The 2025 NBA Draft is right around the corner, and the Oklahoma City Thunder are once again in a position to strengthen their already deep roster. Holding the 15th overall pick, acquired from the Miami Heat, the Thunder have a valuable chance to make another solid addition.
As per recent projections, Sam Presti, OKC’s general manager could spend that pick on a shot-making wing out of Illinois who showed real scoring upside as a freshman and fits the mold of OKC’s long-term development approach.
Thunder Projected to Target Illinois Standout Will Riley
According to PFSN’s Bjorn Bergstrom, the Thunder are expected to select Illinois standout Will Riley with the No. 15 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. At 6’8″, Riley is a reliable scorer who has the frame and skill set to become a serious offensive threat at the NBA level.
“Standing 6’8″, Will Riley is a terrific shot-maker and projects as a high-scoring player on the wing at his peak,” Bergstrom wrote. “During his freshman season at Illinois, he averaged 12.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.2 assists. His percentages weren’t great (43.2% from the field and 32.6% from 3-point range), but he excelled late in the season as one of the Fighting Illini’s most reliable scorers.”
Bergstrom emphasized that Riley’s best stretch came when it counted, showing he can rise under pressure. His combination of length, scoring instincts, and flashes of creativity off the dribble make him a strong fit for a Thunder team that thrives on fast play.
“The Oklahoma City Thunder are always looking to add players with length and potential — two things that Riley certainly has,” Bergstrom added. “Almost assuredly entering next season as the favorite to win the 2026 NBA title, Oklahoma City could ease Riley into the program as he gets stronger and becomes more consistent with his shot.”
Could Riley Fit With a Contender Like Thunder?
There’s no denying Riley has the tools. He brings good size, scoring flashes, and some intriguing playmaking instincts. But the Thunder will be looking to build towards a title, and that means every addition has to make sense in the long run.
Riley’s driving ability and touch through contact could eventually make him a strong downhill threat. His ability to create space with a spin move or crossover adds value, and he’s shown glimpses of a fluid pull-up game from the midrange and beyond the arc. Lisbaan Osman, the host of CBSPod, recently posted a video of Riley on X showcasing his scoring ability.
Canadian Will Riley shooting off the dribble at the NBA Draft Combine.
Real pure scorer. He hit 26 out of 30 for 86.7%. pic.twitter.com/6YnEM5HGy4
— Libaan Osman (@libaanstar1) May 13, 2025
When Chet Holmgren draws defensive attention in the paint, Riley could space the floor with his mid-range pull-ups or corner 3-pointers to keep the offense moving. He’s also a creative passer off the dribble, able to dish to cutters or hit open shooters in stride, giving Shai Gilgeous-Alexander more chances to play off the ball and find open lanes.
But several areas of his game still need polish. His 3-point shooting is inconsistent — just 32.6% — especially off the dribble. His ball-handling in tight spaces remains shaky, particularly against tough perimeter defense. Even off the ball, his awareness tends to lag, which could be a challenge in OKC’s fast-paced, read-heavy system.
If he can improve shot consistency and lock in defensively, he could eventually carve out a role in Mark Daigneault’s rotation. But with the Thunder already loaded with stars like Gilgeous-Alexander, Holmgren, and Jalen Williams, there’s no rush.
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OKC could take a slow-paced approach, letting Riley grow in the G League. If he adjusts well and sharpens his skills, he may become a valuable piece in the Thunder’s championship-ready roster. But for now, it’s all about potential and whether Riley can turn flashes into something more solid.
