The 2025 NBA draft combine is in the books, and some prospects are starting to climb draft boards, thanks to their standout showings in front of league scouts. Cooper Flagg remains the overwhelming consensus to come off the board first, but how will the rest of the first round shake out?
With only a few weeks to go before the big night and the NBA playoffs nearing an end, each team’s offseason needs are becoming clearer. We project all 30 first-round selections in our latest 2025 NBA Mock Draft.
1) Dallas Mavericks
Cooper Flagg, Duke
Dallas Mavericks general manager Nico Harrison faced heavy scrutiny for trading away Luka Dončić. Now, after a lucky bounce of the ball, he secures a new franchise centerpiece in Cooper Flagg, a player poised to reignite the excitement in Dallas.
Flagg enters the NBA with an exceptionally refined, all-around game. The standout freshman led a strong Duke squad with averages of 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game, while shooting 48% from the field, 39% from 3, and 84% from the line. At just 18, he plays with the maturity and poise of a veteran.
What makes Flagg so special is his ability to elevate teammates while adapting seamlessly to any role. He doesn’t dominate possessions unnecessarily or force shots, and his understanding of spacing, timing, and decision-making makes him an ideal fit alongside Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis. His strengths align perfectly with Dallas’ renewed focus on size and defensive versatility.
One of the most advanced freshmen the college game has seen in years, Flagg combines immediate impact with long-term superstar potential — a game-changer in every sense.
2) San Antonio Spurs
Dylan Harper, Rutgers
Dylan Harper may not have surpassed Flagg for the top spot in the 2025 NBA Draft, but in almost any other year, he’d be the clear-cut No. 1 pick. The Rutgers combo guard — and son of five-time NBA champion Ron Harper — brings NBA bloodlines and a mature, high-IQ approach to the game. As a freshman, he averaged 19.4 points per game, consistently using his strength and body control to get downhill and finish at the rim.
While Harper’s 3-point shooting remains a work in progress, there’s reason for optimism. With improved shot selection and the benefit of NBA-level spacing, his jumper has room to grow into a reliable weapon.
Standing 6’6” with a pro-ready frame, Harper plays with physicality and doesn’t shy away from contact, often finishing through it with ease. Beyond his scoring, his most valuable trait may be his control of the offense. He’s already an advanced pick-and-roll playmaker, with impressive vision, touch, and poise as a passer.
On defense, Harper shows the potential to guard multiple positions. Though his effort can be inconsistent at times, his size, strength, and awareness give him real upside on that end, especially in a San Antonio Spurs system known for player development.
With Victor Wembanyama anchoring the frontcourt and De’Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, and Devin Vassell already in place, Harper’s size and versatility make him a seamless addition. He gives San Antonio another dynamic creator and rounds out a young core that could power the franchise for years to come.
3) Philadelphia 76ers
Ace Bailey, Rutgers
The Philadelphia 76ers had a frustrating 2024 season, but it ultimately delivered a major reward: landing the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. With a core already featuring Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, Jared McCain, and Paul George, the Sixers now get to add another high-level talent in Ace Bailey.
Bailey brings explosive scoring, length, and athleticism to a frontcourt that could use another two-way wing. The 6’10” forward showcased high-end shot-making potential as a freshman at Rutgers, and in Philadelphia, he won’t need to carry a heavy offensive burden. That should allow him to play more efficiently early on.
Bailey’s blend of upside and versatility sets him apart. His shooting mechanics are already NBA-ready, and he’s shown the ability to create offense out of nothing — a rare skill for a player his size.
Defensively, Bailey adds something the Sixers have often lacked: a switchable wing who can guard in space and protect the rim. His agility, length, and motor make him an ideal complement to Embiid’s interior presence and help address some of the team’s past perimeter defense woes.
The Sixers don’t need to rush his development, but even early on, Bailey’s tools, energy, and natural scoring instincts make him a valuable addition to a team with championship aspirations.
4) Charlotte Hornets
VJ Edgecombe, Baylor
Even without securing the top overall pick, the Charlotte Hornets are in a position to land an immediate difference-maker at No. 4, and VJ Edgecombe checks nearly every box.
The Big 12 Freshman of the Year made a significant impact in his lone season at Baylor, and he’s emerged as arguably the most explosive athlete in the draft. At 6’5″, Edgecombe combines elite athleticism with a relentless motor, giving Charlotte a high-energy presence on the wing.
Edgecombe also has defensive tools that can help set the foundation under new head coach Charles Lee. His lateral quickness and ability to switch across multiple positions could give Charlotte a much-needed perimeter stopper to help reshape the team’s identity on that end.
With LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, and Miles Bridges leading the offensive charge, Edgecombe won’t need to carry a heavy scoring load from Day 1. Instead, he can make his mark as a defensive disruptor, transition threat, and high-motor contributor who’s not afraid to get his hands dirty.
While still developing his handle and overall shot creation, Edgecombe shows promising offensive instincts and unselfishness. His flashes as a passer and feel for playing within a system point to significant long-term growth. He also impressed on the international stage, holding his own alongside NBA players like DeAndre Ayton and Buddy Hield with the Bahamian national team during the 2024 FIBA Men’s Olympic Qualifying Tournaments.
Edgecombe brings energy, toughness, and elite athleticism — traits that will transfer right away. With time, he could blossom into a highly impactful two-way player who elevates Charlotte’s young core.
5) Utah Jazz
Tre Johnson, Texas
As a team still in the early stages of its rebuild, the Utah Jazz are in a position to prioritize long-term upside over immediate results. Utah’s offense was inefficient in 2024, scoring just 110.8 points per 100 possessions (24th in the NBA), according to Cleaning the Glass. That was a significant dip from the 115.4 they scored in 2023. Tre Johnson, one of the best pure scorers in the class, could provide a massive boost on that end of the floor.
Although his freshman year at Texas revealed some ball-dominant tendencies, the NBA setting could be the ideal environment to unlock his full potential. Johnson excels as a movement shooter, thriving off the ball with deep range and a smooth, high release.
Standing 6’6″ with a 6’10” wingspan, he boasts prototypical size for a shooting guard. He’s a tough shot-maker who can score from all three levels. He led the SEC in scoring as a freshman, averaging nearly 20 points per game and displaying elite shot-making skills.
While there’s room to grow, particularly in terms of finishing through contact, refining his shot selection, and playing with more consistent defensive effort, Johnson has the physical tools and offensive instincts to be a valuable floor-spacer immediately.
For the Jazz, he represents a high-upside scorer who can contribute right away while developing into a more complete offensive threat over time. He may not be a finished two-way player yet, but his NBA-ready offensive game makes him a strong fit for a team needing juice.
6) Washington Wizards
Jeremiah Fears, Oklahoma
Surely, the Washington Wizards’ front office expected to pick higher than No. 6 overall, but the lottery was unkind to them. This is a team longing for franchise-changing talent, and despite missing out on Flagg and Harper, Washington can still land a top-tier talent. Jeremiah Fears certainly fits that bill.
The Wizards’ backcourt currently features Jordan Poole and Bub Carrington, but Fears’ skill set could really elevate this group. One of the youngest prospects in the draft, Fears recently turned 18 but already carries himself with the poise and intensity of a seasoned NBA guard. A dynamic shot creator, Fears blends a lightning-fast first step with high-level ball-handling and a fearless mindset.
Fears’ ability to change pace, read defenders, and finish through contact makes him one of the most dangerous downhill threats in this class. While his frame is still developing and his vertical explosiveness is average, he consistently draws fouls and generates offense for himself and others.
Though still a work in progress, Fears has already shown the instincts and skill set of a high-usage point guard. He led all freshmen in usage rate and was the driving force behind Oklahoma’s NCAA Tournament push. His slender build and streaky finishing suggest he’ll need time to grow into his body, but the long-term potential is undeniable.
7) New Orleans Pelicans
Khaman Maluach, Duke
After finishing 40 games below .500 (21-61) and significant changes to the front office, the New Orleans Pelicans are a team in search of long-term stability. They also need to add more size and length in the frontcourt, and Khaman Maluach could be their guy.
Standing 7’2” with a massive 9’8” standing reach, Maluach addresses an immediate need for rim protection and interior defense — but it’s his agility, instincts, and defensive versatility that make him such an intriguing upside pick for New Orleans.
Though relatively new to organized basketball, Maluach has shown a rapid development curve. He’s already an impactful defender who can guard in space, switch onto smaller players, and recover with length. The Duke center brings a high motor and confidence to his game, routinely altering shots from multiple spots on the floor.
Offensively, Maluach is still a project, but the tools are there. He finishes effectively around the basket, shows nice touch on lobs, and has encouraging shooting mechanics for a player his size. While not a consistent perimeter threat yet, he shows the potential to grow into a capable pick-and-pop option.
Maluach may need time to develop fully, but with his elite physical profile, defensive upside, and offensive flashes, he’s the type of high-ceiling prospect worth investing in.
8) Brooklyn Nets
Kon Knueppel, Duke
It will be interesting to see what the Brooklyn Nets do with their four first-round picks, but it would be nice to see them come away with a potential building block at No. 8. They should be focused on drafting the best player available in this spot. Kon Knueppel may not be a flashy selection, but he has the tools to be a reliable contributor early in his career.
Knueppel is a high-floor wing prospect known for his elite shooting, physical toughness, and refined offensive game. Widely regarded as the best shooter in the draft, he combines deep range with a lightning-quick release and soft touch, making him an immediate floor-spacing weapon and a dependable long-term piece.
While he can thrive as a catch-and-shoot threat, Knueppel’s offensive game goes beyond just spotting up. In the halfcourt, he uses ball fakes, precise footwork, and strength to generate looks, even without elite athleticism.
His athletic limitations may cap his defensive versatility and self-creation potential, but he compensates with strong positioning, toughness, and awareness.
He reads the game well and consistently finds ways to contribute without dominating the ball. Knueppel’s decision-making, pick-and-roll passing, and efficient driving could make him a well-rounded offensive presence for a team searching for its identity.
9) Toronto Raptors
Kasparas Jakučionis, Illinois
The Toronto Raptors could go in a few directions with this pick, as they could also use a talented big man. However, they opt for a dynamic playmaking guard in Illinois’ Kasparas Jakučionis. For a team among the worst in the NBA in offensive rating (109.6; 26th), the Raptors should target one of the draft’s top creators.
Jakučionis gives the Raptors a smart, versatile backcourt piece with intriguing long-term upside. He’s one of the most creative passers in this draft class, showcasing elite vision with skip passes, precision in the pick-and-roll, and the ability to hit cutters in stride. While his turnover numbers at Illinois were high, they often came from trying to make high-level plays while carrying a heavy offensive burden as a freshman.
Offensively, Jakučionis is more polished than his raw numbers might indicate. Before a mid-season forearm injury, he was shooting over 41% from 3, displaying confident mechanics and the potential to become a reliable perimeter threat. He also excels at getting to the rim, finishing through contact, and drawing fouls at a high rate.
Defensively, he remains a work in progress, but his feel for the game and willingness to compete suggest room for growth. In a draft class without many guarantees, Jakučionis gives Toronto a high-IQ, international-style guard who can create for the likes of RJ Barrett and Scottie Barnes.
10) Houston Rockets
Carter Bryant, Arizona
With a roster full of young talent, the Houston Rockets are one of the brightest franchises in the NBA heading into the 2025 season and beyond. They’ll have some interesting personnel decisions to make this summer and in the coming years, though. Amen Thompson’s emergence could allow Houston to pivot away from either Jabari Smith Jr. or Tari Eason, and if so, Carter Bryant would make a ton of sense here.
Bryant’s production at Arizona leaves much to be desired. He averaged just 6.5 points per game in a limited role, but his physical tools and flashes of high-level play hint at significantly more upside than the box score shows.
Standing 6’8” with a strong, athletic build, Bryant offers the kind of size, mobility, and defensive versatility that NBA teams value. He’s already demonstrated the ability to defend multiple positions and make impact plays on that end, whether rotating as a weakside helper or blocking shots on closeouts.
Offensively, Bryant projects more as a role player than a primary scorer. He isn’t a creator yet, but he understands how to move within an offense and has shown encouraging signs as a spot-up shooter. He doesn’t need a high usage rate to make his presence felt. He also shot 37.1% from 3, albeit on a low volume.
Bryant is a long-term developmental swing with the skill set and makeup of a potential 3-and-D wing contributor.
11) Portland Trail Blazers
Derik Queen, Maryland
The Portland Trail Blazers are a team on the rise after winning 15 more games in 2024 than they did the previous season. With Deni Avdija, Toumani Camara, and Donovan Clingan showing promise this season, Derik Queen could solidify this frontcourt for years to come.
Queen stands out as one of the most polished bigs in the draft, combining strength, finesse, and a high basketball IQ. Though not an elite vertical athlete, Queen’s game is defined by touch, timing, and feel.
At 6’9” and nearly 250 pounds, he plays with power on the block, but his footwork, soft hands, and ability to score in tight spaces make him a true post technician. He consistently creates space with skill rather than speed and finishes with craft.
What truly sets Queen apart is his passing ability. He’s one of the most advanced playmaking bigs in the class, capable of reading the floor and finding cutters or shooters with ease. His 3-point shot is still a work in progress, but there’s reason for optimism. He has a soft touch in the midrange and knocked down over 75% of his free throws. If he can develop into a consistent floor spacer, his offensive versatility will reach another level.
Defensively, Queen has some physical limitations, but his strength and basketball IQ allow him to stay competitive in most matchups. He brings a rare mix of low-post scoring, playmaking, and toughness that should translate well at the next level.
12) Chicago Bulls
Collin Murray-Boyles, South Carolina
Collin Murray-Boyles may not have the traditional size for a power forward at 6’8”, but he consistently plays bigger than his frame suggests — using strength, energy, and elite instincts to erase any concerns about his height.
The South Carolina product brings a high motor and advanced feel for the game on both ends of the court. Offensively, he’s a force around the rim with the ability to finish through contact and create plays from the frontcourt — a skill set the Chicago Bulls could desperately use.
On defense, Murray-Boyles might be one of the most disruptive prospects in the draft. He combines quick hands, sharp footwork, and great timing to defend across positions, pressure ball-handlers, and generate deflections and blocks. His presence is felt on every possession.
The biggest area for growth is his perimeter shot. Murray-Boyles shot just 26.5% from 3 last season. But even without a consistent range, he projects as a high-impact role player thanks to his physicality and IQ. If his shooting improves, he could become a rare two-way weapon with lineup versatility.
13) Atlanta Hawks
Asa Newell, Georgia
Asa Newell, a Montverde Academy product who played alongside elite talent like Flagg and Queen, learned early how to contribute without dominating the ball. That would bode well for him joining an offense centered around Trae Young and Jalen Johnson.
At Georgia, Newell embraced his role as a high-energy big, earning All-SEC Freshman honors after averaging 15.4 points and 6.9 rebounds per game. He excels as a rim-running forward who doesn’t need plays called for him to make a difference.
His impact comes from effort and athleticism, as he’s a live-wire presence around the basket. He was one of the SEC’s top offensive rebounders (13.9% offensive rebounding rate) and a consistent shot-blocking threat.
Newell’s physical tools stand out. At 6’11” with great mobility, lateral quickness, and defensive instincts, he has the versatility to guard multiple positions and provide a major boost to any frontcourt. While his offensive skill set is still rounding out, Newell flashes intriguing upside. He shot just 29.2% from 3 but hit nearly 75% of his free throws, a sign that his jumper may develop over time.
For an Atlanta Hawks team potentially moving on from Clint Capela and in need of more athleticism and rebounding, Newell brings immediate energy and long-term potential.
14) San Antonio Spurs
Liam McNeeley, UConn
After solidifying their backcourt by selecting Harper at No. 2, the Spurs turn their attention to their need for perimeter shooting. San Antonio shot 35.7% from behind the arc in 2024 (20th in the NBA). UConn’s Liam McNeeley is widely considered one of the best shooters in the 2025 NBA Draft, and he could provide an immediate boost in that department.
Liam McNeeley is a smart, tough, and unselfish wing whose shooting and basketball IQ make him a strong long-term fit for the Spurs. Though his freshman year at UConn had ups and downs, his size, shot-making, and competitiveness make him an appealing NBA prospect.
McNeeley’s top asset is his shooting. While his overall 3-point percentage was just 32%, he knocked down an impressive 43.1% of his catch-and-shoot attempts. With improved spacing in an NBA system, especially alongside talents like Wembanyama, Castle, Fox, and Harper, his shooting could become a true weapon.
McNeeley also brings value as an off-ball playmaker, showing solid passing instincts and an understanding of how to move within an offense. While he’s not a dynamic rim attacker or high-level shot creator, McNeeley plays within his strengths. On defense, he may not be a stopper, but his size, anticipation, and positioning allow him to contribute effectively on that end.
15) Oklahoma City Thunder
Egor Demin, BYU
Egor Demin is a rare long-term prospect who combines elite court vision with exceptional positional size. At 6’9”, he’s one of the most creative and advanced passers in the draft, capable of dissecting defenses with his reads and delivering high-level passes from anywhere on the floor. Demin’s passing could complement perfectly on an Oklahoma City Thunder team stacked with athletic wings and scorers.
Though still raw as a scorer — shooting just 27% from 3 and 41% from the field as a freshman at BYU — Demin wouldn’t be asked to shoulder a major scoring role in Oklahoma City. Surrounded by offensive leaders like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren, he could thrive as a secondary creator or lead the second unit with his poise and feel.
Defensively, Demin isn’t the quickest laterally, but his length, anticipation, and effort help him stay engaged and cause disruption. He’s effective in the passing lanes and can use his frame to guard multiple positions in a team-oriented scheme. He may need time to develop his scoring, but his combination of size, playmaking, and versatility makes him a high-upside swing worth considering.
The Thunder are one of the league’s youngest rosters but are also among the most talented. They can afford to wait for Demin to develop, as he’s a bit of a luxury pick for them.
16) Orlando Magic
Jase Richardson, Michigan State
Following consecutive playoff berths, the Orlando Magic’s front office appears focused on taking the next step. They have not won a postseason series since 2010, and if this team wants to win now, it will need to get better on the offensive end. Selecting Jase Richardson would be a logical move with him still on the board here.
Despite being the son of former NBA high-flyer Jason Richardson, he’s not the most explosive athlete. However, scouts have been impressed by Richardson’s efficiency and decision-making. He consistently produced within a low-usage role, knocking down open 3s, picking his spots, and finishing around the rim with polished touch.
But as his role expanded, so did his flashes of creativity. Richardson emerged as one of the most efficient ball-screen scorers in the country, showing an ability to create offense for himself.
Richardson’s scoring instincts, two-way versatility, and high feel for the game make him an intriguing fit in Orlando. On the defensive end, he brings intensity, awareness, and strong off-ball instincts. While he lacks elite size, he plays with a competitive edge and makes sound decisions.
The Magic’s perimeter shooting took a step back in 2024. Richardson shot 41% from 3, so his efficiency would be a welcome addition. His ability to operate off the ball fits well alongside Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero.
17) Minnesota Timberwolves
Nolan Traoré, France
Nolan Traoré’s draft stock has fluctuated over the past year, but his recent surge in performance has reignited the buzz that once had him projected as a top-10 pick. At just 18 years old, his blend of size, speed, and offensive creativity makes him one of the most intriguing long-term point guard prospects in the class.
Traoré has flashed true lead guard potential — breaking down defenders off the dribble, manipulating defenses with his handle, and showcasing elite vision as a passer. He plays with poise and a fearless tempo that gives him an edge beyond his age.
There are still areas that need improvement, including decision-making, shooting consistency, and strength — but for a fairly complete team like the Minnesota Timberwolves, there’s no immediate pressure to rush his development. With Mike Conley nearing the end of his career at age 37, Traoré would give Minnesota a high-upside international prospect to groom alongside Anthony Edwards.
18) Washington Wizards
Thomas Sorber, Georgetown
The Wizards should be well-acquainted with Thomas Sorber, who played his freshman season just down the road at Georgetown. With the team still searching for long-term answers at the center position, Sorber could be a strong complement to Alex Sarr in the frontcourt.
Before a foot injury ended his season in February, Sorber was in the midst of one of the most impressive freshman years in Georgetown history. He’s more than just a wide-bodied presence who sets hard screens. He plays with maturity, awareness, and basketball IQ that’s rare for a 19-year-old big.
Sorber brings a combination of toughness, instincts, and defensive reliability that could benefit a rebuilding Wizards roster still trying to establish its identity. Whether it’s extending possessions with offensive boards or initiating transition opportunities with smart outlet passes, Sorber consistently makes the kind of winning plays that don’t always show up in the box score.
While he’s not an elite athlete or vertical lob threat, Sorber makes up for it with strong footwork, a soft touch around the rim, and flashes of a developing jumper. On defense, he’s physical, disciplined, and rarely caught out of position. If he continues to stretch his shooting range and sharpen his mobility, Sorber has the tools to grow into a reliable long-term option at center.
19) Brooklyn Nets
Noa Essengue, France
The Brooklyn Nets could be an ideal landing spot for Noa Essengue and his development. With a roster lacking in high-upside prospects, Brooklyn is in clear need of young talent to build around for the next phase of the franchise.
Essengue is a raw but physically gifted forward with two-way potential who could become a key piece of the Nets’ future. While he still has a long way to go, particularly on the offensive end, his physical tools and flashes of versatility make him a compelling developmental swing.
Essengue is only 18 years old, and early professional experience in Germany only adds to the intrigue. Defensively, he’s still learning, but the raw tools are there. He moves fluidly for his size, has natural instincts as a help defender, and uses his length to generate disruption on the perimeter and in the paint. If he can add a consistent jumper and become a floor-spacer, his value in today’s NBA would increase significantly.
The Nets aren’t under pressure to win immediately, which gives Essengue the space to gradually develop his skill set. If Brooklyn invests in Essengue’s growth, this bet could pay off.
20) Miami Heat
Nique Clifford, Colorado State
Nique Clifford feels like a natural fit for the Miami Heat. He’s a rugged, versatile wing who brings effort and production across the board. He defends multiple positions, rebounds aggressively, and contributes as a scorer from all three levels. Though he’s a super senior without significant exposure to elite competition, his mature game and two-way reliability make him ready to help an NBA team win now.
Coming off an impressive final season at Colorado State, Clifford has established himself as one of the most polished and dependable wings in this draft class. While his long-term upside may not match that of younger prospects, his high floor is built on strong fundamentals, basketball IQ, and defensive versatility. He’s a disciplined, physical defender who consistently makes timely plays and reads the floor well.
Offensively, Clifford brings more than just catch-and-shoot ability. He showed significant improvement as a pick-and-roll creator, effectively generating scoring opportunities for himself and others. His outside shooting still lacks consistency, but there are promising signs that suggest continued growth in that area.
Clifford also understands how to make an impact without needing the ball in his hands. On a team that features two All-Star caliber players in Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo, Clifford’s maturity and well-rounded skill set would be a nice complement.
21) Utah Jazz
Labaron Philon, Alabama
The Jazz were inefficient on both ends of the floor last season, as evidenced by their 119.4 defensive rating (last in the NBA) and 110.2 offensive rating (24th). After drafting a pure scorer in Johnson earlier in the round, they should be looking to add a player with a more well-rounded skill set with this pick. That’s why they should be targeting Labaron Philon.
As one of the most impactful freshmen in college basketball this season, Philon showed a mature feel for the game well beyond his years. He’s a creative ball-handler who can break down defenses and consistently create advantages. He plays with a deliberate change of pace that keeps defenders off balance and allows him to control the flow of the offense. His elite floater adds a key weapon to his offensive arsenal.
Philon is also a defensive disruptor who brings real effort at the point of attack. While he’ll need to add strength to hold up physically at the next level, his motor and defensive mindset stand out.
His shooting remains a work in progress, but the foundation is there. For a rebuilding team like the Jazz, Philon could bring steady playmaking, high effort on defense, and long-term upside at the guard spot.
22) Atlanta Hawks
Will Riley, Illinois
The direction of the Hawks’ future remains somewhat uncertain, so a best player available strategy sounds like a safe bet at this stage of the first round. Will Riley offers a high-upside swing on a young, skilled wing who could become a valuable part of Atlanta’s long-term core.
Riley is a 6’8″ wing with the handle and court vision of a guard, blending advanced shot creation, deep pull-up range, and sharp passing instincts. While his 3-point shooting numbers at Illinois were inconsistent, his smooth mechanics and confidence suggest long-term shooting upside. He’s effective both on and off the ball and has shown the ability to create space and knock down tough perimeter shots.
Riley’s offensive versatility makes him an intriguing fit alongside playmakers like Young and Johnson. Though his lean frame may raise durability concerns at the next level, added strength could unlock his full potential as a two-way contributor.
Riley’s size and natural offensive feel make him a candidate to be selected even earlier in the draft. If given time to develop physically, he has the tools to become a dynamic perimeter scorer and impactful wing at the NBA level.
23) Indiana Pacers
Rasheer Fleming, Saint Joseph’s
Rasheer Fleming brings a well-rounded skill set that could make him an immediate-impact role player for the Indiana Pacers. With his high motor, defensive versatility, and efficient offensive game, Fleming has quietly emerged as a sleeper favorite during the pre-draft process.
At 6’9″, Fleming offers the kind of size and mobility that fits perfectly with Indiana’s need for frontcourt depth and flexibility, especially with Myles Turner being an upcoming free agent. He’s capable of switching onto both bigger forwards and perimeter players, giving the Pacers a versatile defender who thrives without needing the ball in his hands. His defensive instincts and activity level consistently stand out.
On offense, Fleming took a major leap as a shooter this past season, knocking down 39% of his 3s — a notable improvement that suggests legitimate floor-spacing upside. While the level of competition in the Atlantic 10 wasn’t elite, his ability to finish plays, stretch the floor, and defend at a high level makes him a strong candidate to contribute right away.
For a championship-contending Pacers team looking to bolster its rotation, Fleming offers the kind of skill set that can support winning basketball.
24) Oklahoma City Thunder
Maxime Raynaud, Stanford
The Thunder have a deep, talented roster, making it unlikely they’ll use both of their picks on players expected to contribute immediately. That’s why Maxime Raynaud could be an ideal selection. After a standout showing at the NBA draft combine, Raynaud has emerged as a potential riser on draft boards.
The 7’1”, 237-pound center is coming off a breakout senior season at Stanford, where he quietly put together one of the most efficient and productive years in college basketball. A true back-to-the-basket big, Raynaud has a soft touch around the rim, polished footwork, and the ability to finish with either hand.
Raynaud also brings stretch potential with a solid mid-range shot and emerging range from beyond the arc. A capable passer and dependable rebounder on both ends, Raynaud doesn’t need heavy usage to make an impact, which could make him a strong fit for OKC’s system.
Though not the most athletic big, Raynaud’s game is mature and NBA-ready. He’s a smart, skilled big man who could thrive in a complementary role and gradually grow into more.
25) Orlando Magic
Cedric Coward, Washington State/Duke
Cedric Coward’s journey from Division III to potential first-round pick wasn’t the most conventional, but it’s part of what makes him so intriguing. While his 3-and-D skill set is well-established, his advanced feel for the game and playmaking instincts set him apart from other wings in this class.
At 6’6” with a sturdy frame, Coward checks all the boxes physically. He’s smooth in space, embraces contact, and consistently impacts the game with energy and toughness. He does all the little things — crashing the glass, rotating on defense, and making smart, unselfish plays. His defensive versatility stands out, with the quickness and length to switch across multiple positions with the discipline to excel as an off-ball defender.
Offensively, Coward is a dependable floor spacer, shooting 38.8% from 3 during his Division I career. He’s also a capable passer with sharp vision, making him more than just a catch-and-shoot threat.
The Magic are ready to take the next step in their rise. Coward’s two-way ability reinforces Orlando’s strength on the defensive end and provides optimism for improvements on offense.
26) Brooklyn Nets
Tahaad Pettiford, Auburn
Tahaad Pettiford made a strong impression at the NBA combine. He measured 6’5.5” wingspan, posted a 42″ vertical, and delivered a standout scrimmage performance with 23 points and eight assists. He is a dynamic combo guard brimming with confidence, deep shooting range, and elite shiftiness.
Known for his fearless approach and microwave scoring ability, he stood out at Auburn as one of the top off-the-dribble shot-makers in the class, regularly converting tough looks with ease.
Pettiford is a creative three-level scorer with a deadly floater and natural flair to his game. While he still needs to improve his rim finishing and decision-making, Pettiford’s explosiveness in transition and flashes of playmaking potential suggest there’s room for real offensive growth as he matures and adds strength.
On the defensive end, Pettiford makes up for his lack of height with grit, energy, and a high motor. Despite being undersized, he embraces contact and competes with a toughness that Brooklyn could use. His shot selection and decision-making still need polishing, but he’s young and has the kind of offensive instincts you can’t teach.
27) Brooklyn Nets
Joan Beringer, France
With their fourth first-round pick, the Nets again explore the international talent pool by selecting Joan Beringer, a raw but tantalizing prospect whose upside aligns with Brooklyn’s long-term outlook.
Despite being relatively new to the game, Beringer has developed quickly, and his physical gifts are tough to overlook. Given the Nets’ flexibility and multiple picks, taking a swing on a high-upside project like Beringer makes a lot of sense.
Defensively, Beringer already showcases advanced traits for his age. He’s a mobile seven-footer with impressive lateral agility, quick feet, and the length to alter shots at the rim or switch out onto the perimeter. Even when caught out of position, he recovers well thanks to his instincts and mobility.
Offensively, there’s still a lot of work to be done. Beringer doesn’t yet have a reliable jumper and struggles with turnovers in the post. However, he excels as a vertical threat, with soft hands and the ability to finish lobs and rim runs. He’ll need to add strength to compete consistently at the NBA level, but the foundation is there for him to become a valuable contributor in time.
28) Boston Celtics
Danny Wolf, Michigan
Danny Wolf isn’t your typical seven-foot big man. During his time at Michigan, Wolf played more like a point-center, flashing advanced ball-handling, court vision, and creation skills uncommon for his size. He was a key offensive hub for the Wolverines, averaging 13.2 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game.
Wolf’s combination of floor spacing and playmaking makes him a potential weapon in today’s NBA. His high basketball IQ, soft touch around the basket, and nimble footwork allow him to take advantage of mismatches, whether against quicker wings or larger defenders.
Wolf is far from a finished product. He isn’t an elite athlete and doesn’t offer traditional rim protection. His perimeter shooting can be streaky, and he’s had issues with turnovers. Defensively, his mobility and lateral movement help compensate for his lack of explosiveness, but he’ll still need to improve on that end.
Despite his flaws, Wolf’s unique skill set and untapped potential make him a fascinating developmental piece, and Boston could be the perfect environment to help bring out the best in him.
29) Phoenix Suns
Walter Clayton Jr., Florida
Significant changes could be coming for the Phoenix Suns this offseason, following a disappointing 2024 campaign. Tyus Jones will be a free agent, leaving a hole at point guard and a need for overall backcourt depth. The Suns have done a good job of finding solid plug-and-play talents, and Walter Clayton Jr. could be of a similar mold.
Clayton is coming off an impressive NCAA Tournament run, which saw him lead Florida to a national championship. His breakout solidified his reputation as a dynamic scoring guard.
He’s capable of shifting a game’s momentum in a flash, thanks to his ability to get hot quickly and create difficult shots. Despite taking a high volume of 3s, he connected on nearly 39% of them last season, showing both efficiency and confidence from deep.
Though Clayton measured a bit smaller than expected at the combine (6’2″), his shotmaking ability and overall scoring instincts are undeniable. All season long, he delivered in high-pressure moments, using his quickness, change of pace, and unpredictability to keep defenses on their heels. His ability to play on and off the ball makes him a strong fit alongside stars like Kevin Durant and Devin Booker.
There are question marks on the defensive end. Still, his offensive firepower and clutch gene give him real value as an instant-offense guard.
30) Los Angeles Clippers
Yaxel Lendeborg, UAB/Michigan
Yaxel Lendeborg faces a high-profile stay-or-go decision heading into the 2025 NBA Draft. He starred at UAB this past season, setting career highs in points (17.7 PPG), rebounds (11.4 RPG), assists (4.2 APG), and steals (1.7 SPG). He was also highly efficient, shooting 52.2% from the field and 35.7% from behind the arc.
Lendeborg is a true stat-stuffer, flashing athletic shot creation, elite rebounding, and multi-positional defensive versatility. There’s little on the court that he doesn’t impact.
The biggest question surrounding his projection is how his production against weaker competition will translate to the NBA level. As a result, some teams might prefer to see him return to school, where a transfer to Michigan would give him the chance to prove himself against higher-level talent.
If Lendeborg spurns Michigan and keeps his name in the draft, he would be a great fit for the Los Angeles Clippers. They could use additional frontcourt depth behind Kawhi Leonard and Ivica Zubac. Lendeborg’s athleticism and versatility on both ends of the floor would be a valuable asset for a team looking to compete for a championship.