The first round of the 2025 NBA Draft wrapped up on June 25, and while all eyes were understandably on top picks like Cooper Flagg, who went No. 1 to the Dallas Mavericks, and Dylan Harper, who was selected second overall by the San Antonio Spurs, some of the most unforgettable moments came from outside the spotlight.
Among them was a heartwarming, emotional scene that had social media buzzing. But it wasn’t a player making the headlines, it was a family member.
Danny Wolf’s Brother Steals the Show During the 2025 NBA Draft
When the Brooklyn Nets selected former Michigan Wolverines big man Danny Wolf with the 27th overall pick, his older brother Jake stole the show with a raw, tear-filled reaction that quickly went viral.
As the announcement was made and Wolf walked across the stage to shake NBA Commissioner Adam Silver’s hand, cameras panned to his family. That’s when Jake, who was standing in the crowd, couldn’t hold back his emotions.
Danny Wolf’s brother after Danny was drafted. 🙏
(h/t @ohnohedidnt24)
pic.twitter.com/lfiEgEALwj— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) June 26, 2025
Fans online were quick to label it the NBA’s next great crying meme, joining the ranks of the legendary “Crying Michael Jordan” and “Crying LeBron James.” But for many, it went beyond internet humor. This was a moment that perfectly captured what Wolf’s success truly meant to his family, especially to Jake.
Jake isn’t just a passionate brother. He’s also someone who knows the grind of the game.
The middle of three brothers, Jake played four years of high school basketball at Lake Forest Academy, where he was named team captain and stood out during his junior year with an average of 14 points and seven rebounds per game.
He later attended Washington University in St. Louis, majoring in finance and organizational and strategic management. On the court, he stayed consistent, appearing in 27 games as a freshman and starting most of his sophomore year. In his final season, Jake averaged 4.7 points and 5.4 rebounds per game.
“I have the two greatest brothers in the world. I have an unbelievable sister who I love. They all helped me get to where I am today, and they’re going to help me get to where I am going to go in this league,” said Wolf after he was informed about his brother’s reaction.
Now shifting the focus back to Wolf, the seven-footer had an impressive junior season at Michigan. He averaged 13.2 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 3.6 assists, and his contributions played a crucial role in getting the Wolverines to the Sweet 16. Their season ended in a 78-65 defeat to Auburn.
With the Brooklyn Nets, Wolf has the potential to make an immediate impact. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting while also being a key contributor on defense and rebounding will be crucial to a team that many think has a bright future after an exciting NBA Draft.
