Latest news with #CarterBryant
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
As NBA draft approaches, Wasserman agency reveals large 2025 class
Carter Bryant's mom, Sabrina, has video from when he was about 9 years old, saying he was going to be the No. 1 pick in the NBA draft. Sure, kid, keep dreaming. Bryant kept dreaming, and just as important, worked hard, and while he might not be the No. 1 pick this month, he is a projected first-round pick and possibly a lottery pick. Advertisement 'For me to have the opportunity to even be selected in the draft is just actually crazy to me,' Bryant said. 'But there was never a point in time where it was like, 'Oh, I knew.' I felt like I've always had the belief in myself to know I could play at the highest level of basketball.' Bryant is one nearly two-dozen potential 2025-26 NBA rookies represented by Wasserman, the powerhouse sports, music entertainment and culture agency. Wasserman's NBA agents have signed several projected 2025 first-round draft picks, including multiple projected lottery picks: VJ Edgecombe, Kasparas Jakucionis, Collin Murray-Boyles and Bryant. Also part of Wasserman's 2025 class: Adama Bal; Oumar Ballo; Tyson Degenhart; Dawson Garcia; Cameron Hildreth; Augustas Marciulionis; Dayvion McKnight; David N'Guesson; Jaxson Robinson; Mitchell Saxon; Christian Shumate; Lazar Stefanovic; Des Watson; Luke Barrett; Nolan Traore; Joan Beringer; Eli John Ndiaye; and Saliou Niang. Wasserman on Monday announced its class with an old-school nod to classic cars, diners, varsity jackets with the catchphrase, 'Where Everybody Eats.' Advertisement 'We normally attract very focused players and families who aren't worried about the extras and are focused on basketball,' Wasserman senior vice president of basketball Joe Smith told USA TODAY Sports. 'We have a very rigorous pre-draft process and the families and players that want that is normally who we attract. 'So this year is just kind of a microcosm of all those very, very good players and their families choosing to come with us, which turns out, in my opinion, one of the best classes in the world. That's what it is … understanding how competitive the NBA is and being realistic on that and getting those guys prepared for that.' Wasserman clients are on a stellar run – San Antonio's Stephon Castle earned 2024-25 Rookie of the Year, and Cleveland's Evan Mobley was named Defensive Player of the Year. Most of Wasserman's NBA prospects have been working out with each other in Southern California preparing for the draft. Advertisement 'It's a very, very competitive iron-sharpens-iron environment, and you've got to want that,' said Smith, a former pro basketball player who spent 14 seasons overseas, including six years in Italy's top division. Bryant, who spent one season at Arizona, has dedicated his workouts to all aspects of his game, which include defense, shooting, ball-handling and conditioning. 'The main focus for me was just staying in tiptop shape,' said Bryant who is gaining an appreciation for low-impact workouts in a pool. In his sophomore season at South Carolina in 2024-25, Murray-Boyles averaged 16.8 points and 8.3 rebounds and shot 58.6% from the field, earning second-team All-SEC honors. With his two-way ability, strength and effort, he has steadily climbed on draft boards and is the projected No. 10 pick in USA TODAY's latest mock draft. Advertisement Asked what he was focused on during predraft workouts, Murray-Boyles didn't hesitate. He called his 3-point shot (26.5% on 34 attempts) the elephant in the room. 'My goal is just to obviously become a better shooter,' he said. 'That's my only concern, only question mark in my game really, or the biggest one.' He reminds himself daily: make sure his guide hand is in the right spot on the basketball; keep his hips low; stay consistent; build proper habits. 'The first day here I knew the amount of preparation I would be getting and the type of player I would be coming out of this pre-draft process,' Murray-Boyles said. Advertisement Said Smith: 'We just have a really good stable of young players who are really, really hungry and work really hard. So we are super-excited for them.' This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: As NBA draft approaches, Wasserman agency reveals large 2025 class
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
2025 NBA draft: Tracking the top early entrant decisions ahead of withdrawal deadline
The NBA announced on April 29 that 106 players filed as early entry candidates for the draft, which will be held June 25-26 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. The number of prospects who declared for the draft as early entrants was down from 195 last year. The decline directly stems from the rise of name, image and likeness (NIL), as players were afforded more earning potential by staying at the collegiate level. Advertisement Related 2025 NBA Mock Draft 3.0: Projecting every pick after the draft lottery Players who applied for early entry have the right to withdraw their names from consideration by 5 p.m. EDT on June 15. Under NCAA rules, college players who entered the draft must withdraw by 11:59 p.m. EDT on May 28 to retain college basketball eligibility. The top prospects were invited to the combine and participated in various on-court drills, scrimmages and medical testing last week in Chicago, Illinois. They also had the opportunity to interview with teams and gauge their draft stock to make the best decision about their respective futures. Rookie Wire is tracking the top early entrant prospects and their decisions ahead of the early entry withdrawal deadline. The list will continue to be updated until May 28. Carter Bryant, Arizona Mar 21, 2025; Seattle, WA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Carter Bryant (9) dribbles the ball against Akron Zips guard Shammah Scott (1) during the second half in the first round of the NCAA Tournament at Climate Pledge Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images Year: Freshman Advertisement Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: 12 Decision: NBA draft Bryant, who is a projected first-round pick, told reporters at the combine that he is "completely in" on the draft. He appears to be a lock to remain in the draft after the deadline. Miles Byrd, San Diego State Mar 18, 2025; Dayton, OH, USA; San Diego State Aztecs guard Miles Byrd (21) dribble the ball defended by North Carolina Tar Heels guard Elliot Cadeau (3) in the first half at UD Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images Year: Sophomore Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: N/A Decision: T.B.D. Byrd had a solid showing at the combine, which could help his stock. He is currently viewed as a potential second-round pick and could elect to return to school if he doesn't receive an earlier guarantee. Rueben Chinyelu, Florida Mar 29, 2025; San Francisco, CA, USA; Florida Gators center Rueben Chinyelu (9) warms up before a game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders during the West Regional final of the 2025 NCAA tournament at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images Year: Sophomore Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: N/A Advertisement Decision: NCAA Chinyelu, who was invited to the G League Elite Camp and worked out with Portland and Sacramento, announced Monday that he is forgoing the draft to return to the Gators. Alex Condon, Florida Apr 7, 2025; San Antonio, TX, USA; Florida Gators forward Alex Condon (21) dunks the ball against the Houston Cougars during the second half in the national championship game of the Final Four of the 2025 NCAA Tournament at the Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images Year: Sophomore Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: 38 Decision: T.B.D. Condon said the feedback he is receiving from teams is positive, but added that he knows he has a good situation with the Gators. He will likely make his decision closer to the deadline. Cedric Coward, Washington State Nov 21, 2024; Spokane, Washington, USA; Washington State Cougars guard Cedric Coward (0) dunks the ball against the Eastern Washington Eagles in the second half at Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena. Washington State Cougars won 96-81. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-Imagn Images Year: Senior Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: 30 Decision: T.B.D. Coward said at the combine that he is "100% focused on the draft" after participating in various testing. He will play at Duke next season if he withdraws from consideration. Silas Demary Jr., Georgia Jan 25, 2025; Gainesville, Florida, USA; Georgia Bulldogs guard Silas Demary Jr. (5) dribbles the ball at Florida Gators guard Alijah Martin (15) during the first half at Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O'Connell Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images Year: Sophomore Advertisement Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: N/A Decision: NCAA Demary, who declared for the draft while maintaining his remaining college eligibility in the transfer portal, withdrew from consideration on Monday. He will transfer to UConn. Isaiah Evans, Duke Mar 13, 2025; Charlotte, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Isaiah Evans (3) reacts after hitting a three point shot in the first half at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images Year: Freshman Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: N/A Decision: NCAA Evans, who was invited to the combine, withdrew from the draft on May 11. He returns to a team adding twin brothers Cameron Boozer (No. 3 prospect) and Cayden Boozer (No. 23). Boogie Fland, Arkansas Nov 18, 2024; Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks guard Boogie Fland (2) drives during the second half against the Pacific Tigers at Bud Walton Arena. Arkansas won 91-72. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-Imagn Images Year: Freshman Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: N/A Decision: NCAA Fland, who also entered the transfer portal, decided to withdraw from the draft and return to college next season. He was scheduled to visit Florida on Monday and Tuesday. Karter Knox, Arkansas SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 27: Karter Knox #11 of the Arkansas Razorbacks reacts during the second half against the Texas Tech Red Raiders in the West Regional Sweet Sixteen round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Chase Center on March 27, 2025 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by) Year: Freshman Advertisement Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: N/A Decision: T.B.D. Knox said at the combine that he is still weighing his decision and isn't sure which way he is leaning before the deadline. He seems to be a likely candidate to return to school. Yaxel Lendeborg, UAB Mar 15, 2025; Fort Worth, TX, USA; UAB Blazers forward Yaxel Lendeborg (3) dribbles the ball upcourt against the North Texas Mean Green during the first half at Dickies Arena. Mandatory Credit: Chris Jones-Imagn Images Year: Senior Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: 27 Decision: T.B.D. Lendeborg is a prospect many are watching after a strong showing at the combine. He will likely use his allotted time to attend team workouts and interviews until May 28 to make a decision. Lendeborg will transfer to Michigan if he withdraws from consideration. Mackenzie Mgbako, Indiana Mar 4, 2025; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Indiana Hoosiers forward Mackenzie Mgbako (21) dribbles the ball against the Oregon Ducks during the second half at Matthew Knight Arena. Mandatory Credit: Craig Strobeck-Imagn Images Year: Sophomore Advertisement Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: N/A Decision: T.B.D. Mgbako has had a strong predraft process after earning a call-up from the G League Elite Camp to the combine. He averaged 15.5 points and eight rebounds in two scrimmage games at the combine, which stood out among the performers. Yanic Konan Niederhauser, Penn State Jan 12, 2025; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions forward Yanic Konan Niederhauser (14) drives the ball to the basket during the first half against the Oregon Ducks at Bryce Jordan Center. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O'Haren-Imagn Images Year: Junior Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: 44 Decision: T.B.D. Niederhauser is having a tremendous predraft process after earning an invitation to the combine from the G League Elite Camp. He is projected to be a second-rounder, though he is rapidly rising up draft boards and could elect to stay in the mix past the deadline. Otega Oweh, Kentucky Mar 28, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Otega Oweh (00) dunks the ball against the Tennessee Volunteers in the second half during a Midwest Regional semifinal of the 2025 NCAA tournament at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-Imagn Images Year: Junior Advertisement Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: N/A Decision: T.B.D. Oweh said earlier this month he is "all-in" on the predraft process. He has worked out with Boston, Houston and Portland so far, and will likely have more scheduled before May 28. Tahaad Pettiford, Auburn Auburn Tigers guard Tahaad Pettiford (0) takes a jump shot as Auburn Tigers take on Oklahoma Sooners at Neville Arena in Auburn, Ala., on Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2025. Auburn Tigers defeated Oklahoma Sooners 98-70. Year: Freshman Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: 36 Decision: T.B.D. Pettiford helped his stock at the combine after a 23-point performance in his second scrimmage game. He said that he'll likely remain in the draft if he receives a first-round guarantee from a team. Labaron Philon, Alabama Mar 29, 2025; Newark, NJ, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide guard Labaron Philon (0) handles the ball against Duke Blue Devils guard Tyrese Proctor (5) during the second half in the East Regional final of the 2025 NCAA tournament at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images Year: Freshman Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: 34 Decision: NBA draft Advertisement Philon told reporters at the combine that he has already informed Crimson Tide coach Nate Oats that he is remaining in the draft and forgoing his remaining eligibility. Drake Powell, North Carolina Mar 13, 2025; Charlotte, NC, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels guard Drake Powell (9) goes to the basket against Wake Forest Demon Deacons guard Parker Friedrichsen (7) during the first half at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images Year: Freshman Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: 35 Decision: NBA draft Powell confirmed his decision to remain in the draft at the combine, closing the door on any potential conversation about returning to Chapel Hill for next season. Thomas Sorber, Georgetown Feb 8, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Georgetown Hoyas forward Thomas Sorber (35) takes a shot over Seton Hall Pirates guard Isaiah Coleman (21) during the first half at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images Year: Freshman Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: 22 Decision: NBA draft Sorber told college basketball reporter Andy Katz last week at the combine that he is all in on the draft and will not return to Georgetown. He is considered a mid-to-late first-round pick. Milos Uzan, Houston Apr 7, 2025; San Antonio, TX, USA; Houston Cougars guard Milos Uzan (7) dribbles the ball against the Florida Gators during the first half of the national championship game of the Final Four of the 2025 NCAA Tournament at the Alamodome. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images Year: Senior Advertisement Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: 43 Decision: T.B.D. Uzan said his mindset during the predraft process is that he is "all-in" to show teams he believes in himself. However, with a second-round grade, it remains to be seen if Uzan will forgo his last year of eligibility or remain in the draft. Jamir Watkins, Florida State HOUSTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 09: Jamir Watkins #1 of the Florida State Seminoles shoots a free throw against the Rice Owls during the first half of the Mattress Firm Battleground 2k24 at Toyota Center on November 09, 2024 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by) Year: Senior Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: N/A Decision: T.B.D. Watkins had a few strong performances at the combine, recording 23 points in his second scrimmage on May 15. He is still said to be weighing his options for next season. Darrion Williams, Texas Tech Mar 27, 2025; San Francisco, CA, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders forward Darrion Williams (5) reacts during overtime against the Arkansas Razorbacks during a West Regional semifinal of the 2025 NCAA tournament at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images Year: Junior Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: 49 Advertisement Decision: T.B.D. Williams entered the transfer portal while also declaring for the draft. He is attempting to "stay in the moment" and focus on the predraft process, though he conceded at the combine that he'll likely take his time with his upcoming decision. This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: 2025 NBA draft: Tracking top early entrant decisions ahead of deadline


USA Today
20-05-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
2025 NBA draft: Tracking the top early entrant decisions ahead of withdrawal deadline
2025 NBA draft: Tracking the top early entrant decisions ahead of withdrawal deadline The NBA announced on April 29 that 106 players filed as early entry candidates for the draft, which will be held June 25-26 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. The number of prospects who declared for the draft as early entrants was down from 195 last year. The decline directly stems from the rise of name, image and likeness (NIL), as players were afforded more earning potential by staying at the collegiate level. Related 2025 NBA Mock Draft 3.0: Projecting every pick after the draft lottery Players who applied for early entry have the right to withdraw their names from consideration by 5 p.m. EDT on June 15. Under NCAA rules, college players who entered the draft must withdraw by 11:59 p.m. EDT on May 28 to retain college basketball eligibility. The top prospects were invited to the combine and participated in various on-court drills, scrimmages and medical testing last week in Chicago, Illinois. They also had the opportunity to interview with teams and gauge their draft stock to make the best decision about their respective futures. Rookie Wire is tracking the top early entrant prospects and their decisions ahead of the early entry withdrawal deadline. The list will continue to be updated until May 28. Carter Bryant, Arizona Year: Freshman Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: 12 Decision: NBA draft Bryant, who is a projected first-round pick, told reporters at the combine that he is "completely in" on the draft. He appears to be a lock to remain in the draft after the deadline. Miles Byrd, San Diego State Year: Sophomore Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: N/A Decision: T.B.D. Byrd had a solid showing at the combine, which could help his stock. He is currently viewed as a potential second-round pick and could elect to return to school if he doesn't receive an earlier guarantee. Rueben Chinyelu, Florida Year: Sophomore Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: N/A Decision: NCAA Chinyelu, who was invited to the G League Elite Camp and worked out with Portland and Sacramento, announced Monday that he is forgoing the draft to return to the Gators. Alex Condon, Florida Year: Sophomore Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: 38 Decision: T.B.D. Condon said the feedback he is receiving from teams is positive, but added that he knows he has a good situation with the Gators. He will likely make his decision closer to the deadline. Cedric Coward, Washington State Year: Senior Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: 30 Decision: T.B.D. Coward said at the combine that he is "100% focused on the draft" after participating in various testing. He will play at Duke next season if he withdraws from consideration. Silas Demary Jr., Georgia Year: Sophomore Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: N/A Decision: NCAA Demary, who declared for the draft while maintaining his remaining college eligibility in the transfer portal, withdrew from consideration on Monday. He will transfer to UConn. Isaiah Evans, Duke Year: Freshman Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: N/A Decision: NCAA Evans, who was invited to the combine, withdrew from the draft on May 11. He returns to a team adding twin brothers Cameron Boozer (No. 3 prospect) and Cayden Boozer (No. 23). Boogie Fland, Arkansas Year: Freshman Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: N/A Decision: NCAA Fland, who also entered the transfer portal, decided to withdraw from the draft and return to college next season. He was scheduled to visit Florida on Monday and Tuesday. Karter Knox, Arkansas Year: Freshman Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: N/A Decision: T.B.D. Knox said at the combine that he is still weighing his decision and isn't sure which way he is leaning before the deadline. He seems to be a likely candidate to return to school. Yaxel Lendeborg, UAB Year: Senior Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: 27 Decision: T.B.D. Lendeborg is a prospect many are watching after a strong showing at the combine. He will likely use his allotted time to attend team workouts and interviews until May 28 to make a decision. Lendeborg will transfer to Michigan if he withdraws from consideration. Mackenzie Mgbako, Indiana Year: Sophomore Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: N/A Decision: T.B.D. Mgbako has had a strong predraft process after earning a call-up from the G League Elite Camp to the combine. He averaged 15.5 points and eight rebounds in two scrimmage games at the combine, which stood out among the performers. Yanic Konan Niederhauser, Penn State Year: Junior Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: 44 Decision: T.B.D. Niederhauser is having a tremendous predraft process after earning an invitation to the combine from the G League Elite Camp. He is projected to be a second-rounder, though he is rapidly rising up draft boards and could elect to stay in the mix past the deadline. Otega Oweh, Kentucky Year: Junior Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: N/A Decision: T.B.D. Oweh said earlier this month he is "all-in" on the predraft process. He has worked out with Boston, Houston and Portland so far, and will likely have more scheduled before May 28. Tahaad Pettiford, Auburn Year: Freshman Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: 36 Decision: T.B.D. Pettiford helped his stock at the combine after a 23-point performance in his second scrimmage game. He said that he'll likely remain in the draft if he receives a first-round guarantee from a team. Labaron Philon, Alabama Year: Freshman Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: 34 Decision: NBA draft Philon told reporters at the combine that he has already informed Crimson Tide coach Nate Oats that he is remaining in the draft and forgoing his remaining eligibility. Drake Powell, North Carolina Year: Freshman Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: 35 Decision: NBA draft Powell confirmed his decision to remain in the draft at the combine, closing the door on any potential conversation about returning to Chapel Hill for next season. Thomas Sorber, Georgetown Year: Freshman Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: 22 Decision: NBA draft Sorber told college basketball reporter Andy Katz last week at the combine that he is all in on the draft and will not return to Georgetown. He is considered a mid-to-late first-round pick. Milos Uzan, Houston Year: Senior Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: 43 Decision: T.B.D. Uzan said his mindset during the predraft process is that he is "all-in" to show teams he believes in himself. However, with a second-round grade, it remains to be seen if Uzan will forgo his last year of eligibility or remain in the draft. Jamir Watkins, Florida State Year: Senior Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: N/A Decision: T.B.D. Watkins had a few strong performances at the combine, recording 23 points in his second scrimmage on May 15. He is still said to be weighing his options for next season. Darrion Williams, Texas Tech Year: Junior Rookie Wire Mock Draft Position: 49 Decision: T.B.D. Williams entered the transfer portal while also declaring for the draft. He is attempting to "stay in the moment" and focus on the predraft process, though he conceded at the combine that he'll likely take his time with his upcoming decision.


Hamilton Spectator
14-05-2025
- Sport
- Hamilton Spectator
Arizona forward Carter Bryant to remain in NBA draft, where he could be a lottery pick
TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — Arizona forward Carter Bryant will remain in the NBA draft, where he could be a lottery pick. Bryant told ESPN on Wednesday he's 'completely in' on the draft process following workouts at the NBA draft combine. A 6-foot-8, 225-pound forward, Bryant had a solid freshman season at Arizona after being a McDonald's All-American in high school. Bryant was a key reserve on a team that reached the NCAA Tournament's Sweet 16 for the second straight season. Bryant averaged 6.5 points and 4.1 rebounds while shooting 46% from the floor in 19.3 minutes per game. A powerful and willing defender, he can guard every position on the floor while being an adept offensive player who can shoot from the perimeter or finish at the rim. Bryant has been projected in various mock drafts to go in the back end of the NBA draft lottery. ___ Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college basketball: and


Fox Sports
14-05-2025
- Sport
- Fox Sports
Arizona forward Carter Bryant to remain in NBA draft, where he could be a lottery pick
Associated Press TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — Arizona forward Carter Bryant will remain in the NBA draft, where he could be a lottery pick. Bryant told ESPN on Wednesday he's 'completely in" on the draft process following workouts at the NBA draft combine. A 6-foot-8, 225-pound forward, Bryant had a solid freshman season at Arizona after being a McDonald's All-American in high school. Bryant was a key reserve on a team that reached the NCAA Tournament's Sweet 16 for the second straight season. Bryant averaged 6.5 points and 4.1 rebounds while shooting 46% from the floor in 19.3 minutes per game. A powerful and willing defender, he can guard every position on the floor while being an adept offensive player who can shoot from the perimeter or finish at the rim. Bryant has been projected in various mock drafts to go in the back end of the NBA draft lottery. ___ Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here. AP college basketball: and recommended