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### 2025 NBA Draft: In-Depth Analysis
**Editor’s Note**: For additional NBA insights, check out more coverage from The Athletic. Views expressed on this page may not represent those of the NBA or its franchises.
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Throughout the season, NBA scouts engage with college coaches who have faced the athletes under evaluation, seeking insight into the emerging draft cohort. Coaches can provide valuable perspectives on a player’s potential, but the most genuine insights often come from those who have competed against him.
In recent weeks, we’ve reached out to coaches from various conferences to gather their evaluations of the standout players in this draft class. We ensured these coaches could speak candidly by granting them anonymity and have synthesized their comments into a collective assessment.
Below, you will find scouting reports for all second-round collegiate prospects featured in Sam Vecenie’s most recent mock draft, along with some notable players who didn’t make the cut. Players are organized according to Vecenie’s rankings and numbered according to their selection order in the mock draft. Additionally, we took the liberty of asking each coach about potential sleeper picks, which are included at the end of the report. Coaches’ evaluations of anticipated first-round candidates can be found here.
He is evolving into a legitimate point guard, with significant advancements in his passing this year. However, his shooting has not progressed as much. I view him as an exceptional finisher, possessing outstanding touch, albeit primarily left-handed. I have confidence in his ability to score at the rim. His two-point shooting improved notably over his college tenure. While he may struggle to drive to the basket as effectively in the NBA due to increased size defenses, his passing remains a strong asset.
Concerns linger about his shooting overall. I see him functioning as a bench player, though if he can enhance his shooting, he might reach a higher potential. He lacks size and needs to build strength to contend with the league’s physicality. Consequently, he will need to defend opposing guards while continuing to refine both his playmaking skills and shooting.
Offensively, he struggles. He’s an explosive straight-line driver, fierce in competition; however, during the times he led his team in shot attempts and scoring, it negatively impacted their overall performance. His potential in the league seems limited, possibly resembling a Lu Dort type—someone who could guard the opposition’s best player. He greatly influences winning at the collegiate level, but to succeed in the NBA, he must fit into a specific system, as his overwhelming physicality and elite athleticism will not intimidate peers at the next level.
Another year in college might have served him well. However, even with an extra year, he likely wouldn’t have evolved significantly. His shooting development is questionable. Perhaps he made the right decision capitalizing on his successful season, but I’m not convinced he has the potential to be an NBA player; he feels more suited for the G-League.
His size and energy level stand out. He delivered two impressive dunks during our matchup. While he projects to be a backup center, the question remains: can he develop into a player who effectively operates in short-roll situations and makes sound decisions, or will he merely serve as a rim-runner?
He could be a Duke player who’s currently undervalued—when was the last time you heard that? He possesses good shooting ability and has game management skills. I was impressed by his basketball IQ, as he consistently knows which shots to take. He excels as a right-hand driver, and even when forced left, he can still find success. In the paint, he’s an adept passer and enjoys pulling up for mid-range shots making crucial baskets. Defensively, he is active and capable of causing turnovers, showcasing solid positional size.
I firmly believe he has a place in the NBA, at least as a backup guard. His shooting skills should translate well, and his competitive nature will ensure he puts forth the effort on defense. He might fit into a role similar to Andrew Nembhard but perhaps with ambitions even beyond that. As a larger guard with shooting prowess, I see potential for him to surpass expectations.
He was tremendously impressive both on film and live. Wisconsin’s play style sometimes allowed for his absence in the game, but during chaotic moments, he shined. He thrives in transition and excels at converting broken plays, a valuable skill in the NBA’s fast-paced environment. The concern is whether his athleticism is sufficient for the NBA level—only time will tell.
This player is incredibly tough. Physically, he is an impressive specimen, reminiscent of Lu Dort. Can he make an impact similar to Dort? While not quite at that level, he is relentless in defense, adept at maneuvering around screens. Although he may not excel in pick-and-roll scenarios, he is an effective cutter and has shown solid shooting ability. For him to secure a role in the NBA, he must target a specialized skill set.
One of his biggest challenges may stem from his athleticism and age, yet I’m convinced he can produce at the NBA level. While he may not be a starting center, I believe he can find minutes in a second-unit rotation by leveraging his size, intelligence, and abilities. His upside might be limited, but there is certainly room for experienced players to leave their mark on a franchise.
He appears destined for the G-League. Standing at 6’2″, his size as a small forward doesn’t seem ideal for the NBA. However, he has a winning mentality, having reached two Final Fours and winning a national championship, indicating he positively influences both ends of the court.
I have a great appreciation for Peavy. His versatility on defense is impressive, backed by an undeniable competitive spirit. He can change the game’s dynamics with his elite defensive skills; he’s likely the best perimeter defender in our league.
His offensive game showed marked improvement this year. After stints at Texas Tech, TCU, and Georgetown, he has found an understanding of his identity as a player. This awareness helps him maximize his strengths, although shooting consistency and decision-making remain questions. His size and tenacity on defense will certainly make an impact. While he is older and thus his ceiling may seem limited, physically, he is more than ready for challenges.
He was heavily relied upon at VCU, and I suspect teams will take an interest in his skills. He demonstrates strong basketball IQ, making sound decisions, especially in pick-and-roll situations. He is a challenging matchup, utilizing clever tactics to generate plays—an experience that can be both frustrating and admirable for opponents. However, I question how these strategies translate to the NBA.
Key considerations include how he adapts to a system where his usage might be significantly reduced and whether he can defend against faster, more athletic guards. He’s a solid, albeit not exceptional, three-point shooter. His style thrived at VCU with a specific system, but in more physical leagues, he’ll need to adjust to maintain effectiveness; otherwise, he’ll likely find more success in Europe.
His inconsistency could present challenges, and he doesn’t manage the ball well. Nevertheless, he boasts NBA-range shooting capabilities, can make mid-range pull-ups, and his screening tactics were comparable to historical style used by UConn and Detroit for Rip Hamilton. Unlike Rip, who was an adept ball-handler, Lanier falls short in that aspect, positioning him more as a specialist who must be closely monitored during games.
Defensively, he showed improvement this past season under coach Rick Barnes. He appears suited as a 3-and-D contributor in the NBA—a role player, rather than the focus of offensive plays. Still, he meets several physical criteria and possesses an exceptional ability to score consistently.
He is strong and has the potential to become a rotation big man. With development, he could even start for some teams due to his scoring ability around the basket and rim-protecting skills.
At Michigan, I was not a fan of some of his theatrics, but he embodies the gritty role of an enforcer in the same vein as Jose Alvarado. Vlad Goldin thrives on defense by being physical, drawing fouls, and altering the team’s mentality, effectively setting a more intense tone.
I always believed he had the potential for the NBA, and upon facing them, I was impressed to discover he’s a legitimate 6’7″. His shooting release is rapid; he is less adept at creating plays for others but can knock down shots reliably—there was a time when he was shooting over 50% from three during the season.
However, his defensive shortcomings are evident. He needs to refine his defensive techniques by learning to position himself better. While his foot speed may not meet the ideal standard for an elite defender, there are few players capable of scoring at his level consistently.
I have a strong affinity for him. Speaking with various scouts throughout the year, I was taken aback by their low projections. He possesses size and ball-handling skills that can make him a valuable asset, bringing distinction to his ability as a defender. He shows determination and versatility, allowing him to guard multiple positions. I would definitely consider him in the draft, as I see high potential for his future.
He’s incredibly talented, with notable length and versatility. He exhibits ball-handling, shooting, and passing skills, yet I question his toughness. His statistics are impressive, showcasing a variety of skills, but there seems to be something lacking. Part of his limitations may result from a refusal to engage defensively; even if he can net 17 points, he can just as easily allow the same amount. In close games, he fails to perform when needed. His shooting and ball handling may not meet the standards for that level.
He showcases potential similar to Kyle Anderson, but is he worth developing around? During his tenure at Nevada with teammate Nick Davidson, their performance did not meet expectations. He must discover ways to leverage his length and athleticism defensively and on the boards to make an impact.
He possesses the makings of a capable backup point guard. He consistently delivers clutch shots and plays with a disruptive, active defensive presence that earned him the nickname “Chucky the Gambler.” His high motor allows him to generate steals and create opportunities. He displays a strong understanding of the game alongside an ability to score from various areas—whether it’s a pull-up jumper or in transition. Whenever we attempted a comeback, he was the catalyst, making pivotal plays. Despite his undersized stature, I believe he’ll find a way to succeed; I would never wager against him.
He is skilled, tough, and tenacious, capable of establishing himself in the league. Should he reach the NBA, it will be due to his unwavering toughness and determination rather than superior athleticism or shooting ability.
It’s a challenge, as he’s a high-usage guard who won’t retain that role, raising concerns about his ability to adapt and contribute. He has decent size as a lead or combo guard and can score from all three levels. Yet, I question whether he possesses an essential NBA skill that will enable him to remain in the league. Is it possible he becomes a backup point guard? Perhaps, but I don’t see him as a shooter who can thrive off the ball, nor does he appear to be adept enough to manage second-unit offense. His defensive skills aren’t outstanding; the question remains—what value will he bring?
He embodies a boom-or-bust prospect. While he excels defensively and as a rebounder, his shooting remains unreliable. I’m confident in his motor and competitive drive, which should translate effectively. I wouldn’t make bold claims about him winning Big East Player of the Year, but he certainly exudes toughness and possesses the all-around skills necessary for success at that level. His main concern may be that his desire to score sometimes dictates his effectiveness, which could limit him to a role player at the next level.
Few players enhance their teammates’ performance as he does. An exceptional pick-and-roll athlete, he has an innate ability to find open players, often targeting them before they even realize they’re available. If you defend him as a passer, he will still find ways to deliver assists. In the past decade, very few point guards seemed to enjoy the passing game the way he does. Some may criticize his scoring output, but I am confident in his scoring ability—I believe he relishes making others better. Few players dissect defenses like he does at the professional level.
In person, he appears quite small. The question remains: can he force defenses to respect him by hitting a sustainable number of threes? He can be streaky as a shooter, an area that he must address to ensure longevity in the league. However, his passing skills are top-tier. Could he compare to someone like T.J. McConnell? He can be a nuisance on defense, generating steals thanks to his instinct for the game.
I appreciate his physical play and high motor alongside his passing acumen. Kentucky often utilized him in various actions, where he excelled, although his decision-making occasionally left room for improvement. He proved to be one of the nation’s top rebounders last season despite limitations in his shooting.
He has consistently distinguished himself within the SEC and showcased continuous improvement, making him a candidate for success at the professional level by excelling in key areas.
Concerns about his height persist. While he contributes offensively, he regressed this season, with a 9% drop in three-point shooting and a 10% decline from two-point range. Additionally, he lacks the point guard mentality crucial for the NBA, and his speed and agility are insufficient for evading defenders at that level. His defense isn’t his strong suit either. Although he enjoyed a stellar college career, I fear his attributes won’t translate to the NBA due to physical limitations.
Initially perceived as soft coming out of high school, he has demonstrated shooting potential alongside fair instincts. However, he still lacks the grit needed to thrive in the league. His development at BYU and Kentucky showed improvement, yet he always seemed to possess the dimensions of an NBA player.
Adjustment to playing off the ball will be necessary for him. His defense was solid but not exceptional—he has the potential to grow in the G-League and potentially secure a place on an NBA roster.
RJ Luis posed substantial challenges, while Zuby Ejiofor demonstrated promise, but Richmond truly became a catalyst for their success. He exhibits considerable size as a point guard and possesses excellent defensive instincts. Occasionally, he may seem disoriented on the floor, yet his capability for making remarkable plays cannot be overlooked.
It’s challenging to field a player who struggles with shooting—this will certainly come under scrutiny as this skill remains critical in today’s game. However, having witnessed his impact over time as I coached and observed numerous players, it’s hard to shake the feeling that he has what it takes to succeed. A look at his career stats—comparing performance with and without him—demonstrates his ability to contribute to winning teams, even dating back to Seton Hall. His decision-making showed notable improvements this season, as he became more controlled with the ball. He may have to navigate a winding path to find his spot in the league, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he carves out a role somewhere.
This year’s performance yielded impressive numbers. He showcased a more diverse skill set beyond mere post-ups and three-point attempts. While he appears to have a high floor, his ceiling may be limited. He has a talent for shooting but occasionally settles for poor shot selections and struggles to create his own opportunities against superior athletes. It remains uncertain what specific role he will fill at the next level, but his comfort with various tasks could work in his favor. On a competitive team, I see him having the potential to make an impact, at least as a small-ball four, if he proves his defensive capabilities against perimeter players. He demonstrated effective foot movement during college.
Another player I appreciated and brought to the attention of NBA scouts was impressive in every facet. He glides to the rim effortlessly and can adeptly navigate pick-and-roll situations, showcasing good size for a guard along with defensive capabilities—even if physicality occasionally poses a challenge. He distinguished himself as one of the best guards in the ACC, and I believe his combination of tenacity and skill will likely see him secure at least a backup point guard role.
His shooting capabilities are outstanding. When he’s on, his shot is nearly unstoppable. While he may struggle to defend at times, and likely will face challenges guarding at the NBA level, his shooting prowess could prove invaluable. He embodies a role similar to Duncan Robinson.
Given his ability to score with ease and shoot proficiently, a niche role exists for him as a bench player who can come in and provide crucial points.
Aaron Scott may surprise some observers in workouts—not that he’ll get drafted, but I anticipate he’ll land in Summer League and possibly get an Exhibit 10 or two-way contract based on his shooting potential exceeding what his statistics suggest.
Ultimately, he didn’t achieve the level of impact expected. While there may be various factors contributing to this, his versatility and size have consistently posed challenges for opponents. Though he has made strides in shooting this year, I sense some defensive limitations may inhibit his progress.
He could find value in the league as a specialist. Although he’s older, his shooting ability is exceptional. He brings an element of competitive fire—he entered our game and made a significant impact with audacious shots. With his quick release and capacity to run off screens while maintaining proper form, I firmly believe he deserves a spot in the league.
He possesses ideal size for his position, showcasing athleticism, toughness, and a knack for making critical shots. I’m uncertain what occurred for him towards the tail end of the season, but I viewed him as a viable candidate for the NBA based on his diverse skill set.
C.J. Moore, a staff writer for The Athletic, has covered college basketball since 2011. He has served as a national college basketball writer for Bleacher Report and has also reported for CBSSports.com and Basketball Prospectus. He co-wrote “Beyond the Streak,” a book that provides a behind-the-scenes look at the Kansas basketball team’s record-setting Big 12 title run. You can follow CJ on Twitter @cjmoorehoops.
