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The spotlight is now fixed on Dallas, which is highly favored to choose Cooper Flagg as the top pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
•2025 NBA Draft: Comprehensive Coverage
Editor’s Note: For more insights into the 2025 Draft from Jonathan Wasserman, visit Bleacher Report or click here to access this article on BleacherReport.com. The opinions expressed here do not necessarily represent those of the NBA or its franchises.
(B/R)— It is confirmed which franchise Cooper Flagg will join following the 2025 NBA draft lottery.
The Dallas Mavericks emerged victorious, claiming the coveted No. 1 overall selection, while the San Antonio Spurs and Philadelphia 76ers also secured spots in the top three.
Here are the details of the draft order:
1. Dallas Mavericks
2. San Antonio Spurs
3. Philadelphia 76ers
4. Charlotte Hornets
5. Utah Jazz
6. Washington Wizards
7. New Orleans Pelicans
8. Brooklyn Nets
9. Toronto Raptors
10. Houston Rockets
11. Portland Trail Blazers
12. Chicago Bulls
13. Atlanta Hawks
14. San Antonio Spurs
In addition to comprehensive two-round forecasts and professional player comparisons, we’re also offering trade suggestions for certain lottery teams below. We’re evaluating how these players fit with the lottery teams, with contributions from B/R NBA Analyst Zach Buckley.
Cooper Flagg is unlikely to undergo much of a pre-draft process. Besides obligatory drills and assessments at the NBA combine, the future No. 1 draft pick will likely only have interactions with the lottery victor.
Flagg is poised to make an immediate impact as a rookie due to his athleticism in the frontcourt, intelligent passing, and defensive tenacity. Furthermore, his ball-handling, creation skills, and shot-making are developing rapidly. His versatility on both ends of the court should aid his adaptation to various scenarios, and the on-ball growth he displayed at Duke indicates that it won’t be long before the offense runs through him.
Team Fit: The trade involving Luka Dončić has left Dallas searching for a long-term cornerstone, and Flagg is the ideal candidate to fill that gap. In the short term, his ability to finish plays will complement Kyrie Irving’s game splendidly once Irving recovers from his ACL injury. With Flagg, Anthony Davis, and Dereck Lively II together in the frontcourt, the Mavericks’ defense could become highly effective—assuming they also provide adequate shooting to implement a sizeable lineup as a strategic variation. — Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst
Dylan Harper’s aggressive playing style, exceptional finishing skills, and shot-making talent have widened the gap between him and the No. 3 prospect.
He is versatile enough to play both guard positions due to his impressive handling, 6’6″ frame, and 39.0 percent success rate for catch-and-shoot opportunities. However, selecting Harper is about generating offense, applying pressure on defenses, creating chances, and having a player capable of controlling segments of a game with his outstanding driving skills and confidence to shoot from various ranges.
Team Fit: Should Harper join Victor Wembanyama, reigning Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle, and the Spurs’ wealth of quality role players in San Antonio, their young core would be remarkably strong. However, the Spurs, who made a significant trade for De’Aaron Fox in February, might question whether they want to bring another young guard with shooting inconsistencies into the mix, or if they’ll turn their lottery success into a bold move for established talent. Stay tuned. — Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst
Every team’s tier behind Flagg and Harper is likely to include VJ Edgecombe. Teams that value his elite explosive athleticism, shooting ability, and defensive speed could place him at No. 3—especially if they have concerns about Ace Bailey’s ball-handling and vision, Tre Johnson’s inability to penetrate, and Jeremiah Fears’ shooting consistency.
The draft process will likely further highlight his incredible athletic gifts and improving shooting touch.
Team Fit: Although the Sixers didn’t land the top pick at the lottery, they still emerged as significant winners that night. Edgecombe, an elite athlete poised to make an impact defensively and excel in transition, seems to be a strong fit for Philadelphia, regardless of whether the organization continues with their current win-now approach or pivots towards rebuilding around Tyrese Maxey and lottery selection Jared McCain. — Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst
Scouts appear ready to overlook Ace Bailey’s questionable shot selection and tunnel vision in light of his 6’10” stature and exceptional shot-making skills.
Expectations were notably high for him, and teams are unlikely to nitpick an 18-year-old who possesses such unusual potential for scoring both on and off the ball.
Although his tendency to rely on difficult shots, a poor assist-to-turnover ratio, low free-throw attempts, and a disappointing 69.2 percent free-throw percentage are concerning, Bailey remains locked into the top-five discussion, and the pre-draft workouts and interviews should only bolster teams’ interests.
Team Fit: If the Hornets are willing to wait for a while longer, they should appreciate the fit of Bailey’s size and shooting alongside LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. With legitimate star potential, Bailey could significantly enhance Charlotte’s talent pool. — Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst
After Dylan Harper is off the board, teams looking to bolster their backcourt with additional creation, rim pressure, and playmaking will turn their sights to Jeremiah Fears. Scouts expect this 18-year-old to draw top-five consideration, especially after averaging 22.3 points and 4.8 assists in Oklahoma’s last nine games.
The upcoming workouts will afford Fears the opportunity to address any concerns about his three-point shooting. Having made 38 three-pointers, his shooting prowess is evident, and he boasts a 42.6 percent shooting rate from mid-range.
Even though some teams may shy away due to his inconsistent range, high turnover rate, and limited off-ball skills, Fears remains a viable option for guard-needy teams early in the lottery.
Team Fit: Fears possesses considerable creativity and confidence, qualities that could evolve him into a premier lead guard over time. Nonetheless, he tends to take unnecessary risks that could hinder his shooting efficiency and lead to turnovers. His game overlaps significantly with current Jazz guard Keyonte George, both positively and negatively. — Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst
Scouts believe that Tre Johnson will maintain a top-five position thanks to eye-catching self-creation skills and shot-making capabilities that fueled his 19.9 points per game average.
His workouts should enhance his prospects, given the emphasis on shooting in these contexts and how mechanically sound Johnson appears.
While some scouts are skeptical about Johnson’s potential, questioning his ability to drive past defenders or create for his teammates, his strong perimeter shooting and competitiveness should diminish scrutiny in the 5-8 slot of the draft.
Team Fit: After prioritizing defensive improvements in recent drafts, the Wizards are now in dire need of an offensive injection. Johnson could be just the boost they require. He’s a dynamic scorer capable of hitting shots from all over and finding his own space. If he polishes his floor leader skills for the lead guard position, he could be a significant asset for Washington. — Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst
Workouts will provide Khaman Maluach an opportunity to demonstrate his shooting ability and on-ball agility, which were largely overshadowed by a talented roster at Duke.
At the very least, his 7’2″ height, expansive wingspan, and agility will attract serious attention from teams in the late lottery seeking to add offensive finishing and defensive capabilities. Yet, Maluach’s pre-Duke footage showcased notable shooting range and scoring versatility; flashes of these skills during the draft process could entice teams to consider him higher on their boards.
Team Fit: The Pelicans saw great results from Yves Missi this past season, but they could benefit even more from Maluach’s presence. He could play a similar role as a rim-runner, ensuring New Orleans has a dynamic presence in the paint, but the hope is that Maluach could eventually contribute a shot-making element to his game as well. — Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst
TRADE IDEA
Scouts who held Derik Queen in high regard prior to the NCAA tournament should be even more confident following Maryland’s Sweet 16 exit. His three three-pointers and 27-point performance against the top-seeded Florida only served to silence some doubters.
Queen’s offensive versatility, skill set, and basketball IQ suggest he’ll attract teams willing to overlook his defensive shortcomings.
Team Fit: Queen represents a distinctive prospect capable of impacting the game with a rare combination of size, scoring ability, vision, and instinct. It will be crucial to find a roster that allows him to flourish and that can accommodate his strengths while compensating for his weaknesses. As the Nets find themselves in a rebuilding phase, they might consider gradually assembling a supportive framework around Queen if immediate solutions aren’t found this offseason. — Zach Buckley
Noa Essengue has been making significant contributions in the German BBL, increasingly delivering impressive scoring performances.
His consistent success with easy baskets from rim runs, cuts, and offensive rebounds has been complemented by a growing comfort level in executing self-created drives and nailing rhythm three-point shots.
His advancing on-ball skills and increasing offensive output have made him a compelling draft narrative, especially as one of the youngest prospects in the draft who offers exciting defensive potential and mobility.
Team Fit: Essengue naturally fits the Raptors’ profile. He’s youthful, lengthy, and athletic, likely to shine in transition and present intriguing possibilities on defense. However, he is still a work-in-progress when it comes to shooting and lacks offensive polish. — Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst
Kon Knueppel’s consistently stellar shooting could captivate during pre-draft workouts. While shooting is his primary asset, his pick-and-roll passing, driving proficiency, and basketball IQ enhance his versatility and perceived upside.
Any positive athletic testing results will be considered a bonus, and it wouldn’t be surprising if Knueppel impresses teams with his agility and foot speed.
Team Fit: If the Rockets opt not to trade this pick, Knueppel might find himself with more playing opportunities than last year’s No. 3 pick, Reed Sheppard. Knueppel possesses an NBA-ready combination of size and shooting skills; with his advanced basketball feel, he could instantly contribute to a competitive team—provided he can manage defensively in open space. — Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst
TRADE IDEA
Kasparas Jakucionis is likely to attract interest from top-10 teams, though potential backcourt congestion and questions about his ability to separate from defenders may push him into late lottery territory.
His 6’6″ frame and dual-threat scoring/playmaking abilities should resonate with squads envisioning him complements to established lead ball-handlers like De’Aaron Fox.
Despite a rough finish to the season, Jakucionis showcased effective pace changes, creative shot-making, and high basketball IQ, convincing scouts of his ability to offset his physical limitations.
Team Fit: Following the establishment of a strong defensive identity under coach Chauncey Billups, the Blazers could consider fortifying their offense by adding Jakucionis. He’s a shifty, imaginative scorer. Even with tendencies to overextend at times, he could thrive in an offense featuring multiple creators, sharing touches with Scoot Henderson, Anfernee Simons, and Deni Avdija. — Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst
TRADE IDEA
Asa Newell has the opportunity to convince more scouts of his shooting prowess during the draft process. His shooting capabilities are a crucial swing skill, considering his ability to finish well at 6’11” with exceptional touch around the rim and promising defensive capabilities.
Although his 29.2 three-point percentage doesn’t instill confidence, he shot 41.5 percent from beyond the arc at Montverde last year, and his 26 made three-pointers while at Georgia indicate clear shooting potential.
Team Fit: Should Newell enhance his shooting consistency, he could emerge as a long-term successor to Nikola Vučević. While he may never reach the same offensive skill level, he already demonstrates more force and spring around the basket. — Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst
Collin Murray-Boyles presents a physical presence capable of pressuring defenses with his ability to score inside, combined with power and agility.
His passing capabilities and defensive quickness open up new possibilities for his future success.
Teams will be particularly focused on Murray-Boyles’ measurements and shooting capabilities during pre-draft evaluations, given his distinctive size as a power forward who hasn’t displayed much shooting prowess.
Team Fit: The Hawks are continuously seeking out defensive contributors to complement Trae Young, and Murray-Boyles ranks among the most dynamic in this class. There would be an impressive array of two-way playmaking among him, Jalen Johnson, and Onyeka Okongwu, although the lack of shooting could complicate playing all three together. — Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst
TRADE IDEA
Jase Richardson garnered attention from scouts for his efficient scoring and smart decision-making. He showcased an ability to finish well on low usage, making open three-pointers, choosing ideal moments for attack, and using advanced adjustments and instincts to finish at the rim.
However, it also became evident that he possesses more creativity than his stat line might suggest. Richardson was among the nation’s most efficient scorers in ball-screen situations, with his self-creation becoming more pronounced as his role expanded.
Team Fit: The Spurs might find themselves overwhelmed with creators at this stage, allowing Richardson to step in and excel as a finisher. He excelled in this capacity during his initial period at Michigan State, only later adding flashes of creation and playmaking to his skill set. If he can replicate this dynamic as a Spur, he could quickly become a valuable reserve and potentially earn a starting role in the future. — Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst
TRADE IDEA
Size: 6’6″, 200 lbs
Age: 23
Nationality: USA
Pro Comparison: Cody Martin
Nique Clifford’s 21 points, seven rebounds, and six assists didn’t prevent Maryland’s defeat, but his overall improvement from the previous year certainly impressed NBA scouts.
Early in the season, he was viewed as a prospect due to his ability to fill various roles—scoring, facilitating, defending multiple positions, and making enough open threes. He rapidly evolved into a key skill player who can create his shot or act as a playmaker for the offense.
Despite Carter Bryant’s limited contributions and role, there remains first-round interest in this athletic, 6’8” wing with notable shot-making talent and defensive quickness.
It may require some imagination for teams to see significant upside, but Bryant has an NBA foundation and fits the coveted archetype.
Nolan Traore has been experiencing one of the best stretches of his season. His 2023 draft application enters after maintaining the highest assist percentage in the field; however, he’s also showing confidence creating his own three-point shots while being more decisive.
Initial struggles with both shooting and inefficiency hindered him due to athletic restrictions. Nonetheless, the high expectations entering the season haven’t dissipated. The 18-year-old has demonstrated significant effectiveness in generating offense as a starting point guard in Pro A.
Egor Demin’s 6’9” frame and playmaking ability may compel teams to overlook concerns surrounding his shooting and turnover issues. Though initially a capable shot-maker, he effectively drives using his size and ambidexterity.
Teams will evaluate his shooting form and mentality throughout the pre-draft period. The mid-first round remains a reasonable projection, particularly for teams seeking another ball-handler capable of setting up plays.
NBA clubs generally have a good understanding of the strengths and weaknesses Liam McNeeley brings to the table.
His skills for spot-up shooting, off-screen scoring, and fast-break finishing should translate favorably, leveraging usage efficiently. He should develop the potential for pick-and-roll handling while showcasing the ability to attack downhill and recognize passing opportunities.
However, his athletic and defensive limitations make it challenging to envisage him as a star-level player, and he must improve his pull-up game to present more of an offensive threat. A 43.9 percent efficiency in two-point shots raises concerns for someone projected to be a lottery pick.
Teams considering a late first-round pick will likely explore Ben Saraf, who can contribute to additional creation and playmaking.
The combination of promising statistics and eye-test ability showcases his advanced ball-handling and passing prowess in pick-and-roll settings. While there might be debates regarding his shooting consistency and defensive capabilities, his proven mid-range effectiveness and competitive spirit should register a positive reaction.
Teams will look forward to observing him at the NBA combine, where they can gather details about his official measurements and shot consistency.
A foot injury affecting a larger player will draw additional scrutiny during pre-draft evaluations. Teams will aspire to witness Thomas Sorber’s workout after he missed time since February. His remarkable finishing techniques, proficiency in post play, and passing skills remained apparent throughout the season. He proved effective defensively, producing 2.0 blocks and 1.5 steals per game. Although Sorber’s jump-shot numbers were lower than desirable, his persistent attempts at mid-range and three-point shots illustrated his confidence and willingness to shoot.
Danny Wolf made an impactful statement against Auburn, scoring 20 points along with several highlight-worthy plays showcasing his ability to create and make shots.
While his three-point percentage may not reflect an upward trend, he expanded his repertoire this year by incorporating pull-up and step-back shots. Standing at 7 feet, his 21 successful dribble jumpers, combined with his role as Michigan’s primary playmaker, while contributing an average of 9.7 rebounds and 1.4 blocks, are bound to attract a number of prospective suitors.
Joan Beringer has entered the draft conversation this season, boasting a high shot-blocking rate and showing impressive defensive agility at 6’11”.
Despite lacking notable offensive capabilities, his physical attributes, mobility, and effectiveness should translate instinctively to rim protection, shot-contesting, and efficient finishing—similar to his role with Cedevita.
Walter Clayton Jr.’s confidence soared following a 34-point performance against Auburn. His fearless shooting in clutch situations has scouts beginning to overlook any size limitations in favor of a scoring guard.
Though he had a rough showing in the national championship game against Houston—where he was the primary target for their scouting report—Clayton managed to shift to playmaking mode effectively, displaying clutch finishing and knocking down a shifting three-pointer to regain momentum for Florida.
Scouts acknowledge that his draft stock is rising as the pre-draft process unfolds.
The NCAA tournament showcased a range of performances from Will Riley, including a 22-point game against Xavier, where he exhibited impressive shot-making. However, his quiet subsequent performance against Illinois raised some questions about his ability to create separation and robustness inside the arc. His lack of explosive athleticism and negative wingspan could limit his transition to the next level, minimizing versatility when his jumper isn’t on point.
Nonetheless, Riley’s increased confidence and decisiveness in shooting and his ability to create plays for himself and others have made a positive impression over the past month.
Some teams might view a 6’8” scoring wing with potential upside, while others may highlight concerns over a lengthy adjustment period and possible bust implications.
Despite a lackluster postseason for Rasheer Fleming, NBA teams remain unfazed by his shooting improvement and the potential archetype he embodies.
Fleming holds the distinction of being the only college player to produce at least 60 three-pointers and 40 dunks this season (one of only eight players historically). The 6’9”, 240-pound forward is likely to fit into a clear stretch-four role at the next tier, demonstrating skills in catch-and-shoot situations alongside effective finishing and strong defensive capabilities.
Yaxel Lendeborg has gained traction ahead of the draft thanks to a season filled with impressive production and standout displays in both the AAC tournament and the NIT.
His framework at 6’9”, 240 pounds lets him attack, finish plays, create second-chance opportunities, and be a playmaker defensively. His shooting can potentially develop into a reliable catch-and-shoot option, as indicated by his 25 successful three-pointers, nearly doubling his output from the previous season.
Even if Noah Penda’s contributions seem modest, they’ve highlighted his specific skills that the NBA frequently covets.
Interest will be significant for the 6’8”, 225-pound forward who has shown an ability to knock down open threes, effectively pass the ball, cut for easy baskets, and display sound defensive instincts. His fit may overshadow his upside projections.
Maxime Raynaud’s excellent season came to an end following a loss to Kent State in the NIT, where he finished second in threes made among 7-foot players, trailing only Lauri Markkanen.
He averaged 20.2 points and 10.6 rebounds, utilizing his substantial frame alongside thoughtful shooting and ball-handling. Despite any concerns about his defensive capabilities or passing, Raynaud’s performance and scoring versatility are compelling enough to warrant attention, particularly at this stage in the draft.
While Kam Jones didn’t shine in Marquette’s NCAA tournament defeat against New Mexico, his previous three-game average of 28.0 points demonstrated his capability. With Tyler Kolek’s exit, he seized the opportunity to showcase his playmaking this season. The 6’5” guard’s stats, including 300-plus career three-pointers, illustrate his effectiveness in scoring.
Concerns regarding his age and upside may seem less significant beyond the 20s, as teams in search of added ball-handling or offensive firepower will likely take notice of Jones once younger, flashier prospects are off the board.
Hugo Gonzalez has had some productive minutes in early May, but limited playing time—averaging only five minutes per game for Real Madrid—makes evaluation challenging for teams eager to gauge his potential during the NBA combine.
Teams will appreciate Gonzalez’s physical build and defensive outlook, yet projecting his shooting consistency and on-ball development may involve some guesswork.
Though Adou Thiero only appeared for five minutes against Texas Tech after recovering from a knee injury, his return offers hope for upcoming pre-draft workouts.
His shooting situation remains troubling, but he’s made strides in creating his shots inside the arc, an essential enhancement that has broadened his scoring capabilities in half-court setups.
Boasting impressive transition speed, play-finishing skills, and now newfound driving ability, Thiero may entice teams into considering him as a non-shooting wing or combo forward.
After scoring 25 points and grabbing 14 rebounds against Michigan State, Johni Broome’s Auburn stint came to a close. While he effectively established his inside scoring capabilities using strength, composure, and finesse against Florida, he struggled against their big men when positioned on the perimeter.
Projecting Broome into the next level, teams can count on his low-post skills, second-chance scoring, assisting, and shot-blocking. His usage rate, value, and role could significantly shift if he develops into a more dependable spot-up shooter or pick-and-pop threat.
Drake Powell’s NBA combine performances are set to gain prominence after he spent a season focusing on spot-up opportunities, averaging only 49.2 percent of North Carolina’s possessions and taking a mere 5.7 shots per game.
Despite the limited production, first-round interest may still arise due to his exceptional physical profile, promising defensive potential, and 37.9 percent shooting from deep.
Ryan Kalkbrenner turned in another strong performance this season, noted for his post scoring, finishing ability, and shot-blocking skills. With an additional season in the NBA under his belt, he returns after a marginal improvement in three-point shooting.
His upside remains somewhat limited unless he develops that long-range shot into a consistent weapon at the professional level. Evaluation of Kalkbrenner’s shooter potential will be critical during workouts in May and June. However, his 7’1” height combined with a refined inside game and defensive presence presents a compelling case for a probable second-round selection.
Labaron Philon might attract first-round attention if teams appreciate his creative abilities, playmaking, and remarkable touch in finishing around the basket. Nevertheless, envisioning a significant role for a 177-pound guard lacking explosive leaping ability and consistent shooting power could be challenging. He may ultimately serve best as a multi-talented role player rather than as a primary ball-handler.
The season saw Alex Toohey double his three-point scoring compared to the previous year. Betting on his development means support for his shooting skills, especially considering their potential impact for a 6’9” winger who struggles to create but excels at finishing plays through transition and off cuts, drives, and hand-offs.
He will be an important candidate to monitor during the NBA combine scrimmages.
Tyrese Proctor’s performance against Houston in the Final Four fell short, but he successfully made 16 three-pointers in Duke’s initial four NCAA tournament matchups.
NBA teams are primarily attracted to Proctor’s scoring ability, but ample footage reveals his strong passing intelligence suggests he possesses more playmaking potential than his assist counts show.
After a lengthy absence, Boogie Fland made a commendable return for the NCAA tournament. The comeback didn’t yield ideal results—shooting just 4-of-18 across three games and logging nine minutes against Texas Tech.
This underwhelming performance raised doubts about his potential as a starting NBA point guard, as concerns about size and athleticism emerged consistently during drives and attempts to finish at the rim.
However, his skillful ball-handling and shifty nature for creating and playmaking, along with consistent scoring capabilities, position him as an appealing candidate for a scoring spark off the bench in the NBA.
Bogoljub Markovic concluded a week of scrimmaging and practices in Portland with a notable 16-point outing on just seven shots against the USA at the Nike Hoop Summit.
His shooting percentage reached an impressive 43.8 percent from three while at Mega, and he hit three triples on Saturday, continuing to demonstrate his offensive potential alongside sound passing ability.
While his shot-blocking numbers are not high, the blend of inside-out offensive production and skill level of a 6’11” 19-year-old continues to rise in consistency.
Chaz Lanier faced challenges against Houston’s relentless defense but excelled by sinking 10 three-pointers during Tennessee’s first two NCAA tournament games.
NBA teams seeking offensive capabilities may overlook his age and lack of versatility in light of his advanced shooting skills.
Kobe Sanders shined at the Portsmouth Invitational, and an invitation to the Chicago Elite Camp now seems likely. He’s a 6’9” prolific shooter capable of producing at three levels, averaging 4.5 assists and likely to attract interest. Although he might not test particularly well in athletic evaluations, his skillful ability to shoot, create, and pass enhances his perceived versatility.
With a remarkable 44.0 percent three-point shooting rate, combined with an elite floater game and an impressive assist-to-turnover ratio, Milos Uzan should be the subject of discussions for potential second-round selections across many teams.
During Kentucky’s disappointing loss to Tennessee, Koby Brea failed to make a significant impact, serving as a reminder of his limited contributions when his shot isn’t falling. Nonetheless, scouts regard him as too skilled of a shooter to risk letting him go undrafted.
The limited list of 6’6” college players who have achieved a 42.0 percent shooting rate over 700 career attempts includes several who have successfully established themselves in the NBA (such as Allan Houston, Dennis Scott, Jason Kapono, Kyle Korver, Sam Hauser, and Steve Novak).
There’s a notable incentive for Alex Condon to withdraw and return to school, having a legitimate chance for back-to-back titles alongside the newly constructed roster and potential NIL earnings.
However, NBA teams will undoubtedly take an interest in a 6’11” athlete with finishing prowess, passing capabilities, and some shooting upside.
Hunter Sallis has emerged as one of the draft’s most efficient and productive pull-up shooters, showcasing his potential as a scoring 2-guard. While the lack of playmaking might hurt his prospects for a first-round selection, his consistent 18-point averages over two years and solid abilities for self-creation and three-level scoring should keep him within the radar for a second-round pick.
With an impactful four years at Colorado State and one at Missouri, John Tonje is generating buzz by averaging 19.6 points for Wisconsin. Notably, he sank 85 three-pointers and 231 free throws (90.9 percent). His skill in shooting and ability to drive vigorously have raised his stock as a potential late-second-round prospect.
Brice Williams may fall under the radar as a value pick for teams prioritizing immediate scoring capabilities over potential upside.
He averages 1.8 three-pointers per game, exhibiting shooting efficiency with 43.8 percent on pull-ups, 53.1 percent post-handoff shots, and 61.6 percent at the rim, making him an efficient scorer capable of functioning on and off the ball.
Hansen Yang is making a case as a legitimate draft candidate, averaging 21.0 points and 11.3 rebounds in the CBA since March 19, especially as NIL deals may entice more draftable talents to extend their college careers.
Despite moving slower and lacking explosiveness, his advanced skills and remarkable feel for footwork and touch on shots should bolster his appeal. With 17 three-pointers made, he emerges as an intriguing selection for a 7’1”, 19-year-old prospect who also averaged 2.7 blocks.
Teams will likely aim to get Yang into the NBA combine this year, particularly if their scouts haven’t previously engaged with his game in China.
Despite subpar performances against Arkansas, Darrion Williams exhibited notable late-game contributions with a game-winning drive and a strong 23-point outing against Florida.
He’s left scouts divided as they consider both his shot-making, passing, and post scoring capabilities, along with inquiries about athletic constraints and his hefty reliance on strength for achievements.
His versatility is likely to be an appealing factor for teams scouting in the second round.
Dink Pate tested the limits of shooting potential earlier in the season, yet his three-point accuracy tumbled in the past months, leading to questions about reliability as he heads into the draft.
Despite two years in the G League, he remains just 19 years old as of March. Some teams may find value in a 6’8” guard who can create his own shot and score in various ways, even if he requires further development at this stage.
Mouhamed Faye’s defensive range is a significant selling point, complemented by his ability to achieve 59 dunks this season.
Although he may struggle against post-up players, his agility and speed in covering ground suggest teams could be interested in utilizing him as a switchable big man, capable of guarding in open space and shot-blocking effectively.
Vladislav Goldin registered 23 points, 12 rebounds, and three blocks against Texas A&M, but struggled to gain traction against Johni Broome and Auburn.
He’s become a second-round consideration for teams, thanks to the combination of his impressive 7’1” frame, touch, and finishing prowess.
After four seasons without attempting a three-pointer, Goldin stepped up and made 11 this year, an intriguing development teams are bound to investigate further during pre-draft evaluations.
While the list of successful 6’2” shooting guards is slim, Alijah Martin garnered an invite to the NBA combine due to his shooting skills, athleticism, and solid build weighing 210 pounds. He may hold the potential to thrive in the role he successfully played at Florida, nailing jump shots and exploiting defenses with aggressive downhill drives.
The draft process will be crucial for Rocco Zikarsky following a year hampered by unproductive stretches due to injuries. A mobile, 7’2” teenager with professional experience could entice teams to draft him, especially given recent trends favoring the acquisition of larger bodies, even those with old-fashioned skill sets.
Scouts are intrigued by Jevon Small, whose performance has garnered attention towards his shot-making and playmaking capabilities. Difficulty with tough shots can hinder his efficiency but an NBA team may see his capacity for creation, his downhill gameplay, and perimeter confidence as attractive for a bench-scoring role.
Despite uncertainties surrounding Eric Dixon’s role at the next level, such as his defensive matchups and overall offensive separation, talk around him may build as the nation’s leading scorer who has just recorded 94 three-pointers at 6’8” and 265 pounds.
Potential developments in his shot-making could lead teams to perceive him as a potential stretch-four or pick-and-pop specialist.
Expectations may arise for teams willing to take a calculated risk on Sion James, given his impressive strength as a wing or ball-handler. Weighing in at 220 pounds, he emerges as a downhill threat boasting secondary playmaking skills alongside accurate spot-up shooting (50.0 percent efficiency).
A gradual transition into a stretch five is beginning to materialize for Nate Bittle, whose profile now features a career-high 8.1 block percentage alongside impressive three-point shooting for a 7-footer.
Anticipation for potential second-round interest could be seen in Bittle’s size, rebounding, defensive abilities, and emerging skills for scoring.
Jonathan Wasserman serves as the lead scout and NBA Draft analyst for Bleacher Report. You can follow him on X. The content of this page does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the NBA, its franchises, or Warner Brothers Discovery.
Statistics furnished by Synergy Sports and Sports Reference.
