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20-05-2025
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2025 NBA Mock Draft 3.0: Projecting every pick after the draft lottery
The Dallas Mavericks won the lottery and will have the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA draft for the second time in franchise history after a historical leap on Monday. They entered the lottery slotted 11th with just a 1.8% chance of receiving the top pick, good for the fourth-lowest odds to win since the system was instituted in 1985. The victory was the first time the Mavericks had moved up when in a lottery position. Advertisement Dallas is now in a prime position to select Duke All-American Cooper Flagg with the top pick on June 25. He is the overwhelming favorite to hear his name called first after establishing himself as the National College Player of the Year this past season. While the Mavericks emerged as the big winners from Monday, teams like the Utah Jazz and Washington Wizards didn't fare quite as well. The two teams, each with a 14% chance of landing the top pick, fell four spots down in the lottery and will draft fifth and sixth, respectively. Related: Mark Cuban offers NSFW reaction to Mavericks winning NBA draft lottery With the order set following the lottery, draft boards will fluctuate as team needs and player fit play a factor in projecting how the first round will pan out. Teams can begin scheduling interviews and workouts now that they know which prospects could be available in their range. Advertisement Executives and coaches will have the opportunity to get a closer look at prospects this week at the draft combine in Chicago, Illinois. Players have already completed anthropometric testing and on-court drills, with 5-on-5 scrimmages beginning on Wednesday. Team workouts are expected to ramp up once the combine wraps up, with the early withdrawal deadline looming on May 28. Prospects such as Carter Bryant, Alex Condon, Yaxel Lendeborg, Labaron Philon, Thomas Sorber and Darrion Williams are among those weighing their options. Rookie Wire looked at the upcoming draft class following the lottery and where things stand before the early entry withdrawal deadline. The rankings will undoubtedly change, but it can be a productive exercise to see where players are now ahead of the draft. 1. Dallas Mavericks: Cooper Flagg, Duke Mar 29, 2025; Newark, NJ, USA; Duke Blue Devils forward Cooper Flagg (2) passes the ball during the first half against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the East Regional final of the 2025 NCAA tournament at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images Height: 6-9 Weight: 221 Year: Fr. Position: F Advertisement After pulling off a miracle on Monday, the Mavericks will almost certainly select Flagg with the No. 1 pick in the NBA draft. He entered his freshman campaign with high expectations as the consensus top recruit and lived up to the hype after becoming the face of the sport this past season. The 18-year-old has drawn comparisons to former Duke legend and Hall of Famer Grant Hill because of his size, athleticism and ability to affect games in various ways. He also measured in with a 7-foot wingspan at the combine, giving the Mavericks yet another reason to love him as a prospect. The organization struck tremendous luck on Monday after the debacle of trading away cornerstone Luke Dončić. The group now has another potential generational player it can build around, while also giving Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving help. Dallas is now in a great position moving forward. 2. San Antonio Spurs: Dylan Harper, Rutgers Mar 12, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Rutgers Scarlet Knights guard Dylan Harper (2) dunks the ball past USC Trojans forward Saint Thomas (0) during the second half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-Imagn Images Height: 6-6 Weight: 213 Year: Fr. Position: G Advertisement Harper is regarded as one of the top lead guards in the upcoming draft class. His size enables him to get to his spots, score virtually all over the court and get to the free-throw line after averaging 5.8 attempts per game with the Scarlet Knights. The 19-year-old is considered the consensus No. 2 player in the draft this year. Though the Spurs have De'Aaron Fox and Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle in the backcourt, it'd be hard to see the organization pass on such a highly touted prospect like Harper. 3. Philadelphia 76ers: VJ Edgecombe, Baylor Feb 25, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Baylor Bears guard VJ Edgecombe (7) attempts a three-point shot against Cincinnati Bearcats guard Josh Reed (10) in the second half at Fifth Third Arena. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-Imagn Images Height: 6-5 Weight: 193 Year: Fr. Position: G Advertisement Edgecombe is viewed as one of the most athletic players in the draft class this year and was an offensive force when getting downhill, with his ability to create for himself and space the floor from beyond the arc. He also projects to be able to affect games at a high level on defense. The Sixers may have emerged as the top draft-night winners outside of the Mavericks simply by being able to keep this pick after jumping up to No. 3. Edgecombe should fit well around the likes of Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain based on his overall skill set. For more coverage on the 76ers, visit Sixers Wire 4. Charlotte Hornets: Ace Bailey, Rutgers Mar 4, 2025; West Lafayette, Indiana, USA; Rutgers Scarlet Knights guard Ace Bailey (4) drives the ball around Purdue Boilermakers forward Camden Heide (23) during the first half at Mackey Arena. Mandatory Credit: Marc Lebryk-Imagn Images Height: 6-8 Weight: 202 Year: Fr. Position: F Advertisement Bailey, who was listed at 6 feet, 10 inches at Rutgers, measured in at 6 feet, 7 1/2 inches barefoot this week at the draft combine. He was highly touted because of his ability to score at his size, but after coming in a bit shorter than expected, it is unclear how that could affect his draft stock. The All-Big Ten third-team selection should still be considered a top-five pick, with his scoring instincts, offensive movement and feel for the game. The Hornets didn't have the lottery result they wanted, but the organization should still be able to add a potential cornerstone in Bailey to the roster. 5. Utah Jazz: Jeremiah Fears, Oklahoma Mar 12, 2025; Nashville, TN, USA; Oklahoma Sooners guard Jeremiah Fears (0) reacts after a made three point basket against the Georgia Bulldogs during the first half at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images Height: 6-3 Weight: 183 Year: Fr. Position: PG Advertisement Fears ascended draft boards throughout the season at Oklahoma and is now considered a potential top-five pick. He was able to impact games on both ends of the court, finishing as one of three Power Four players to average at least 17 points, four rebounds, four assists and 1.5 steals. The Jazz were another team that had a rough night on Monday after slipping to fifth in the lottery. They should be a team considering several prospects with this pick, with Fears emerging as a strong candidate based on his overall skill set and ability. 6. Washington Wizards: Tre Johnson, Texas Mar 19, 2025; Dayton, OH, USA; Texas Longhorns guard Tre Johnson (20) high fives Xavier Musketeers head coach Sean Miller after making a three point basket in the second half at UD Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images Height: 6-6 Weight: 190 Year: Fr. Position: SG Advertisement The SEC Freshman of the Year dazzled on offense at Texas by creating for himself and hitting difficult shots on the move or with his patented step-backs and side-steps. He can also set up teammates on offense and registered a 6-foot, 10 1/4-inch wingspan that should also intrigue teams on the other end of the court. Wizards general manager Will Dawkins put on a brave face after watching his team drop on Monday and said the team is comfortable drafting at No. 6. But what happened to the Wizards in the lottery on Monday was anything but luck after finishing 18-64. 7. New Orleans Pelicans: Kon Knueppel, Duke Apr 5, 2025; San Antonio, TX, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Kon Knueppel (7) reacts after a play against the Houston Cougars during the first half in the semifinals of the men's Final Four of the 2025 NCAA Tournament at Alamodome. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images Height: 6-6 Weight: 219 Year: Fr. Position: F Advertisement Knueppel climbed draft boards throughout the year and established himself as a likely lottery pick, with his shooting and ability to facilitate offenses. He is reportedly on the mend from a sprained ankle, preventing him from participating in on-court drills at the combine, though the 19-year-old is hopeful to resume workouts by the end of the week. He'd likely benefit from team workouts and interviews to show his overall game outside of his shooting, but he appears to be a lock to go in the 7-14 range. 8. Brooklyn Nets: Khaman Maluach, Duke Mar 21, 2025; Raleigh, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils center Khaman Maluach (9) celebrates during the first half against the Mount St. Mary's Mountaineers in the first round of the NCAA Tournament at Lenovo Center. Mandatory Credit: Zachary Taft-Imagn Images Height: 7-2 Weight: 252 Year: Fr. Position: C Advertisement Maluach, born in South Sudan, began playing basketball roughly seven years ago and is still a bit raw but ranked sixth in the country in offensive rebound percentage (16.5) and 2-point percentage (75.4) this past season. He measured in with a 7-foot, 6 3/4-inch wingspan at the draft combine and has a standing reach of 9 feet, 6 inches, which should intrigue teams. Maluach is one of the top defensive big men in the draft and would be afforded the time to develop with the Nets if that is the direction they go in. For more coverage on the Nets, visit Nets Wire 9. Toronto Raptors: Derik Queen, Maryland Mar 27, 2025; San Francisco, CA, USA; Maryland Terrapins center Derik Queen (25) attempts a basket against Florida Gators center Rueben Chinyelu (9) in the second half during a West Regional semifinal of the 2025 NCAA tournament at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images Height: 6-10 Weight: 247 Year: Fr. Position: C Advertisement Queen set the Maryland freshman scoring record (594 points) after registering 12 20-point games and 15 double-doubles. He is a tremendous competitor and showed throughout the year his ability to affect games on the defensive end, with his activity, instincts and 7-foot wingspan. He struggled a bit in the 3-point shooting drills at the combine and will need to improve to show teams he can space the floor. However, the Big Ten Freshman of the Year still brings a lot to the court that should intrigue teams in this range. 10. Houston Rockets (via Phoenix): Kasparas Jakučionis, Illinois Illinois guard Kasparas Jakucionis (32) drives to the basket against Xavier forward Jerome Hunter (2) in an NCAA Tournament game at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on Friday, March 21, 2025. Height: 6-6 Weight: 205 Year: Fr. Position: PG Advertisement Jakučionis led Illinois in scoring, tying the freshman record for total points in a season (494). He boasts vast high-level experience after playing with Barcelona and should be able to step in and provide scoring and playmaking. He will have to earn playing time on a veteran-laden team positioned for long playoff runs, though the Lithuanian will give the team depth in the backcourt. For more coverage on the Rockets, visit Rockets Wire 11. Portland Trail Blazers: Collin Murray-Boyles, South Carolina Mar 12, 2025; Nashville, TN, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks forward Collin Murray-Boyles (30) dunks the ball against the Arkansas Razorbacks during the second half at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images Height: 6-8 Weight: 239 Year: So. Position: F Murray-Boyles is highly touted for his defensive intensity and presence in the post. He finished as the only player in a Power Four conference to average at least 16 points, eight rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block on 50% shooting from the field (58.6) last season with the Gamecocks. He measured in with a 7-foot wingspan at the combine, which should also intrigue teams. He isn't known as a floor-spacer at this stage of his career, which may hurt his stock a bit, but the 19-year-old can do many other things that should translate well to the next level. 12. Chicago Bulls: 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 Height: 6-8 Weight: 214 Year: Fr. Position: G Advertisement Bryant played in a sixth man role for much of the season but had a productive year, shooting 37.1% from 3-point range. He can do a little bit of everything on the court and emerged as a versatile defender last season with a near 7-foot wingspan. He is said to be testing the predraft process, so team interviews and workouts will be crucial for him as he weighs his options for next season. 13. Atlanta Hawks (via Sacramento): Nolan Traoré, Saint-Quentin (France) [US, Mexico & Canada customers only] Feb 15, 2025 Caen, FRANCE; St Quentin point guard Nolan Traore in action against Le Mans in a Leaders Cup match. Mandatory Credit: Franck Faugere/Presse Sports via Imagn Images Height: 6-4 Weight: 175 Year: N/A Position: PG Traoré, the younger brother of Lakers forward Armel Traoré, was recently named the Champions League Best Young Player for his production with Saint-Quentin. He is currently playing some of his best basketball of the season, averaging 16.6 points, 5.8 assists and 1.6 rebounds on 48.1% shooting from 3-point range over his last five games. Traoré has the potential to be an elite playmaker at the next level, with his feel, instincts and passing, making him a possible option for the Hawks if they look to make roster changes under a new front office. 14. San Antonio Spurs (via Atlanta): Noa Essengue, ratiopharm Ulm (Germany) Noa Essengue is averaging 10.7 points, 4.8 rebounds and 1.1 assists on 51.2% shooting from the field with ratiopharm Ulm. Height: 6-8 Weight: 194 Year: N/A Position: F Advertisement Essengue has a good interior game and has dazzled in the open court in fastbreak situations after creating turnovers with his length and instincts. He has put together some productive appearances of late with ratiopharm Ulm, including a 22-point effort on April 21. The Spurs have two first-round picks this year, so it remains to be seen which direction they'll go with here, but Essengue could be a good long-term fit. 15. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Miami): Egor Demin, BYU Mar 27, 2025; Newark, NJ, USA; Brigham Young Cougars guard Egor Demin (3) shoots the ball against Alabama Crimson Tide guard Mark Sears (1) during the first half during an East Regional semifinal of the 2025 NCAA tournament at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images Height: 6-9 Weight: 199 Year: Fr. Position: G Demin entered the season as the first five-star recruit to commit to BYU and responded by averaging 10.6 points, 5.5 assists, 3.9 rebounds and 1.2 steals. He dazzled as a playmaker throughout the season, ranking third in the Big 12 in assists after setting the freshman program record with 180. After shooting just 27.3% from 3-point range, Demin showed improvement at the combine, connecting on 14-of-25 attempts in the 3-point star drill. His showing on Tuesday will certainly help his case among teams with concerns about his potential as a shooter. Advertisement For more coverage on the Thunder, visit Thunder Wire 16. Orlando Magic: Jase Richardson, Michigan State Mar 30, 2025; Atlanta, GA, USA; Michigan State Spartans guard Jase Richardson (11) shoots against Auburn Tigers center Dylan Cardwell (44) during the second half in the South Regional final of the 2025 NCAA tournament at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images Height: 6-1 Weight: 178 Year: Fr. Position: G Richardson, the son of former 14-year veteran Jason Richardson, showed last season that he can play at either guard spot and contribute well. He flourished after moving into the starting lineup in February, averaging 16.1 points and 4.6 rebounds on 42% shooting from 3-point range over his last 15 games. The Magic currently have two first-round picks and should be a team to watch that could package one or both selections to bring in additional help. If they keep this pick, Richardson projects to fit in well. 17. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Detroit): Danny Wolf, Michigan Mar 28, 2025; Atlanta, GA, USA; Michigan Wolverines center Danny Wolf (1) drives against Auburn Tigers forward Chaney Johnson (31) in the second half of a South Regional semifinal of the 2025 NCAA tournament at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images Height: 6-11 Weight: 251 Year: Jr. Position: C Advertisement Wolf was named to the All-Big Ten second team last season, averaging 13.2 points, 9.7 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.4 blocks on 49.7% shooting from the field. He ranked eighth in the country in total rebounds (360) and 15th in defensive box plus-minus (plus-5.2). The near 7-footer possesses an innate ability to lead fastbreaks and has a flashy game with the ball in his hands. The Timberwolves didn't have much playing time available for rookies this season, but Wolf would give the team some more frontcourt depth. 18. Washington Wizards (via Memphis): Nique Clifford, Colorado State Feb 25, 2025; Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA; Colorado State Rams guard Nique Clifford (10) in the first half against the Air Force Falcons at Clune Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images Height: 6-6 Weight: 202 Year: Sr.+ Position: G Advertisement Clifford took advantage of a larger role with the Rams, averaging 18.9 points, 9.6 rebounds, 4.4 assists and 1.2 steals on 37.7% shooting from 3-point range. He established himself as a versatile player who can score, defend at a high level and playmake for others. He is a prospect to watch throughout the predraft process who can climb higher, given his overall skill set. 19. Brooklyn Nets (via Milwaukee): Asa Newell, Georgia Georgia Bulldogs forward Asa Newell (14) takes a jump shot as Auburn Tigers take on Georgia Bulldogs at Neville Arena in Auburn, Ala., on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025. Auburn Tigers lead Georgia Bulldogs 29-24 at halftime. Height: 6-10 Weight: 223 Year: Fr. Position: F Newell made a name for himself on the offensive glass throughout the season, ranking 20th in the country with his mobility and relentless pursuit down low. He is a prototypical rim-running big man with a limited offensive game outside of the paint, but he performed well in the 3-point shooting drills at the combine on Tuesday, hitting 14-of-25 in the star drill. Newell has a wide range at the moment (12-22) but could establish himself as a lottery pick with a strong predraft showing. 20. Miami Heat (via Golden State): Liam McNeeley, UConn Mar 23, 2025; Raleigh, NC, USA; Connecticut Huskies forward Liam McNeeley (30) drives to the basket during the second half against Florida Gators guard Walter Clayton Jr. (1) in the second round of the NCAA Tournament at Lenovo Center. Mandatory Credit: Zachary Taft-Imagn Images Height: 6-8 Weight: 214 Year: Fr. Position: F Advertisement The Big East Freshman of the Year ticks several boxes for teams, including his size, feel, physical playing style and ability to score in various ways. His ultimate draft position will likely hinge on how teams view him as a shooter after converting 31.7% from beyond the arc on 5.4 attempts per game last season. But he had a good showing at the combine in the 3-point star drill, connecting on 15-of-25 attempts on Tuesday. McNeeley could rise up draft boards with productive team workouts. 21. Utah Jazz (via Minnesota): Will Riley, Illinois Mar 21, 2025; Milwaukee, WI, USA: Illinois Fighting Illini forward Will Riley (7) drives to the hoop past Xavier Musketeers guard Dailyn Swain (3) during the first half at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images Height: 6-9 Weight: 185 Year: Fr. Position: G Advertisement Riley flourished last season at Illinois by providing a scoring punch off the bench, with his array of dribble moves, jab steps and step-backs on the perimeter. He performed well in the shooting drills at the combine on Tuesday, going 26-of-30 off the dribble and 13-of-25 in the 3-point star portions. That effort should help his draft stock after shooting 32.6% from 3-point range on 4.1 attempts per game. 22. Atlanta Hawks (via Lakers): 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 Height: 6-10 Weight: 262 Year: Fr. Position: C Sorber is about 10 weeks post-surgery from a foot injury that limited him to 24 games with the Hoyas and will prevent him from working out with teams this draft cycle. He established himself as a dominant presence in the paint with his athleticism and motor, and showed that he can space the floor some. He measured in with an absurd 7-foot, 6-inch wingspan at the combine this week, which would rank among the league leaders. Sorber initially declared for the draft while maintaining his college eligibility, but the All-Big East third-team selection told Andy Katz that he is "all-in" at this point in the process. This pick seems to be his floor at the moment. 23. Indiana Pacers: Joan Beringer, Cedevita Olimpija (Slovenia) Beringer is averaging 5.1 points, 4.7 rebounds and 1.4 blocks on 62.1% shooting from the field in 56 games with Cedevita Olimpija. Height: 6-11 Weight: 237 Year: N/A Position: C Advertisement Beringer, who boasts a reported 7-foot, 5-inch wingspan, is projected to be a first-round pick, given his versatility, athleticism and rim protection. He is averaging 5.1 points, 4.7 rebounds and 1.4 blocks on 62.1% shooting from the field with Cedevita Olimpija in Slovenia. The Frenchman is considered raw offensively, but has the tools to develop into a productive player at the next level with development. The Pacers have found recent success developing players, and could look to target Beringer as their next project. 24. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Clippers): Hugo González, Real Madrid (Spain) Real Madrid's Spanish guard #09 Hugo Gonzalez drives against AS Monaco's American forward #04 Jaron Blossomgame and AS Monaco's French forward #23 Juhann Begarin during the Euroleague basketball match between Real Madrid and Monaco at the Wizink Center arena in Madrid on December 19, 2024. (Photo by OSCAR DEL POZO / AFP) (Photo by OSCAR DEL POZO/AFP via Getty Images) Height: 6-6 Weight: 207 Year: N/A Position: SF González has been with Real Madrid over the past three seasons, splitting time between its second team and main roster. He has played sparingly this year on a veteran-laden roster, though he has shown potential when given the opportunity to log significant minutes. The Spaniard hasn't yet developed a consistent 3-point shot, converting 29.2% on 1.2 attempts per game, but is a good playmaker and can defend multiple positions. He'll likely spend time in the G League next season, and the Thunder have been one of the best teams in recent memory at developing players, making this a good fit. Many believe his range begins around this pick. 25. Orlando Magic (via Denver): Walter Clayton Jr., Florida Apr 7, 2025; San Antonio, TX, USA; Florida Gators guard Walter Clayton Jr. (1) shoots the ball as Houston Cougars guard Terrance Arceneaux (23) attempts a block during the second half of the national championship game of the Final Four of the 2025 NCAA Tournament at the Alamodome. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images Height: 6-3 Weight: 199 Year: Sr.+ Position: PG Clayton is most commonly projected to go to the Magic, given their glaring need for shooting and help at the point guard position. He established himself as a consensus first-team All-American and one of the top guards in the country, leading the Gators to their third national championship. He had a great showing at the combine on Tuesday, going 17-of-25 in the 3-point star drill and 16-of-27 in the corner. This is the second first-round pick for the Magic, and it could be used in a potential package to acquire players who can help them win now. But if Jeff Weltman & Co. opt to keep it, Clayton makes a lot of sense at this stage of the draft. 26. Brooklyn Nets (via New York): Ben Saraf, Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany) Ben Saraf is averaging 12.2 points, 4.3 assists, 2.6 rebounds and 1.2 steals on 45.3% shooting from the field in 47 games this season with ratiopharm Ulm. Height: 6-5 Weight: 206 Year: N/A Position: G Ben Saraf is averaging 12.2 points, 4.3 assists, 2.6 rebounds and 1.2 steals on 45.3% shooting from the field in 47 games this season. He is projected to be a mid-to-late first-round pick, given his scoring ability, playmaking and court vision. He dazzles with his passing and innate ability to make pinpoint, cross-court passes off drives and in pick-and-roll situations. It is unclear how many of their first-round picks the Nets will ultimately keep, but Saraf would be a good addition to their backcourt if this is the direction they want to go. 27. Brooklyn Nets (via Houston): 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 Height: 6-9 Weight: 234 Year: Sr. Position: F Lendeborg, born in Puerto Rico, is a prospect many are keeping an eye on after declaring for the draft while maintaining his last year of eligibility. He is a two-time AAC Defensive Player of the Year and led the country in rebounding this past season. He had a tremendous day at the combine on Tuesday, shooting 16-of-25 in the 3-point star drill and 17-of-28 from the corner. He also measured in with an absurd 7-foot, 4-inch wingspan, representing one of the largest differentials this draft class (plus-7 1/2 inches). Lendeborg is scheduled to scrimmage beginning on Wednesday and will have the opportunity to solidify his place in the first round with a strong showing. If he opts to withdraw, he'll join Michigan next season. 28. Boston Celtics: Rasheer Fleming, Saint Joseph's NEWARK, NEW JERSEY - MARCH 20: Rasheer Fleming #13 of the Saint Joseph's Hawks blocks a shot by Dre Davis #14 of the Seton Hall Pirates during the second half of a first-round NIT game at Walsh Gym on March 20, 2024 in South Orange, New Jersey. Seton Hall defeated Saint Joseph's 75-72 in overtime. (Photo by) Height: 6-9 Weight: 232 Year: Jr. Position: F Fleming was named to the All-Atlantic 10 first team after averaging 14.7 points, 8.5 rebounds, 1.5 blocks, 1.4 steals and 1.3 assists on 39% shooting from 3-point range. He ranked 19th in the country in defensive rebounds (227) and second in the conference in double-doubles (9). Fleming brings immense physicality to the court at 232 pounds, while providing consistent floor spacing. He boasts a 7-foot, 4 1/4-inch wingspan that will enable him to defend and protect the rim at the next level. We have him listed a bit lower than most, but that isn't a reflection of his ability or potential: He could go higher. For more coverage on the Celtics, visit Celtics Wire 29. Phoenix Suns (via Cleveland): Noah Penda, Le Mans (France) Le Mans' French forward Noah Penda dribbles the ball during the French Basketball Cup final between Paris Basketball and Le Mans at the Accor Arena - Palais Omnisports de Paris-Bercy, in Paris on April 26, 2025. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP) (Photo by FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images) Height: 6-8 Weight: 225 Year: N/A Position: F Penda was named the Best Young Player of the French League, averaging 10.2 points, 5.1 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.3 steals on 33.7% shooting from 3-point range in 33 games with Le Mans. He is viewed as one of the top international prospects this year, given his scoring, versatility on the defensive end of the court and size at 225 pounds. He projects to be able to step in and contribute immediately, and should be a seamless fit with teams drafting in this range. 30. LA Clippers (via Oklahoma City): Cedric Coward, Washington State Nov 21, 2024; Spokane, Washington, USA; Washington State Cougars guard Cedric Coward (0) makes an easy lay up against the Eastern Washington Eagles in the first half at Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-Imagn Images Height: 6-6 Weight: 213 Year: Sr. Position: F Coward is another player teams are monitoring after opting to test the predraft process. He had an outstanding showing at the combine on Tuesday, converting 17-of-25 in the 3-point star drill and 14-of-23 from the corner. He also measured in with a 7-foot, 2 1/4-inch wingspan, enabling him to play the passing lanes and defend multiple positions. He seems like an early entry prospect who could opt to stay in the draft with a good showing in workouts and interviews. If he opts to withdraw, he will transfer to Duke next season. Second Round: Nos. 31-40 31. Minnesota (via Utah): Ryan Kalkbrenner, Creighton 32. Boston (via Washington): Adou Thiero, Arkansas 33. Charlotte: Maxime Raynaud, Stanford 34. Charlotte (via New Orleans): Labaron Philon, Alabama 35. Philadelphia: Drake Powell, North Carolina 36. Brooklyn: Tahaad Pettiford, Auburn 37. Detroit (via Toronto): Johni Broome, Auburn 38. San Antonio: Alex Condon, Florida 39: Toronto (via Portland): Kam Jones, Marquette 40. Washington (via Phoenix): Bogoljub Marković, Mega Basket (Serbia) Second Round: Nos. 41-50 41. Golden State (via Miami): Alex Toohey, Sydney Kings (NBL) 42. Sacramento (via Chicago): Chaz Lanier, Tennessee 43. Utah (via Dallas): Milos Uzan, Houston 44. Oklahoma City (via Atlanta): Yanic Konan Niederhauser, Penn State 45. Chicago (via Sacramento): Tyrese Proctor, Duke 46. Orlando: Koby Brea, Kentucky 47. Milwaukee (via Detroit): John Tonje, Wisconsin 48. Memphis (via Golden State): Rocco Zikarsky, Brisbane Bullets (NBL) 49. Cleveland (via Milwaukee): Darrion Williams, Texas Tech 50. New York (via Memphis): Dink Pate, Mexico City Capitanes (G League) Second Round: Nos. 51-59 51. LA Clippers (Minnesota): Hunter Sallis, Wake Forest 52. Phoenix (via Denver): Sion James, Duke 53. Utah (via Clippers): Vladislav Goldin, Michigan 54. Indiana: Eric Dixon, Villanova 55. Los Angeles Lakers: Mouhamed Faye, Reggio Emilia (Italy) New York: Forfeited 56. Memphis (via Houston): Hansen Yang, Qingdao (China) 57. Orlando (via Boston): Kobe Sanders, Nevada 58. Cleveland: Izan Almansa, Perth Wildcats (NBL) 59. Houston (via Oklahoma City): Ryan Nembhard, Gonzaga This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: 2025 NBA Mock Draft 3.0: Projecting every pick after the draft lottery
Forbes
03-04-2025
- Sport
- Forbes
How Duke's Kon Knueppel Emerged From A Basketball-Crazed Family Into A Top NBA Prospect
As they prepared to watch their oldest son, Kon, compete for Duke in the NCAA tournament East Regional final last Saturday night in Newark, N.J., Chari and Kon Knueppel were busy searching the internet for flights. Their youngest boys had just won in the quarterfinals of the Lutheran middle school basketball nationals in Fort Wayne, Ind., advancing to the semifinals taking place at 11:20 a.m. local time Sunday. The Knueppels and their other two boys, both high schoolers, didn't want to miss the game. The only problem? It would cost $9,000 for the four of them to fly to Fort Wayne. The Knueppels then decided to rent a Nissan Rouge for $150. At midnight, shortly after watching Kon score a game-high 21 points and lead Duke to a victory over Alabama, the Knueppel parents and their two sons, Kager and Kinston, started driving in the SUV. Ten hours later, they arrived in Fort Wayne, exhausted but in their happy place, watching basketball. The youngest boys, Kash and Kidman, ended up winning the middle school championship, continuing a streak that began a week earlier when Kager and Kinston helped Wisconsin Lutheran High School win a state championship. This weekend in San Antonio, it is Kon's turn to go for a title. The 6-foot-7 freshman guard will be in Duke's starting lineup Saturday night when the Blue Devils face Houston in the Final Four. If they win, they will face Auburn or Florida in the championship game Monday night. 'Our March mantra has been, 'Just keep winning,' and the boys keep doing it,' Chari said. Chari has attended each of Kon's 38 games at Duke this season, spanning 11 states and thousands of miles. Kon, a school counselor, has been at nearly 20 Duke games when he can get time off work. They have seen their son, whom they refer to as Kon II (his middle name is actually II), emerge as a projected lottery pick in June's NBA draft. They understand all the work he has put in to get to that position. 'I still get chills every time he takes his warm-up off to get in that starting lineup,' Chari said. Both of Knueppel's parents were stars themselves. Chari grew up in a small town in southwestern Minnesota, 10 miles from South Dakota, and attended the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, where she played from 1995 to 1999. She is still the school's all-time leading scorer with 1,964 points and 16.8 points per game. She then played professionally in Greece for a year. Her brother, Jeff Nordgaard, also starred at UW-Green Bay, where he is third with 1,911 career points. The Milwaukee Bucks selected Nordgaard in the second round of the 1996 NBA draft. Nordgaard appeared in just 13 NBA games, but he spent 13 years playing professionally overseas. Meanwhile, Kon scored 2,064 points (second all-time) at Wisconsin Lutheran College, a Division III school in Milwaukee where his father, Paul, served in numerous roles over the years, including basketball and softball coach, athletics director and vice president of student affairs. After graduating in 1998, Kon and his three older brothers dominated in the prestigious Gus Macker half-court, 3-on-3 tournaments throughout the Midwest. They became known as the 'Flying Knueppel Brothers' and were inducted into the Gus Macker Hall of Fame. They had more than 40 plays, set numerous screens on every possession, shared the ball and primarily shot from the 3-point line. A grainy YouTube video shows the brothers winning a Gus Macker game in 2003 in Belding, Mich. The announcer noted that Kon, known as Konnie among his family, had recently become engaged. In August 2005, Chari gave birth to Kon II. She and her husband signed their son up for basketball in kindergarten. It didn't go well. Knueppel didn't score in any of the 10 games. 'He actually ducked a number of times when the ball was passed to him and then had the gall to tell us he didn't like sports,' Chari said. The next year, Kon took his son to a camp run by Wisconsin Lutheran High School coach Ryan Walz, his old high school teammate. 'He was like, 'Here he is. I don't know what you can do with him. He hasn't gotten into basketball yet, but he likes to read books,'' Walz said. '(Knueppel) was OK, but you could tell he didn't love basketball yet.' By second grade, Knueppel began to enjoy the sport, partly because he had played the NBA 2K video game and wanted to emulate the players. Starting in sixth grade, Chari and Kon rented a small gymnasium in Milwaukee so Knueppel could shoot every day. By then, the family had four other boys, who would tag along to the workouts. The routine continues to this day, with the boys and their parents shooting hundreds of shots each night. When Knueppel entered Wisconsin Lutheran High School, which is six blocks from the family's house, he immediately played on the varsity team. That April, he received his first scholarship offer from the University of Toledo, whose head coach, Tod Kowalczyk, is married to Chari's sister. The next month, he secured an offer from Marquette, a Big East Conference school that's five miles from home. 'When they called him and offered him, he got off the phone and he said, 'Holy smokes, I've got to get a whole lot better at basketball,'' Chari said. 'I don't want to say the pressure was on, but he realized, 'Wow, there's some great opportunities out there that are going to be coming, and I just want to make sure that I'm prepared for it.'' Over the next couple of years, Knueppel kept improving and had numerous other Division 1 college offers. Still, unlike many other stars who transfer and move away from home to play against better competition, Knueppel never considered leaving Wisconsin Lutheran. His grandparents on both sides of the family live in Milwaukee, as do his father's three brothers and sister and his mother's sister. He has about 20 cousins in the area, too. Knueppel also had a chance to play in Closed Gyms, a full-court, 5-on-5 basketball league that his father started more than 20 years ago primarily for former college players in the area. Kon, who turns 50 in October, is the oldest player in the league and still a lights-out shooter, while his sons are the youngest in the league and learn from playing against veterans. 'We wanted him to be like a normal high school kid,' his father said. 'We wanted to have those experiences with all four years with his buddies and doing homecoming and prom and all that stuff. Going somewhere else to prep school, we didn't want him to start that too early in his life. We knew that would happen with college.' Duke started showing serious interest in Knueppel in the summer after his junior season in high school. Blue Devils coach Jon Scheyer planned on watching him play at a Nike EYBL grassroots event in Atlanta in June 2023, but Knueppel had food poisoning and couldn't compete. Later that month, Scheyer saw Knueppel perform at the National Basketball Players Association Top 100 camp in Orlando, Fla. On July 2, Duke offered Knueppel a scholarship. Knueppel committed to the Blue Devils in September 2023, choosing them over four other finalists: Marquette, Wisconsin, Virginia and Alabama. While Knueppel was known for his shooting and led the EYBL regular season in scoring, the coaches from those colleges all saw him as a more versatile player and someone who could dribble, pass and defend, skills that were apparent on the grassroots circuit. 'He had an incredible feel for the game, incredible skill set and obviously his ability to shoot separates him,' said David Rebibo, a coach with the Team WhyNot grassroots program in southern California who coached against Knueppel. 'But I think what people undervalued was his athleticism. He is deceptively quick, has a really good first step and can get off the ground in a hurry, which I think shocks people at times.' Said Walz: 'Is he a fast twitch guy like some of these super, super long, athletic guys? No, that's not him. But at the same time, the coordination he has, the stop and start strength that he has, there's a lot of different ways to measure those metrics with athleticism." As a senior last year, Knueppel moved from shooting guard to point guard, averaged 25.9 points, 8.6 rebounds and 5.3 assists per game and led Wisconsin Lutheran to a 30-0 record and the state title. He was named the state's top player but wasn't selected for the prestigious McDonald's high school All-American game despite being the No. 19 recruit in the Class of 2024, per the 247Sports Composite. Knueppel did compete in the Jordan Brand Classic, where he met and played with Cooper Flagg, the nation's top recruit and Duke commit. Flagg and Knueppel are now roommates and Duke's two leading scorers. Flagg, a 6-foot-9 forward and shoo-in for the top pick in June's NBA draft, was named a unanimous first team Associated Press All-American and the Atlantic Coast Conference's Player of the Year. Knueppel, meanwhile, was a second team All-ACC selection. He is second on the team with 14.4 points per game and is shooting 47.7% from the field, including 40.1% on 3-pointers. When Flagg missed two-plus games in the ACC tournament with an ankle injury, Knueppel was named the event's Most Outstanding Player, averaging 21 points, 5.7 rebounds and 4.7 assists in three games. This past weekend at the NCAA tournament's East Regional, Knueppel averaged 20.5 points, 4.5 rebounds and 4 assists per game. Duke ran more plays for Knueppel in last Saturday's game, and he took advantage. 'I don't know if that was the plan going in or if I just got a hot hand early,' Knueppel said. 'I just tried to step up in whatever role I need to do for the team. It's not necessarily something I've thought about across the year, but just whenever I had the ball, make the right play and go from there.' Said Scheyer: 'With Kon, his versatility is huge for us, and his size. He's able to pass. He's able to finish. You feel he's always going to get off a good look because he has great pivots in the paint and great patience.' On Saturday, Knueppel will play on the biggest stage of his career when Duke (35-3) plays Houston (34-4), which has a 17-game winning streak, tops in the nation and two more than Duke. The teams are No. 1 and No. 2 in the AP poll and the top two teams in analyst Ken Pomeroy's adjusted efficiency margin metric. Duke is seeking its sixth national title and first since 2015 when the Blue Devils defeated Wisconsin in the championship game. Ten years later, the loss still stings in Knueppel's home state. 'There are a lot of people who aren't real big fans of Duke in Wisconsin,' Walz said. 'But Kon has a lot of followers here.' Walz won't be able to make it to the Final Four because his son has a game, but Knueppel's parents and two younger brothers will be there. His two brothers in high school plan on playing in an AAU tournament this weekend, so they'll miss Saturday's game. They'll attend Monday's national title game if Duke advances, though. Knueppel's four brothers are showing promise in the sport, although Walz said it's too early to project where they'll end up. For now, they can look up to Kon, who is excelling at Duke and could be among the top 10 picks in June's draft, two months before his 20th birthday. However this season ends, the family will be back in the gym on a daily basis, as always, shooting and working out and doing what they love. 'We're there instructing them, but they're doing the hard work,' Chari Knueppel said. 'We're super proud of the hard work they put in that results in all this winning we've been doing.'
Forbes
30-03-2025
- Sport
- Forbes
Duke Shows Depth Beyond Cooper Flagg As Coach Jon Scheyer Advances To First Final Four
NEWARK, NJ - MARCH 29: Cooper Flagg #2 of the Duke Blue Devils hugs head coach Jon Scheyer after ... More winning the Elite 8 round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament game against the Alabama Crimson Tide on March 29, 2025 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) After dominating at Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum's basketball camp in July 2023, Cooper Flagg spoke with his parents. Flagg was about to enter his junior year at Montverde Academy in Florida, but he decided he wanted to graduate a year early. Ralph and Kelly Flagg gave their son their blessing. Three months later, he committed to Duke, the school he rooted for growing up and the college Tatum played for during the 2016-17 season. On Saturday night, Flagg added to his memorable freshman season, helping the No. 1 seed Blue Devils defeat No. 2 seed Alabama, 85-65, in the NCAA tournament East Regional final in Newark, N.J. Flagg, who turned 18 in December, was named the Regional's Most Outstanding Player after scoring 16 points and grabbing 9 rebounds and leading Duke to the Final Four next Saturday in San Antonio, where the Blue Devils will face the winner of Sunday's Midwest Regional final between Houston and Tennessee. 'For being as young as he is coming into college basketball, I couldn't ask for anything better,' Ralph Flagg said on the Prudential Center floor as Duke celebrated. Still, Flagg, a unanimous first team Associated Press All-American and the top prospect in June's NBA draft, wasn't the only Duke player to excel Saturday. Freshmen Kon Knueppel (21 points, 5 assists and 3 steals) and Khaman Maluach (14 points and 9 rebounds) played beyond their years, while junior guard Tyrese Proctor had 17 points and 5 rebounds. 'I think we have 13 guys that can step up and make plays on any given night, any given night if their number's called,' Flagg said. 'We have an entire team that is incredibly ready and prepared to step up.' Duke (35-3) advanced to the Final Four for the 18th time in school history but the first time since coach Jon Scheyer took over in 2022 from Mike Krzyzewski, who won five national titles and made 13 Final Fours, a record for Division 1 men's coaches. Scheyer on Saturday won his 89th game, tied for the most victories in the first three seasons for a Division 1 coach, joining Brad Stevens (with Butler from 2007-08 to 2009-10) and Brad Underwood (with Stephen F. Austin from 2013-14 to 2015-16). Scheyer, 37, won a national title as a senior guard at Duke in 2010. Fifteen years later, he is coaching the national title favorite and attempting to accomplish a rare feat. Former North Carolina coach Dean Smith, who played at Kansas; former Indiana coach Bobby Knight, who played at Ohio State; and former Kentucky coach and player Joe B. Hall are the only three men to win Division 1 NCAA championships as a player and coach. Still, it hasn't always been smooth for Scheyer, especially in the NCAA tournament, as the Blue Devils lost in the second round in his first season in 2023 and the Elite 8 last season by 12 points to No. 11 seed North Carolina State. After Proctor was held scoreless and missed all nine of his shots (including five 3's) in 30 minutes of last season's NC State loss, he told Scheyer in the bathroom that he would be returning for his junior season. 'We both had a vision,' Proctor said. 'I think just the way we executed and doubled down, the way I doubled down in the offseason, the way these guys had my back, I had theirs, I think it just shows a lot of resiliency. I just couldn't be more proud of our group.' Said Scheyer: 'Tyrese and I, the feeling of losing last year at this point, every decision we made, everything we did was to get back here and then have the team have the opportunity to advance to the promised land. To go to San Antonio, to go to the Final Four (I) couldn't be more proud of the team as a whole. Their attitudes the whole season, from day one, I think this group has been different. They make fun of me. I keep telling them, don't change. Don't change, keep being them.' Of the 10 Duke players who saw action on Saturday, Proctor and sophomore guard Caleb Foster are the only two who were on last season's team. But the Blue Devils re-loaded with the nation's best freshmen class in Flagg (No. 1 in ESPN's NBA draft prospects list), Maluach (No. 8), Isaiah Evans (No. 9), Isaiah Evans (No. 41) and Patrick Ngongba and transfers Sion James (Tulane), Mason Gillis (Purdue) and Maliq Brown (Syracuse). Proctor is ESPN's 46th-ranked prospect, while James is 51st. On Saturday, Duke never trailed and held Alabama to 35.4% shooting, the Crimson Tide's lowest percentage of the season. Alabama entered the game leading the nation in scoring with more than 91 points per game, but the Crimson Tide managed just 65 on Saturday, their second-lowest total of the season. And two days after setting an NCAA tournament record with 25 3-pointers on 51 attempts in a 113-88 victory over BYU, the Crimson Tide made just 8 of 32 3's (25%) against a smothering Duke defense that has length and athleticism. The Blue Devils are the tallest team in Division 1 with an average of 79.8 inches, per analyst Ken Pomeroy. Alabama senior guard Mark Sears, a first team All-American who scored 34 points and made 10 of 16 3's Thursday night, managed only 6 points on 2 of 12 shooting Saturday, including 1 of 5 on 3's. 'Duke is as good a team as we've seen all year,' Alabama coach Nate Oats said. 'We've got some really good teams in the SEC, and they're at that level.' Indeed, a record 14 SEC teams made the NCAA tournament, and the league already has one team in the Final Four with Florida defeating Texas Tech Saturday night in the West Regional final. The conference could have two more teams in San Antonio, too, as Auburn plays in the South Regional final Sunday and Tennessee plays Houston in the Midwest Regional final Sunday. Still, no team is playing better than Duke. The Blue Devils won their 15th consecutive game, the second-longest streak in the nation, and have 31 victories in their past 32 games. They have won their games by an average of 21.1 points per game, the best in the nation by more than 3.5 points per game. And they have an adjusted efficiency margin of 39.63, the second-best of any Division 1 team since Pomeroy began tracking that metric in the 1996-97 season. Duke's 1998-99 team is first with 43.01. That Blue Devils team ended up losing to Connecticut in the national title game, and this year's team isn't taking anything for granted. After Saturday's victory, they wore blue Nike t-shirts with 'Ready 4 More' emblazed across the front. Still, they were soaking in the atmosphere, as were the rest of Duke's traveling staff, the players' and coaches' families and even some fans, including comedian Ken Jeong, a 1990 Duke graduate. 'This is beyond thrilling,' Jeong said. 'This is the best Duke team I've seen in ages.' Will Jeong be heading to San Antonio for the Final Four? 'I've got to ask my wife for permission,' he said. 'That's the truth.' After graduating from Duke, Jeong obtained his medical degree five years later from the University of North Carolina, the Blue Devils' hated rival. Wearing a Duke jacket late Saturday night, Jeong had to get a dig into the Tar Heels. 'UNC med school is exactly why I became an actor,' Jeong said. 'Print that. I went to UNC to be a doctor, and I came out as an actor.' Nearby, Flagg's parents were watching their son and his teammates and mingling. It was less than two years ago that Cooper decided to accelerate his path to college early, and here he is, two wins away from a national title. 'He's always stepped up to the challenge every time,' Ralph Flagg said. 'We have a saying, 'When you're the best player in the gym, it's time to find a new gym.' We knew that he needed to be tested. We didn't think he'd have that at Montverde. He needed another challenge.' About 20 minutes later, Flagg sat on a chair in Duke's locker room, a snippet of the net he cut down earlier attached to his hat. 'This is the vision that coach laid out,' Flagg said. 'It was always the goal to get to San Antonio and win the national championship.'
USA Today
20-03-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Barack Obama and other celebrities predict Alabama to make deep March Madness run
Barack Obama and other celebrities predict Alabama to make deep March Madness run Former President Barack Obama unveiled his 2025 NCAA Tournament bracket picks for March Madness on Thursday, as did various other high-profile figures. It's an annual tradition for the 44th president, who has made his bracket predictions public since his first year in office in 2009. As for where Obama sees Nate Oats and the Alabama Crimson Tide in March Madness? Obama has Alabama making a second straight run to the Elite Eight and reaching the East Regional final against the No. 1 seed Duke Blue Devils. Obama picked Duke to beat the Crimson Tide in the Elite Eight in Newark, N.J. The former president picked Duke to beat the Florida Gators in the national championship game on April 7 in San Antonio. Obama is riding high on the SEC entering March Madness and has two other conference teams reaching the Final Four: the Auburn Tigers and Tennessee Volunteers. Obama wasn't the only high-profile figure to release a bracket ahead of March Madness 2025. Here are some other celebrity predictions for the NCAA Tournament. New York Yankees legend picks Alabama to win first NCAA Tournament, national championship Former New York Yankees pitcher and World Series champion CC Sabathia has Alabama not only making a return trip to the Final Four this year, he picks the Crimson Tide to win their first national championship. Sabathia has Auburn, Tennessee and Rick Pitino's St. John's Red Storm joining Nate Oats' team in the Final Four, with Alabama beating St. John's for the title. Boston Red Sox, MLB star predicts Alabama-Auburn rematch in March Madness national championship game Boston Red Sox infielder Alex Bregman, a former LSU baseball star, has Alabama reaching the Final Four along with Auburn, Florida, and the UCLA Bruins. Unlike Sabathia, Bregman took Alabama to lose in the national championship game -- to rival Auburn. Alabama football great picks Auburn to reach Final Four over Crimson Tide Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl champion DeVonta Smith didn't let ties to his alma mater affect his NCAA Tournament bracket. The former Crimson Tide receiver and 2020 Heisman Trophy winner picked Auburn to reach the Final Four over Alabama, who he sees losing in the Elite Eight to Duke. Smith has Duke and Bruce Pearl's Tigers joining Houston and UConn in San Antonio. He predicts that Dan Hurley's Huskies will win their third straight NCAA championship. What channel is Alabama NCAA Tournament game on? Time, TV information Alabama, the No. 2 seed in the East Region of the bracket, opens the NCAA Tournament Friday against No. 15 seed Robert Morris at Rocket Arena in Cleveland. Tipoff is scheduled for 11:40 a.m. CT. The game will be televised on truTV. RELATED: Alabama basketball's full NCAA Tournament history, record under head coach Nate Oats Contact/Follow us @RollTideWire on X, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Alabama news, notes and opinion.
