The 2025 NBA Draft is officially underway, and this year’s class is filled with promising prospects from both the collegiate level and overseas. There’s a deep pool of intriguing talent, but drafting players is an art form, as team fit, timeline, raw ability, and upside all play a role in evaluating a selection.
It’s too early to know which picks will pan out, but we can still assess how well each team maximized their opportunities on draft night. Here are our 2025 NBA Draft grades — from Brandon Austin (BA), Kyle Soppe (KS), and Cam Mellor (CM) — for every selection.
31) Rasheer Fleming, F, Saint Joseph’s
Phoenix Suns (via Minnesota Timberwolves)
Grade: A-
The Phoenix Suns really wanted Rasheer Fleming, and they made sure to go get him. After striking a deal with the Minnesota Timberwolves and paying a hefty price to move up to the 31st pick, Phoenix landed their guy.
Fleming brings a polished, plug-and-play game that feels tailor-made for a playoff contender. At 6’9″, he’s got the frame and fluidity to defend multiple positions, with a nonstop motor and feel for the game that jumps off the tape. He doesn’t need touches to make an impact; his activity, instincts, and defensive versatility speak for themselves.
Offensively, his growth as a shooter has been real. He shot 39% from deep this past season, showing real stretch potential and the ability to keep defenses honest. He may not have faced top-tier competition in the A-10, but his production and two-way versatility were hard to miss for those paying attention.
Phoenix didn’t just trade up for upside: They moved up for a guy who can help them win now. Fleming profiles as a high-IQ, low-maintenance contributor who can defend, rebound, space the floor, and thrive in a system that values unselfish, high-effort basketball.
It’s a win-now move that could quietly pay off in a big way.
32) Noah Penda, F, France
Orlando Magic (via Boston Celtics)
Grade: A
The Orlando Magic made a bold move on night two of the 2025 NBA Draft, trading up with the Boston Celtics and paying a premium to land Noah Penda at No. 32. It might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider that Penda carried a legitimate first-round grade on our board, the deal starts to make a lot more sense.
Penda is an NBA-ready forward with elite physical tools, versatile defensive instincts, and nonstop energy.
At 6’8″, 225 pounds, and armed with a 7-foot wingspan, the 20-year-old French product already plays with the maturity and anticipation of a seasoned pro. His two-way presence, defensive versatility, and flashes of high-level playmaking make him one of the more compelling international prospects in this class.
He thrives in passing lanes, rotates well as a weak-side rim protector, and can switch across multiple positions defensively. Offensively, he’s still a work in progress — he’ll need to continue building strength and polishing his jumper — but the foundation is solid.
His size, motor, and instincts give him real 3-and-D potential, with room to grow into a secondary playmaker. If the jumper comes along and he tightens up his handle, Penda could have a long runway in today’s NBA. His selfless approach and defensive upside suggest the Magic may have been right to pay the price.
33) Sion James, F, Duke
Charlotte Hornets
Grade: C+
The Charlotte Hornets used the 33rd pick on Sion James, a name that might not pop off the screen offensively, but there’s a reason he heard his name called early in the second round.
James was a steady contributor for the Duke Blue Devils last season, posting 8.6 points, 4.2 boards, and 2.9 assists per game in his fifth year at the college level. But those numbers don’t paint the full picture. What really sets him apart is his defense.
Measuring just under 6’5” and weighing in at 217 pounds at the combine, James has the kind of sturdy frame teams covet in a perimeter defender. He’s naturally physical, moves well laterally, and has the athleticism to match up with quicker guards. He checks a lot of the defensive boxes you want in a rotation wing.
He won’t light it up offensively, and his ceiling is limited because of that. But in the second round, the Hornets are betting on his defensive impact translating, and if it does, James could carve out a real role down the line.
34) Ryan Kalkbrenner, C, Creighton
Charlotte Hornets
Grade: A-
With the 34th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, the Charlotte Hornets grabbed a true throwback big with a modern twist: Ryan Kalkbrenner.
Kalkbrenner brings real value as a 7-footer who owns the paint. For good reason, he was the backbone of Creighton’s defense and a three-time Big East Defensive Player of the Year: Elite rim protection, sharp timing, and complete command down low.
He alters shots, erases mistakes, and plays like a true anchor on the interior.
Offensively, he knows exactly who he is. He stays within his role, is efficient on rolls and post touches, has soft hands, absorbs contact, and finishes with control. He’s not flashy, but he’s reliable.
What’s more interesting is how his game has grown. He’s added a steady mid-range shot and has started to stretch the floor with some pick-and-pop range, giving off just enough stretch-five potential to keep defenses honest.
Sure, there are mobility questions — especially when pulled into space or asked to switch — but his defensive instincts, interior polish, and developing jumper make him a smart long-term piece.
If the shot continues trending up and Charlotte surrounds him with the right scheme, Kalkbrenner could carve out a real niche as a dependable rotational big who impacts winning.
35) Johni Broome, C, Auburn
Philadelphia 76ers
Grade: B+
The Philadelphia 76ers added a seasoned, NBA-ready big man with the 35th pick by selecting Johni Broome. A super senior with a well-rounded skill set, Broome used his final season at Auburn to sharpen every facet of his game, competing with Cooper Flagg for every major national award in the process.
Now, he enters the league as one of the most polished post players in the class.
He’s a force in the paint — a low-post scorer who uses his strength and positioning to dominate the glass and protect the rim. Broome is relentless on the boards, and his physical presence shows up on both ends of the floor.
That said, his shooting range is still a work in progress. He connected on just 27.8% of his threes in 2024 and finished his college career at 30.2% from deep, a red flag in today’s pace-and-space NBA. Defensively, while he’s an excellent shot blocker, his average athleticism limits his ability to switch or guard on the perimeter.
There will be questions about how he holds up defensively in space at the next level. But for a team like Philadelphia looking to add toughness, high basketball IQ, and immediate depth in the frontcourt, Broome checks a lot of boxes.
36) Adou Thiero, F, Arkansas
Los Angeles Lakers (via Minnesota Timberwolves, Brooklyn Nets and Phoenix Suns)
Grade: B+
With the 36th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, the Los Angeles Lakers swung on upside, selecting Adou Thiero, a physically imposing, high-motor forward with a fascinating developmental arc.
Thiero started as a high school guard and grew into a 6’6” wing with a 7-foot wingspan and a rocked-up 218-pound frame. He looks the part from day one, with an NBA-ready body and the kind of burst that jumps off the screen in transition or on straight-line attacks.
As a slasher, Thiero is relentless.
He’s got an explosive first step, vertical pop, and the kind of downhill power that makes defenders bounce. Add in his elite offensive rebounding for a wing, where he simply outworks opponents, and you’ve got a guy who brings real juice without needing touches run for him.
Defensively, he fits the modern switchable mold. Size, mobility, and physicality all show up. He’s comfortable switching onto multiple positions, disrupting passing lanes, rebounding in traffic, and holding his own at the point of attack.
The question — and it’s a big one — is the shot. Thiero hit just 28.4% from three across his college career, with a 25.6% clip last season and a 71.1% mark at the line. Until that jumper levels up, spacing will be tricky.
Still, the Nets clearly see the upside. Thiero’s athleticism, versatility, and energy give him a real path to carving out a role, and if the jumper ever comes around, this could end up looking like a steal at 36.
37) Chaz Lanier, SG, Tennessee
Detroit Pistons
Grade: B
The Detroit Pistons used the 37th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft to snag one of college basketball’s most prolific shot-makers: Chaz Lanier.
The former Tennessee standout torched nets last season, drilling 39.5% of his threes and showcasing his knack for hitting tough shots off the dribble. He wasn’t just a catch-and-shoot threat either — Lanier proved he could create his own offense and score against high-level defenders in the SEC after four solid years at North Florida.
That said, Lanier isn’t without limitations.
At 6’4”, he’s slightly undersized for an NBA two-guard and doesn’t bring ideal strength to the position. His ball-handling can be shaky, especially when asked to facilitate, which hurts his ability to create for others.
Defensively, his frame and strength will be tested at the next level. Still, his shot-making gives him a legitimate chance to carve out a role.
If Lanier can hold his own on defense and smooth out the rough edges in his game, the Pistons may have landed a serious value pick who can provide floor spacing and instant offense off the bench.
38) Kam Jones, PG, Marquette
Indiana Pacers (via San Antonio Spurs)
Grade: A
With the 38th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, the Indiana Pacers snagged one of the most seasoned guards in the class: Marquette’s Kam Jones.
A crafty combo guard with a mature game, Jones thrives on shot creation and his innate feel as a playmaker. He’s polished. He’s skilled. Floaters, pull-ups, movement off the ball, his offensive bag is well-stocked and rooted in high IQ and big-game experience.
There are questions about his ceiling as a lead guard, especially after a slight dip in efficiency and average athletic tools, but the appeal here is clear: Jones is ready.
Plug him into a system, and he’ll elevate it. He doesn’t need the ball in his hands constantly to make an impact. He knows how to play winning basketball.
Defensively, he brings active feet, a strong frame, and a desire to get stops. He’s not just staying in front, he’s getting into ball-handlers, disrupting rhythm, and making life uncomfortable.
In Indy, surrounded by NBA-caliber talent and deployed in a more natural secondary role, Jones profiles as a steady backcourt contributor. Scoring punch, smart reads, and versatility, all without needing a high usage rate to shine.
This is exactly the type of low-risk, high-reward investment that an ascending team with a transcendent player is wise to make.
If he tightens up the handle and brings more consistent energy on the defensive end, there’s a clear path for him to stick in a rotation for the long haul.
39) Alijah Martin, G, Florida
Toronto Raptors
Grade: C-
The Gators don’t win the 2025 national title without Alijah Martin as his 14.4 points, 4.5 boards, and relentless, bruising defense were crucial. Sure, he’s battle-tested as a five-year college vet who plays with the kind of chip you only earn over time but at 6’2″, 210 pounds, he’s built like a tank and uses every ounce of that strength to bully opponents on defense, a strength that may not correlate to the NBA.
Toronto reaching for him at 39? That’s a bit of a head-scratcher.
Offensively, Martin’s limited. He needs others to generate looks for him and didn’t show much shot creation of his own last year.
He’ll bring high-motor, defensive grit to the next level, but he’s undersized and doesn’t have the length NBA teams usually covet on the wing. He’s going to have to out-compete and out-hustle just to earn minutes.
His jumper is shaky, not broken, but far from reliable. If teams start going under screens or sagging off, he’ll have to prove he can punish them. Beyond that, he doesn’t offer much on offense, and that caps his ceiling. Energy and effort can go a long way, but this pick felt more like a bet on intangibles than NBA-ready skill.
Martin may forever be a Gator legend. But the Raptors may have reached a little too far on this one.
40) Micah Peavy, F, Georgetown
New Orleans Pelicans (via Washington Wizards)
Grade: B
The New Orleans Pelicans used the 40th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft on Micah Peavy, doubling, no, tripling down on their commitment to size and switchable athleticism on the wing. At 6’8” and 220 pounds, Peavy walks into the league with an NBA-ready frame and the kind of positional size that instantly plays at the next level.
He’s a two-guard by trade, but projects more cleanly as a small forward in the pros, especially on a Pelicans team that’s zigging while most zag. They ranked 26th in three-point rate last season, and they aren’t exactly hiding it. Outside of the recently added Jordan Poole, this is a group built to slash, bully, and defend—not bomb away. Peavy fits that mold.
In his final season at Georgetown, he was the guy. Peavy averaged 17.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.6 assists, comfortable initiating offense and taking control when needed. That won’t be his role in the league. He lacks elite burst and high-end shot creation, and his ceiling is capped by below-average foot speed and vertical pop.
But his 40.0% clip from deep on four attempts a night gives you enough to work with, especially when paired with his physical tools and willingness to defend.
He’s not flashy, but he’s mature, battle-tested, and has logged real minutes across three different programs. The Pelicans aren’t betting on upside here as much as they are on floor.
Peavy gives them a plug-and-play piece who can eat minutes, do the dirty work, and contribute in the margins. It’s a unique roster build, and while it may not spike their win total in the short term, it’s clear New Orleans is building something very intentional. Peavy might just be another quiet piece to that larger puzzle.
41) Koby Brea, G, Kentucky
Phoenix Suns (via Golden State Warriors)
Grade: B-
The Phoenix Suns used their 41st pick in the 2025 NBA Draft to grab one of the best pure shooters in this class in Koby Brea.
Brea is a certified sniper from deep, thriving in an off-ball role and perfectly suited as a complementary weapon on the wing. After four years with the Dayton Flyers and a final season with the Kentucky Wildcats, he enters the league as a seasoned and polished prospect.
His upside may be capped, but he’s the kind of mature player who could contribute as a floor-spacing role player from day one.
He shot a scorching 43.5% from three and averaged 11.6 points per game for the Wildcats, providing real value as a catch-and-shoot threat.
That said, his defensive limitations showed against SEC competition. A lack of high-end athleticism, quick-twitch movement, and lateral burst makes him vulnerable when switched onto more dynamic scorers; those traits could limit his long-term ceiling.
Brea slots best on a team with a strong backline rim protector and a lead ball-handler who can draw defenders and kick to shooters, because at 6’5”, he’s not creating much off the bounce.
For Phoenix, who already have offensive firepower, he adds another reliable perimeter piece who can punish defenses for collapsing.
42) Maxime Raynaud, C, Stanford
Sacramento Kings
Grade: A
The Kings went local with the 42nd pick, selecting Stanford’s Maxime Raynaud, a 7-footer who turned heads at the combine. He measured in at a legit 7’0” barefoot with a 7’1” wingspan and made the most of the scrimmage portion, flashing the kind of offensive versatility that makes you believe he can be a reliable rotational big at the next level.
He’s not an above-the-rim finisher in the mold of a lob threat, but what he lacks in vertical pop, he makes up for with footwork, feel, and a crafty sense of timing. Raynaud’s touch around the rim, combined with his ability to manipulate angles, helped him carve up opposing bigs and get to his spots, where his sneaky quickness gave him the edge.
He was the engine of Stanford’s offense, putting up 20.2 points and 10.6 boards per game in the ACC.
Where he can carve out a role in Sacramento is with his rebounding, shot-blocking (1.4 blocks a night), and his ability to space the floor. He hit 34.7% of his threes on decent volume (5.5 attempts per game).
After a standout combine showing, some evaluators even floated late first-round potential. His skill set fits today’s NBA. While the sample was small, he looked like a guy who belongs.
43) Jamir Watkins, F, Florida State
Washington Wizards
Grade: A-
The Washington Wizards got themselves a steal at No. 43 with Jamir Watkins, a player we had ranked 31st on our board. That’s strong value this late in the draft.
Watkins is a long, physical wing with the kind of two-way makeup teams covet in today’s NBA. He brings toughness, feel, and versatility, all traits that tend to translate early for role players.
No, he may not have the ceiling of some younger, high-upside swings, but Watkins’ maturity, motor, and well-rounded game make him a legit plug-and-play candidate from day one.
Where he really separates himself is on the defensive end. Watkins defends with pride, switching across multiple positions, competing hard on the perimeter, and regularly jumping passing lanes. That blend of size, instincts, and energy gives him real potential as a plus wing defender at the next level.
Offensively, Watkins is at his best getting downhill. He’s an aggressive slasher who doesn’t shy away from contact and can make plays off the catch. The big question is the jumper as he shot just 32.5% from deep in college and 75.8% from the line across four seasons, and he hasn’t always finished efficiently at the rim.
But if he can refine the shot and improve his touch around the basket, Watkins has every chance to carve out a meaningful role. His defensive versatility, toughness, and plug-in skill set give him a clear pathway to sticking in a rotation. For Washington, this is a high-floor pick with great value at 43.
44) Brooks Barnhizer, F, Northwestern
Oklahoma City Thunder
Grade: D
Nobody — and I mean nobody — had this on their bingo card.
With the 44th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, the Oklahoma City Thunder pulled off one of the bigger surprises of the night, selecting Northwestern wing Brooks Barnhizer, a player many had pegged as a fringe second-rounder or undrafted free agent just weeks ago. And yet, here we are.
Barnhizer becomes the first Wildcat drafted since Evan Eschmeyer back in 1999, a 26-year drought snapped.
Now, let’s talk about the why.
At 6’6”, Barnhizer plays with a brand of defensive grit that you just can’t teach. Before his senior year was derailed by a foot injury in January, he filled the stat sheet for the Wildcats: 17.1 points, 8.8 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 2.3 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game.
It’s clear the Thunder clearly fell in love with his defensive motor during the pre-draft process. He’s a relentless on-ball defender who doesn’t back down, and OKC has long valued players who can switch, scrap, and cover ground. Barnhizer fits that mold to a tee.
But this pick isn’t without risk.
His outside shot? Still a major question mark.
Barnhizer hit just 31% from deep over his college career and dipped to 26.6% last season while playing through injury. That’ll have to improve if he wants to stick on a deep, competitive Thunder roster. But OKC has been known to invest in high-IQ wings with defensive chops and let the shot develop later.
This isn’t a splashy pick. It’s not a scorer’s pick. It’s a culture pick. A toughness pick. A “we see something you don’t” pick.
And if the Thunder can help him find a consistent corner three? He could carve out a role in the NBA. But we don’t see it.
45) Rocco Zikarsky, C, Australia
Minnesota Timberwolves (via Los Angeles Lakers and Chicago Bulls)
Grade: B+
With the 45th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, the Minnesota Timberwolves swung on upside by selecting Rocco Zikarsky, a fascinating young center whose elite size, fluid mobility, and natural rim protection make him a compelling long-term bet, even as recent buzz cooled due to a knee injury that cut short his NBL season.
Zikarsky stands 7’3″ with a 7’5″ wingspan and looks every bit the part of a modern-day anchor in the paint. He’s a legit lob threat, a reliable pick-and-roll finisher, and already flashes strong timing as a shot-blocker.
Add in nimble footwork, soft hands, and surprising coordination for a player his size, and it’s easy to see why Minnesota was intrigued.
There’s still work to do. He’ll need to expand his offensive bag beyond paint touches, develop a consistent jumper, and prove he can hold his own in space defensively.
But at just 18 years old, Zikarsky has the physical tools and foundational skill set to eventually grow into an impactful, traditional big, something the Wolves clearly believe in.
46) Amari Williams, C, Kentucky
Boston Celtics (via Orlando Magic)
Grade: C
The Celtics added one of the more unique center prospects in this class with the 46th pick in Amari Williams — a physical, pass-first big who thrives as both a high-post connector and low-post defender.
He’s not your prototypical floor-spacing five, but what he lacks in perimeter shooting, he makes up for with vision, feel, and toughness. Williams has the tools to carve out NBA rotation minutes as a face-up center who can initiate offense in motion sets, anchor a second unit on the defensive end, and elevate halfcourt possessions with his screening and basketball IQ.
Boston’s decision to bring in frontcourt help makes plenty of sense, given they moved off Kristaps Porziņģis in the pre-draft process and are clearly managing minutes with an aging Al Horford. All signs suggest the Celtics are viewing 2026 as something of a developmental year — and that runway could be perfect for Williams to grow through real game reps.
He spent five seasons in college, so his growth curve might look a bit different than a one-and-done prospect, but that experience also means he’s more physically and mentally ready than most second-rounders.
He may not have picked up basketball seriously until sixth grade, but he’s made a habit of accelerating since.
If Boston leans into a scheme that accentuates his strengths and minimizes the shooting limitations, Williams has a chance to stick, and stick well. While many had him pegged as a late second-rounder, his combination of passing, defensive instincts, and interior physicality made him a sneaky fit for teams looking to boost toughness and halfcourt connectivity.
For Boston, this feels like a long-term value play with real upside.
47) Bogoljub Marković, F, Serbia
Milwaukee Bucks
Grade: B
The Milwaukee Bucks used the 47th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft to land Bogoljub Markovic, the latest skilled big man to come out of Serbia’s Mega Basket program, a proven factory for NBA-ready talent.
Nearly 7 feet tall, Markovic made a strong impression at the Nike Hoop Summit, playing with a chip on his shoulder, showing real toughness, and flashing a polished offensive skill set well beyond his years.
Offensively, he profiles as a modern stretch big with legit floor-spacing potential. He hit 39.4% of his catch-and-shoot threes this past season, and his jumper is smooth with a high release, quick motion, and no wasted movement.
He’s also got some real craft on the block, scoring with either hand and showing the occasional flash as a playmaker. The handle and decision-making still need refinement, but the offensive upside is hard to ignore.
On defense, he’s more of a positionally sound guy than a true rim deterrent. He rotates smartly and competes, but his frame isn’t built for banging with stronger, more physical bigs just yet.
That said, if he can consistently bring value as a shooter and short-roll weapon, the Bucks may have just added a very interesting developmental piece to their frontcourt. Just don’t expect to see him any time soon.
48) Javon Small, G, West Virginia
Memphis Grizzlies
Grade: B+
With the 48th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, the Memphis Grizzlies added a tough, fearless competitor in Javon Small, a dynamic lead guard who may not check the traditional size boxes at 6’2″, but more than makes up for it with poise, feel, and a relentless competitive edge.
A four-year college player, Small proved his mettle by thriving in a high-usage role for a shorthanded West Virginia squad. He showed he could carry the load, create for others, and hit timely shots when it mattered most. His steady growth year over year shaped him into a high-IQ playmaker comfortable on or off the ball.
Offensively, Small brings a well-rounded scoring package. He shot 42.5% on catch-and-shoot threes and 87.1% from the free-throw line as a senior, with deep range and a quick trigger. He’s especially effective out of the pick-and-roll, where his decision-making and burst allow him to manipulate defenses.
He’s also physical and crafty getting downhill, drawing contact and earning trips to the line at a high rate.
Defensively, he makes up for his lack of size with motor and discipline. He stays locked in, battles through screens, and plays with the kind of energy that makes him a disruptive presence.
While some might question his ceiling due to his frame, Small’s production, toughness, and ability to both run the show and space the floor give him a real shot to stick in Memphis and earn minutes in a rotation.
49) Tyrese Proctor, G, Duke
Cleveland Cavaliers
Grade: C+
A former five-star recruit, Tyrese Proctor came to Duke from Australia with plenty of buzz, but after three seasons in Durham, he never quite reached the ceiling many envisioned. Now, the Cleveland Cavaliers are taking a swing on his tools with the 49th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Proctor is a 6’6” athletic guard who can get downhill and pressure the rim, but consistently struggles to finish once he gets there. While he shot 40.5% from three as a junior, the form and consistency still leave questions.
He’s a solid on-ball defender who uses his length well, and his best-case scenario likely looks like a rotational 3-and-D contributor.
The flashes were always there — he had moments where you saw the vision of a dynamic combo guard — but uneven decision-making and wavering confidence kept him from fully unlocking that potential.
At 21 years old, it’s unlikely he sees meaningful NBA minutes right away. He’ll probably spend time with the Charge, developing his game and ironing out the inconsistencies.
But for a late second-round pick, Cleveland is betting on pedigree and upside, and hoping that the version of Proctor everyone once expected is still in there somewhere.
50) Kobe Sanders, G, Nevada
Los Angeles Clippers (via New York Knicks)
Grade: C
After four solid years at Cal Poly, Kobe Sanders made the move to Nevada for his fifth-year senior season and wasted no time proving he belonged. He immediately became the Wolf Pack’s go-to guy, leading the team in scoring (15.8 PPG) and assists (4.5 APG), while also pulling down nearly four rebounds a night.
At 6’9″, Sanders is a bit of an anomaly, a jumbo-sized creator who’s surprisingly smooth with the ball in his hands. He operated as a primary initiator at Nevada, showing off a confident pull-up game from midrange and consistently getting to his spots in the Mountain West.
The concern, as it is with most older prospects drafted late, is finding a sustainable role at the next level, especially since he won’t be handling the ball on every possession. His career 3-point shooting mark (32.9%) leaves room for growth, and that could be the swing skill.
That said, Sanders gives the Clippers an intriguing developmental piece with perimeter size, vision, and versatility. He’s a capable multi-positional defender, even if he can be overpowered by stronger wings at times. If the shot ticks up even slightly, there’s a pathway for him to stick.
51) Mohamed Diawara, F, France
New York Knicks (via Los Angeles Clippers)
Grade: D+
With the 51st pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, the New York Knicks added a long-term upside swing in Mohamed Diawara, a 6’8″ forward with elite physical tools, defensive versatility, and big-game experience as a starter for both Cholet and France’s U20 gold medal team.
He’s the kind of role-embracing, switchable wing NBA teams covet, one who doesn’t need the ball but flashes enough handle and vision to hint at more down the line.
But Diawara isn’t going to light up a scoreboard yet.
His offensive game is still raw. The shooting hasn’t progressed: 24-of-75 from three this past season in France’s Pro A, nearly identical to his numbers in Pro B the year before.
His free-throw percentage also dipped to 51.1%, which might level out around 60% unless he makes serious strides. He’s not a consistent threat with the ball in his hands and can sometimes bog down the offense trying to create, but that should clean up in a more defined NBA role.
Defensively, he’s disruptive and switch-capable, more of a deterrent than a playmaker at this stage, logging just four blocks in over 580 minutes this season. He’ll need to add strength to hold his own in the post and still struggles a bit with lateral quickness when defending quicker guards.
Diawara plays hard, thinks the game well, and can defend across multiple positions. If the jumper ever clicks and he packs on some muscle, he could very well exceed the expectations of a typical late second-round pick.
52) Alex Toohy, F, Australia
Golden State Warriors (via Phoenix Suns)
Grade: B
At 21, Alex Toohey bypassed a commitment to Gonzaga and made his mark with the NBL’s Sydney Kings instead, playing a complementary role on the wing where he spaced the floor with a smooth shooting stroke and brought intensity on defense.
That defensive energy is where he showed some promise, but it’s also where scouts remain cautious.
Toohey’s got legit positional size at 6’8” with a 6’11” wingspan, but his athleticism isn’t quite at NBA levels. Still, he’s comfortable pushing the ball in transition and doesn’t force the issue, he finds teammates and plays within himself.
Offensively, his upside is tied mostly to his shooting. He’ll stretch the floor and knock down open looks, but creating off the bounce or finishing through contact isn’t really part of his game yet. And while he’s still a raw prospect, he’s also older than many of the players taken around him, something that likely impacted how teams viewed his long-term ceiling.
Still, the Warriors clearly saw value at 52. He brings shooting, size, and a selfless approach, and in Golden State’s system, that’s often more than enough to carve out a role.
53) John Tonje, SG, Wisconsin
Utah Jazz
Grade: B-
The Utah Jazz used the 53rd pick in the 2025 NBA Draft to select John Tonje, who wrapped up a strong sixth-year senior campaign with the Wisconsin Badgers. Tonje led the team in scoring and finished second in rebounds, operating as the focal point of Wisconsin’s offense thanks to his steady hands and veteran poise.
At 6’5” and 218 pounds, the combo guard brings a mature frame and mindset to the next level after spending six seasons at the collegiate level. He doesn’t project as a high-upside player, but that experience could make him one of the rare second-round picks capable of contributing early in his career.
That said, Tonje’s athletic limitations may cap his overall NBA impact. He’s unlikely to command the same usage at the next level, meaning he’ll need to thrive in a more defined role.
The good news? He knocked down 40.5% of his catch-and-shoot opportunities last season, an encouraging sign that he can slot into a floor-spacing role at the next level.
54) Taelon Peter, G, Liberty
Indiana Pacers
Grade: D-
After being named the Great American Conference Player of the Year at Division II Arkansas Tech, Peter made the leap to Division I and didn’t quite become a world beater at Liberty.
The 6’4″, 210-pound shooting guard handled the jump relatively well, finishing as the Flames’ leading scorer in his lone season, but he only averaged 13.7 points per game.
Still, he scored with efficiency, shooting 57.8% from the field and a solid 45.3% from three.
His breakout performance came when he dropped 33 points in a win over Middle Tennessee State, a game that prompted Liberty head coach Ritchie McKay to praise Peter’s ability to command an offense with his quote of “he can make shots at all the levels.”
Despite projections that had him going undrafted, Peter’s strong season and scoring versatility caught the eye of NBA scouts. Now, he’s officially headed to the league, selected 54th overall by the Indiana Pacers in the 2025 NBA Draft.
But it’s a head-scratcher given the talent on the board still.
55) Lachlan Olbrich, F, Australia
Chicago Bulls (via Los Angeles Lakers)
Grade: D+
With the 55th pick, the Chicago Bulls took a flier on Lachlan Olbrich, a throwback-style big man who thrives in the post and brings a polished skill set rarely seen from players his age.
But while his footwork, touch, and passing instincts are promising, the NBA may not be the best fit for his current profile, and this selection feels more like a developmental long shot than a real value grab late in the second round.
Olbrich shines with his feel for the game, particularly as a passer. He averaged 1.6 assists in just 16 minutes per game and has proven he can operate as a short-roll facilitator or dribble handoff hub.
His hands are elite, he catches cleanly and transitions smoothly into moves, and his 69% shooting at the rim in the halfcourt highlights his touch and creativity around the basket. He’s also a reliable rebounder with a strong motor, bringing maturity and a pro résumé that includes time with the Australian Boomers and championships in the NBL1 and NZNBL.
But for all his polish, Olbrich is fighting an uphill battle athletically.
He’s an undersized center without vertical pop, plays below the rim, and lacks the lateral mobility to defend in space. His defensive playmaking is minimal, and his struggles as a free-throw shooter raise concerns about any future shooting development.
His slow screen timing and occasional spacing issues add to the questions about where he fits in modern NBA offenses, and it’s not clear if he can survive at either the 4 or the 5.
There’s real feel here and enough tape to justify giving him a shot on a two-way contract, but the path to NBA minutes is narrow. Olbrich will need significant growth in his shooting and defense to carve out a role.
For Chicago, this pick feels more like a stash-and-see than a strategic win.
56) Will Richard, G, Florida
Golden State Warriors (via Memphis Grizzlies)
Grade: C-
The Golden State Warriors added another versatile piece to their backcourt with the selection of Will Richard, an athletic combo guard who helped lead Florida to a national title in 2025.
Richard projects as a prototypical 3-and-D wing at the next level. At 6’4”, he brings a smaller frame for the traditional 2, but has decent rebounding ability for his size. What separates him is his defensive motor that fits Golden State’s switch-heavy scheme.
He’s a smooth, confident shooter from beyond the arc and showed flashes as a slasher and secondary scorer throughout Florida’s title run. Around the rim, he finishes well through contact and doesn’t shy away from physicality.
That said, Richard doesn’t come without limitations.
He lacks a true blow-by first step, which caps his upside as an isolation creator. He’s not a traditional point guard and at times can be too passive offensively, deferring even when opportunities present themselves.
His shot selection can also be hit-or-miss, especially in rhythm-breaking situations. He’ll need to tighten that up to carve out consistent NBA minutes.
Still, in the late second round, this is the kind of upside swing that makes sense. Richard fits the Warriors’ mold: high-character, low-maintenance, and ready to compete defensively from day one. If he can simplify his offensive role and knock down open looks, he could carve out a long-term spot as a rotation-level contributor in Golden State.
57) Max Shulga, G, VCU
Boston Celtics (via Orlando Magic)
Grade: C
The Boston Celtics used their 57th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft to grab Max Shulga, who shined the past two seasons as VCU’s lead ball-handler and primary creator. In 2024–25, he averaged an impressive 15.0 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game.
At 6’5”, Shulga brings strong positional size for a lead guard, though that may not be his role at the next level. His lack of explosiveness could be a challenge against quicker, more aggressive NBA defenders.
That said, Shulga’s game translates better as a wing where his shooting (he hit 38.7% from beyond the arc last season) and advanced pick-and-roll reads really shine. He’s excellent at manipulating angles and getting into the paint, not because he’s blowing by anyone, but because he consistently makes the right read at the right time.
Defensively, he’s not a stopper by any stretch, but he held his own. He wasn’t a liability and actually showed quick hands, averaging 1.8 steals per game during his final season at VCU.
58) Saliou Niang, G, Senegal
Cleveland Cavaliers
Grade: C+
The Cavaliers made it official: Saliou Niang is the 58th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Based on everything in his scouting profile, this pick tracks. Niang’s defensive versatility, elite physical traits, and standout measurements at the Adidas Eurocamp in Trento, Italy, gave him a late second-round grade throughout the pre-draft process.
Offense is where the questions start, however.
He’s not reliable at the rim yet, and the three-ball hasn’t come around. But his fluidity, burst, and ability to get downhill with consistency give you something to work with.
He’s still raw, which isn’t ideal for a 21-year-old, and that’s why he wasn’t a first-rounder. But you can see the appeal.
He’s a G League development project with the kind of athletic profile that makes the NBA transition a lot smoother.
59) Jahmai Mashack, G, Tennessee
Memphis Grizzlies (via Golden State Warriors, Houston Rockets, and Phoenix Suns)
Grade: B+
With the 59th pick, the Memphis Grizzlies selected Jahmai Mashack, a defensive nightmare with real upside. One of college basketball’s most disruptive defenders, Mashack earned All-SEC honors and was named National Defensive Player of the Year by The Field of 68.
He anchored Tennessee’s defense, taking on the toughest matchups and shutting down opposing guards with consistency.
He profiles as a real problem for backcourt scorers at the next level. The offensive game still needs refining, but with back-to-back seasons of respectable free-throw and three-point percentages, there’s hope. If others can create shots for him, Mashack has shown enough touch to hit just enough to justify his minutes, especially with how impactful he is on the other end.
Tennessee’s offense limited his volume, but his role was clear, and he played it with discipline and edge. Memphis isn’t lacking in shot creators or offensive juice. What they do need is tone-setters and backcourt defenders who can stay in front and make plays without fouling. That’s Mashack’s lane.
Physically, he checks a lot of boxes: 6’3.75” in shoes, 6’8” wingspan, 200 pounds of muscle with room to grow. He’s quick, physical, and built to switch. Already known as a versatile stopper in college, he projects to guard 1s, 2s, and some 3s with ease.
This team already has defenders at every level, and Mashack lands in a system that values a defense-first mentality. Only time will tell if his offense develops enough to stick, but there’s no question—he landed in a spot that makes sense for his skill set.
The Grizzlies may have grabbed a late-round gem who fits their identity perfectly.
2025 NBA Draft Grades | Round 1
1) Cooper Flagg, F, Duke
Dallas Mavericks
Grade: A+
Cooper Flagg is undeniably a generational talent. At just 18 years old, he showcased remarkable two-way versatility at Duke, averaging 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game. His advanced metrics reflect one of the most dominant freshman seasons in college basketball history.
Flagg’s playmaking ability could transform the Dallas Mavericks’ offensive identity. The team hasn’t ranked better than 20th in assist rate during the Jason Kidd era, which is surprising given Kidd’s pedigree as a Hall of Fame point guard.
COOPER FLAGG FADEAWAY JUMPER 🔥
📺 ESPN | Auburn-Duke pic.twitter.com/RD1xKjK9rs
— ESPN (@espn) December 5, 2024
Flagg’s basketball IQ sets him apart from other prospects. He plays with the poise of a veteran, never dominating possessions unnecessarily while demonstrating an exceptional feel for spacing, timing, and decision-making. This should allow him to mesh seamlessly with Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis, enhancing rather than competing with their skill sets.
For Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison, who faced criticism after trading Luka Doncic, landing Flagg provides a new franchise cornerstone that brings immediate excitement back to the organization while offering elite upside for years to come. (BA)
2) Dylan Harper, G, Rutgers
San Antonio Spurs
Grade: A-
You don’t often get a team picking second overall that could be in win-now mode, but that’s where the San Antonio Spurs sit with Victor Wembanyama at the core of everything and Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle giving them the potential to accelerate their development.
How do they unlock their true ceiling sooner rather than later? An assassin from distance. Castle doesn’t project as that sort of player, but he proved himself as a real threat off the bounce (more drives per game than Russell Westbrook and more points per drive than Trae Young, an impressive feat given the lack of pressure he put on defenses from three-point land).
MORE: Best Remaining Prospects in the 2025 NBA Draft
Dylan Harper didn’t shoot it well from 3 at Rutgers (33.3%), but the pedigree is there, and the quality of look should be high given the talent on this roster, a luxury the Scarlet Knights give him. He profiles as a better spot-up shooter than a pull-up creator, and that should work out just fine as he fine-tunes his game.
It would take a flipping of their win/loss record this season (34-48 to 48-34) to threaten for a true playoff spot in the loaded Western Conference, but if they can remain reasonably healthy, that’s not at all a result that is out of the question. (KS)
3) VJ Edgecombe, SG, Baylor
Philadelphia 76ers
Grade: A
The Sixers went with VJ Edgecombe, and it makes sense. The reigning Big 12 Freshman of the Year wasted no time making his mark at Baylor. At 6’5″, he’s an elite athlete with a nonstop motor who might just be the most explosive player in this entire class.
But what really separates Edgecombe — especially for a team like Philly — is his defensive versatility and team-first mentality. He isn’t expected to carry a scoring load from day one, which actually plays to his strengths.
The Sixers get a high-impact wing who thrives at pressuring the ball, switching across positions, and playing with a tempo that injects life into every possession. He fits seamlessly into a system that needs toughness, energy, and a defensive edge on the perimeter.
VJ Edgecombe defensive tape.
28.6% (!) dFG when guarding P&R ball-handlers + 33.3% (!) dFG on isolation plays — one of the best defensive guard prospects in recent memory. pic.twitter.com/g8PCIpHVqC
— Mohamed (@mcfNBA) June 5, 2025
Edgecombe’s game isn’t just built on raw athleticism, either. His instincts on defense are real, and he’s shown flashes of shot creation and passing that suggest he’s only scratching the surface. Sure, the handle and offensive polish are still developing, but he’s already comfortable working within a team structure, something the Sixers prioritized.
His upside as a dynamic two-way presence is substantial, but even in the short term, he brings the kind of grit, length, and athleticism that complements their core.
In a class full of upside bets, Philly opted for the one that fills a clear role from day one, while still offering plenty of long-term growth. Edgecombe isn’t just a pick; the Sixers chose fit, identity, and immediate impact. (CM)
4) Kon Kneuppel, F, Duke
Charlotte Hornets
Grade: B+
The Charlotte Hornets entered the draft as one of the worst teams in the NBA, so they needed to add talent across the board. Kon Knueppel wasn’t the best player available, but his skill set may be exactly what this young team needs to improve in 2025 and beyond.
Knueppel is one of the most polished offensive wings in the 2025 NBA Draft. He is known for his elite shooting, physical toughness, and high basketball IQ, traits that make him a natural fit alongside Charlotte’s young core of LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, and Miles Bridges.
While he may not have the highest ceiling in the lottery, he offers a high floor and a game that translates immediately to the NBA level.
Arguably the best shooter in this class, Knueppel boasts deep range, a lightning-quick release, and impressive touch, backed up by his 47.9% shooting from the field, 40.6% from three, and 91.4% from the free-throw line. He thrives in the halfcourt, excelling at creating space even without elite athleticism.
Defensively, he’s not the most versatile, but his toughness and awareness make up for it. For a Hornets team that needs structure and shooting, Knueppel brings both immediate impact and long-term value. (BA)
5) Ace Bailey, G, Rutgers
Utah Jazz
Grade: C
The Utah Jazz are a franchise in need of a spark (three straight sub-40-win seasons after winning 40+ in seven straight campaigns), and they certainly have a chance in gaining Ace Bailey, a player to who scoring comes easily.
Utah’s offense ranked 24th in terms of efficiency a season ago, and with Bailey, a move toward league average is certainly a possibility in short order. That said, there are game maturity issues to overcome, which could lead to an extended learning curve at the professional level.
In college, tough shots and loose ball handling were on display with regularity. The Jazz committed more turnovers per game last season than any team over the past decade, and while he has Day 1 shot creation upside, there are going to be growing pains as a part of this rebuild.
Keyonte George (2023 16th overall pick, efficiency remains a concern as a scorer, but he did average 2.1 assists-per-turnover in 2024), Brice Sensabaugh (2023 28th overall pick, joined Kevin Durant and Zach LaVine as the only players to average 3 3PM and shoot 45% from deep in the second half of 2024), and Isaiah Collier (2024 29th overall pick, 46 starts last season and 12.0 PPG post-All Star Break) give this team a young foundation with Bailey next to Lauri Markkanen (signed on for five more years last summer).
Rock bottom may have been the 2024 season, and that’s a start, but asking this team to fly up the standings in the short term is wishful thinking, even if Bailey is a hit as a rookie. (KS)
6) Tre Johnson, G, Texas
Washington Wizards
Grade: B+
The Washington Wizards added firepower to their backcourt by drafting Texas freshman Tre Johnson, a dynamic scorer with the physical tools to thrive at the next level. At 6’6″ with a 6’10” wingspan, Johnson checks the boxes for an NBA two-guard and then some.
He’s one of the most polished pure scorers in this class — a tough shot-maker who can create his own offense at all three levels.
Johnson didn’t just flash potential at Texas. As a freshman, he led the SEC in scoring, averaging nearly 20 points per game. His confidence as a scorer stands out, and he’s already shown he can shoulder the offensive load.
Some Tre Johnson highlights
19.9 PPG (1st in the SEC, 22nd in the nation)
39.7 3pt% (2nd in SEC) on 6.8 3pt attempts/game
6’4 ¾, 190 lbs, 6’10 wingspan, 8’5″ standing reach https://t.co/DW1vQlAY5I pic.twitter.com/aEmnruodcx— 🏆🥇 (@fsh733) May 13, 2025
That said, there’s still room to grow. He’ll need to tighten up his finishing through contact, pick his spots more wisely, and show more consistent engagement on the defensive end. The tools are there — length, athleticism, instincts — it’s just about putting it all together.
For the Wizards, Johnson brings immediate shooting and scoring upside alongside their current core. He may not be a complete two-way player yet, but the offensive ceiling is NBA-ready, and there’s real long-term potential to develop into a three-level weapon that can help stretch the floor and punish defenses. (CM)
7) Jeremiah Fears, G, Oklahoma
New Orleans Pelicans
Grade: A-
Ahead of the draft, the New Orleans Pelicans swapped C.J. McCollum for Jordan Poole, but they just landed their point guard of the future in Oklahoma’s Jeremiah Fears.
After a turbulent 21-61 season and a shakeup in the front office, the Pelicans are searching for long-term stability, and Fears is the kind of high-upside talent who could help anchor their rebuild. One of the youngest players in the 2025 class, he already carries himself with the poise and confidence of a seasoned lead guard.
A dynamic shot creator, Fears blends a lightning-quick first step with elite ball handling and a fearless mentality, making him a constant threat attacking the rim.
His ability to change speeds, manipulate defenders, and finish through contact sets him apart as one of the most dangerous downhill guards in the class. Although he’s still developing physically, he led all freshmen in usage rate and carried Oklahoma to the NCAA Tournament.
Fears may not be the most pro-ready, but with Poole and Dejounte Murray in the fold, the Pelicans have point guards who are comfortable playing off-ball. New Orleans needs a big man, but this is a wise long-term investment. (BA)
8) Egor Demin, G, BYU
Brooklyn Nets
Grade: B
Brooklyn is a team tearing things down to the nuts and bolts ($45 million available in cap space), a situation that will allow for an extended runway for the development of their first pick this season. Nic Claxton is the only player currently on this roster signed through the 2028 season, making the next 12-24 months critical for the overall direction of this franchise.
As for Egor Demin’s fit, it’s hard not to like it. He’s a gifted playmaker with plus size (6’8”), and that plays well in a rebuild situation. He is a versatile piece who should be able to adjust to the talent around him. The shooting needs work, but with his length, if he hones the fundamentals, getting his shot off shouldn’t be a significant issue.
The Nets need help everywhere. Their offense ranked 28th last season, and their defense over the past two years has had the two worst showings in franchise history. Demin is more of an aid on the offensive side of the ball, and he’s the type of guard who should mesh nicely with a volume scorer like Cam Thomas.
There is plenty of work to do in Brooklyn, but we saw point guard play dominate this postseason, so drafting potential at that position is a logical place to start. (KS)
9) Collin Murray-Boyles, F, South Carolina
Toronto Raptors
Grade: B+
With the Toronto Raptors already loaded on the wing, they went big in the 2025 NBA Draft, selecting South Carolina’s Collin Murray-Boyles, a forward who plays far beyond his 6’7” listing.
He may not have the prototypical height for a modern 4, but Murray-Boyles more than makes up for it with sheer force, relentless energy, and an elite feel for the game. He’s a tone-setter in the paint who turns his frame into an advantage by outworking and outthinking opponents on both ends.
Offensively, he thrives around the rim. Whether finishing through contact or creating second-chance opportunities, his presence in the frontcourt is felt every trip down the floor. He doesn’t need plays run for him to be impactful: He finds his way into the action.
MORE: Every Trade Grade From the 2025 NBA Draft
Defensively, this might be one of the most disruptive players in the entire class.
Murray-Boyles brings violent hands, polished footwork, and next-level timing. He guards multiple spots, picks pockets, and racks up deflections and blocks. He’s the kind of defender who makes life miserable for opposing ball-handlers and constantly shifts momentum without needing the ball.
The swing skill here is the jumper, as he hit just 26.5% from deep last season. However, the Raptors clearly believe the rest of his package is too valuable to pass up. Even without a reliable perimeter shot, he projects as a high-impact role-player thanks to his physicality, feel, and motor.
If the shot comes around? Toronto may have just added a rare two-way piece to an already-versatile roster. (CM)
10) Khaman Maluach, C, Duke
Phoenix Suns (via Houston Rockets)
Grade: A-
The Phoenix Suns doubled down on improving their frontcourt by acquiring Mark Williams from the Hornets and then selecting Duke’s Khaman Maluach with the No. 10 pick. It’s puzzling that the Suns added two pure centers on the same night, but they desperately needed to add talent at that spot.
Maluach adds immediate rim protection and long-term upside. Standing 7’2” with a massive 9’8” standing reach, he addressed a key hole in the rotation. Beyond his size, his mobility, defensive instincts, and versatility make him such an intriguing pick for a team trying to build a more balanced roster.
Though still relatively new to the game, Maluach has developed quickly. He’s a high-motor defender who can switch onto guards, disrupt pick-and-rolls, and protect the rim at a high level thanks to his agility and length.
Offensively, he’s raw but promising, finishing well around the basket, flashing soft hands on lobs, and showing potential as a shooter. It will be interesting to see how the Suns deploy their new centers, but this is great value. (BA)
11) Cedric Coward, F, Washington State
Memphis Grizzlies (via Portland Trail Blazers)
Grade: B+
The Memphis Grizzlies have navigated a variety of injuries and uncertainty during the Ja Morant era well, winning 48+ games in three of the past four seasons. Cedric Coward brings a 7’2″ wingspan to Memphis, profiling as a perfect three-and-D player for a franchise that just moved on from Desmond Bane.
Morant’s dynamic athleticism and Zach Edey’s size on the interior are the highlights of what makes this team difficult to deal with. Still, the Coward/Jaylen Wells pairing is one to watch when it comes to this team continuing to post winning seasons.
The Grizz were a top-10 team on both sides of the ball, and Coward’s game fits that balanced build. His star has ascended in a major way since being a lightly recruited D-III player, and there’s enough raw upside to think he could be a big part of both the present and the future in Memphis. (KS)
12) Noah Essengue, F, France
Chicago Bulls
Grade: C+
The Chicago Bulls swung for upside at No. 12, selecting Noa Essengue, a long-term developmental bet with the potential for a high-end return. He’s undeniably raw, but the flashes are real, and the tools are special.
Essengue is a modern forward with elite measurables and an intriguing ceiling.
At just 18 years old, he’s one of the youngest players in the draft class, yet he’s already proven he can hold his own in Germany’s top league. He’s shown flashes of two-way potential that could blossom with time and structure. Physically, he’s a rare blend: the length of a 5 with the mobility of a wing.
Projected lottery pick Noa Essengue in Ulm’s semi-final OT win today:
22 points (8/16 FG, 2/5 3P)
14 rebounds (2 OREB)
1 assist (4 turnovers)
1 block
29 minutes#NBADraft pic.twitter.com/e0l3tWjy0L— Logan Adams (@LoganPAdams) June 1, 2025
Defensively, he’s still learning, but the tools are there. He covers ground with ease, flashes upside as a weak-side helper, and uses his wingspan to bother passing lanes. He’s a moldable piece for an NBA coaching staff.
The swing skill is the jumper. If Essengue develops a reliable perimeter shot and learns to space the floor consistently, his physical gifts and developing skill set could make him a perfect fit in today’s NBA. (CM)
13) Derik Queen, F/C, Maryland
New Orleans Pelicans (via Atlanta Hawks)
Grade: A
Derik Queen makes a lot of sense for a Pelicans team looking to bolster its frontcourt. At 6’9″ and nearly 250 pounds, he brings a powerful interior presence, but his game is defined more by craftiness than athleticism.
Queen is one of the most polished big men in the draft. He combines strength, footwork, and touch with a high basketball IQ that allows him to control the game from the post.
His ability to score around the basket is impressive, but his playmaking ability truly sets Queen apart. He’s among the best passing bigs in the class, capable of reading defenses and creating for others out of the low block.
His outside shot is still a work in progress, but his soft midrange touch and 75% free-throw shooting suggest he could eventually become a reliable floor spacer.
Queen might not be a defensive anchor, but his size, toughness, and instincts give him a solid foundation. He offers post scoring, court vision, and toughness, all traits that could complement the Pelicans’ core, which includes Trey Murphy III, Dejounte Murray, and Zion Williamson. (BA)
14) Carter Bryant, F, Arizona
San Antonio Spurs
Grade: B+
With their second draft pick, the Spurs continued to build a well-rounded foundation set to compete today, tomorrow, and down the road. Carter Bryant was called on for under 20 minutes per game last season with the Arizona Wildcats, but that was more a product of the roster around him than any personal limitations.
He can do a bit of everything, and his shooting touch (37.1% from 3) will be valuable. Victor Wembanyama’s perimeter usage is an asset, but with Harper and now Bryant added, it would appear that San Antonio will be shifting his role (47% of his FGA were 3PA last season).
Given his instincts around the rim and the attacking nature of Castle/De’Aaron Fox, the Spurs are built to handle any defense on any night with an impressive depth of playmakers who complement each other very nicely.
The Thunder are viewed as the class of the Western Conference and, for that matter, the NBA, but the second tier is likely to have a new member as soon as this fall. (KS)
15) Thomas Sorber, C, Georgetown
Oklahoma City Thunder
Grade: A-
With the 15th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, the Oklahoma City Thunder made a forward-thinking move by selecting Thomas Sorber — a player who could very well become a foundational piece in the frontcourt for years to come.
Before a season-ending foot injury in February, Sorber was putting together one of the most impactful freshman campaigns in Georgetown history.
His broad frame, elite screen-setting, and high-level feel for the game made him a standout among his peers, but his poise and IQ — rare traits for a 19-year-old big — truly set him apart.
For a young Thunder team still defining its identity and entering its first season as defending champions, Sorber brings a blend of toughness, instinct, and defensive reliability into their long-term vision. He doesn’t need to be the focal point offensively to make a difference.
Whether it’s crashing the glass for second-chance opportunities or making the extra pass to keep the offense flowing, Sorber thrives doing the little things that lead to winning basketball. He may not be the kind of rim-runner who lives above the rim, but he makes up for it with polished footwork, soft hands, and a mid-range jumper that continues to show promise.
Defensively, Sorber consistently plays bigger than his listed size. He’s fundamentally sound, physically tough, and rarely caught out of position, the kind of interior anchor who could quietly elevate a unit without demanding touches.
If his jumper develops and his perimeter mobility takes another step, Sorber has all the makings of a long-term answer at the five for Oklahoma City. (CM)
16) Yang Hansen, C, China
Portland Trail Blazers (via Memphis Grizzlies)
Grade: D+
The Portland Trail Blazers needed to strengthen their frontcourt, but this pick is quite surprising, as there were more polished big men available before Portland took Hansen Yang. He was projected as a second-round pick but came off the board in the middle of the first.
Just 19 years old, Yang was relatively unknown as a combine participant, but showed out during scrimmages.
Hansen Yang is headed to Portland
The 7-foot-2 big man who averaged 16.2 points and 10.5 rebounds for the Qingdao Eagles this past season. pic.twitter.com/rWYsmUUlHF
— B/R Hoops (@brhoops) June 26, 2025
At 7’1” with a 9’3” standing reach, Yang’s size belies his deceptive move ability, as his foot quickness and speed surprised defenders during scrimmages. Though not a high-flyer, Yang has a soft touch around the basket.
Yang did everything he could at the combine to show NBA scouts that he deserves a shot at the next level, and clearly, the Blazers liked what they saw. Portland has some promising frontcourt pieces in Deni Avdija, Toumani Camara, and Donovan Clingan. This pick feels like a long-term upside bet. (BA)
17) Joan Beringer, C, France
Minnesota Timberwolves
Grade: D
Joan Beringer’s developmental process figures to be more dramatic than most, considering that he didn’t pick up a basketball until he was 14 years old. Fellow Frenchman Rudy Gobert is signed through the 2028 season, with nine figures coming his way over that stretch, giving Minnesota time to refine this very raw prospect.
From a macro standpoint, taking a long-term approach is always justifiable, especially if you don’t value any other players as instant impact types. When drilling down to the micro view, it’s a bit of a tough sell as this team has made the playoffs in four straight seasons (one playoff appearance in the 17 years prior).
Anthony Edwards and Jaden Daniels are going to account for over $75,000,000 against the cap in each of the next three seasons, further highlighting the need for cheap rookie production in the hyper-competitive Western Conference (they were one game away from hosting a play-in game and three games away from holding the two-seed).
Beringer might become a Gobert replacement who impacts winning, but that’s unlikely to happen in the short term, and teams in Minnesota’s spot are often best served to draft impact players. Only time will tell, but from a process standpoint, this is a move that can be criticized. (KS)
18) Walter Clayton Jr., G, Florida
Utah Jazz (via Washington Wizards)
Grade: B-
After a breakout NCAA tournament run, Walter Clayton Jr. finds himself headed to Salt Lake City as the 18th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, joining Ace Bailey on a young and exciting Utah Jazz roster.
Clayton has firmly established himself as a legit scoring threat — a guy with the confidence, shot-making ability, and feel to be a microwave scorer at the next level. He’s the kind of guard who can swing momentum in a matter of possessions and rack up points in bunches.
He’s a tough shot-maker with real craft to his game. Clayton doesn’t need much room to get his shot off and has consistently hit from all angles. He put up a high volume of threes last season and still knocked them down at nearly a 37% clip. That ability to score off-balance, under pressure, and with confidence feels tailor-made for a team looking for an offensive spark.
There are some question marks defensively — at 6’2″ without elite burst or strength, there’s a chance he gets hunted on that end early. And while he’s not a pure floor general, he doesn’t have to be. His value right now lies in giving Utah another dynamic scorer off the bench who can create offense and change the pace. (CM)
19) Nolan Traore, G, France
Brooklyn Nets
Grade: A-
After taking Egor Demin earlier in the round, the Nets continue to add young, high-upside talent to their backcourt. Brooklyn is still in the early stages of a rebuild. This team needs talent and long-term direction, especially at point guard, making Nolan Traore an intriguing fit.
At just 18 years old, Traore has a combination of size, speed, and creativity that gives him one of the highest developmental ceilings among lead guards in this class. He has flashed real potential as a dynamic playmaker, one who can break down defenders off the dribble, manipulate defenses, and find teammates with sharp vision and instinctive passing.
Traore’s confident, uptempo style of play suggests he has the intangibles to grow into a true floor general. He needs to improve his efficiency, shot selection, and play strength, but Brooklyn isn’t under pressure to win immediately.
With time and development, he could emerge as a foundational piece of the Nets’ future. (BA)
20) Kasparas Jakučionis, C, Illinois
Miami Heat
Grade: B+
The Miami Heat are coming off their fewest wins in a season (37) since 2008, struggling after the Jimmy Butler era came to an end. They could be active as the summer progresses, but for now, this is a team with more talent than their shaky record suggests.
Kel’el Ware is viewed as a long-term piece that they were unwilling to include in Kevin Durant trade negotiations, while more proven pieces like Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo are plus-producers at their respective positions.
In Kasparov Jakučionis, they get a creative ball-handler with nice size (6’5”) and the ability to exploit matchups. He’s going to help make his teammates better as soon as this season, and as the shot diet matures, he could become a true offensive hub that threatens defenses in a variety of ways.
Reports surfaced that the Heat may be interested in Jonathan Kuminga this summer, a slashing forward who would play well next to a court vision savant like Jakučionis. Whether they land the Golden State distressed asset (or not) shouldn’t color your opinion of this selection.
The Heat are trying to retool, not rebuild. (KS)
21) Will Riley, SG, Illinois
Washington Wizards (via Utah Jazz)
Grade: B-
After trading down from No. 18 to No. 21 with Utah — who grabbed Walter Clayton Jr. — the Washington Wizards selected Will Riley, a 6’8” wing with legit guard skills. Riley brings a smooth handle, real passing vision, and deep pull-up range to the table, showing off a shot-creator’s mentality and the confidence to match.
His three-point numbers at Illinois were a mixed bag, but the form and the fearlessness are there. He moves well off the ball and doesn’t need much space to get into his jumper.
Off the dribble, Riley can generate looks from NBA range, and if that part of his game continues to sharpen, he’s got a path to becoming a dynamic scoring threat. Physically, he’s wiry, and that might raise some flags given the demands of the league, but with added strength, there’s real two-way potential.
This is a long-term swing, but it’s one with upside. Riley’s size, feel, and perimeter scoring instincts give him a foundation to grow into a real weapon.
If the body catches up, the Wizards might’ve landed a high-upside wing later than expected. (CM)
22) Drake Powell, F, North Carolina
Brooklyn Nets (via Atlanta Hawks)
Grade: B
After attacking the guard spots early in the draft, the Nets add talent on the wings with one of the most versatile prospects in Drake Powell. The North Carolina product projects as a strong fit for Brooklyn thanks to his defensive versatility, high motor, and untapped offensive upside.
While his freshman season with the Tar Heels didn’t fully showcase his potential, Powell still showed promising flashes, particularly as a spot-up shooter. A former top recruit, he has a long, well-built frame, lateral quickness, and the athleticism to guard multiple positions, all physical tools that NBA teams covet.
Though Powell isn’t a polished shot-creator or dynamic scorer off the dribble, he thrives within the flow of an offense and plays with a high basketball IQ. He makes timely cuts, reads the floor well, and competes with intensity on both ends.
For a Nets team in search of role players who can grow alongside a developing core, Powell offers the foundation of a high-level 3-and-D wing with room to expand his game as his confidence and offensive skill set continue to develop. (BA)
23) Așa Newell, F, Georgia
Atlanta Hawks (via New Orleans Pelicans)
Grade: B+
The Hawks brought in a rim-running big in Asa Newell to complement what it is that the newly acquired Kristaps Porzingis wants to do on the offensive end. Newell had 58 dunks this past season and is more than content to help with the battle of the restricted area.
Entering the draft, a 6’9” energy player with limited upside on the perimeter didn’t project as a great fit for most teams in this era of spacing, but with a stretch big like Porzingis and a starting unit that is very finesse-oriented, this is a landing spot that makes plenty of sense.
The Hawks have won 40-43 games in four of the past five seasons, but they are filling out their roster in a reasonable way and given the state of the Eastern Conference, this looks like a team that could take a reasonable step forward in 2025-26. (KS)
24) Nique Clifford, Colorado State
Sacramento Kings (via Oklahoma City Thunder)
Grade: A-
After a trade up with the Thunder, the Sacramento Kings made a move for polish and versatility, selecting Nique Clifford with the 24th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Clifford is a rugged, do-it-all wing who plays with a chip on his shoulder and contributes in every phase of the game. He’s a tough, physical defender who guards multiple positions, rebounds with force, and finds ways to score from all three levels. While he’s a super senior and didn’t face the most elite competition, his mature, efficient game and two-way consistency made him one of the most pro-ready players on the board.
Coming off a standout final season at Colorado State, Clifford proved he’s one of the most dependable wings in this class. His ceiling might not match the raw upside of younger prospects, but his floor is rock solid, built on strong fundamentals, a sharp basketball IQ, and the kind of defensive versatility that earns minutes early.
He doesn’t just stay in front of his man, he makes smart reads, rotates on time, and knows when to help. On offense, he’s more than a spot-up shooter. Clifford showed real growth as a pick-and-roll creator, making plays for himself and others. His outside shot is still rounding into form, but the indicators point in the right direction.
Most importantly, Clifford understands how to make an impact without dominating the ball, a valuable trait for a team like Sacramento that already has high-usage stars in place. He’s the kind of plug-and-play contributor who can help elevate a playoff roster right away. (CM)
25) Jase Richardson, G, Michigan State
Orlando Magic
Grade: A+
The Orlando Magic are coming off back-to-back playoff appearances and appear intent on making a deeper run in 2025. If they want to take that next step, adding more efficient scoring and perimeter shooting is essential, and Jase Richardson checks both boxes.
While he doesn’t have the explosive athleticism of his father, Jason, he’s carved out his own path as a high-IQ, skilled combo guard who plays with poise. Richardson thrived in a low-usage role at Michigan State and made the most of his opportunities with polished touch and sharp decision-making.
As his responsibilities grew, he flashed on-ball creation upside, becoming one of the most efficient ball-screen scorers in the country.
Defensively, Richardson brings toughness, awareness, and a team-first mentality. His ability to space the floor, make sound reads, and contribute on both ends makes him a strong fit alongside Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Desmond Bane. Richardson was sometimes mocked to Orlando at No. 16 before the Magic traded the pick to Memphis, so landing him at No. 25 feels like a steal. (BA)
26) Ben Saraf, G, Israel
Brooklyn Nets
Grade: C+
The Nets continue their mission to rebuild the ship in which they are standing, adding Ben Saraf as part of the Mikal Bridges trade. The southpaw has honed his instincts by playing pro ball since he turned 16, and all signs point to Brooklyn bringing him over to make an impact sooner rather than later.
Saraf will likely need to fill out a bit (6’6”, 199 pounds) before earning big minutes. The jump shot is spotty and a glaring weakness at his current frame. With some added weight, the door opens to him being more effective in an attacking offensive role, not to mention defending the high-end athletes that populate the NBA at this position.
The Nets are pretty clearly casting a wide net at the guard position during this rebuild and while Saraf isn’t a standout option, there is a path to him carving out a role and near the end of the first round, that’s the name of the game. (KS)
27) Danny Wolf, F, Michigan
Brooklyn Nets
Grade: B-
The Brooklyn Nets used the 27th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft to select one of the most polarizing prospects in this year’s class: Danny Wolf. At 7’0″, Wolf isn’t your typical big man. He played the point-center role at Michigan, flashing vision, ball-handling, and creation skills you rarely see from someone his size.
He was the Wolverines’ offensive engine, nearly averaging a double-double with 13.2 points, 9.7 boards, and 3.9 assists per game.
Wolf’s ability to stretch the floor and facilitate makes him an intriguing fit in today’s NBA. He’s a high-IQ passer with soft touch around the rim and enough footwork to create mismatches, whether he’s facing quicker defenders or going up against size.
But Wolf’s far from a perfect prospect, and that’s certainly a reason for his now very public slide. He’s not an elite athlete, doesn’t protect the rim in the traditional sense, and has struggled with shooting consistency and turnovers.
Defensively, his mobility and lateral quickness help mask some of those concerns, but they’re still part of the conversation.
He now joins Brooklyn’s loaded 2025 first-round class, which already includes Egor Demin (G, BYU), Nolan Traore (G, France), Drake Powell (SF, North Carolina), and Ben Saraf (G, Israel). The Nets are clearly betting big on upside, and with Wolf, they may have just landed one of the most unique high-ceiling swings of the night. (CM)
28) Hugo González, F, Spain
Boston Celtics
Grade: B+
Hugo Gonzalez is a long-term upside swing that makes perfect sense for a team like the Boston Celtics. The 6’6” wing out of Real Madrid offers elite athleticism, defensive versatility, and a high motor. While his offensive game is still developing, Gonzalez has shown flashes as a slasher, ball-mover, and transition threat.
His limited role and production overseas make him a bit of a gamble, but the Celtics are uniquely positioned to be patient.
Boston may take a step back next season due to Jayson Tatum’s injury, but this team still has a championship core when he returns. With a solid foundation in place, the Celtics don’t need Gonzalez to shoulder a heavy burden. That gives him time to grow into his frame, improve his perimeter shooting, and continue improving his offensive game.
For a team that can afford to draft for the future, Gonzalez is an intriguing international stash with real long-term potential. (BA)
29) Liam McNeeley, F, UConn
Charlotte Hornets (via Phoenix Suns)
Grade: D+
The Hornets ranked 12th in three-point rate in 2024, and that’s a good thing in this age of analytics…if you’re capable of making them. Charlotte wasn’t, and they finished ahead of only Washington for offensive efficiency.
Of course, injuries to LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller, two franchise centerpieces, very much impacted the latter. Liam McNeeley has proven the ability to find spots to get his shot off, and a three-point oriented attack suits him, though you have to wonder about his exact role when/if this backcourt is at full strength.
In 27 games (26 starts) with the Huskies, he took 18 more triples than free throws and averaged just 2.7 made two-point buckets per game. With Ball and Miller being volume shooters who demand high usage rates, McNeeley projects as more of a second-unit, microwave scorer type that enters with energy for spurts.
He’s a nice player, but a little repetitive for a team with serious frontcourt issues after trading Mark Williams to the Suns for the rights to this pick. There’s likely a larger plan at play, but it’s not yet clear, and this construction of players makes it hard to see this team competing at a playoff level in the short term. (KS)
30) Yanic Konan Niederhauser, C, Penn State
Los Angeles Clippers
Grade: C-
In a stunner at pick No. 30, the Los Angeles Clippers took a swing on upside, selecting Yanic Konan Niederhauser, a name barely whispered in most first-round circles just weeks ago.
This is a bet on tools, trajectory, and trust in development. Niederhauser’s size, elite length, and bounce make him a lob threat and shot blocker from day one, and while he’s still raw, the flashes are loud.
He’s shown signs of polishing his post presence, timing up blocks with better instincts, and expanding his offensive feel. He’s not a plug-and-play guy — yet — but if you’re patient, there’s a path here to a high-level rim protector and vertical spacer off the bench.
He took the long way to the NBA as a late-blooming Swiss big man, and his NBA Combine performance cemented his potential surprise status as a first-round pick.
Was it unexpected? Absolutely. Yet, the Clippers clearly believe in the long game. With Niederhauser’s measurables, motor, and work ethic, this could be one of those late first-round swings that pay off big down the line. LAC will hope it’s not too far along the tracks.
