pro Comparison: Austin Reaves
Summary

A highly-coveted shooter whose offensive game is among the most lethal in the class, Knueppel was a vital Robin to Cooper Flagg’s Batman in his one season leading a 35-win Duke team to within seconds of a national title game appearance. He’s the prince of pacing who plays with poise and control.

About
  • A prolific shooter and scorer who averaged 26.4 points per game as a senior in high school and blossomed into a five-star recruit before choosing Duke over a number of other offers.
  • Earned an invite to the Jordan Brand Classic and was named Wisconsin Mr. Basketball, joining company that includes former first-round picks Brandin Podziemski, Johnny Davis, Henry Ellenson, Kevon Looney and Sam Dekker.
  • Playing alongside Cooper Flagg at Duke, he instantly became a star, hitting 40.6% on 3-pointers and finishing as the second-leading scorer on a 35-win team.
Strengths
  • Elite shooter. Made 40.6% of 3-pointers on 207 total attempts at Duke in 2024-25 and missed only nine of his 128 total free-throw attempts.
  • Undeterred when unable to create separation; rated in the 92nd percentile on guarded shots from deep at Duke, per Synergy data.
  • Smart player who consistently overcomes lack of athleticism with savvy. Plays with good pacing and body control, and rated 70th percentile on shots at the rim.
Weaknesses
  • Room to improve his versatility as a shot-maker. Very reliable on set shots even when guarded, but was in the 33rd percentile on dribble jumpers and scored just 0.826 points per possession on handoffs.
  • Needs to improve foot speed and lateral quickness. Frequently struggled defending at the point of screens defensively at Duke. Navigating through pick-and-rolls by adding physicality and speed will be critical for his role in the NBA.
  • Too much reliance on the right hand for finishing. Becoming more comfortable and confident as a lefty scorer will add more lethality to his offensive game and make him even more potent a scorer.
Combine Data
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 6.25 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 5.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.4 14.4 4 2.7 47.9
8 Khaman Maluach
Duke, Fr
 
C

Maluach's otherwise great freshman year concluded horribly with a zero-rebound effort in 21 minutes during Duke's season-ending loss to Houston. But that was just one game against an older and stronger team, and it shouldn't sour front offices too much on an 18 year-old who can move unusually well for a man his size.

Rating: 90.25
Pro Comparison: Mitchell Robinson
Summary

Maluach is a center from South Sudan who fled the war-torn area at a young age and grew up in Uganda. He began playing basketball at 13 years old and developed playing in Senegal under NBA Academy Africa before becoming a five-star recruit. He spent one season with Duke.

About
  • Picked up basketball at 13 years old after growing up a soccer fan and flashed on the radar in Africa at a camp hosted by fellow South Sudanese sensation Luol Deng.
  • Attended Bethel Covenant College before COVID shutdown and later joined NBA Academy Africa in Senegal before garnering attention from the likes of UCLA, Duke, Kentucky and Kansas.
  • Played for South Sudan’s national team at the 2023 FIBA World Cup and helped his country qualify for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, where South Sudan narrowly lost 101-100 to Team USA.
  • Earned All-ACC Honorable Mention and ACC All-Rookie Team honors
Strengths
  • Game-altering length. Measured in at 7-2 with nearly 7-7 wingspan at NBA Draft Combine.
  • First Team All-Teammate caliber person. Cooper Flagg called him a “pure soul” and Duke coach Jon Scheyer said he’s “one of the best human beings.”
  • Frame and game of a future defensive anchor. Plays with great anticipation on the defensive end and regularly blocks or alters shots with his length.
  • Stellar finisher around the basket. Led college basketball among major conference players in KenPom’s offensive rating metric and rated in the 98th percentile on finishing at the rim.
Weaknesses
  • Still a very raw prospect. Has only played basketball five years and even shorter time than that in an organized fashion. Can improve his positioning and tweak fundamentals to become even more dynamic, which will come in time.
  • Unproven shooter. Took just 16 3-pointers at Duke, making four. Played with a glove all season because of hand injury, which could have affected his shot efficiency and selection.
  • Can be too passive. Playing next to Flagg and Kon Knueppel, he was too willing – and understandably so – to cede the floor to the team’s co-stars. To take his game to the next level he will need to understand when to be more assertive and play with more confidence, particularly on offense.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.44 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 6.75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 24.0 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 6 inches
  • Lane agility: 12.05 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.50 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 30.0 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
21.3 8.6 6.6 0.5 71.2
9 Derik Queen
Maryland, Fr
 
C

Queen is a super-interesting forward who offsets some of his physical limitations with incredible skill and above-average smarts. He hit the buzzer-beater against Colorado State that sent Maryland to the Sweet 16, scored 27 against the eventual national champion (Florida) and solidified himself in the NCAA Tournament as an intriguing lottery option.

Rating: 90.5
Pro Comparison: Alperen Sengun
Summary

A Baltimore native, Queen was part of a legendary Montverde Academy team that included Cooper Flagg, Asa Newell and Liam McNeeley before developing into a five-star, top-15 national recruit. He chose to return to his home state to play one season of college basketball at Maryland under coach Kevin Willard where he earned All-Big Ten honors and was named the league’s Freshman of the Year.

About
  • Earned McDonald’s All-American honors and was named Co-MVP of the game in 2024. Top-15 national prospect and consensus five-star.
  • Was the league’s Freshman of the Year and named to All-Big Ten First Team.
  • Voted an AP All-America Honorable Mention.
Strengths
  • Ultra-skilled for a player his size, he has nimble feet and soft hands allowing him to operate in tight spaces and catch everything.
  • Gifted with grace. Not the most athletic big but a graceful ball-handler for his size and position who can make advanced passing reads and be a playmaker.
  • Dynamic scorer. Has an old-school post game that allows him to finish at a high level around the basket and with the ability to finish with both hands.
  • High-level IQ. Seems to process the game quickly and be able to see things before they unfold. Real potential for him to be trusted as a decision-maker on short rolls and something more – perhaps a playmaking hub – in the future.
Weaknesses
  • Defensive capabilities may be limited. Maryland did a good job hiding him on that end of the floor, but it says a lot that they made it a point to do so. Not the quickest mover laterally and may struggle defending in space.
  • May need to trim down bulky frame to maximize his potential. On the thicker size and may not stand up to a full starter’s workload if he is not able to cut weight and improve his conditioning.
  • Only a theoretical stretch big at this point. Took only 35 3-pointers at Maryland, of which he made seven (20%). He’s very much a throwback big in many ways with his efficiency as a post scorer but with limitations right now of a throwback center in his inconsistency to be a reliable shooter.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.27 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 0.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 23.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 1.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 12.45 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.52 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 28.0 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.3 16.5 9 1.9 52.6
10 Carter Bryant
Arizona, Fr
 
SF

The Rockets are a 52-win franchise with most of its important pieces under contract. They can afford to package this pick in a trade or use it on a high-upside prospect — and Bryant clearly represents the latter. These playoffs have reminded everybody how much great 3-and-D wings impact winning in the postseason. Bryant has the tools to become one and should be selected accordingly regardless of his limited role as a freshman at Arizona.

Rating: 89.75
Pro Comparison: Dorian Finney-Smith
Summary

Bryant is a California native who was a prolific high school basketball player and earned invites to the McDonald’s All-American game and Jordan Brand Classic. A top-30 national recruit, he signed with Arizona over Louisville and other suitors, and he spent one season with the Wildcats.

About
  • A prolific high school star who earned McDonald’s All-American honors, Bryant was a top-30 consensus national recruit.
  • Before college Bryant played for his father, D’Cean Bryant, played college basketball at Long Beach State.
  • One of four freshmen to have at least 150 rebounds, 35 assists, 35 blocks and 35 steals last season joining Duke’s Cooper Flagg, Maryland’s Derik Queen and Georgetown’s Thomas Sorber.
Strengths
  • Ideal frame for a big wing. Measured 6-6.5 at NBA Draft Combine without shoes and has a wingspan of 6-11.75 to go with 8-10 standing reach.
  • Projectable role. Showed immense defensive potential in a limited role at Arizona and was a 66th percentile weapon on catch-and-shoots, 80th percentile jump shooter and 92nd percentile at-rim finisher.
  • Prolific scorer in high school. Averaged 22.1 points and 13.7 rebounds per game and was named Pacific Coast MVP as a junior.
Weaknesses
  • Room for improvement with his ability to create on offense. Did not get a ton of chances to handle the ball or initiate at Arizona but looked uncomfortable when he did. Using his frame and strength to be an attacker can unlock a big piece of his potential in the NBA.
  • Made a respectable 37.1% of his 3-point attempts but has room to improve overall as a shooter given his usage in a smaller role. If he isn’t going to be a dynamic movement shooter he needs to be consistent when asked to catch and shoot in spot-up situations.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.14 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 11.75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 10 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.25 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.07 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 39.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
19.3 6.5 4.1 1 46.0
11 Jase Richardson SG

Richardson didn't emerge as a starter at Michigan State until halfway through the season but quickly showed himself to be the team's most dynamic scorer. He's the son of 14-year NBA veteran Jason Richardson, which is viewed as a positive among NBA front offices. The combo guard is a high-energy prospect with the type of basketball IQ children of players often possess, and he should be a sensible option for a Portland franchise with promising frontcourt pieces already in place.

Pro Comparison: Monte Morris
Summary

A year ahead of the pace, if not two. Richardson emerged in the second half of last season, when he was inserted as a starter in Michigan State's lineup. Has pro pedigree (father Jason played 14 years in the NBA) and played his way to top-20 stock in the 2025 class. Richardson plays left-handed and his floor is higher than a lot of players in his draft range. He's been raised to be ready to find a way to make it in the NBA.

About
  • Averaged 12.1 points for the season, but was at 16 points in his final 15 games with the Spartans
  • A former high-end four-star prospect who became MSU's most important player in the final six weeks of the season
  • Was named All-Big Ten Third Team
Strengths
  • Craftiness as a playmaker and someone comfortable at going with his own speed
  • Quality 3-point shooter on sufficient freshman-year sample size (41.2% on 114 attempts)
  • Mature for his age, a plus in the huddle and the locker room
Weaknesses
  • Has to hit the weight room and get stronger. Will likely be weathered by NBA physicality in Year 1
  • Frequent critique is his lack of right-handed ability. Needs to work on dexterity to enhance his effectiveness against NBA defenders
  • Needs to form a bit more into the combo point guard he'll have to be in order to grow into an NBA starter
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.08 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 6 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 2.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.97 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.22 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 38 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
25.2 12.1 3.3 1.9 49.3
12 Collin Murray-Boyles
S. Carolina, Soph
 
PF

The Bulls were a below-average defensive team this past season. Murray-Boyles could help alleviate that issue. Yes, he's a non-shooting and undersized front-court piece, which makes him a somewhat divisive prospect. But the two-year player from South Carolina is impactful in multiple ways on both ends of the court, and his feel for the game, instincts and defensive versatility have many evaluators on board with the 19 year-old being a lottery pick.

Rating: 91
Pro Comparison: Julius Randle
Summary

A two-and-done prospect who played his way from a sub-100 national recruit to a potential lottery pick in the span of two seasons at South Carolina, Murray-Boyles is an old-school big man with a back-to-the-basket interior scoring game who adds physicality on defense. He was an All-SEC performer in 2024-25 who dominated on the glass and showed impressive versatility as a passer.

About
  • A South Carolina native born and raised who stayed home to play his college basketball after starring locally at the high school level (his senior year was played in Utah after three years in Columbia, S.C.)
  • Earned SEC All-Freshman honors in his first season in 2023-24 and turned down a chance to become a potential first-round pick to return to South Carolina, where he became an All-SEC performer in 2024-25.
  • Led SEC in field-goal percentage with 58.6%.
Strengths
  • Effective and efficient interior scorer. Improved on his 59.7% eFG% in 2023-24 by finishing at 59.9% eFG% in 2024-25 for the Gamecocks.
  • Physical interior presence on defense. What he lacks in total height he compensates for with strength and girth. He’s a load to get by on defense and makes you work for every inch.
  • Has a nose for the basketball. Finished as third-leading rebounder in SEC in sophomore season.
  • Plays with great feel and skill. Willing and capable passer who can make smart reads out of the short roll and operate as a playmaking hub.
Weaknesses
  • Needs to refine shot beyond the painted area. Not a threat taking shots from 3-point range, a swing skill that could take him from a very good prospect to an elite prospect.
  • May need to improve foot speed and trim down. His bigger frame allowed him to bang down low against college bigs but being lighter on his feet and adding quickness could be a superpower for him.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.86 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, .75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 10 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.21 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.15 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 34.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.7 16.8 8.3 2.4 58.6
13 Kasparas Jakucionis
Illinois, Fr
 
PG

What Jakucionis lacks in explosiveness he makes up for with his diverse skillset and high basketball IQ. The Lithuanian only shot 31.8% from 3-point range in one season at Illinois; that shouldn't be ignored. But Jackucionis has previously shown to be a more reliable shooter than he largely demonstrated with the Illini and could develop into a nice piece who is capable of playing either behind or with Trae Young in Atlanta.

Rating: 90.5
Pro Comparison: Spencer Dinwiddie
Summary

A Lithuanian guard who spent one season in college leading a 22-win Illinois team in usage rate, points and assists, Jakucionis has an already-productive basketball career having played professionally from his mid-teens. He began his career with Perlas Vilnius in Lithuania playing in the NKL before several seasons with FC Barcelona — first with its junior and reserve teams and later with the first team.

About
  • Jakucionis is a one-and-done from the University of Illinois who was born and raised in Vilnius, Lithuania.
  • He played professionally with Vilnius in Lithuania and with FC Barcelona and has experience playing on the FIBA circuit, too, where he helped his home country win the U16 European Championship.
  • Named to All-Big Ten Freshmen Team
Strengths
  • Smooth lead guard who effortlessly gets to his spots and plays to his size.
  • Crafty scorer who consistently finds ways to finish. Rated in the 78th percentile finishing at the rim as an 18-year-old college freshman at Illinois and was in the 82nd percentile finishing in isolation.
  • Pace and poise the key pieces of his game. What he lacks in athletic pop he makes up for with playmaking and finesse, and he shows great promise operating as a primary facilitator.
Weaknesses
  • Turnover-prone despite flashes of passing excellence. Had a 25.4% turnover rate to a 26.2% assist rate and finishes each of his final four college games – including two NCAA Tournament outings – with six turnovers.
  • Limited success as a shooter. Shot 31.8% on 3-pointers at Illinois and rated in the 47th percentile as a jump shooter.
  • Could be role-confined at NBA level. High turnover rate may force him to become a secondary playmaker asked to play off the ball and make shots. But struggles shooting the ball dictate he may be best play-making. He needs to dramatically improve one, or both, of his shooting and turnovers to consistently stick as a winner.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.82 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 7.75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 28.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 3.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.99 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.22 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 35 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
31.6 15 5.7 4.7 44.0
14 Liam McNeeley
UConn, Fr
 
SF

It remains unclear if San Antonio will use both lottery picks or make move. As always, we'll see. But if they do make this pick, McNeeley is a nice option. He only shot 31.7% from 3-point range in his one year at UConn — but scouts are largely unconcerned and still view him as a strong-shooting wing at the next level. An ankle sprain cost him more than a month of his season, but McNeeley showed enough while on the court to convince evaluators he's worthy of being selected in the lottery.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.75 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 8.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 3.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.11 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.16 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 36.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32.1 14.5 6 2.3 38.1
15 Egor Demin
BYU, Fr
 
PG

Demin is a backcourt player with tremendous size — but one who turned it over 2.9 times per game this season, which should be at least a little concerning for franchises viewing him as a ball-in-his-hands guard. The 3-point percentage is also an issue. So it's easy to understand why the one-and-done fresham from Russia is a divisive prospect, but there's still little chance he goes much lower than the middle of the first round.

Rating: 90
Pro Comparison: Josh Giddey
Summary

One-and-done talent from BYU who played with the Cougars after growing up in Russia. Demin played professionally with Madrid prior to his time in college and developed into a five-star, top-20 talent.

About
  • The Moscow native played with Real Madrid’s second team in Spain during 2023-24 season prior to one season at BYU and became a five-star recruit.
  • He was named to FIBA’s Europe 20 Under 20 list.
  • Was named to the All-Big 12 Freshman team and was an All-Big 12 Honorable Mention slection with the Cougars.
Strengths
  • Excellent frame for true point guard. Measured 6-8.25 at NBA Draft Combine without shoes. Needs to add muscle and weight but owns height (and passing; more on that in a bit) similar to that of a young Ben Simmons.
  • Sensational passer. Can make every pass thanks to great anticipation skills, high IQ and big frame that allows him to see over defenders.
  • Trustworthy lead guard with skills fit for the modern game. Can make every pass and showed promise running as the lead in pick-and-roll handler. Also finished at a very high clip around the basket.
Weaknesses
  • Shooting will be his big swing skill and is an area he needs to improve. Made just 27.3% of his 3-pointers at BYU and was a 24th percentile jump shooter, per Synergy data.
  • Hoppy on defense. Showed good effort and competitiveness on that end, but struggled maintaining his defensive positioning. Staying down in his stance and being consistent in his fundamentals may help him improve.
  • Hard to project on defense. BYU played a lot of zone and Demin, with his big frame, was sometimes asked to defend out of position. He needs to either improve his lateral quickness substantially, or add a significant amount of muscle, or both, to be able to hold up on that end. Suspect that is an area he will struggle with in the NBA for the duration of his career.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.93 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 10.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 26.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 9.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.31 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.33 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 32.0 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
27.5 10.6 3.9 5.5 41.2
16 Nique Clifford
Colo. St., Sr
 
SF

Clifford is older than the type of prospects some front offices prefer to select with top-20 picks — but he checks a lot of other boxes. Good positional size? Yes. Competent shooter? Yes. Versatile defender? Yes. He could be the next nice NBA player to emerge from the Mountain West Conference.

Pro Comparison: Josh Hart
Summary

Clifford is already 23 years old after playing five years of college basketball. He is perceived as a plug-and-play wing who could be a nice complimentary two-way piece and crack a rotation sooner rather than later, especially if the shooting gains we saw recently prove to be sustainable.

About
  • Played 3 seasons at Colorado before transferring to Colorado State.
  • Averaged 18.9 points, 9.6 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 1.2 steals with 50/38/78 shooting splits last season.
  • Named first-team and defensive team All-Mountain West and was MVP of the MW Tournament in his final season.
Strengths
  • Versatile defender: He can guard multiple positions and also has good playmaking instincts on that end of the floor.
  • Perimeter rebounding: His 9.6 rebounds per game, and 8.1 on the defensive glass, were among the best in college basketball last year, especially for a wing.
  • Cutting, passing, and pull-up shooting: While the 3-point shooting is the single most important offensive variable, he owns a variety of complimenting skills on that end of the floor.
Weaknesses
  • One of the oldest prospects in the draft: He already turned 23 years old and so he’s 5 years older than other first-round candidates.
  • Lack of perceived upside: He took on more playmaking responsibilities this year at Colorado State, but that isn’t expected to be his role in the NBA.
  • Uncertainty about his long-term shooting consistency: While his shooting improved in the last two years at Colorado State, he was still streaky and had a somewhat inconsistent release after retooling his mechanics at CSU.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.96 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 8 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 31 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 6.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.87 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.07 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 35.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
35.4 18.9 9.6 4.4 49.6
17 Danny Wolf
Michigan, Jr
 
PF

Wolf moved from the Ivy League to the Big Ten and, statistically, arguably performed even better. The 7-footer has guard skills and is a better defender than some realize. He could add frontcourt versatility to a Minnesota franchise that's led by Anthony Edwards and set up to compete in the West for the foreseeable future.

Pro Comparison: Kelly Olynyk
Summary

Danny Wolf is a 7-foot center with guard skills who helped Michigan win the Big Ten Tournament in March after spending the previous two seasons at Yale. He can dribble. He can pass. He can shoot. And he projects as a stretch-the-floor big and above-average rebounder at the next level.

About
  • A Second Team All-Big Ten selection in 2024-25
  • In 2023-24 was named to the All-Ivy League First Team
  • Was named the Ivy League Tournament MVP in 2024
Strengths
  • Skill: Wolf can dribble, pass and shoot unusually well for a player his size and is comfortable making plays for himself or others.
  • Rebounding: Wolf had a defensive-rebounding rate of 25% at Michigan that ranked top-15 nationally among all power-conference players.
  • Motor: Wolf consistently plays hard on both ends of the court, which helps make up for a lack of athleticism and lateral quickness.
Weaknesses
  • Athleticism: As much as playing in space is a strength for Wolf, his ability to guard in space is an area of concern.
  • Turnovers: Wolf is a gifted passer but also a reckless one, evidence being his 3.2 turnovers per game at Michigan that accounted for the team’s highest turnover-rate.
  • Rim-protection: Despite standing 7-feet tall, Wolf offers little in the way of true rim-protection and averaged just 1.1 blocks per game in three years of college basketball.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.91 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 2.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 24 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 1 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.26 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.51 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 30 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.5 13.2 9.7 3.6 49.7
18 Asa Newell
Georgia, Fr
 
PF

Can Newell keep the floor spaced as a legitimate 3-point threat? If so, he should go higher. If not, he should go lower. Either way, that's the swing-skill for the one-and-done prospect who performed quite well as a freshman in an SEC filled with much older and stronger forwards.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.78 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 11.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 11.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.95 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.26 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 36.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
29 15.4 6.9 0.9 54.3
19 Nolan Traore PG

Traore does enough good things with the ball in his hands to secure a spot in the first round— but his inefficiency, and lack of shooting, are non-starters for some front offices. At 18, there are still many years of development for the French native. Any franchise selecting him has to do so with that understanding.

Rating: 89.75
Pro Comparison: Andrew Nembhard
Summary

Long viewed as a likely lottery pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Traore is next in a long line of French basketball talents who have been productive professionally overseas. He played for Centre Federal from 2021-24 before spending the subsequent time leading up to the draft playing with Saint Quentin in the LNB Pro A. During that time he earned distinction as the FIBA Champions League Best Young Player and ascended into one of the best guards in the class.

About
  • Traore is a born-and-raised French product who has been identified as an elite prospect for years.
  • In 2021, he was admitted to INSEP, an elite training institute in Paris, and he has blossomed since then into one of the best international prospects in the world. He is top 10 in the LNB Pro A in assists per game.
  • Has a brother named Armel who was a 2024 prospect who went undrafted, later signed with the Lakers and is back in France playing in the Liga ACB.
Strengths
  • Solid overall build for a projected point guard. Measured 6-3 with long 6-8 wingspan. Already accustomed to playing against professionals in France and has a strong frame.
  • Crafty ballhandler who can get to his spots at will. Capable of putting pressure on the rim as an attacker and has excellent pacing and feel.
  • Innate sense for knowing how and when to get his teammates involved. Overall a selfless player who knows when to call his own number and when the defense dictates he should distribute.
Weaknesses
  • Strong shooting finish to the 2024-25 with Saint Quentin but largely has underwhelmed in that area. Shot 30% on 3-pointers in 2023-24 and only marginally improved in that area by percentage in 2024-25.
  • Can be an erratic decision-maker. Capable of making every pass in the playbook but equally capable of making dumbfounding, sometimes simple and correctable mistakes.
20 Noa Essengue PF

Essengue is a French prospect with great positional size. As one of the youngest players available, he's a long-term bet. But if the shot develops, and the defensive versatility becomes undeniable, the 18 year old could be a steal at this point in the draft for a Heat franchise seemingly at a crossroads after trading Jimmy Butler and getting swept out of the playoffs by a Cavs team that was subsequently eliminated by the Pacers in five games.

21 Joan Beringer C

Beringer is a frontcourt prospect with a 7-4 wingspan who provides defensive versatility and the ability to rim-protect. Is he ready to contribute in the NBA next season? Probably not. But there's a lot to like with this 18 year old from Serbia who could be a building block for a Utah franchise still years away from competing for anything meaningful.

22 Cedric Coward
Wash. St., Sr
 
SG

Coward committed to Duke before performing well at the combine, at which point he opted to remain in the draft. It looks like a wise decision for the 6-6 guard who shot 40% from 3-point range in six appearances for Washington State and was headed for an all-conference season until a shoulder injury sidelined him in late November.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.91 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 2.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 24 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 10 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.97 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.51 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 30 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33 17.7 7 3.7 55.7
23 Thomas Sorber
Georgetown, Fr
 
C

Sorber seemed ahead of schedule for a one-and-done prospect before suffering a season-ending left-foot injury on Feb. 15. Regardless, he did enough in 24 games to show he'd either spend next season as a Big East Player of the Year candidate or as a rookie in the NBA. The foot-injury is concerning, if only because big men with foot injuries don't have the best stories. But Sorber should still go in the first round of this draft and could provide frontcourt depth for an Indiana franchise in the Eastern Conference Finals for the second straight year.

Combine Data
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 6 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 1 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
31.4 14.5 8.5 2.4 53.2
24 Ben Saraf PG

Saraf is another international prospect with nice positional size. Concerns about his shooting and athleticism should keep him out of the lottery — but there's enough pick-and-roll playmaking ability already in place to ensure his name is called in this range -- whether it's to Oklahoma City at No. 24 or another franchise in this neighborhood of the draft.

25 Hugo Gonzalez SF

Gonzalez hasn't played or produced much for Real Madrid this season, which is mostly the byproduct of being a 19 year-old on a first-place team in a legitimate professional league. But the athleticism and high-motor that's made him an intriguing prospect for years still exists and will likely be enough to get Gonzalez selected in the first round.

26 Will Riley
Illinois, Fr
 
SF

Riley didn't get as much attention as some other freshmen — but he was a reliable double-digit scorer for an NCAA Tournament team from start to finish. At Illinois, the long-and-lean wing showed playmaking ability. But the jumper is still more streaky than reliable, and he also needs to add strength.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.08 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 8.75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 27.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 8 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.73 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.21 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 32 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
25.7 12.6 4.1 2.2 43.2
27 Maxime Raynaud
Stanford, Sr
 
C

Raynaud improved statistically in four straight years at Stanford — going from somebody who averaged 4.5 points as a freshman to somebody who averaged 20.2 as a senior. His ability to stretch the floor and pass at his size are considered strengths and could be useful for a Brooklyn franchise that ranked 25th in 3-point shooting this season.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.16 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 1.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 28 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 2 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.31 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.23 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 31.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33.4 20.2 10.6 1.7 46.7
28 Rasheer Fleming PF

The combine proved that Fleming is a little taller than 6-8 (barefoot) with a wingspan a little better than 7-5. Those measurements are great for somebody who also shot 39% from 3 on 4.5 attempts per game as a 20 year-old, and that's among the reasons Fleming should go in the lottery despite mostly operating off of the national radar in three seasons at Saint Joseph's.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.72 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 5.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 27 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 1 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.95 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.24 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 32.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
31.3 14.7 8.5 1.3 53.1
29 Walter Clayton Jr.
Florida, Sr
 
PG

Clayton was the star of Florida's national title run while averaging 22.3 points on 43.5% shooting from beyond the arc in those six NCAA Tournament games. There are concerns about his decision-making and approach to defense, but the Most Outstanding Player of the 2025 Final Four is such a skilled and unique shotmaker that he's worthy of a serious look this deep in the first round by a Phoenix franchise that probably needs to hit the reset button.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.81 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 4 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 1.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.52 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.14 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 37 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32.6 18.3 3.7 4.2 44.8
30 Ryan Kalkbrenner
Creighton, Sr
 
C

Kalkbrenner is a four-time Big East Defensive Player of the Year. He's far from what anybody would call a modern NBA center. But if Zach Edey went in the top 10 of the 2024 NBA Draft, there's no reason Kalkbrenner can't go in the top 30 of the 2025 NBA Draft.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.10 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 6 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 4 inches
  • Lane agility: 12.05 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.34 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 33 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
34.5 19.2 8.7 1.5 65.3
# Team Player Pos
1 Cooper Flagg
Duke, Fr
 
SF

Mavs GM Nico Harrison made one of the wildest trades in NBA history earlier this year. Four months later, Harrison will have one of the easiest decisions of his career to make on who to select with the No. 1 pick. Drafting Flagg — who can be Dallas' homegrown star for the next decade — will never erase trading away Luka to the Lakers, but it's a consolation prize to a fan base that's been through the ringer the last four months. The Mavs have impressive frontcourt depth, but drafting anyone other than Flagg would be a stunner.

Rating: 98.5
Pro Comparison: Scottie Pippen
Summary

A prodigious talent who profiles as one of the five best prospects of the last decade. Flagg entered Duke as the No. 1 high school recruit and led the Blue Devils to a 35-win season that ended in the Final Four on a team he led that rated No. 1 in offensive efficiency and No. 5 in defensive efficiency. There are no obvious holes in his game and his all-around impact on both ends make him situation-proof.

About
  • Led Duke to 35 wins (T-2nd most in school history) while leading the team in scoring, rebounding, assists, steals and blocks.
  • Fourth player in college basketball history to win Naismith National Player of the Year as a freshman, joining Kevin Durant (2007), Anthony Davis (2012) and Zion Williamson (2019)
Strengths
  • Elite defensive skills with preternatural timing and instincts. Has a knack for consistently finding ways to alter and block shots.
  • Passing vision of a lead guard. Understands defensive schemes and reads defenses at a high level with great anticipation and has skills to execute intricate passes with ease.
  • Great shooting touch anywhere on the floor. Shot 38.5% from 3-point range and made 84% of his free throws.
Weaknesses
  • Has room to improve as a post-up defender. Flagg has a tendency to reach in an effort to make plays, which can at times put him out of position.
  • His post positioning as a defender can be inconsistent. At times he loses feel for where the basket is or doesn’t appropriately leverage his body between defender and the hoop.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.92 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 0 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 10.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.64 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.30 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 35.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.5 19.2 7.5 4.2 48.1
2 Dylan Harper
Rutgers, Fr
 
PG

My first thought when the Spurs got pick No. 2 was will Harper and De'Aaron Fox be able to co-exist in the backcourt? Harper is alone in Tier ll of draft prospects in this class, so it would be shocking to see anyone but Harper taken with this pick. Would the Spurs consider moving this pick for a superstar ... such as Giannis Antetokounmpo? Who knows. Regardless, the Spurs should take the best player on the board and figure out the rest later.

Rating: 95
Pro Comparison: Cade Cunningham
Summary

Harper is the son of former NBA player Ron Harper and the younger brother of Ron Harper Jr. A former five-star recruit, he spent one season at Rutgers where he finished second among all freshmen in points per game (19.4) and had the sixth-most assists per game (4.0) among qualifying players.

About
  • One of two five-star recruits to ever sign with Rutgers as a high school prospect.
  • Earned MVP honors at both the McDonald’s All-American Game and Jordan Brand Classic in 2024.
  • Left-handed shooter worked out with two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo before the 2024-25 season.
Strengths
  • Savvy scorer who gets to his spots with ease. Averaged 19.4 points and 4.0 assists per game – both highest on his team – while making 33.3% of his 3-pointers as a high-usage player.
  • Crafty defensive playmaker. Very tactical with poking and prodding on defense and led Rutgers in steals.
  • King of pacing. Rarely plays rushed and can control a game with his handle, passing and scoring. Had six games of 25 or more points and seven games of six or more assists.
Weaknesses
  • Missed several stints during his freshman season dealing with nagging ankle injury and a bout with the flu.
  • Also missed time leading into freshman season with right knee injury, which required a procedure.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.05 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 10.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 6 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.07 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.16 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 36.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32.6 19.4 4.6 4 48.4
3 Ace Bailey
Rutgers, Fr
 
SF

The 76ers' move up to No. 3 was surprising. I thought it was more likely Philadelphia would fall out of the top-seven and have to give its pick to Oklahoma City than what transpired on Monday. The 76ers can go multiple directions here, but adding Bailey to a core of Tyrese Maxey, Paul George, Jared McCain and Joel Embiid would be mutually beneficial.

Rating: 93
Pro Comparison: Brandon Ingram
Summary

The highest-ranked signee in Rutgers history, Bailey was a five-star recruit ranked No. 2 in the national class of 2024. He was a McDonald’s All-American and Mr. Georgia Basketball in 2024 before choosing the Scarlet Knights over Kentucky, Kansas and others. In his one college season, he earned Third Team All-Big Ten honors.

About
  • One of two five-star high school recruits to sign with Rutgers in program history. Highest-rated of the two, alongside teammate and projected top-five pick Dylan Harper Jr.
  • Parents both played college basketball in college. His mother, Ramika McGee, played at West Virginia; his father, Richard Bailey, played at Houston.
  • First name is “Airious” but he prefers to go by “Ace” — a nickname he’s held for a long time because of his ability to thrive in multiple sports.
  • Earned Georgia Gatorade Player of the Year as a senior after averaging 33.4 points, 15.5 rebounds and 3.9 assists per game for McEachern High School, leading it to a 26-6 record and a Class A title.
Strengths
  • Impressive size and skill for age. He doesn’t turn 19 years old until August 2025 and has a 6-foot-10 frame with fluid agility.
  • Scorer who can get you a bucket at any point in any game on any spot on the floor. Quick release and crafty with the ball, and doesn’t need a ton of space to rise and fire over defenders.
  • Reliable shooter — not just a scorer. He rated in the 80th percentile on catch and shoot opportunities as a freshman and was in the 94th percentile when guarded in such situations.
Weaknesses
  • Defensive effort can wax and wane not only possession-by-possession but also within the same possessions. Frequently can get caught ball-watching and lose his man. Needs to improve eye discipline defensively.
  • Worrisome free-throw shooting for a player whose best trait is his shooting. He made 69.2% from the foul line, which can be an indicator to future success/failure shooting from 3-point range.
  • As physically gifted as he is, often settles for jumpers and lacks aggressiveness/assertiveness at times. Can also tend to play off one foot when he does attack, relying on his athleticism. Developing more skill around the rim as a finisher will do wonders for his overall offensive versatility.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.78 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 0.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 27.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 11 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.97 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.12 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 34.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33.4 17.6 7.2 1.3 46.0
4 VJ Edgecombe
Baylor, Fr
 
SG

One of my favorite potential fits in the draft is Edgecombe going to Charlotte. I'm a huge believer in the two-way upside Edgecombe has. He can be a true two-way star at the next level one day. Edgecombe improved his shot throughout the season and is one of the most athletic players in his draft class. Edgecombe next to LaMelo Ball would be fun to watch.

Rating: 92.5
Pro Comparison: Victor Oladipo
Summary

A superstar athlete with five-star credentials, Edgecombe hails from the Bahamas after a stellar one-and-done season at Baylor under national championship-winning coach Scott Drew. He was ranked as the No. 5 player in the national class entering college and earned All-Big 12 honors and Big 12 Rookie of the Year honors in 2024-25.

About
  • A Bimini, Bahamas, native, who has experience on the FIBA circuit playing alongside fellow Bahamians Buddy Hield and Deandre Ayton.
  • Ranked as a five-star, top-five recruit, he was a stellar scorer at Long Island Lutheran (LuHi) who went on to earn McDonald’s All-American honors.
  • Finished his high school career collecting back-to-back Gatorade Player of the Year honors in New York.
Strengths
  • Dynamic athlete with explosive leaping ability. If any player bangs his head on the backboard in a future basketball game while dunking, it might be him
  • Smooth operator. Athletically fluid with a buttery shot to boot. Made 34% of 3-pointers as second-leading scorer for Baylor as true freshman.
  • Long strider who plays smart basketball. Knows when to cut off the ball and has a knack for getting to the cup.
Weaknesses
  • Limited scoring diet. 21st percentile finisher on dribble jumpers and 15th percentile among short shots, per Synergy data.
  • Showed improvement but needs to continue making strides with the ball in his hands. 43rd percentile on pick-and-roll as ballhandler and averaged nearly two turnovers per game.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.93 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 7.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 5.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.27 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.20 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 38.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32.8 15 5.6 3.2 43.6
5 Kon Knueppel
Duke, Fr
 
SF

After missing out on the Flagg sweepstakes, Utah selects the teammate of the future No. 1 overall pick out of Duke. Knueppel is a sharpshooter who would be an immediate contributor for the Jazz from Day 1. If this is how the board shakes out, I could see Utah deciding between Knueppel and Johnson.

Rating: 91
Pro Comparison: Austin Reaves
Summary

A highly-coveted shooter whose offensive game is among the most lethal in the class, Knueppel was a vital Robin to Cooper Flagg’s Batman in his one season leading a 35-win Duke team to within seconds of a national title game appearance. He’s the prince of pacing who plays with poise and control.

About
  • A prolific shooter and scorer who averaged 26.4 points per game as a senior in high school and blossomed into a five-star recruit before choosing Duke over a number of other offers.
  • Earned an invite to the Jordan Brand Classic and was named Wisconsin Mr. Basketball, joining company that includes former first-round picks Brandin Podziemski, Johnny Davis, Henry Ellenson, Kevon Looney and Sam Dekker.
  • Playing alongside Cooper Flagg at Duke, he instantly became a star, hitting 40.6% on 3-pointers and finishing as the second-leading scorer on a 35-win team.
Strengths
  • Elite shooter. Made 40.6% of 3-pointers on 207 total attempts at Duke in 2024-25 and missed only nine of his 128 total free-throw attempts.
  • Undeterred when unable to create separation; rated in the 92nd percentile on guarded shots from deep at Duke, per Synergy data.
  • Smart player who consistently overcomes lack of athleticism with savvy. Plays with good pacing and body control, and rated 70th percentile on shots at the rim.
Weaknesses
  • Room to improve his versatility as a shot-maker. Very reliable on set shots even when guarded, but was in the 33rd percentile on dribble jumpers and scored just 0.826 points per possession on handoffs.
  • Needs to improve foot speed and lateral quickness. Frequently struggled defending at the point of screens defensively at Duke. Navigating through pick-and-rolls by adding physicality and speed will be critical for his role in the NBA.
  • Too much reliance on the right hand for finishing. Becoming more comfortable and confident as a lefty scorer will add more lethality to his offensive game and make him even more potent a scorer.
Combine Data
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 6.25 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 5.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.4 14.4 4 2.7 47.9
6 Tre Johnson
Texas, Fr
 
SG

Washington ethically tanked and was punished for it. The Wizards have their big man of the future in Alex Sarr, so why not pair him with one of the best pure scorers in the class? Johnson has skyrocketed up draft boards during the last few months. He can impact winning at the next level with his elite shotmaking abilities.

Rating: 92.5
Pro Comparison: Malik Monk
Summary

A former top-10 national recruit who is on track to be the first one-and-done Texas player taken in the top 10 of the draft since Jaxson Hayes in 2019. Led all freshmen in scoring in 2024-25, averaging 19.9 points per game — most among all SEC players.

About
  • A Dallas native, Johnson won SEC Freshman of the Year in 2024-25 and was a Second Team All-SEC performer.
  • Was seventh nationally among major conference players in points per game in 2024-25.
  • His father, Richard Johnson Jr., played college basketball in the Lone Star State at Baylor before transferring to Midwestern State.
Strengths
  • High-level scorer. Had the seventh-most points on per-game basis in 2024-25 among all major conference players and shot 39.7% on 3-pointers in a high-usage role.
  • Developing playmaker. Needs to cut down on turnovers but showed promise as a passer and has grown his feel for the game to be more than a one-trick pony.
  • Electric quick-release weapon. Rated 84th percentile on catch-and-shoot shots and knows when to be aggressive in getting release off quickly.
Weaknesses
  • Not an aggressive attacker and can settle despite his big frame; this is exacerbated by his poor finishing numbers: 28th percentile at-rim finishing, 33nd percentile on layups, per Synergy
  • Has traits of a potentially impactful defender but lacks strength; at times he could easily be pushed down by bigger bodies and worked into position inside the painted area
  • Needs to raise comfort-level shooting from top of the key; struggled taking and making shots from this area as a freshman. Improving here – and eventually taking and making shots off the dribble/in transition from this range – will make him more dynamic.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.11 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 10.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 32 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.49 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.28 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 37.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
34.6 19.9 3.1 2.7 42.7
7 Collin Murray-Boyles
S. Carolina, Soph
 
PF

This pick has the potential to shake up the draft big time. With Zion Williamson being a possible trade candidate this summer, the Pelicans select one of the best defenders in this draft class to pair with fellow big man Yves Missi.

Rating: 91
Pro Comparison: Julius Randle
Summary

A two-and-done prospect who played his way from a sub-100 national recruit to a potential lottery pick in the span of two seasons at South Carolina, Murray-Boyles is an old-school big man with a back-to-the-basket interior scoring game who adds physicality on defense. He was an All-SEC performer in 2024-25 who dominated on the glass and showed impressive versatility as a passer.

About
  • A South Carolina native born and raised who stayed home to play his college basketball after starring locally at the high school level (his senior year was played in Utah after three years in Columbia, S.C.)
  • Earned SEC All-Freshman honors in his first season in 2023-24 and turned down a chance to become a potential first-round pick to return to South Carolina, where he became an All-SEC performer in 2024-25.
  • Led SEC in field-goal percentage with 58.6%.
Strengths
  • Effective and efficient interior scorer. Improved on his 59.7% eFG% in 2023-24 by finishing at 59.9% eFG% in 2024-25 for the Gamecocks.
  • Physical interior presence on defense. What he lacks in total height he compensates for with strength and girth. He’s a load to get by on defense and makes you work for every inch.
  • Has a nose for the basketball. Finished as third-leading rebounder in SEC in sophomore season.
  • Plays with great feel and skill. Willing and capable passer who can make smart reads out of the short roll and operate as a playmaking hub.
Weaknesses
  • Needs to refine shot beyond the painted area. Not a threat taking shots from 3-point range, a swing skill that could take him from a very good prospect to an elite prospect.
  • May need to improve foot speed and trim down. His bigger frame allowed him to bang down low against college bigs but being lighter on his feet and adding quickness could be a superpower for him.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.86 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, .75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 10 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.21 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.15 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 34.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.7 16.8 8.3 2.4 58.6
8 Jeremiah Fears
Oklahoma, Fr
 
PG

The Nets were another team that hoped the lottery balls would fall their way. Still, Brooklyn can come out of the draft with an immediate contributor at pick No. 8. Fears is a crafty guard capable of filling an immediate hole in Brooklyn's backcourt.

Rating: 91
Pro Comparison: De'Aaron Fox
Summary

A sub-60 national recruit who reclassified up a year and played his entire freshman season at Oklahoma as an 18-year-old. Carried a top-20 usage rate among all college basketball players and led Sooners to NCAA tournament appearance while averaging 17.1 points, 4.1 assists and 4.1 rebounds per game.

About
  • Reclassified up one year and played freshman season as an 18-year-old.
  • Earned SEC All-Freshman honors.
  • Has an older brother, Jeremy, who plays at Michigan State. His father, Jeremy Fears Sr., played college basketball at Ohio University and Bradley.
Strengths
  • Bursty athlete who can blow by defenders with quick-twitch and speed. Uses his angles well to leverage his frame and get around defenders.
  • Elite-level handles. Has the game of an And-1 mixtape player. Very flashy with his dribbling skills and has tremendous control.
  • Has a tendency to be big in clutch time. Made multiple game-winning plays and shots as a freshman at OU. Ice in his veins.
Weaknesses
  • Had a 20.2% turnover rate at Oklahoma. Needs to find the thin line between flash and functional passing. Can struggle with lazy passes or misreads.
  • Ball-dominant guard with ball-dominant game. Big question about how his game fits if he isn’t the lead operator. Struggled to shoot from 3-point range and isn’t additive as a cutter yet.
  • Smaller, lanky frame. Can get into the paint with his pacing and handles with ease, but needs to improve his strength and improve his finishing ability.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.09 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 5.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 32.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 2.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.95 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.05 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 36.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.1 17.1 4.1 4.1 43.4
9 Khaman Maluach
Duke, Fr
 
C

Maluach is an imposing presence in the paint and was a fantastic finisher around the rim during his lone season at Duke. He impacted the game defensively despite only averaging 1.3 blocks per game. Maluach still needs time to develop, but going to Toronto would be a great situation for him.

Rating: 90.25
Pro Comparison: Mitchell Robinson
Summary

Maluach is a center from South Sudan who fled the war-torn area at a young age and grew up in Uganda. He began playing basketball at 13 years old and developed playing in Senegal under NBA Academy Africa before becoming a five-star recruit. He spent one season with Duke.

About
  • Picked up basketball at 13 years old after growing up a soccer fan and flashed on the radar in Africa at a camp hosted by fellow South Sudanese sensation Luol Deng.
  • Attended Bethel Covenant College before COVID shutdown and later joined NBA Academy Africa in Senegal before garnering attention from the likes of UCLA, Duke, Kentucky and Kansas.
  • Played for South Sudan’s national team at the 2023 FIBA World Cup and helped his country qualify for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, where South Sudan narrowly lost 101-100 to Team USA.
  • Earned All-ACC Honorable Mention and ACC All-Rookie Team honors
Strengths
  • Game-altering length. Measured in at 7-2 with nearly 7-7 wingspan at NBA Draft Combine.
  • First Team All-Teammate caliber person. Cooper Flagg called him a “pure soul” and Duke coach Jon Scheyer said he’s “one of the best human beings.”
  • Frame and game of a future defensive anchor. Plays with great anticipation on the defensive end and regularly blocks or alters shots with his length.
  • Stellar finisher around the basket. Led college basketball among major conference players in KenPom’s offensive rating metric and rated in the 98th percentile on finishing at the rim.
Weaknesses
  • Still a very raw prospect. Has only played basketball five years and even shorter time than that in an organized fashion. Can improve his positioning and tweak fundamentals to become even more dynamic, which will come in time.
  • Unproven shooter. Took just 16 3-pointers at Duke, making four. Played with a glove all season because of hand injury, which could have affected his shot efficiency and selection.
  • Can be too passive. Playing next to Flagg and Kon Knueppel, he was too willing – and understandably so – to cede the floor to the team’s co-stars. To take his game to the next level he will need to understand when to be more assertive and play with more confidence, particularly on offense.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.44 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 6.75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 24.0 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 6 inches
  • Lane agility: 12.05 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.50 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 30.0 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
21.3 8.6 6.6 0.5 71.2
10 Kasparas Jakucionis
Illinois, Fr
 
PG

It's a critical offseason for Houston and the Rockets would be wise to trade this pick and consolidate some of their depth for another star. However, if Houston stays on the clock, point guard is an area of need. Houston selects the Illinois star who can potentially be Fred VanVleet's successor.

Rating: 90.5
Pro Comparison: Spencer Dinwiddie
Summary

A Lithuanian guard who spent one season in college leading a 22-win Illinois team in usage rate, points and assists, Jakucionis has an already-productive basketball career having played professionally from his mid-teens. He began his career with Perlas Vilnius in Lithuania playing in the NKL before several seasons with FC Barcelona — first with its junior and reserve teams and later with the first team.

About
  • Jakucionis is a one-and-done from the University of Illinois who was born and raised in Vilnius, Lithuania.
  • He played professionally with Vilnius in Lithuania and with FC Barcelona and has experience playing on the FIBA circuit, too, where he helped his home country win the U16 European Championship.
  • Named to All-Big Ten Freshmen Team
Strengths
  • Smooth lead guard who effortlessly gets to his spots and plays to his size.
  • Crafty scorer who consistently finds ways to finish. Rated in the 78th percentile finishing at the rim as an 18-year-old college freshman at Illinois and was in the 82nd percentile finishing in isolation.
  • Pace and poise the key pieces of his game. What he lacks in athletic pop he makes up for with playmaking and finesse, and he shows great promise operating as a primary facilitator.
Weaknesses
  • Turnover-prone despite flashes of passing excellence. Had a 25.4% turnover rate to a 26.2% assist rate and finishes each of his final four college games – including two NCAA Tournament outings – with six turnovers.
  • Limited success as a shooter. Shot 31.8% on 3-pointers at Illinois and rated in the 47th percentile as a jump shooter.
  • Could be role-confined at NBA level. High turnover rate may force him to become a secondary playmaker asked to play off the ball and make shots. But struggles shooting the ball dictate he may be best play-making. He needs to dramatically improve one, or both, of his shooting and turnovers to consistently stick as a winner.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.82 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 7.75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 28.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 3.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.99 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.22 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 35 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
31.6 15 5.7 4.7 44.0
11 Rasheer Fleming PF

Portland is a team in the West that can potentially take a jump during the 2025-26 campaign. Fleming has everything NBA decision-makers are looking for at the next level. Fleming is a plus shooter (39% on 4.5 attempts), possesses a 7-foot-5 wingspan and has defensive upside that could translate to the next level. His testing numbers at the NBA Combine helped his lottery case.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.72 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 5.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 27 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 1 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.95 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.24 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 32.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
31.3 14.7 8.5 1.3 53.1
12 Derik Queen
Maryland, Fr
 
C

Queen has a unique skill set for the center position. He is a skilled passer and a fluid scorer inside. He will need to improve the jumper at the next level, but the Maryland star would be a fun fit in Chicago and a potential replacement for Nikola Vučević.

Rating: 90.5
Pro Comparison: Alperen Sengun
Summary

A Baltimore native, Queen was part of a legendary Montverde Academy team that included Cooper Flagg, Asa Newell and Liam McNeeley before developing into a five-star, top-15 national recruit. He chose to return to his home state to play one season of college basketball at Maryland under coach Kevin Willard where he earned All-Big Ten honors and was named the league’s Freshman of the Year.

About
  • Earned McDonald’s All-American honors and was named Co-MVP of the game in 2024. Top-15 national prospect and consensus five-star.
  • Was the league’s Freshman of the Year and named to All-Big Ten First Team.
  • Voted an AP All-America Honorable Mention.
Strengths
  • Ultra-skilled for a player his size, he has nimble feet and soft hands allowing him to operate in tight spaces and catch everything.
  • Gifted with grace. Not the most athletic big but a graceful ball-handler for his size and position who can make advanced passing reads and be a playmaker.
  • Dynamic scorer. Has an old-school post game that allows him to finish at a high level around the basket and with the ability to finish with both hands.
  • High-level IQ. Seems to process the game quickly and be able to see things before they unfold. Real potential for him to be trusted as a decision-maker on short rolls and something more – perhaps a playmaking hub – in the future.
Weaknesses
  • Defensive capabilities may be limited. Maryland did a good job hiding him on that end of the floor, but it says a lot that they made it a point to do so. Not the quickest mover laterally and may struggle defending in space.
  • May need to trim down bulky frame to maximize his potential. On the thicker size and may not stand up to a full starter’s workload if he is not able to cut weight and improve his conditioning.
  • Only a theoretical stretch big at this point. Took only 35 3-pointers at Maryland, of which he made seven (20%). He’s very much a throwback big in many ways with his efficiency as a post scorer but with limitations right now of a throwback center in his inconsistency to be a reliable shooter.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.27 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 0.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 23.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 1.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 12.45 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.52 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 28.0 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.3 16.5 9 1.9 52.6
13 Carter Bryant
Arizona, Fr
 
SF

Bryant has been a fast riser throughout the draft process. The Arizona star could still return for his sophomore season, but it's likely he ends up as a mid-to-late first-round pick next month. Bryant started just five games for Arizona this season, but he has the perfect size to be a wing at the next level. It wouldn't be surprising if he ends up in the lottery.

Rating: 89.75
Pro Comparison: Dorian Finney-Smith
Summary

Bryant is a California native who was a prolific high school basketball player and earned invites to the McDonald’s All-American game and Jordan Brand Classic. A top-30 national recruit, he signed with Arizona over Louisville and other suitors, and he spent one season with the Wildcats.

About
  • A prolific high school star who earned McDonald’s All-American honors, Bryant was a top-30 consensus national recruit.
  • Before college Bryant played for his father, D’Cean Bryant, played college basketball at Long Beach State.
  • One of four freshmen to have at least 150 rebounds, 35 assists, 35 blocks and 35 steals last season joining Duke’s Cooper Flagg, Maryland’s Derik Queen and Georgetown’s Thomas Sorber.
Strengths
  • Ideal frame for a big wing. Measured 6-6.5 at NBA Draft Combine without shoes and has a wingspan of 6-11.75 to go with 8-10 standing reach.
  • Projectable role. Showed immense defensive potential in a limited role at Arizona and was a 66th percentile weapon on catch-and-shoots, 80th percentile jump shooter and 92nd percentile at-rim finisher.
  • Prolific scorer in high school. Averaged 22.1 points and 13.7 rebounds per game and was named Pacific Coast MVP as a junior.
Weaknesses
  • Room for improvement with his ability to create on offense. Did not get a ton of chances to handle the ball or initiate at Arizona but looked uncomfortable when he did. Using his frame and strength to be an attacker can unlock a big piece of his potential in the NBA.
  • Made a respectable 37.1% of his 3-point attempts but has room to improve overall as a shooter given his usage in a smaller role. If he isn’t going to be a dynamic movement shooter he needs to be consistent when asked to catch and shoot in spot-up situations.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.14 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 11.75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 10 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.25 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.07 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 39.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
19.3 6.5 4.1 1 46.0
14 Liam McNeeley
UConn, Fr
 
SF

McNeeley is a plug-and-play forward in the NBA. He plays well within the flow of an offense and has experience playing with other very talented players at the high school and college levels. When McNeeley missed time with an injury at UConn, his team looked notably different. His shooting numbers from 3-point range don't tell the full story.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.75 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 8.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 3.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.11 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.16 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 36.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32.1 14.5 6 2.3 38.1
15 Nique Clifford
Colo. St., Sr
 
SF

The Thunder have built one of the deepest rosters in the NBA. There aren't many true positions of need on the roster. OKC can take the best player available. Clifford can shoot, rebound, and defend at a very high level. At 6-6, he was the shortest player in Division l basketball who averaged at least 9.5 rebounds per game.

Pro Comparison: Josh Hart
Summary

Clifford is already 23 years old after playing five years of college basketball. He is perceived as a plug-and-play wing who could be a nice complimentary two-way piece and crack a rotation sooner rather than later, especially if the shooting gains we saw recently prove to be sustainable.

About
  • Played 3 seasons at Colorado before transferring to Colorado State.
  • Averaged 18.9 points, 9.6 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 1.2 steals with 50/38/78 shooting splits last season.
  • Named first-team and defensive team All-Mountain West and was MVP of the MW Tournament in his final season.
Strengths
  • Versatile defender: He can guard multiple positions and also has good playmaking instincts on that end of the floor.
  • Perimeter rebounding: His 9.6 rebounds per game, and 8.1 on the defensive glass, were among the best in college basketball last year, especially for a wing.
  • Cutting, passing, and pull-up shooting: While the 3-point shooting is the single most important offensive variable, he owns a variety of complimenting skills on that end of the floor.
Weaknesses
  • One of the oldest prospects in the draft: He already turned 23 years old and so he’s 5 years older than other first-round candidates.
  • Lack of perceived upside: He took on more playmaking responsibilities this year at Colorado State, but that isn’t expected to be his role in the NBA.
  • Uncertainty about his long-term shooting consistency: While his shooting improved in the last two years at Colorado State, he was still streaky and had a somewhat inconsistent release after retooling his mechanics at CSU.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.96 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 8 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 31 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 6.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.87 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.07 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 35.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
35.4 18.9 9.6 4.4 49.6
16 Asa Newell
Georgia, Fr
 
PF

Newell took his talents to Georgia as one of the highest-rated signees in program history and raised his draft stock throughout the season. The forward is an impactful defender and finisher around the basket.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.78 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 11.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 11.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.95 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.26 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 36.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
29 15.4 6.9 0.9 54.3
17 Egor Demin
BYU, Fr
 
PG

Demin was one of the more hyped up draft prospects during the early portion of the 2024-25 season before hitting a wall at the start of Big 12 play. If Demin can improve his jumper at the next level, he can be one of the best guards in his class when it's all said and done. That will be his swing skill. The Timberwolves drafted Rob Dillingham at No. 8 last year, but starting PG Mike Conley is nearing the end of his playing career.

Rating: 90
Pro Comparison: Josh Giddey
Summary

One-and-done talent from BYU who played with the Cougars after growing up in Russia. Demin played professionally with Madrid prior to his time in college and developed into a five-star, top-20 talent.

About
  • The Moscow native played with Real Madrid’s second team in Spain during 2023-24 season prior to one season at BYU and became a five-star recruit.
  • He was named to FIBA’s Europe 20 Under 20 list.
  • Was named to the All-Big 12 Freshman team and was an All-Big 12 Honorable Mention slection with the Cougars.
Strengths
  • Excellent frame for true point guard. Measured 6-8.25 at NBA Draft Combine without shoes. Needs to add muscle and weight but owns height (and passing; more on that in a bit) similar to that of a young Ben Simmons.
  • Sensational passer. Can make every pass thanks to great anticipation skills, high IQ and big frame that allows him to see over defenders.
  • Trustworthy lead guard with skills fit for the modern game. Can make every pass and showed promise running as the lead in pick-and-roll handler. Also finished at a very high clip around the basket.
Weaknesses
  • Shooting will be his big swing skill and is an area he needs to improve. Made just 27.3% of his 3-pointers at BYU and was a 24th percentile jump shooter, per Synergy data.
  • Hoppy on defense. Showed good effort and competitiveness on that end, but struggled maintaining his defensive positioning. Staying down in his stance and being consistent in his fundamentals may help him improve.
  • Hard to project on defense. BYU played a lot of zone and Demin, with his big frame, was sometimes asked to defend out of position. He needs to either improve his lateral quickness substantially, or add a significant amount of muscle, or both, to be able to hold up on that end. Suspect that is an area he will struggle with in the NBA for the duration of his career.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.93 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 10.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 26.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 9.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.31 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.33 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 32.0 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
27.5 10.6 3.9 5.5 41.2
18 Danny Wolf
Michigan, Jr
 
PF

The Wizards saw Johnson fall to them at pick No. 6 in this mock draft. With Washington's other first-round selection, the franchise selects a big man with a prolific offensive motor. Wolf is a fluid mover as a point-center and is a capable playmaker within the flow of the offense. His defense is a question mark at the next level, but his offensive engine makes him a likely first-round pick.

Pro Comparison: Kelly Olynyk
Summary

Danny Wolf is a 7-foot center with guard skills who helped Michigan win the Big Ten Tournament in March after spending the previous two seasons at Yale. He can dribble. He can pass. He can shoot. And he projects as a stretch-the-floor big and above-average rebounder at the next level.

About
  • A Second Team All-Big Ten selection in 2024-25
  • In 2023-24 was named to the All-Ivy League First Team
  • Was named the Ivy League Tournament MVP in 2024
Strengths
  • Skill: Wolf can dribble, pass and shoot unusually well for a player his size and is comfortable making plays for himself or others.
  • Rebounding: Wolf had a defensive-rebounding rate of 25% at Michigan that ranked top-15 nationally among all power-conference players.
  • Motor: Wolf consistently plays hard on both ends of the court, which helps make up for a lack of athleticism and lateral quickness.
Weaknesses
  • Athleticism: As much as playing in space is a strength for Wolf, his ability to guard in space is an area of concern.
  • Turnovers: Wolf is a gifted passer but also a reckless one, evidence being his 3.2 turnovers per game at Michigan that accounted for the team’s highest turnover-rate.
  • Rim-protection: Despite standing 7-feet tall, Wolf offers little in the way of true rim-protection and averaged just 1.1 blocks per game in three years of college basketball.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.91 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 2.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 24 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 1 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.26 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.51 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 30 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.5 13.2 9.7 3.6 49.7
19 Noa Essengue PF

The French forward is one of the youngest players in this year's draft. Essengue is a dynamic forward who has shown improvement as a shooter throughout his playing career and can be a standout defender at the next level. It wouldn't be surprising if Essengue is a draft riser next month.

20 Jase Richardson SG

Richardson would be a fun fit with the Heat. Richardson saw his stock rise throughout the 2024-25 college basketball season. He started in a reserve role at Michigan State and blossomed into the best player on Tom Izzo's squad. Richardson is a great mid-range shooter and was fantastic at finishing around the rim during his lone season in East Lansing.

Pro Comparison: Monte Morris
Summary

A year ahead of the pace, if not two. Richardson emerged in the second half of last season, when he was inserted as a starter in Michigan State's lineup. Has pro pedigree (father Jason played 14 years in the NBA) and played his way to top-20 stock in the 2025 class. Richardson plays left-handed and his floor is higher than a lot of players in his draft range. He's been raised to be ready to find a way to make it in the NBA.

About
  • Averaged 12.1 points for the season, but was at 16 points in his final 15 games with the Spartans
  • A former high-end four-star prospect who became MSU's most important player in the final six weeks of the season
  • Was named All-Big Ten Third Team
Strengths
  • Craftiness as a playmaker and someone comfortable at going with his own speed
  • Quality 3-point shooter on sufficient freshman-year sample size (41.2% on 114 attempts)
  • Mature for his age, a plus in the huddle and the locker room
Weaknesses
  • Has to hit the weight room and get stronger. Will likely be weathered by NBA physicality in Year 1
  • Frequent critique is his lack of right-handed ability. Needs to work on dexterity to enhance his effectiveness against NBA defenders
  • Needs to form a bit more into the combo point guard he'll have to be in order to grow into an NBA starter
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.08 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 6 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 2.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.97 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.22 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 38 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
25.2 12.1 3.3 1.9 49.3
21 Walter Clayton Jr.
Florida, Sr
 
PG

This is my third mock draft this draft cycle, and I've had Clayton going at this spot in every one of them. Clayton could go higher, but this spot seems like a good floor on draft night. Clayton is a fearless shotmaker. I had the chance to watch him up close during Florida's national title run. He's going to have a very successful NBA career.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.81 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 4 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 1.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.52 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.14 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 37 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32.6 18.3 3.7 4.2 44.8
22 Thomas Sorber
Georgetown, Fr
 
C

Sorber's freshman season was cut short due to a season-ending foot injury, but he did look like a first-round pick in the 24 games he appeared in. Sorber showed promise as a solid rim protector after averaging 2.0 blocks per game. His shooting numbers from beyond the arc (16.2%) is one aspect of his game he can improve on.

Combine Data
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 6 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 1 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
31.4 14.5 8.5 2.4 53.2
23 Nolan Traore PG

I'm still a believer in Traore's talent. He has top-end speed to play point guard in the NBA. At this point in the draft, taking the best player available is the wise move, even if you already have a franchise point guard on the roster in Tyrese Haliburton.

Rating: 89.75
Pro Comparison: Andrew Nembhard
Summary

Long viewed as a likely lottery pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Traore is next in a long line of French basketball talents who have been productive professionally overseas. He played for Centre Federal from 2021-24 before spending the subsequent time leading up to the draft playing with Saint Quentin in the LNB Pro A. During that time he earned distinction as the FIBA Champions League Best Young Player and ascended into one of the best guards in the class.

About
  • Traore is a born-and-raised French product who has been identified as an elite prospect for years.
  • In 2021, he was admitted to INSEP, an elite training institute in Paris, and he has blossomed since then into one of the best international prospects in the world. He is top 10 in the LNB Pro A in assists per game.
  • Has a brother named Armel who was a 2024 prospect who went undrafted, later signed with the Lakers and is back in France playing in the Liga ACB.
Strengths
  • Solid overall build for a projected point guard. Measured 6-3 with long 6-8 wingspan. Already accustomed to playing against professionals in France and has a strong frame.
  • Crafty ballhandler who can get to his spots at will. Capable of putting pressure on the rim as an attacker and has excellent pacing and feel.
  • Innate sense for knowing how and when to get his teammates involved. Overall a selfless player who knows when to call his own number and when the defense dictates he should distribute.
Weaknesses
  • Strong shooting finish to the 2024-25 with Saint Quentin but largely has underwhelmed in that area. Shot 30% on 3-pointers in 2023-24 and only marginally improved in that area by percentage in 2024-25.
  • Can be an erratic decision-maker. Capable of making every pass in the playbook but equally capable of making dumbfounding, sometimes simple and correctable mistakes.
24 Johni Broome
Auburn, Sr
 
C

Broome was one of the best players in college basketball this past season and his rebounding and rim protecting will translate to the next level. Broome could step in immediately and be a key rotation piece for Orlando.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.23 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 0.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 24.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 0.50 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.52 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.37 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 28 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.1 18.6 10.8 2.9 51.0
25 Will Riley
Illinois, Fr
 
SF

The Thunder have the luxury of being able to take a player at this range with high upside because of their almost nonexistent team needs. Riley fits that bill. He is a terrific shotmaker who would benefit from adding muscle to his lanky frame.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.08 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 8.75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 27.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 8 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.73 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.21 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 32 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
25.7 12.6 4.1 2.2 43.2
26 Joan Beringer C

What pops on tape from Beringer is his ability to finish consistently at the rim off pick-and-rolls. Beringer can be a great rim protector at the next level. He is also very good at contesting shots as a help defender. He will be a project at the next level, but with the right development, he could thrive. It's worth the swing at this pick.

27 Ben Saraf PG

Brooklyn has four first-round picks this year, including back-to-back picks at the end of the first round. Saraf, a southpaw guard, is a creative playmaker capable of getting others involved in the offense. Saraf earned MVP honors during the FIBA U18 EuroBasket last summer and has been rising up draft boards since.

28 Ryan Kalkbrenner
Creighton, Sr
 
C

The Celtics have plenty of looming decisions to make this offseason. Kalkbrenner is a plug-and-play big at the next level, who can contribute immediately on the defensive end of the floor.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.10 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 6 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 4 inches
  • Lane agility: 12.05 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.34 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 33 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
34.5 19.2 8.7 1.5 65.3
29 Cedric Coward
Wash. St., Sr
 
SG

Will Coward ever suit up for Duke? That is to be determined, but his performance at the combine might make his decision that much harder. Coward played in his six games this past season for Washington State because of a season-ending shoulder injury, but has all the goods to sneak into the end of the first round.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.91 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 2.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 24 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 10 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.97 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.51 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 30 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33 17.7 7 3.7 55.7
30 Yaxel Lendeborg
Wash. St., Sr
 
PF

Lendeborg is another player with a decision to make. The UAB star committed to Michigan out of the transfer portal, but he might never play a game for coach Dusty May because of the way he's turning heads at the combine. Lendeborg was the top-ranked player in the transfer portal rankings by 247Sports.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.09 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 4 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 25.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 0.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.68 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.32 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 31.5 inches
# Team Player Pos
1 Cooper Flagg
Duke, Fr
 
SF

The ceiling is a Hall-of-Fame career that leads to multiple NBA championships, be it with Dallas or wherever Flagg may be playing a decade from now. The absolute floor is no worse than being the fourth-best starter on his team by the time he's in his second season. Flagg's not a Wembanyama-level prospect, but his all-around game makes him one of the three or four best to enter the league in the past 10 years. If he's not tangibly helping Dallas win games in the next two years, something went terribly wrong.

Rating: 98.5
Pro Comparison: Scottie Pippen
Summary

A prodigious talent who profiles as one of the five best prospects of the last decade. Flagg entered Duke as the No. 1 high school recruit and led the Blue Devils to a 35-win season that ended in the Final Four on a team he led that rated No. 1 in offensive efficiency and No. 5 in defensive efficiency. There are no obvious holes in his game and his all-around impact on both ends make him situation-proof.

About
  • Led Duke to 35 wins (T-2nd most in school history) while leading the team in scoring, rebounding, assists, steals and blocks.
  • Fourth player in college basketball history to win Naismith National Player of the Year as a freshman, joining Kevin Durant (2007), Anthony Davis (2012) and Zion Williamson (2019)
Strengths
  • Elite defensive skills with preternatural timing and instincts. Has a knack for consistently finding ways to alter and block shots.
  • Passing vision of a lead guard. Understands defensive schemes and reads defenses at a high level with great anticipation and has skills to execute intricate passes with ease.
  • Great shooting touch anywhere on the floor. Shot 38.5% from 3-point range and made 84% of his free throws.
Weaknesses
  • Has room to improve as a post-up defender. Flagg has a tendency to reach in an effort to make plays, which can at times put him out of position.
  • His post positioning as a defender can be inconsistent. At times he loses feel for where the basket is or doesn’t appropriately leverage his body between defender and the hoop.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.92 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 0 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 10.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.64 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.30 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 35.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.5 19.2 7.5 4.2 48.1
2 Dylan Harper
Rutgers, Fr
 
PG

At this point, it would stun just about everyone in the league if Harper wasn't in silver and black next season. He's got a lot of tools that suggest a 12-plus-year career in the NBA, and the fit with the Spurs should be terrific. Harper's vision, size, ballhandling, passing acumen and pick-and-roll instincts suggest he has All-Star level upside. Nevermind the fact that Stephon Castle and De'Aaron Fox are already in San Antonio; Harper can step in as a supplemental piece and learn in a much better environment than his one underwhelming season (team-wise) with Rutgers.

Rating: 95
Pro Comparison: Cade Cunningham
Summary

Harper is the son of former NBA player Ron Harper and the younger brother of Ron Harper Jr. A former five-star recruit, he spent one season at Rutgers where he finished second among all freshmen in points per game (19.4) and had the sixth-most assists per game (4.0) among qualifying players.

About
  • One of two five-star recruits to ever sign with Rutgers as a high school prospect.
  • Earned MVP honors at both the McDonald’s All-American Game and Jordan Brand Classic in 2024.
  • Left-handed shooter worked out with two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo before the 2024-25 season.
Strengths
  • Savvy scorer who gets to his spots with ease. Averaged 19.4 points and 4.0 assists per game – both highest on his team – while making 33.3% of his 3-pointers as a high-usage player.
  • Crafty defensive playmaker. Very tactical with poking and prodding on defense and led Rutgers in steals.
  • King of pacing. Rarely plays rushed and can control a game with his handle, passing and scoring. Had six games of 25 or more points and seven games of six or more assists.
Weaknesses
  • Missed several stints during his freshman season dealing with nagging ankle injury and a bout with the flu.
  • Also missed time leading into freshman season with right knee injury, which required a procedure.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.05 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 10.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 6 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.07 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.16 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 36.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32.6 19.4 4.6 4 48.4
3 Ace Bailey
Rutgers, Fr
 
SF

The No. 3 pick is going to go to either Bailey or the guys I have at 4 and 5, but I think Philly ultimately winds up choosing the player who has the highest upside (but lowest floor) of the three. Bailey's natural scoring and shooting ability stands out. When he gets hot, it can be lava-like. Aggressive to the tin and a great leaper. At his peak, his scoring ability is as good or better than anyone in this year's draft class — and last year's too, given his three-level capability. Not a predisposed passer, and can take too many plays off for my liking, but if he meets his potential, he can wind up as the best pick in this class.

Rating: 93
Pro Comparison: Brandon Ingram
Summary

The highest-ranked signee in Rutgers history, Bailey was a five-star recruit ranked No. 2 in the national class of 2024. He was a McDonald’s All-American and Mr. Georgia Basketball in 2024 before choosing the Scarlet Knights over Kentucky, Kansas and others. In his one college season, he earned Third Team All-Big Ten honors.

About
  • One of two five-star high school recruits to sign with Rutgers in program history. Highest-rated of the two, alongside teammate and projected top-five pick Dylan Harper Jr.
  • Parents both played college basketball in college. His mother, Ramika McGee, played at West Virginia; his father, Richard Bailey, played at Houston.
  • First name is “Airious” but he prefers to go by “Ace” — a nickname he’s held for a long time because of his ability to thrive in multiple sports.
  • Earned Georgia Gatorade Player of the Year as a senior after averaging 33.4 points, 15.5 rebounds and 3.9 assists per game for McEachern High School, leading it to a 26-6 record and a Class A title.
Strengths
  • Impressive size and skill for age. He doesn’t turn 19 years old until August 2025 and has a 6-foot-10 frame with fluid agility.
  • Scorer who can get you a bucket at any point in any game on any spot on the floor. Quick release and crafty with the ball, and doesn’t need a ton of space to rise and fire over defenders.
  • Reliable shooter — not just a scorer. He rated in the 80th percentile on catch and shoot opportunities as a freshman and was in the 94th percentile when guarded in such situations.
Weaknesses
  • Defensive effort can wax and wane not only possession-by-possession but also within the same possessions. Frequently can get caught ball-watching and lose his man. Needs to improve eye discipline defensively.
  • Worrisome free-throw shooting for a player whose best trait is his shooting. He made 69.2% from the foul line, which can be an indicator to future success/failure shooting from 3-point range.
  • As physically gifted as he is, often settles for jumpers and lacks aggressiveness/assertiveness at times. Can also tend to play off one foot when he does attack, relying on his athleticism. Developing more skill around the rim as a finisher will do wonders for his overall offensive versatility.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.78 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 0.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 27.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 11 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.97 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.12 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 34.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33.4 17.6 7.2 1.3 46.0
4 Tre Johnson
Texas, Fr
 
SG

Maniacal work ethic has pushed Johnson to be one of the best shooters and scorers in the past couple of draft classes. He's the second-best freshman to come out of Texas, the other being Kevin Durant. The Hornets are in perpetual rebuild mode, but Johnson could be as good if not better than another one of their recent high draft picks (Brandon Miller). His range, competitiveness and reliability at the foul line have him destined to average at least 15 points by the time he's at the end of his first contract. If he falls below No. 5, it would be indefensible.

Rating: 92.5
Pro Comparison: Malik Monk
Summary

A former top-10 national recruit who is on track to be the first one-and-done Texas player taken in the top 10 of the draft since Jaxson Hayes in 2019. Led all freshmen in scoring in 2024-25, averaging 19.9 points per game — most among all SEC players.

About
  • A Dallas native, Johnson won SEC Freshman of the Year in 2024-25 and was a Second Team All-SEC performer.
  • Was seventh nationally among major conference players in points per game in 2024-25.
  • His father, Richard Johnson Jr., played college basketball in the Lone Star State at Baylor before transferring to Midwestern State.
Strengths
  • High-level scorer. Had the seventh-most points on per-game basis in 2024-25 among all major conference players and shot 39.7% on 3-pointers in a high-usage role.
  • Developing playmaker. Needs to cut down on turnovers but showed promise as a passer and has grown his feel for the game to be more than a one-trick pony.
  • Electric quick-release weapon. Rated 84th percentile on catch-and-shoot shots and knows when to be aggressive in getting release off quickly.
Weaknesses
  • Not an aggressive attacker and can settle despite his big frame; this is exacerbated by his poor finishing numbers: 28th percentile at-rim finishing, 33nd percentile on layups, per Synergy
  • Has traits of a potentially impactful defender but lacks strength; at times he could easily be pushed down by bigger bodies and worked into position inside the painted area
  • Needs to raise comfort-level shooting from top of the key; struggled taking and making shots from this area as a freshman. Improving here – and eventually taking and making shots off the dribble/in transition from this range – will make him more dynamic.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.11 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 10.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 32 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.49 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.28 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 37.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
34.6 19.9 3.1 2.7 42.7
5 VJ Edgecombe
Baylor, Fr
 
SG

Outstanding guard prospect thanks to an unending hunt to score in a variety of ways that marries with top-tier athletic ability. Because Baylor had a down season, Edgecombe's reputation and skillset didn't really hit the mainstream. That isn't a reflection on his NBA potential, however. Though slightly undersized, Edgecombe can play up to guys two or three inches taller, and 10 to 12 pounds heavier. He can be a pitbull on defense and isn't shy when it comes to mucking it up. Few players in recent memory have blended finesse with toughness like Edgecombe. He'd be fun in Salt Lake City.

Rating: 92.5
Pro Comparison: Victor Oladipo
Summary

A superstar athlete with five-star credentials, Edgecombe hails from the Bahamas after a stellar one-and-done season at Baylor under national championship-winning coach Scott Drew. He was ranked as the No. 5 player in the national class entering college and earned All-Big 12 honors and Big 12 Rookie of the Year honors in 2024-25.

About
  • A Bimini, Bahamas, native, who has experience on the FIBA circuit playing alongside fellow Bahamians Buddy Hield and Deandre Ayton.
  • Ranked as a five-star, top-five recruit, he was a stellar scorer at Long Island Lutheran (LuHi) who went on to earn McDonald’s All-American honors.
  • Finished his high school career collecting back-to-back Gatorade Player of the Year honors in New York.
Strengths
  • Dynamic athlete with explosive leaping ability. If any player bangs his head on the backboard in a future basketball game while dunking, it might be him
  • Smooth operator. Athletically fluid with a buttery shot to boot. Made 34% of 3-pointers as second-leading scorer for Baylor as true freshman.
  • Long strider who plays smart basketball. Knows when to cut off the ball and has a knack for getting to the cup.
Weaknesses
  • Limited scoring diet. 21st percentile finisher on dribble jumpers and 15th percentile among short shots, per Synergy data.
  • Showed improvement but needs to continue making strides with the ball in his hands. 43rd percentile on pick-and-roll as ballhandler and averaged nearly two turnovers per game.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.93 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 7.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 5.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.27 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.20 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 38.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32.8 15 5.6 3.2 43.6
6 Kon Knueppel
Duke, Fr
 
SF

A wonderful all-around player. Offensively, Knueppel is an easy-to-teach, quick-to-learn shooter. He's great off the catch, knows how to use his sturdy frame to gain advantages on screens, has a deep competitive streak and is so good with his footwork, he'll boost his team an extra three or four possessions every game with how he nuzzles into the cracks of a defense. On defense, Knueppel is both outstanding in a team concept but also very good on-ball against 2s, 3s and 4s. He was excellent in a No. 2 role at Duke and will similarly shine at the next level. On my "Will Not Fail No Matter What" list this year, which doesn't have much company.

Rating: 91
Pro Comparison: Austin Reaves
Summary

A highly-coveted shooter whose offensive game is among the most lethal in the class, Knueppel was a vital Robin to Cooper Flagg’s Batman in his one season leading a 35-win Duke team to within seconds of a national title game appearance. He’s the prince of pacing who plays with poise and control.

About
  • A prolific shooter and scorer who averaged 26.4 points per game as a senior in high school and blossomed into a five-star recruit before choosing Duke over a number of other offers.
  • Earned an invite to the Jordan Brand Classic and was named Wisconsin Mr. Basketball, joining company that includes former first-round picks Brandin Podziemski, Johnny Davis, Henry Ellenson, Kevon Looney and Sam Dekker.
  • Playing alongside Cooper Flagg at Duke, he instantly became a star, hitting 40.6% on 3-pointers and finishing as the second-leading scorer on a 35-win team.
Strengths
  • Elite shooter. Made 40.6% of 3-pointers on 207 total attempts at Duke in 2024-25 and missed only nine of his 128 total free-throw attempts.
  • Undeterred when unable to create separation; rated in the 92nd percentile on guarded shots from deep at Duke, per Synergy data.
  • Smart player who consistently overcomes lack of athleticism with savvy. Plays with good pacing and body control, and rated 70th percentile on shots at the rim.
Weaknesses
  • Room to improve his versatility as a shot-maker. Very reliable on set shots even when guarded, but was in the 33rd percentile on dribble jumpers and scored just 0.826 points per possession on handoffs.
  • Needs to improve foot speed and lateral quickness. Frequently struggled defending at the point of screens defensively at Duke. Navigating through pick-and-rolls by adding physicality and speed will be critical for his role in the NBA.
  • Too much reliance on the right hand for finishing. Becoming more comfortable and confident as a lefty scorer will add more lethality to his offensive game and make him even more potent a scorer.
Combine Data
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 6.25 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 5.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.4 14.4 4 2.7 47.9
7 Kasparas Jakucionis
Illinois, Fr
 
PG

There's a lot of big lead guards in this year's draft, but the only one better than Jakučionis, to me, is Dylan Harper. He had some freshman-year bumps at Illinois, but the size, vision, screen-reading interpretations and hungry mentality as a rebounding guard put him in the second tier for me in this draft class. He'll almost certainly be on the board for New Orleans at 7. Should NOLA take him, he'd have a genuine shot to be the full-time starter at point by his second season, I think.

Rating: 90.5
Pro Comparison: Spencer Dinwiddie
Summary

A Lithuanian guard who spent one season in college leading a 22-win Illinois team in usage rate, points and assists, Jakucionis has an already-productive basketball career having played professionally from his mid-teens. He began his career with Perlas Vilnius in Lithuania playing in the NKL before several seasons with FC Barcelona — first with its junior and reserve teams and later with the first team.

About
  • Jakucionis is a one-and-done from the University of Illinois who was born and raised in Vilnius, Lithuania.
  • He played professionally with Vilnius in Lithuania and with FC Barcelona and has experience playing on the FIBA circuit, too, where he helped his home country win the U16 European Championship.
  • Named to All-Big Ten Freshmen Team
Strengths
  • Smooth lead guard who effortlessly gets to his spots and plays to his size.
  • Crafty scorer who consistently finds ways to finish. Rated in the 78th percentile finishing at the rim as an 18-year-old college freshman at Illinois and was in the 82nd percentile finishing in isolation.
  • Pace and poise the key pieces of his game. What he lacks in athletic pop he makes up for with playmaking and finesse, and he shows great promise operating as a primary facilitator.
Weaknesses
  • Turnover-prone despite flashes of passing excellence. Had a 25.4% turnover rate to a 26.2% assist rate and finishes each of his final four college games – including two NCAA Tournament outings – with six turnovers.
  • Limited success as a shooter. Shot 31.8% on 3-pointers at Illinois and rated in the 47th percentile as a jump shooter.
  • Could be role-confined at NBA level. High turnover rate may force him to become a secondary playmaker asked to play off the ball and make shots. But struggles shooting the ball dictate he may be best play-making. He needs to dramatically improve one, or both, of his shooting and turnovers to consistently stick as a winner.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.82 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 7.75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 28.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 3.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.99 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.22 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 35 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
31.6 15 5.7 4.7 44.0
8 Khaman Maluach
Duke, Fr
 
C

It's possible — easily conceivable, even — that Maluach winds up as the best defensive player in this class. He flipped the floor for Duke and was a switchable menace, at times proving he could truly guard 1 through 5 at the college level. Maluach is still raw as an offensive player, but he's already a true lob threat, a rim-runner and a physical mammoth. The Nets should immediately dial in the pick with his name if he's still on the board here.

Rating: 90.25
Pro Comparison: Mitchell Robinson
Summary

Maluach is a center from South Sudan who fled the war-torn area at a young age and grew up in Uganda. He began playing basketball at 13 years old and developed playing in Senegal under NBA Academy Africa before becoming a five-star recruit. He spent one season with Duke.

About
  • Picked up basketball at 13 years old after growing up a soccer fan and flashed on the radar in Africa at a camp hosted by fellow South Sudanese sensation Luol Deng.
  • Attended Bethel Covenant College before COVID shutdown and later joined NBA Academy Africa in Senegal before garnering attention from the likes of UCLA, Duke, Kentucky and Kansas.
  • Played for South Sudan’s national team at the 2023 FIBA World Cup and helped his country qualify for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, where South Sudan narrowly lost 101-100 to Team USA.
  • Earned All-ACC Honorable Mention and ACC All-Rookie Team honors
Strengths
  • Game-altering length. Measured in at 7-2 with nearly 7-7 wingspan at NBA Draft Combine.
  • First Team All-Teammate caliber person. Cooper Flagg called him a “pure soul” and Duke coach Jon Scheyer said he’s “one of the best human beings.”
  • Frame and game of a future defensive anchor. Plays with great anticipation on the defensive end and regularly blocks or alters shots with his length.
  • Stellar finisher around the basket. Led college basketball among major conference players in KenPom’s offensive rating metric and rated in the 98th percentile on finishing at the rim.
Weaknesses
  • Still a very raw prospect. Has only played basketball five years and even shorter time than that in an organized fashion. Can improve his positioning and tweak fundamentals to become even more dynamic, which will come in time.
  • Unproven shooter. Took just 16 3-pointers at Duke, making four. Played with a glove all season because of hand injury, which could have affected his shot efficiency and selection.
  • Can be too passive. Playing next to Flagg and Kon Knueppel, he was too willing – and understandably so – to cede the floor to the team’s co-stars. To take his game to the next level he will need to understand when to be more assertive and play with more confidence, particularly on offense.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.44 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 6.75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 24.0 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 6 inches
  • Lane agility: 12.05 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.50 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 30.0 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
21.3 8.6 6.6 0.5 71.2
9 Jeremiah Fears
Oklahoma, Fr
 
PG

Polarizing prospect who nonetheless is likely to wind up going in the top 10. He's fast, good with the ball in his hands, advanced for his age and has fun natural scoring instincts. Defense is sometimes non-existent and he's undersized. Wide range of outcomes here. I wouldn't have him this high, personally, but going off the buzz around the NBA, it's hard to get much further down without slotting Fears into a pick.

Rating: 91
Pro Comparison: De'Aaron Fox
Summary

A sub-60 national recruit who reclassified up a year and played his entire freshman season at Oklahoma as an 18-year-old. Carried a top-20 usage rate among all college basketball players and led Sooners to NCAA tournament appearance while averaging 17.1 points, 4.1 assists and 4.1 rebounds per game.

About
  • Reclassified up one year and played freshman season as an 18-year-old.
  • Earned SEC All-Freshman honors.
  • Has an older brother, Jeremy, who plays at Michigan State. His father, Jeremy Fears Sr., played college basketball at Ohio University and Bradley.
Strengths
  • Bursty athlete who can blow by defenders with quick-twitch and speed. Uses his angles well to leverage his frame and get around defenders.
  • Elite-level handles. Has the game of an And-1 mixtape player. Very flashy with his dribbling skills and has tremendous control.
  • Has a tendency to be big in clutch time. Made multiple game-winning plays and shots as a freshman at OU. Ice in his veins.
Weaknesses
  • Had a 20.2% turnover rate at Oklahoma. Needs to find the thin line between flash and functional passing. Can struggle with lazy passes or misreads.
  • Ball-dominant guard with ball-dominant game. Big question about how his game fits if he isn’t the lead operator. Struggled to shoot from 3-point range and isn’t additive as a cutter yet.
  • Smaller, lanky frame. Can get into the paint with his pacing and handles with ease, but needs to improve his strength and improve his finishing ability.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.09 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 5.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 32.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 2.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.95 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.05 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 36.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.1 17.1 4.1 4.1 43.4
10 Carter Bryant
Arizona, Fr
 
SF

Turning some heads as a projected lottery pick because he was an off-the-bench guy at Arizona with humble stats. But his physical profile, obvious talent and behind-the-scenes dedication to his craft has Bryant perched well on many teams' draft boards. For what he can do, what Houston has on its roster and where it's looking to go, Bryant would be an ideal addition to a team knocking on the door of Western Conference title contender.

Rating: 89.75
Pro Comparison: Dorian Finney-Smith
Summary

Bryant is a California native who was a prolific high school basketball player and earned invites to the McDonald’s All-American game and Jordan Brand Classic. A top-30 national recruit, he signed with Arizona over Louisville and other suitors, and he spent one season with the Wildcats.

About
  • A prolific high school star who earned McDonald’s All-American honors, Bryant was a top-30 consensus national recruit.
  • Before college Bryant played for his father, D’Cean Bryant, played college basketball at Long Beach State.
  • One of four freshmen to have at least 150 rebounds, 35 assists, 35 blocks and 35 steals last season joining Duke’s Cooper Flagg, Maryland’s Derik Queen and Georgetown’s Thomas Sorber.
Strengths
  • Ideal frame for a big wing. Measured 6-6.5 at NBA Draft Combine without shoes and has a wingspan of 6-11.75 to go with 8-10 standing reach.
  • Projectable role. Showed immense defensive potential in a limited role at Arizona and was a 66th percentile weapon on catch-and-shoots, 80th percentile jump shooter and 92nd percentile at-rim finisher.
  • Prolific scorer in high school. Averaged 22.1 points and 13.7 rebounds per game and was named Pacific Coast MVP as a junior.
Weaknesses
  • Room for improvement with his ability to create on offense. Did not get a ton of chances to handle the ball or initiate at Arizona but looked uncomfortable when he did. Using his frame and strength to be an attacker can unlock a big piece of his potential in the NBA.
  • Made a respectable 37.1% of his 3-point attempts but has room to improve overall as a shooter given his usage in a smaller role. If he isn’t going to be a dynamic movement shooter he needs to be consistent when asked to catch and shoot in spot-up situations.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.14 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 11.75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 10 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.25 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.07 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 39.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
19.3 6.5 4.1 1 46.0
11 Derik Queen
Maryland, Fr
 
C

One of the most skilled players in this year's draft class. Queen has excellent vision, tremendous ballhandling skills for a big, a soft shooter's touch and upper-echelon basketball IQ. Queen was the centerpiece on the best Maryland team in a long time and sank the 2025 NCAA Tournament's lone buzzer-beating shot. Portland will likely be in position to take Queen when the 11th pick comes up, and it should pounce if he's still on the board.

Rating: 90.5
Pro Comparison: Alperen Sengun
Summary

A Baltimore native, Queen was part of a legendary Montverde Academy team that included Cooper Flagg, Asa Newell and Liam McNeeley before developing into a five-star, top-15 national recruit. He chose to return to his home state to play one season of college basketball at Maryland under coach Kevin Willard where he earned All-Big Ten honors and was named the league’s Freshman of the Year.

About
  • Earned McDonald’s All-American honors and was named Co-MVP of the game in 2024. Top-15 national prospect and consensus five-star.
  • Was the league’s Freshman of the Year and named to All-Big Ten First Team.
  • Voted an AP All-America Honorable Mention.
Strengths
  • Ultra-skilled for a player his size, he has nimble feet and soft hands allowing him to operate in tight spaces and catch everything.
  • Gifted with grace. Not the most athletic big but a graceful ball-handler for his size and position who can make advanced passing reads and be a playmaker.
  • Dynamic scorer. Has an old-school post game that allows him to finish at a high level around the basket and with the ability to finish with both hands.
  • High-level IQ. Seems to process the game quickly and be able to see things before they unfold. Real potential for him to be trusted as a decision-maker on short rolls and something more – perhaps a playmaking hub – in the future.
Weaknesses
  • Defensive capabilities may be limited. Maryland did a good job hiding him on that end of the floor, but it says a lot that they made it a point to do so. Not the quickest mover laterally and may struggle defending in space.
  • May need to trim down bulky frame to maximize his potential. On the thicker size and may not stand up to a full starter’s workload if he is not able to cut weight and improve his conditioning.
  • Only a theoretical stretch big at this point. Took only 35 3-pointers at Maryland, of which he made seven (20%). He’s very much a throwback big in many ways with his efficiency as a post scorer but with limitations right now of a throwback center in his inconsistency to be a reliable shooter.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.27 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 0.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 23.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 1.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 12.45 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.52 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 28.0 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.3 16.5 9 1.9 52.6
12 Noa Essengue PF

Pretty clearly the highest-rated prospect in this year's class who didn't play college basketball. The 18-year-old Frenchman played in Germany and has the size to be switchable as a 3 or a 4, but needs to put on plenty of muscle in the years to come. The Bulls don't really have a player who fits his profile. This would be something of a gamble, but the upside is tempting.

13 Egor Demin
BYU, Fr
 
PG

Demin was a key point guard on a better-than-expected BYU team that made the Sweet 16. He's a natural passer with tremendous height who can find passing alleys in ways most players in this class can't. His shot needs work and there are obvious flaws to trudge through in the years ahead, but if he truly unlocks his potential, he'll be one of the 5-7 best players in this draft class. Would fit in beautifully on an Atlanta team that is ready to level up.

Rating: 90
Pro Comparison: Josh Giddey
Summary

One-and-done talent from BYU who played with the Cougars after growing up in Russia. Demin played professionally with Madrid prior to his time in college and developed into a five-star, top-20 talent.

About
  • The Moscow native played with Real Madrid’s second team in Spain during 2023-24 season prior to one season at BYU and became a five-star recruit.
  • He was named to FIBA’s Europe 20 Under 20 list.
  • Was named to the All-Big 12 Freshman team and was an All-Big 12 Honorable Mention slection with the Cougars.
Strengths
  • Excellent frame for true point guard. Measured 6-8.25 at NBA Draft Combine without shoes. Needs to add muscle and weight but owns height (and passing; more on that in a bit) similar to that of a young Ben Simmons.
  • Sensational passer. Can make every pass thanks to great anticipation skills, high IQ and big frame that allows him to see over defenders.
  • Trustworthy lead guard with skills fit for the modern game. Can make every pass and showed promise running as the lead in pick-and-roll handler. Also finished at a very high clip around the basket.
Weaknesses
  • Shooting will be his big swing skill and is an area he needs to improve. Made just 27.3% of his 3-pointers at BYU and was a 24th percentile jump shooter, per Synergy data.
  • Hoppy on defense. Showed good effort and competitiveness on that end, but struggled maintaining his defensive positioning. Staying down in his stance and being consistent in his fundamentals may help him improve.
  • Hard to project on defense. BYU played a lot of zone and Demin, with his big frame, was sometimes asked to defend out of position. He needs to either improve his lateral quickness substantially, or add a significant amount of muscle, or both, to be able to hold up on that end. Suspect that is an area he will struggle with in the NBA for the duration of his career.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.93 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 10.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 26.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 9.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.31 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.33 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 32.0 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
27.5 10.6 3.9 5.5 41.2
14 Asa Newell
Georgia, Fr
 
PF

Has not begun to touch his potential if it all goes right. Big wing with strong hands and plus athleticism. His defensive ceiling is All-NBA level so long as he keeps getting stronger. If the Spurs opt to use this pick, Newell would probably have a tough time logging serious minutes in Year 1, but he'd fit in beautifully to a roster that's almost definitely going to get back into the playoffs in 2026.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.78 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 11.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 11.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.95 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.26 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 36.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
29 15.4 6.9 0.9 54.3
15 Danny Wolf
Michigan, Jr
 
PF

A dazzling passer, reliable 3-point shooter, willing mover/shifter on offense … and he's also 7 feet. Wolf's Yale-to-Michigan move last season was one of the best transfers by any player. He went from fringe NBA pick to first round lock and lottery possibility, helping Michigan be one of the best turnaround teams in college hoops. He'll probably be on the board 15, and the idea that OKC could draft him is frightening to a team that's already large and ultra-skilled.

Pro Comparison: Kelly Olynyk
Summary

Danny Wolf is a 7-foot center with guard skills who helped Michigan win the Big Ten Tournament in March after spending the previous two seasons at Yale. He can dribble. He can pass. He can shoot. And he projects as a stretch-the-floor big and above-average rebounder at the next level.

About
  • A Second Team All-Big Ten selection in 2024-25
  • In 2023-24 was named to the All-Ivy League First Team
  • Was named the Ivy League Tournament MVP in 2024
Strengths
  • Skill: Wolf can dribble, pass and shoot unusually well for a player his size and is comfortable making plays for himself or others.
  • Rebounding: Wolf had a defensive-rebounding rate of 25% at Michigan that ranked top-15 nationally among all power-conference players.
  • Motor: Wolf consistently plays hard on both ends of the court, which helps make up for a lack of athleticism and lateral quickness.
Weaknesses
  • Athleticism: As much as playing in space is a strength for Wolf, his ability to guard in space is an area of concern.
  • Turnovers: Wolf is a gifted passer but also a reckless one, evidence being his 3.2 turnovers per game at Michigan that accounted for the team’s highest turnover-rate.
  • Rim-protection: Despite standing 7-feet tall, Wolf offers little in the way of true rim-protection and averaged just 1.1 blocks per game in three years of college basketball.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.91 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 2.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 24 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 1 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.26 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.51 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 30 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.5 13.2 9.7 3.6 49.7
16 Collin Murray-Boyles
S. Carolina, Soph
 
PF

Murray-Boyles' stock is all over the map, based on conversations I've had with NBA sources. Could go late lottery, could be there in the mid-20s. He's not athletic and he can't shoot from long range, but he has the muscle and frame to bruise with NBAers right now. His measurables are favorable and his IQ is undeniable as a point forward-type. A tremendous plug-and-play guy off the bench, he'd be a safe choice for the Grizzlies at 16.

Rating: 91
Pro Comparison: Julius Randle
Summary

A two-and-done prospect who played his way from a sub-100 national recruit to a potential lottery pick in the span of two seasons at South Carolina, Murray-Boyles is an old-school big man with a back-to-the-basket interior scoring game who adds physicality on defense. He was an All-SEC performer in 2024-25 who dominated on the glass and showed impressive versatility as a passer.

About
  • A South Carolina native born and raised who stayed home to play his college basketball after starring locally at the high school level (his senior year was played in Utah after three years in Columbia, S.C.)
  • Earned SEC All-Freshman honors in his first season in 2023-24 and turned down a chance to become a potential first-round pick to return to South Carolina, where he became an All-SEC performer in 2024-25.
  • Led SEC in field-goal percentage with 58.6%.
Strengths
  • Effective and efficient interior scorer. Improved on his 59.7% eFG% in 2023-24 by finishing at 59.9% eFG% in 2024-25 for the Gamecocks.
  • Physical interior presence on defense. What he lacks in total height he compensates for with strength and girth. He’s a load to get by on defense and makes you work for every inch.
  • Has a nose for the basketball. Finished as third-leading rebounder in SEC in sophomore season.
  • Plays with great feel and skill. Willing and capable passer who can make smart reads out of the short roll and operate as a playmaking hub.
Weaknesses
  • Needs to refine shot beyond the painted area. Not a threat taking shots from 3-point range, a swing skill that could take him from a very good prospect to an elite prospect.
  • May need to improve foot speed and trim down. His bigger frame allowed him to bang down low against college bigs but being lighter on his feet and adding quickness could be a superpower for him.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.86 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, .75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 10 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.21 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.15 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 34.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.7 16.8 8.3 2.4 58.6
17 Jase Richardson SG

With an NBA pedigree (father Jason played 14 years in the NBA), a good 3-point stroke (41.2% on 114 attempts) and quality leadership skills, Richardson is clearly worth a top-20 pick. The lefty's not a sure thing to hit, but his floor feels higher than a lot of guys slotted between 15-25. He needs to form a bit more into the combo point guard he'll have to be in order to grow into an NBA starter, but the tools, smarts and craftiness are enough to work with.

Pro Comparison: Monte Morris
Summary

A year ahead of the pace, if not two. Richardson emerged in the second half of last season, when he was inserted as a starter in Michigan State's lineup. Has pro pedigree (father Jason played 14 years in the NBA) and played his way to top-20 stock in the 2025 class. Richardson plays left-handed and his floor is higher than a lot of players in his draft range. He's been raised to be ready to find a way to make it in the NBA.

About
  • Averaged 12.1 points for the season, but was at 16 points in his final 15 games with the Spartans
  • A former high-end four-star prospect who became MSU's most important player in the final six weeks of the season
  • Was named All-Big Ten Third Team
Strengths
  • Craftiness as a playmaker and someone comfortable at going with his own speed
  • Quality 3-point shooter on sufficient freshman-year sample size (41.2% on 114 attempts)
  • Mature for his age, a plus in the huddle and the locker room
Weaknesses
  • Has to hit the weight room and get stronger. Will likely be weathered by NBA physicality in Year 1
  • Frequent critique is his lack of right-handed ability. Needs to work on dexterity to enhance his effectiveness against NBA defenders
  • Needs to form a bit more into the combo point guard he'll have to be in order to grow into an NBA starter
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.08 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 6 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 2.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.97 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.22 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 38 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
25.2 12.1 3.3 1.9 49.3
18 Cedric Coward
Wash. St., Sr
 
SG

Super-interesting prospect. Coward started at D-III in Oregon, played two years at Eastern Washington, then only played six games at Washington State before a shoulder injury ended his season. Despite this, he's had a bigger jump in stock over the past two months than any prospect in this class. Excellent frame, super-smart, natural athletic build for an NBA wing. He's got some mystery to him. Could be the next Jalen Williams-type, and yes, that means his high-end outcome is NBA All-Star.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.91 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 2.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 24 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 10 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.97 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.51 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 30 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33 17.7 7 3.7 55.7
19 Liam McNeeley
UConn, Fr
 
SF

A mid-season ankle injury threatened his draft stock a bit, but McNeeley's made up ground the past couple of months and is now viewed as a top-20 prospect in the eyes of many. Brooklyn could use his toughness streak, in addition to his shooting and vocal proclivities. Has the smarts and hoops DNA to stick long-term in the NBA.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.75 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 8.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 3.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.11 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.16 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 36.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32.1 14.5 6 2.3 38.1
20 Nique Clifford
Colo. St., Sr
 
SF

An undeniable physical presence with the Rams, and someone who got better as each game got bigger last season. He's not an elite producer in any specific aspect, but Clifford's overall game is built for multiple contracts in the NBA. Athletic rebounder, powerful post presence, can face up and is a good rim protector in strong-side deployment and as a weak-side recovery artist.

Pro Comparison: Josh Hart
Summary

Clifford is already 23 years old after playing five years of college basketball. He is perceived as a plug-and-play wing who could be a nice complimentary two-way piece and crack a rotation sooner rather than later, especially if the shooting gains we saw recently prove to be sustainable.

About
  • Played 3 seasons at Colorado before transferring to Colorado State.
  • Averaged 18.9 points, 9.6 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 1.2 steals with 50/38/78 shooting splits last season.
  • Named first-team and defensive team All-Mountain West and was MVP of the MW Tournament in his final season.
Strengths
  • Versatile defender: He can guard multiple positions and also has good playmaking instincts on that end of the floor.
  • Perimeter rebounding: His 9.6 rebounds per game, and 8.1 on the defensive glass, were among the best in college basketball last year, especially for a wing.
  • Cutting, passing, and pull-up shooting: While the 3-point shooting is the single most important offensive variable, he owns a variety of complimenting skills on that end of the floor.
Weaknesses
  • One of the oldest prospects in the draft: He already turned 23 years old and so he’s 5 years older than other first-round candidates.
  • Lack of perceived upside: He took on more playmaking responsibilities this year at Colorado State, but that isn’t expected to be his role in the NBA.
  • Uncertainty about his long-term shooting consistency: While his shooting improved in the last two years at Colorado State, he was still streaky and had a somewhat inconsistent release after retooling his mechanics at CSU.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.96 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 8 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 31 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 6.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.87 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.07 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 35.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
35.4 18.9 9.6 4.4 49.6
21 Walter Clayton Jr.
Florida, Sr
 
PG

Call it the Jalen Brunson effect. The Jazz jump in and take a proven college star, not holding his age against him. Clayton was the third best player in college basketball last season, leading Florida to a national championship and doing so with flair. He hit numerous big shots and wound up shooting nearly 39% from 3-point range. He has no business falling past this range.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.81 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 4 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 1.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.52 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.14 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 37 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32.6 18.3 3.7 4.2 44.8
22 Joan Beringer C

What he lacks for in stats he makes up for in momentum. Beringer has been playing organized basketball for only four years. He won't turn 19 until after next season begins. He sits alongside Cedric Coward and Drake Powell as the three biggest risers over the past three months. Hawks could use someone with his size, dexterity and nose for rebounding.

23 Noah Penda SF

Decent chance Penda's off the board by the 23rd pick, but I'll slot him to Indiana, which can have no shortage of high-energy wings. Penda fits the profile. Nice tools as a team player/distributor while also having a physical prowess that will give him a chance at earning experimental minutes as a rookie.

24 Nolan Traore PG

The run on foreign-born prospects — and the number of Frenchmen making their way into the NBA — continues. It's conceivable that OKC trades out of this pick, but even if so, Traore's floor is probably 24/25/26 of the first round. He's a point guard who has questions about his shooting upside, but his knack for moving the ball and knowing where to be on the floor ranks on the upper end of players in this draft class.

Rating: 89.75
Pro Comparison: Andrew Nembhard
Summary

Long viewed as a likely lottery pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Traore is next in a long line of French basketball talents who have been productive professionally overseas. He played for Centre Federal from 2021-24 before spending the subsequent time leading up to the draft playing with Saint Quentin in the LNB Pro A. During that time he earned distinction as the FIBA Champions League Best Young Player and ascended into one of the best guards in the class.

About
  • Traore is a born-and-raised French product who has been identified as an elite prospect for years.
  • In 2021, he was admitted to INSEP, an elite training institute in Paris, and he has blossomed since then into one of the best international prospects in the world. He is top 10 in the LNB Pro A in assists per game.
  • Has a brother named Armel who was a 2024 prospect who went undrafted, later signed with the Lakers and is back in France playing in the Liga ACB.
Strengths
  • Solid overall build for a projected point guard. Measured 6-3 with long 6-8 wingspan. Already accustomed to playing against professionals in France and has a strong frame.
  • Crafty ballhandler who can get to his spots at will. Capable of putting pressure on the rim as an attacker and has excellent pacing and feel.
  • Innate sense for knowing how and when to get his teammates involved. Overall a selfless player who knows when to call his own number and when the defense dictates he should distribute.
Weaknesses
  • Strong shooting finish to the 2024-25 with Saint Quentin but largely has underwhelmed in that area. Shot 30% on 3-pointers in 2023-24 and only marginally improved in that area by percentage in 2024-25.
  • Can be an erratic decision-maker. Capable of making every pass in the playbook but equally capable of making dumbfounding, sometimes simple and correctable mistakes.
25 Thomas Sorber
Georgetown, Fr
 
C

This is a bargain pick, but I'm thinking Sorber might drift a little given the unknowns still attached to his game. The Georgetown product's season ended on Feb. 15 due to a foot injury that required surgery. Prior to that, he was one of the five-or-so most efficient first-year players in college basketball. The Magic would be an ideal fit for him to learn behind a fledgling frontline.

Combine Data
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 6 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 1 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
31.4 14.5 8.5 2.4 53.2
26 Ryan Kalkbrenner
Creighton, Sr
 
C

One of the best defenders in the history of the Big East. As in, top-five level. Kalkbrenner has obvious limits on his offensive impact, but as a big-man specialist, there is a role waiting for him in the NBA if the right team takes him and knows how to use him. Brooklyn sorely needs a center with his capacity to flip the floor and wreck around the paint.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.10 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 6 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 4 inches
  • Lane agility: 12.05 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.34 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 33 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
34.5 19.2 8.7 1.5 65.3
27 Ben Saraf PG

A lead guard who is highly likely to be taken in the first round, Saraf is one of the best passers in this year's class. He's a tier below Egor Demin, but has the size and body control to make the jump to the NBA. The ever-rebuilding Nets would be thrilled to have him on the board in this spot.

28 Drake Powell SF

I thought Powell could play himself into a top-20 pick a year from now if he returned to North Carolina, but the elite athlete opted to chase the NBA and is likely to be a first-round pick regardless. If he continues along his developmental path, Powell could grow into a top-15 defender in the NBA by the end of his first contract. A lot of work to do offensively. Good hoops IQ, willing to learn, important he lands with a team that can foster his development. Boston would be an ideal fit.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.79 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 0 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 37.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 7 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.71 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.07 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 43 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
25.6 7.4 3.4 1.1 48.3
29 Maxime Raynaud
Stanford, Sr
 
C

Raynaud was a stat stud at Stanford, quietly producing on a level only matched by a handful of players last season. The Suns are in a rebuild and could use someone who is ready to walk in, do as asked and be a pleaser on the court and in the locker room. Raynaud passes the test in all facets. Has the body and smarts to be a net positive right away.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.16 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 1.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 28 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 2 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.31 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.23 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 31.5 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33.4 20.2 10.6 1.7 46.7
30 Will Riley
Illinois, Fr
 
SF

A 19-year-old tweener forward from Canada who came off the bench in his one and only season at Illinois. Has nice feel for the game, which reflects in his touch around the rim on floaters, two-foot put-backs and contested layups. Has a neutral wingspan (6-8.75) on his 6-8.25 frame, which needs filling out in the next couple of years. It's possible he goes closer to 20 than 30, but production and measurables suggest this is his most pragmatic range.

Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.08 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 8.75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 27.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 8 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.73 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.21 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 32 inches

2024 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
25.7 12.6 4.1 2.2 43.2
default-cbs-image
Now Playing

Share Video

Link copied!
  • Image thumbnail
    2:17

    3 Reasons NBA Draft Is Interesting: Cooper Flagg

  • Image thumbnail
    4:31

    3 Reasons NBA Draft Is Interesting: Lack Of Depth

  • Image thumbnail
    1:38

    3 Reasons NBA Draft Is Interesting: Ace Bailey And Dylan Harper

  • Image thumbnail
    1:46

    Top 5 NBA Draft Prospects & Player Comps: No. 1 Cooper Flagg (Duke)

  • Image thumbnail
    1:58

    Top 5 NBA Draft Prospects & Player Comps: No. 2 Dylan Harper (Rutgers)

  • Image thumbnail
    0:54

    Top 5 NBA Draft Prospects & Player Comps: No. 3 Ace Bailey (Rutgers)

  • Image thumbnail
    0:55

    Top 5 NBA Draft Prospects & Player Comps: No. 4 Tre Johnson (Texas)

  • Image thumbnail
    0:40

    Top 5 NBA Draft Prospects & Player Comps: No. 5 VJ Edgecombe (Baylor)

  • Image thumbnail
    1:43

    Do The Knicks Need to Hire a Coach Before the Draft?

  • Image thumbnail
    1:56

    2025 NBA Draft Big Board: No. 18 Washington State SG Cedric Coward

  • Image thumbnail
    1:57

    2025 NBA Draft Big Board: No. 26 Florida PG Walter Clayton Jr.

  • Image thumbnail
    1:49

    2025 NBA Draft Big Board: No. 10 Maryland C Derik Queen

  • Image thumbnail
    1:58

    2025 NBA Draft Big Board: No. 6 Duke SF Kon Knueppel

  • Image thumbnail
    0:43

    Breaking News: Cooper Flagg declares for the 2025 NBA Draft

  • Image thumbnail
    0:31

    Breaking News: Kon Knueppel declares for NBA Draft

  • Image thumbnail
    0:24

    Breaking News: Jase Richardson declares for NBA Draft

  • Image thumbnail
    0:39

    Breaking News: Rutgers guard Dylan Harper declares for NBA Draft

  • Image thumbnail
    3:49

    Road To The Draft: Cody Williams

  • Image thumbnail
    1:25

    Memphis Grizzlies looking for a big man in the NBA Draft | 247Sports College Basketball Show