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Tracking where top undrafted free agents in 2025 NBA Draft signed after Round 2

USA Today

27-06-2025

Sport
USA Today

Tracking where top undrafted free agents in 2025 NBA Draft signed after Round 2

The 2025 NBA Draft has officially concluded, which means that the start of undrafted free agency has begun. The chaos could yield fascinating results. Every year, there are undrafted free agents who still find their way into earning significant minutes. Last year, that was Justin Edwards on the Philadelphia 76ers. The year before that, it was Ricky Council IV. We also saw players like Keon Ellis and Scotty Pippen Jr. in 2022. NBA DRAFT GRADES: 2025 NBA Draft first-round grades for each pick Some of the other notable undrafted free agents we have seen succeed in the league include Fred VanVleet, Austin Reaves, and Jose Alvarado. It is clearly important for front offices to find value on the edges even after the trade has concluded. Our ranking is based on a consensus big board from our friends at Rookie Scale. The best takes and the sharpest bets on all the hoops storylines you need to know. Sign up for our Layup Lines newsletter, hitting your inbox on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

2025 NBA mock draft 2.0: Rounding up the final consensus expert predictions

Yahoo

25-06-2025

Sport
Yahoo

2025 NBA mock draft 2.0: Rounding up the final consensus expert predictions

The 2025 NBA Draft is finally here! While we know evaluators have Cooper Flagg and Dylan Harper as their top prospects, who is coming off next on the board? To get a sense of where prospects stand as of right now, For The Win has surveyed all of the leading mock drafts to provide a general consensus. Advertisement Since our last update, the following players have improved their rankings the most: Noa Essengue, Joan Beringer, Walter Clayton Jr., Kon Knueppel, V.J. Edgecombe, Carter Bryant, and Noah Penda. Meanwhile, the following players have dropped the most: Derik Queen, Ace Bailey, Jase Richardson, Nolan Traoré,Tre Johnson, Liam McNeeley, and Egor Demin. For this exercise, we're using my latest mock along with other mainstream mocks from the following publications (sorted alphabetically): Our scoring methodology was based on a trade value chart from ESPN's Kevin Pelton. All heights are listed without shoes unless noted otherwise for international prospects who have not yet participated in the NBA Draft Combine. Advertisement Meanwhile, for more prospect coverage, here is our latest NBA mock draft at For The Win. Note: These rankings do not reflect our personal opinions or team fit but rather where experts currently have each prospect slated. The best takes and the sharpest bets on all the hoops storylines you need to know. Sign up for our Layup Lines newsletter, hitting your inbox on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. 1. Cooper Flagg Cooper Flagg talks to the media during the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Marriott Marquis Chicago. TEAM: Duke POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 6' 7.75'' DRAFT AGE: 18.5 PREVIOUS RANK: 1 More: Cooper Flagg had the toughest quote about quick rise to No. 1 NBA pick 2. Dylan Harper Dylan Harper (29) participates in the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Wintrust Arena. TEAM: Rutgers Advertisement POSITION: Guard HEIGHT: 6' 4.50'' DRAFT AGE: 19.3 PREVIOUS RANK: 2 More: Q&A: Meet Dylan Harper, the best NBA Draft prospect who did not make March Madness tourney 3. V.J. Edgecombe VJ Edgecombe Jr. #1 takes part in a shooting drill during the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Wintrust Arena on May 13, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. TEAM: Baylor POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 6' 4.00'' DRAFT AGE: 19.9 PREVIOUS RANK: 4 More: ESPN's NBA mock draft had 1 intriguing V.J. Edgecombe, 76ers workout detail 4. Kon Knueppel Kon Knueppel talks to the media during the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Marriott Marquis Chicago. TEAM: Duke POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 6' 5.00'' DRAFT AGE: 19.9 PREVIOUS RANK: 6 More: Meet NBA draft prospect Kon Knueppel, the other Duke star you're not talking enough about 5. Ace Bailey Ace Bailey #21 looks on during the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Wintrust Arena on May 13, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. TEAM: Rutgers POSITION: Forward HEIGHT: 6' 7.50'' DRAFT AGE: 18.9 PREVIOUS RANK: 3 Advertisement More: The alarming reasons why Ace Bailey's NBA draft stock is plummeting 6. Jeremiah Fears Jeremiah Fears answers questions from reporters during media availability at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Wintrust Arena on May 14, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. TEAM: Oklahoma POSITION: Guard HEIGHT: 6' 2.50'' DRAFT AGE: 18.7 PREVIOUS RANK: 6 More: Meet Jeremiah Fears, the NBA Draft prospect who wants to 'destroy' opponents 7. Tre Johnson Tre Johnson (56) participates in the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Wintrust Arena. TEAM: Texas POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 6' 4.75'' DRAFT AGE: 19.3 PREVIOUS RANK: 5 8. Khaman Maluach Khaman Maluach answers questions from reporters during media availability at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Wintrust Arena on May 14, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. TEAM: Duke POSITION: Big HEIGHT: 7' 0.75'' DRAFT AGE: 18.8 PREVIOUS RANK: 8 9. Noa Essengue TEAM: ratiopharm ulm (Germany) POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 6' 10.00'' DRAFT AGE: 18.5 PREVIOUS RANK: 14 10. Carter Bryant Carter Bryant answers questions from reporters during media availability at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Wintrust Arena on May 14, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. TEAM: Arizona POSITION: Forward HEIGHT: 6' 6.50'' DRAFT AGE: 19.6 Advertisement PREVIOUS RANK: 12 11. Kasparas Jakučionis Kasparas Jakucionis talks to the media during the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Marriott Marquis Chicago. TEAM: Illinois POSITION: Guard HEIGHT: 6' 4.75'' DRAFT AGE: 19.1 PREVIOUS RANK: 10 More: Why Derik Queen may slide in the 2025 NBA Draft 12. Collin Murray-Boyles Collin Murray-Boyles talks to the media during the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Marriott Marquis Chicago. TEAM: South Carolina POSITION: Big HEIGHT: 6' 6.50'' DRAFT AGE: 20.1 PREVIOUS RANK: 13 13. Egor Demin Egor Demin talks to the media during the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Marriott Marquis Chicago. TEAM: BYU POSITION: Guard HEIGHT: 6' 8.25'' DRAFT AGE: 19.3 PREVIOUS RANK: 11 14. Derik Queen Derik Queen talks to the media during the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Marriott Marquis Chicago. TEAM: Maryland POSITION: Big HEIGHT: 6' 9.25'' DRAFT AGE: 20.5 PREVIOUS RANK: 9 More: Why Derik Queen may slide in the 2025 NBA Draft 15. Joan Beringer TEAM: KK Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana (Slovenia) POSITION: Big HEIGHT: 6' 11.00'' Advertisement DRAFT AGE: 18.6 PREVIOUS RANK: 15 16. Cedric Coward Cedric Coward talks to the media during the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Marriott Marquis Chicago. TEAM: Washington St. POSITION: Forward HEIGHT: 6' 5.25'' DRAFT AGE: 21.8 PREVIOUS RANK: 15 More: Q&A: How Cedric Coward went from D-III to the most captivating NBA draft prospect 17. Thomas Sorber Thomas Sorber answers questions from reporters during media availability at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Wintrust Arena on May 14, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. TEAM: Georgetown POSITION: Big HEIGHT: 6' 9.25'' DRAFT AGE: 19.5 PREVIOUS RANK: 19 More: Q&A: Thomas Sorber knows there is so much he hasn't even shown before NBA Draft 18. Asa Newell Asa Newell talks to the media during the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Marriott Marquis Chicago. TEAM: Georgia POSITION: Forward HEIGHT: 6' 9.00'' DRAFT AGE: 19.7 PREVIOUS RANK: 21 More: Q&A: Asa Newell pitches his 'contagious' energy as NBA draft prospect 19. Nique Clifford Nique Clifford talks to the media during the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Marriott Marquis Chicago. TEAM: Colorado St. Advertisement POSITION: Forward HEIGHT: 6' 5.25'' DRAFT AGE: 23.4 PREVIOUS RANK: 17 20. Walter Clayton Jr. Walter Clayton Jr. answers questions from reporters during media availability at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Wintrust Arena on May 14, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. TEAM: Florida POSITION: Guard HEIGHT: 6' 2.00'' DRAFT AGE: 22.3 PREVIOUS RANK: 27 More: Is Walter Clayton Jr. an NBA Draft first-round pick after his incredible March Madness? 21. Nolan Traoré TEAM: Saint-Quentin (France) POSITION: Guard HEIGHT: 6' 3.00'' DRAFT AGE: 19.1 PREVIOUS RANK: 16 22. Danny Wolf Danny Wolf talks to the media during the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Marriott Marquis Chicago. TEAM: Michigan POSITION: Big HEIGHT: 6' 10.50'' DRAFT AGE: 21.2 PREVIOUS RANK: 22 23. Jase Richardson Jase Richardson talks to the media during the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Marriott Marquis Chicago. TEAM: Michigan St. POSITION: Guard HEIGHT: 6' 0.50'' DRAFT AGE: 19.7 PREVIOUS RANK: 18 More: 5 things to know about Michigan State star Jase Richardson 24. Liam McNeeley Liam McNeeley talks to the media during the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Marriott Marquis Chicago. TEAM: Connecticut Advertisement POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 6' 6.75'' DRAFT AGE: 19.7 PREVIOUS RANK: 20 25. Will Riley Will Riley talks to the media during the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Marriott Marquis Chicago. TEAM: Illinois POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 6' 8.25'' DRAFT AGE: 19.3 PREVIOUS RANK: 24 26. Rasheer Fleming Rasheer Fleming talks to the media during the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Marriott Marquis Chicago. TEAM: Saint Joseph's POSITION: Forward HEIGHT: 6' 8.25'' DRAFT AGE: 21.0 PREVIOUS RANK: 25 27. Drake Powell Drake Powell #82 takes part in a shooting drill during the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Wintrust Arena on May 13, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. TEAM: North Carolina POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 6' 5.25'' DRAFT AGE: 19.8 PREVIOUS RANK: 27 28. Noah Penda TEAM: Le Mans (France) POSITION: Forward HEIGHT: 6' 7.25'' DRAFT AGE: 20.5 PREVIOUS RANK: 32 29. Maxime Raynaud TEAM: Stanford POSITION: Big HEIGHT: 7' 0.25'' DRAFT AGE: 22.2 PREVIOUS RANK: 26 More: 2025 NBA Draft Combine: 5 biggest winners, including Maxime Raynaud and Miles Byrd 30. Ryan Kalkbrenner Ryan Kalkbrenner answers questions from reporters during media availability at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Wintrust Arena on May 14, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. TEAM: Creighton Advertisement POSITION: Big HEIGHT: 7' 1.00'' DRAFT AGE: 23.5 PREVIOUS RANK: 29 BEST OF THE REST 31. Hugo González 32. Ben Saraf 33. Yanic Konan Niederhäuser 34. Chaz Lanier 35. Adou Thiero 36. Hansen Yang 37. Kam Jones 38. Tyrese Proctor 39. Bogoljub Marković 40. Johni Broome 41. Jamir Watkins 42. Sion James 43. Alex Toohey 44. Koby Brea 45. Rocco Zikarsky 46. Micah Peavy 47. Javon Small 48. Alijah Martin 49. John Tonje 50. Eric Dixon 51. Ryan Nembhard 52. Hunter Sallis 53. Kobe Sanders 54. Lachlan Olbrich 55. Vlad Goldin 56. Tamar Bates 57. Amari Williams 58. Brice Williams 59. Mark Sears 60. RJ Luis Jr. 61. Brooks Barnhizer 62. Dink Pate 63. Mohamed Diawara Advertisement 64. Saliou Niang 65. Chucky Hepburn 66. Viktor Lakhin 67. Max Shulga 68. Grant Nelson 69. Will Richard 70. Khalif Battle This article originally appeared on For The Win: 2025 NBA mock draft 2.0: Rounding up the final consensus expert predictions

USA Today

25-06-2025

Sport
USA Today

2025 NBA mock draft 2.0: Rounding up the final consensus expert predictions

2025 NBA mock draft 8.0: Final predictions and updated intel for all 59 picks

USA Today

24-06-2025

Sport
USA Today

2025 NBA mock draft 8.0: Final predictions and updated intel for all 59 picks

The 2025 NBA Draft is just one day away, so we will finally have answers to some of the biggest questions, like who drafts Rutgers star Ace Bailey. Cooper Flagg and Dylan Harper are the obvious headliners, but there is plenty of other future NBA talent waiting on the board behind them as well. As always, the following mock draft is based on our research and intel as well as what we are hearing from around the league. It also contains original reporting with quotes from prospects including Dylan Harper, Kon Knueppel, Jeremiah Fears, Cedric Coward, Asa Newell, and Thomas Sorber. All heights are listed without shoes measured at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine in Chicago or Treviso. The best takes and the sharpest bets on all the hoops storylines you need to know. Sign up for our Layup Lines newsletter, hitting your inbox on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. 1. Dallas Mavericks: Cooper Flagg TEAM: Duke POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 6' 7.75'' DRAFT AGE: 18.5 The 2025 NBA Draft Lottery was effectively a launching ground for Duke sensation Cooper Flagg to find out what team he will play for next season and beyond. It was the Mavericks who shockingly got the opportunity, and we shouldn't expect them to trade the pick. Flagg was long considered the favorite at No. 1 overall (we wrote about it when he was 15 years old) and he made that even more clear when he dominated against Team USA during a friendly scrimmage before they won gold at the Olympics. He then exceeded all expectations while he was in college, accomplishing just about everything except winning a national championship. Something that NBA fans should adore about Flagg: While the Mavericks reportedly decided long before they met with him that he was their pick at No. 1 overall, according to The Stein Line, he still 'insisted' that he still work out on the court for the team and he 'made a very favorable' impression. Dallas was reportedly "wildly impressed" with his shot-making, per The Athletic's Sam Vecenie. 'He doesn't turn it off. That's one of the best compliments I can give,' Kon Knueppel, his Duke college roommate and teammate, recently told For The Win. 'He is just a humble dude who loves basketball.' More: The Mavericks reportedly plan to select Cooper Flagg, not make another controversial trade 2. San Antonio Spurs: Dylan Harper TEAM: Rutgers POSITION: Guard HEIGHT: 6' 4.50'' DRAFT AGE: 19.3 While the Spurs could have plenty of suitors if they wanted to shop this pick, it isn't worth it to make a move unless it could land them Giannis Antetokounmpo, and such a trade is seeming more and more unlikely. Instead, they could get someone with legitimate star potential to pair with Victor Wembanyama. For The Win spoke to Harper earlier this year and he described how he developed his fantastic ability to become such a dynamic scorer at the rim. Harper should bring that skill set with him to the pros after earning Big Ten All-Freshman honors. Q&A: Meet Dylan Harper, the best NBA Draft prospect who did not make March Madness tourney 3. Philadelphia 76ers: V.J. Edgecombe TEAM: Baylor POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 6' 4.00'' DRAFT AGE: 19.9 After a strong performance for the Bahamas during the Olympic qualifiers last year, V.J. Edgecombe became a name to watch for scouts and evaluators. At the start of the NCAA season, he showed a lot of promise as a defensive player, though that actually slowed down a bit as his freshman campaign progressed. However, while at Baylor, he also showed promise as one of the bounciest scorers. While the Philadelphia 76ers have reportedly not met with Ace Bailey yet, Edgecombe did travel for a private workout. He 'impressed' during this environment, per The Philadelphia Inquirer. The organization liked his 'work ethic, personality and interviews' during the visit, via The Stein Line. Although he reportedly appeared nervous during his workout, according to ESPN's Jonathan Givony, he made a "strong impression" in interviews. The Big 12 Freshman of the Year joined Flagg as the only first-year collegiate players with at least 30 dunks and 3-pointers recorded, per Bart Torvik. More: ESPN's NBA mock draft had 1 intriguing V.J. Edgecombe, 76ers workout detail 4. Charlotte Hornets: Kon Knueppel TEAM: Duke POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 6' 5.00'' DRAFT AGE: 19.9 In the event that the 76ers do not pick Edgecombe and he is still on the board, the organization may target him over Bailey as a defensive anchor. Edgecombe reportedly had an 'excellent' interview for the team during the 2025 NBA Draft Combine, per Yahoo's Kevin O'Connor. But assuming he is off the board, Duke's Kon Knueppel is an ideal candidate. The Hornets 'appear to have interest' in the ACC tournament MVP, according to ESPN's Jonathan Givony. It's also worth noting that, via NBA Big Board's Rafael Barlowe, it seems Charlotte "hasn't exactly had an easy time securing workouts" with top prospects. Others have echoed this reporting. Knueppel, however, has indeed already visited with Charlotte during the pre-draft process. Here is the mentality he would bring to the Hornets. "I try to focus on all the little things," Knueppel recently told For The Win. "I'm going to make it as hard on the guy that's got the ball that I'm guarding. I'm going to make it super hard on him. I'm going to box out. I'm going to rebound. I'm going to get a loose ball. Those things add up. It all goes into having a good plus-minus or making winning plays on the court." The Blue Devils outscored opponents by 625 points when Knueppel was on the court this season, per CBB Analytics, which was the highest plus-minus among all men's college basketball players. More: Meet NBA draft prospect Kon Knueppel, the other Duke star you're not talking enough about 5. Utah Jazz: Tre Johnson TEAM: Texas POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 6' 4.75'' DRAFT AGE: 19.3 It is hard to predict exactly what kind of decisions Austin Ainge will make in his new role as an executive for the Jazz. For example, Duke big man Khaman Maluach is considered a 'potential draftee' for Utah, via The Stein Line. This would give Utah the flexibility to potentially trade center Walker Kessler. Texas freshman Tre Johnson, however, is another player who is reportedly gaining significant momentum in the pre-draft process so far. Johnson was named SEC Freshman of the Year because he is such a natural scorer whose passing is better than his assist stats might suggest. He is very difficult to stop in the open-court and led all freshmen in 3-pointers made in transition (21) and above the break (65) this season, per CBB Analytics. He measured with a nearly plus-six (6-foot-10) wingspan at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine, which should help him in the pros. Johnson also recorded the fastest lane agility time (10.49 seconds) at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine and his upside makes him a good option for a franchise like the Jazz. 6. Washington Wizards: Jeremiah Fears TEAM: Oklahoma POSITION: Guard HEIGHT: 6' 2.50'' DRAFT AGE: 18.7 Oklahoma freshman Jeremiah Fears has reportedly had multiple workouts with the Jazz, who are on the clock immediately before the Wizards. But if Utah decides to go a different direction, don't expect Fears to wait long to hear his name called. His mentality helps explain why. "Whoever picks me on draft night, you guys are going to be getting a dog," Fears recently told For The Win. "Somebody that's going to come in, work hard, bring star power, and give it his all every time they step on the court." Fears gave fans some amazing highlights as he climbed up draft boards this season. He deservedly received SEC All-Freshman honors, can score at multiple levels from the floor, and he is a fantastic playmaker on both offense and defense as well. The guard is the second-youngest NCAA prospect we have projected in the first round behind only Flagg and was still one of the best overall performers in March Madness. He was one of the fastest players at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine, recording a 3.05-second three-quarter sprint. More: Meet Jeremiah Fears, the NBA Draft prospect who wants to 'destroy' opponents 7. New Orleans Pelicans: Derik Queen TEAM: Maryland POSITION: Big HEIGHT: 6' 9.25'' DRAFT AGE: 20.5 The New Orleans Pelicans are another difficult team to predict in the 2025 NBA Draft because they have a new front office led by Joe Dumars. But the Pelicans do have rumored interest in Queen and he was one of the 'headliners' of a workout with the organization, per NBA Big Board's Rafael Barlowe. Queen was named Big Ten Freshman of the Year and proved his versatility and eye-catching skill set as a big man who is incredibly fun to watch. Then after recording perhaps the biggest moment of the NCAA men's basketball tournament, Queen skyrocketed his draft status. While his athletic testing was less than desirable at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine, he plays at his own speed and could provide a unique addition for any roster. Yahoo's Kevin O'Connor reported that "most front-office executives" believe Ace Bailey is their target, even if it means they need to make a trade. However, per The Stein Line, the interest is "overstated" and that they are not "actively" trying to trade up for the Rutgers standout. More: Derik Queen's game-winner just cemented his NBA Draft status 8. Brooklyn Nets: Ace Bailey TEAM: Rutgers POSITION: Forward HEIGHT: 6' 7.50'' DRAFT AGE: 18.9 There is a lot to unpack about why Ace Bailey's draft stock is apparently plummeting lately, especially after he measured a bit shorter than expected at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine. While this is much lower than where he was projected in our latest consensus rankings at No. 3 overall earlier this month, fans shouldn't expect him to fall much lower than this. It's possible that Bailey's representation wants him to land in a big market where he can get a lot of playing time, and the Nets would provide exactly that. Back when For The Win spoke to his teammate Dylan Harper, he said that his favorite thing about Bailey is how much joy he plays with on the court. Harper described him as tall, lanky, twitchy and a nearly constant presence because of his ability to get a bucket. While some evaluators feel that he might take a bit too many mid range shots, his ability to shoot at his size is something that is going to entice every team in the NBA. His consistency will define just how much success he has, though, as will any development as a passer or as a defensive playmaker. More: The alarming reasons why Ace Bailey's NBA draft stock is plummeting 9. Toronto Raptors: Khaman Maluach TEAM: Duke POSITION: Big HEIGHT: 7' 0.75'' DRAFT AGE: 18.8 South Sudan's Khaman Maluach enjoyed an excellent, efficient campaign and earned ACC All-Freshman honors for Duke. As a lob threat, per CBB Analytics, he had the second-most alley-oops completed (38) among all players in college basketball. He is raw on both ends of the court but has a strong defensive presence thanks to his nearly 7-foot-7 wingspan and 9-foot-6 standing reach measured at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine. Other teams that could have interest include the Utah Jazz, Washington Wizards, Brooklyn Nets, and Atlanta Hawks. 10. Phoenix Suns: Cedric Coward TEAM: Washington St. POSITION: Forward HEIGHT: 6' 5.25'' DRAFT AGE: 21.8 Perhaps the most fascinating player in the 2025 NBA Draft is Cedric Coward, who was originally committed to Duke in the transfer portal before deciding to turn pro. Coward had a workout with the Suns during the pre-draft process, For The Win learned. He is getting "long looks" from Phoenix, per ESPN's Jonathan Givony. "I think I can play anywhere because I'm adaptable," Coward recently told For The Win. "I know who I am as a player and I know who I am as a person and all I want to do is impact winning. I don't care about individual accolades, all of that stuff. That stuff comes with it. But for me, I just want to win. That's all I want to do. I want to win and I want to get better ... Whatever team is looking for that in a player has it right here with me." He shot 40.0 percent on his 3-pointers while averaging 17.7 points per game before getting hurt last season. Coward is one of the hottest names in draft circles right now after measuring with a 7-foot-2 wingspan with a 38.5-inch max vertical and 3.06-second three-quarter sprint at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine. 11. Portland Trail Blazers: Carter Bryant TEAM: Arizona POSITION: Forward HEIGHT: 6' 6.50'' DRAFT AGE: 19.6 Arizona freshman Carter Bryant is a former McDonald's All-American forward who had a strong collegiate debut despite a relatively limited role. Bryant was the only freshman aside from Flagg with at least three dunks and 3-pointers during the NCAA men's basketball tournament, per Bart Torvik. Bryant is unselfish, he works hard on defense, he measured with a wingspan just short of 7-foot, he recorded a 39.5-inch max vertical and 3.07-second three-quarter sprint. He plays with a high IQ, and already looks like one of the biggest risers during the pre-draft process. It was a no-brainer for him to stay in the 2025 NBA Draft. The Trail Blazers will seriously consider Bryant, especially as they continue to build their defensive identity after trading for Jrue Holiday. It is worth noting he told The Athletic that he studies Portland's Toumani Camara and they could soon become teammates. He recently had a workout with the Bulls, per CHSN, who pick one spot behind the Trail Blazers. Portland is expected to also consider Kasparas Jakučionis, Egor Demin, and Noa Essengue. 12. Chicago Bulls: Kasparas Jakučionis TEAM: Illinois POSITION: Guard HEIGHT: 6' 4.75'' DRAFT AGE: 19.1 Lithuania's Kasparas Jakučionis was briefly one of the hottest names in draft circles and he eventually earned Big Ten All-Freshman honors. He has an effective pull-up jumper and led all high-major freshmen in unassisted 3-pointers made (34), per CBB Analytics. As a distributor, in the same group, he also had the most assists finished at the rim (76) this season. Jakučionis needs his jump shot to look more like it did in the first two months of the season than it did in the final three for this pick to work out. Jakučionis had a private workout with the Trail Blazers over this past weekend, per Danny Marang, and Portland currently picks one spot ahead of the Bulls. If they select him, expect the Bulls look to improve their frontcourt, with Joan Beringer as a serious candidate. 13. Atlanta Hawks (via SAC): Joan Beringer TEAM: KK Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana (Slovenia) POSITION: Big HEIGHT: 6' 11.00'' DRAFT AGE: 18.6 France's Joan Beringer is drawing interest from teams picking between No. 12 and No. 19, including a workout with the Hawks. He is one of the "players tied" to Atlanta, per ESPN's Jeremy Woo. According to The Athletic's Sam Vecenie, the Hawks are "in the mix" for Beringer. Beringer was not able to participate in the 2025 NBA Draft Combine in Chicago because he was playing overseas at the time. But he known around the league as a great rim runner, legitimate vertical lob threat, and remarkable shot-blocker. He has a strong defensive presence with a high upside who can impact the game defensively right away. Beringer led the ABA League in blocks this season and ranks third overall in Defensive Statistical Impact (DSI) in his league, per Cerebro Sports. 14. San Antonio Spurs (via ATL): Collin Murray-Boyles TEAM: South Carolina POSITION: Big HEIGHT: 6' 6.50'' DRAFT AGE: 20.1 Expect a smart franchise with a good infrastructure for success like the Spurs to look seriously at South Carolina sophomore Collin Murray-Boyles. Murray-Boyles is perhaps the most enticing collegiate player who was not a one-and-done prospect. He averaged 16.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 1.5 steals, as well as 1.3 blocks per game this season. He is ready to contribute in many ways at the next level. Murray-Boyles is a bit undersized for someone who is virtually a non-threat from beyond the arc but he can offer enough impact as a defender to potentially make up for it. 15. Oklahoma City Thunder (via MIA): Egor Demin TEAM: BYU POSITION: Guard HEIGHT: 6' 8.25'' DRAFT AGE: 19.3 Russia's Egor Demin was initially having one of the strongest freshman campaigns of anyone in the nation for BYU. But his relatively poor overall performance and shooting against top-100 competition causes some room for concern. He measured above 6-foot-8 barefoot at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine and his playmaking still makes him intriguing. According to The Athletic's Sam Vecenie, evaluators loved him in Chicago but that "steam has died down" and he now "could go anywhere from the back half of the lottery to No. 21" on draft night. We currently have him going to the Thunder, where he has reportedly worked out, via The Stein Line. But due to how crowded their roster is right now, they may trade this pick. So it is worth noting that if they do move this asset, the Brooklyn Nets and Utah Jazz are heavily linked to Demin right now. Both organizations will have all of the capital they would need to make such a move. Demin "has a relationship with" Jazz governor Ryan Smith and executive Danny Ainge, per The Salt Lake Tribune. Jazz decision makers Smith and Ainge are both BYU alums. Ainge, whose jersey is retired at the Marriott Center, often attends BYU games as a former player. Demin has also worked out for the Jazz. Another name to keep on eye on for the Thunder is Georgetown big man Thomas Sorber, who could potentially give them flexibility in the event they do not exercise their team option for Jaylin Williams. 16. Memphis Grizzlies (via ORL): Asa Newell TEAM: Georgia POSITION: Forward HEIGHT: 6' 9.00'' DRAFT AGE: 19.7 Georgia's Asa Newell, who was named SEC All-Freshman, is recorded the second-most layups and dunks combined this season among freshmen, per CBB Analytics. But he is also developing his 3-pointer after changing his shooting motion. Expect him to play the three or four, not the five, once in the league. 'I've always been extremely confident in my jump shot from high school to college and now in the NBA,' Newell recently told For The Win. 'You have to have a 3-point shot to survive in the NBA.' He trailed only his high school teammate, Flagg, among all freshmen in Player Efficiency Rating (PER) last season. 'I know I play with a lot of energy,' Newell added. 'I'm a match waiting for some gasoline and causing a whole fire … That is very contagious when you have someone who plays very hard, with a motor, and doesn't take plays off.' Newell was one of the first players to work out for the Grizzlies after they traded back into the first round, per The Commercial Appeal reporter Damichael Cole. Another player who could make sense for the Grizzlies is Nique Clifford. He fits a statistical profile that the Grizzlies have valued in previous draft cycles under executive Zach Kleiman, which we have written about in the past. Other prospects who fit this description include Collin Murray-Boyles and Adou Thiero. Q&A: Asa Newell pitches his 'contagious' energy as NBA draft prospect 17. Minnesota Timberwolves (via DET): Nique Clifford TEAM: Colorado St. POSITION: Forward HEIGHT: 6' 5.25'' DRAFT AGE: 23.4 Colorado State senior Nique Clifford is the oldest player we have projected in the first round but he looks ready to contribute to an NBA rotation. Teams are betting on the assumption that the do-it-all forward is going to make an impact on winning right away in the NBA. He led an upset in the first round of the NCAA tournament and averaged a productive 18.9 points. 9.6 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game during his final collegiate campaign. He has reportedly "received positive feedback" from his workouts and is drawing interest from teams picking in the teens, per ESPN's Jeremy Woo. One of the teams that makes the most sense is the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Timberwolves are also a potential destination for Georgetown big man Thomas Sorber. 18. Washington Wizards (via MEM): Thomas Sorber TEAM: Georgetown POSITION: Big HEIGHT: 6' 9.25'' DRAFT AGE: 19.5 Georgetown freshman big Thomas Sorber, who has a 7-foot-6 wingspan, was an analytics darling before he suffered a season-ending foot injury. He could provide an exciting young piece to a developing young core and defensive presence for a team that could use a spark on that end of the floor like the Jazz. "You never hear a lot of people say that their favorite joy is playing defense. I think that's one thing that's rare about me," Sorber recently told For The Win. "I know that defense wins games, so I basically just put my all into the defensive end and try my best to not let my opponent score or anybody on the other team score because that can also start breaks and also get my team quick, easy points." It made a lot of sense for him to stay in the 2025 NBA Draft even despite limitations during the pre-draft process. According to ESPN's Jeremy Woo, he "has solid interest inside the top 20" for this class, so this is about what is considered his expected range right now. 19. Brooklyn Nets (via MIL): Nolan Traoré TEAM: Saint-Quentin (France) POSITION: Guard HEIGHT: 6' 3.00'' DRAFT AGE: 19.1 After a slow start to his season in France, based on his priors before this season, it was only a matter of time before Nolan Traoré eventually started to heat up. He averaged 13.8 points and 5.0 assists per game while shooting 42.7 percent on 3-pointers over the course of his last ten games, per RealGM. Traoré was named 2025 Best Young Player of the Basketball Champions League and is inarguably one of the best playmakers in the 2025 NBA Draft. If he is more consistent at the next level, he could become something special as a point guard of the future. Other teams that may have some interest in Traoré include the Washington Wizards, Toronto Raptors, Miami Heat, and Phoenix Suns (where he recently was the headliner of a group workout). 20. Miami Heat (via GSW): Will Riley TEAM: Illinois POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 6' 8.25'' DRAFT AGE: 19.3 Canada's Will Riley "could be very much in the Heat's wheelhouse at 20" in the 2025 NBA Draft, per Miami Herald. Riley had multiple big performances during his freshman campaign for Illinois, including a debut in which he had 31 points while shooting 5-of-6 on 3-pointers. He also had 21 points with 7 rebounds and 5 assists during a win over Iowa in the Big Ten tournament and had another great game against Xavier shooting 3-of-4 on 3-pointers during March Madness. Riley was named Big Ten Sixth Man of the Year. Any team drafting Riley is betting on his continued development. He has reportedly worked out with the Heat, per Rookie Wire's Cody Taylor. 21. Utah Jazz (via MIN): Noa Essengue TEAM: ratiopharm ulm (Germany) POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 6' 10.00'' DRAFT AGE: 18.5 NBA teams have had a slightly difficult time evaluating France's Noa Essengue because he is still playing in the postseason while overseas. Essengue is the second-youngest player in the draft but has still managed impressive productivity in one of the more competitive basketball leagues. He ranks fifth-best among all players in Defensive Statistical Impact (DSI) among those with at least seven games played in the Eurocup, per Cerebro Sports. He is an interesting prospect who a variety of teams should have on their radar, even though he has struggled to score and get much playing time over his past few playoff games. According to The Athletic's Sam Vecenie, his draft range is "anywhere from around the No. 8 pick down to around No. 20" right now. 22. Atlanta Hawks (via LAL): Maxime Raynaud TEAM: Stanford POSITION: Big HEIGHT: 7' 0.25'' DRAFT AGE: 22.2 Every team in the NBA should want a guy like France's Maxime Raynaud, who measured with a wingspan above 7-foot-1 and a standing reach above 9-foot-2. Those are excellent numbers for a player who averaged 20.2 points and 10.6 rebounds per game. But is even better when also considering he made nearly two 3-pointers per game. Raynaud was easily one of the biggest standouts during five-on-five scrimmages at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine. Raynaud has reportedly worked out with the Hawks, per Rookie Wire's Cody Taylor. More: 2025 NBA Draft Combine: 5 biggest winners, including Maxime Raynaud 23. New Orleans Pelicans (via IND): Walter Clayton Jr. TEAM: Florida POSITION: Guard HEIGHT: 6' 2.00'' DRAFT AGE: 22.3 During the NCAA men's basketball tournament, we wrote about whether or not Florida star Walter Clayton Jr. had done enough to earn first-round consideration. As we wrote then: The archetype of undersized players who are a bit older relative to the other players in their draft class are typically not early draft picks. Clayton, however, could provide a legitimate exception to this rule after winning NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player. It makes a lot of sense for the Pelicans to add someone who can get a bucket as easily as Clayton. More: Is Walter Clayton Jr. an NBA Draft first-round pick after his incredible March Madness? 24. Oklahoma City Thunder (via LAC): Ben Saraf TEAM: ratiopharm ulm (Germany) POSITION: Guard HEIGHT: 6' 6.0'' DRAFT AGE: 19.2 While he was not in the United States for his pre-draft process because he was playing in the postseason overseas, Ben Saraf has looked is playing fantastic basketball as a starter. He had 20 points with 4 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals during his most recent victory in Germany. Perhaps the Thunder draft Saraf and use him as a potential stash candidate to help consolidate its roster. 25. Orlando Magic (via DEN): Liam McNeeley TEAM: Connecticut POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 6' 6.75'' DRAFT AGE: 19.7 UConn freshman Liam McNeeley won Big East Freshman of the Year and showed flashes during his freshman campaign, like when he had 38 points with 10 rebounds while making five 3-pointers against Creighton on Feb. 11. He also had a solid performance against the eventual national champions during the NCAA men's basketball tournament, recording 22 points while adding 2 rebounds as well as 3 assists and 2 steals. McNeeley is solid value at this point in the draft but should get consideration even higher. 26. Brooklyn Nets (via NYK): Danny Wolf TEAM: Michigan POSITION: Big HEIGHT: 6' 10.50'' DRAFT AGE: 21.2 Michigan's Danny Wolf is a do-it-all big man who has averaged 13.2 points, 9.7 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.4 blocks per game this season. Wolf had the most assists (132) of any college player who is 6-foot-10 or taller, per CBB Analytics. The big man is an incredibly gifted and skilled playmaker considering his height, even though there are questions about how it may translate in the NBA. According to ESPN's Jeremy Woo, feedback on Wolf has been "mixed" in the pre-draft process. 27. Brooklyn Nets (via HOU): Rasheer Fleming TEAM: Saint Joseph's POSITION: Forward HEIGHT: 6' 8.25'' DRAFT AGE: 20.9 One of the most pleasantly surprising prospects in this class is Saint Joseph's Rasheer Fleming, who has great positional size and shooting feel. He was the only player in college basketball to record at least 40 dunks and 50 shots from beyond the arc, per Bart Torvik. He measured with a wingspan above 7-foot-5 and a standing reach above 9-foot-1 at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine. Fleming was one of the most surprising players to not receive a green room invitation to the 2025 NBA Draft, though that could reflect his perceived draft value around the league. 28. Boston Celtics: Drake Powell TEAM: North Carolina POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 6' 5.25'' DRAFT AGE: 19.8 North Carolina freshman Drake Powell was one of the biggest winners at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine, measuring with a 43-inch max vertical and a standing vertical four inches higher than any other prospect. Although he had a relatively limited role during his time in the NCAA, you're betting on upside by selecting Powell in the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft. He has reportedly worked out with the Celtics, per Rookie Wire's Cody Taylor. 29. Phoenix Suns (via CLE): Jase Richardson TEAM: Michigan St. POSITION: Guard HEIGHT: 6' 0.50'' DRAFT AGE: 19.7 Michigan State freshman Jase Richardson earned Big Ten All-Freshman honors after a solid collegiate campaign. He averaged 16.1 points, 4.6 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 0.9 steals per game while shooting 42.0 percent on 3-pointers after moving into the starting lineup for Michigan State. However, he measured small for a traditional two-guard and may not have the playmaking skills as a floor general to run point. According to The Athletic's Sam Vecenie, Richardson's range is "anywhere from the No. 16 down to the end of the first round" on draft night. This was also evidenced by the fact that he did not receive a green room invitation to the 2025 NBA Draft. Phoenix will also consider big men like Ryan Kalkbrenner if they are available. But don't count out Suns owner Mat Ishbia from drafting Richardson, even if they have to trade up. Ishbia played college basketball with Jase's father, former NBA player Jason Richardson, at Michigan State and have remained friends. 30. L.A. Clippers (via OKC): Yanic Konan Niederhauser TEAM: Penn State POSITION: Big HEIGHT: 6' 11.25'' DRAFT AGE: 22.3 One of the biggest risers from the 2025 NBA Draft Combine in Chicago was Yanic Konan Niederhauser, who earned his way after first receiving an invitation via the G League Elite Camp. The Swiss big man has a wingspan that is over 7-foot-3 and still recorded a max vertical leap of 37 inches. His standing vertical (33.5 inches) was the second-best among all participants in Chicago regardless of position. He also had the fastest shuttle run (2.84 seconds) and three-quarter sprint (3.20 seconds) among all centers. Rival teams told For The Win that the Clippers showed the most interest in Niederhauser while in Chicago. Second Round 31. Minnesota Timberwolves (via UTA): Noah Penda (Le Mans) 32. Boston Celtics (via WAS): Chaz Lanier (Tennessee) 33. Charlotte Hornets: Hugo González (Real Madrid) 34. Charlotte Hornets (via NOP): Alex Toohey (Sydney) 35. Philadelphia 76ers: Ryan Kalkbrenner (Creighton) 36. Brooklyn Nets: Hansen Yang (Qingdao) 37. Detroit Pistons (via TOR): Johni Broome (Auburn) 38. San Antonio Spurs: Adou Thiero (Arkansas) 39. Toronto Raptors (via POR): Jamir Watkins (Florida State) 40. Washington Wizards (via PHX): Bogoljub Marković (Mega) 41. Golden State Warriors (via MIA): Tamar Bates (Missouri) 42. Sacramento Kings (via CHI): Tyrese Proctor (Duke) 43. Utah Jazz (via DAL): Kam Jones (Marquette) 44. Oklahoma City Thunder (via ATL): Rocco Zikarsky (Brisbane) 45. Chicago Bulls (via SAC): Mark Sears (Alabama) 46. Orlando Magic: Koby Brea (Kentucky) 47. Milwaukee Bucks (via DET): Micah Peavy (Georgetown) 48. Memphis Grizzlies (via GSW): Kobe Sanders (Nevada) 49. Cleveland Cavaliers (via MIL): Eric Dixon (Villanova) 50. New York Knicks (via MEM): Sion James (Duke) 51. L.A. Clippers (via MIN): Javon Small (West Virginia 52. Phoenix Suns (via DEN): John Tonje (Wisconsin) 53. Utah Jazz (via LAC): Alijah Martin (Florida) 54. Indiana Pacers: Ryan Nembhard (Gonzaga) 55. Los Angeles Lakers: Hunter Sallis (Wake Forrest) 56. Memphis Grizzlies (via HOU): RJ Luis Jr. (St. John's) 57. Orlando Magic (via BOS): Vlad Goldin (Michigan) 58. Cleveland Cavaliers: Saliou Niang (Fortitudo Bologna) 59. Phoenix Suns (via OKC): Grant Nelson (Alabama)

2025 NBA Mock Draft 7.0: Predicting all 59 picks, with Ace Bailey sliding

USA Today

20-06-2025

Sport
USA Today

2025 NBA Mock Draft 7.0: Predicting all 59 picks, with Ace Bailey sliding

The 2025 NBA Draft is less than one week away, which means we will soon know exactly where each of the top prospects will begin their NBA careers. While there is near certainty toward the top of the draft with Cooper Flagg and Dylan Harper, it gets a bit murkier surrounding where Ace Bailey may eventually land. There a wide range of outcomes, including many possible trade scenarios that could change the landscape. These projections are based on the order as it stands, however, and it does not project trades. We expect at least a couple transactions on draft night, though, with teams like the Houston Rockets as well as the Toronto Raptors and Brooklyn Nets expected to make some moves. The following mock draft is based on our research and contains original reporting with quotes from prospects including Dylan Harper, Kon Knueppel, Jeremiah Fears, Cedric Coward, Asa Newell, and Thomas Sorber. All heights are listed without shoes measured at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine in Chicago or Treviso. The best takes and the sharpest bets on all the hoops storylines you need to know. Sign up for our Layup Lines newsletter, hitting your inbox on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. 1. Dallas Mavericks: Cooper Flagg TEAM: Duke POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 6' 7.75'' DRAFT AGE: 18.5 The 2025 NBA Draft Lottery was effectively a launching ground for Duke sensation Cooper Flagg to find out what team he will play for next season and beyond. It was the Mavericks who shockingly got the opportunity, and we shouldn't expect them to trade the pick. Flagg was long considered the favorite at No. 1 overall (we wrote about it when he was 15 years old) and he made that even more clear when he dominated against Team USA during a friendly scrimmage before they won gold at the Olympics. He then exceeded all expectations while he was in college, accomplishing just about everything except winning a national championship. Something that NBA fans should adore about Flagg: While the Mavericks reportedly decided long before they met with him that he was their pick at No. 1 overall, according to The Stein Line, he still 'insisted' that he still work out on the court for the team and he 'made a very favorable' impression. 'He doesn't turn it off. That's one of the best compliments I can give,' Kon Knueppel, his Duke college roommate and teammate, recently told For The Win. 'He is just a humble dude who loves basketball.' More: The Mavericks reportedly plan to select Cooper Flagg, not make another controversial trade 2. San Antonio Spurs: Dylan Harper TEAM: Rutgers POSITION: Guard HEIGHT: 6' 4.50'' DRAFT AGE: 19.3 While the Spurs could have plenty of suitors if they wanted to shop this pick, it isn't worth it to make a move unless it could land them Giannis Antetokounmpo, and such a trade is seeming more and more unlikely. Instead, they could get someone with legitimate star potential to pair with Victor Wembanyama. For The Win spoke to Harper earlier this year and he described how he developed his fantastic ability to become such a dynamic scorer at the rim. Harper should bring that skill set with him to the pros after earning Big Ten All-Freshman honors. Q&A: Meet Dylan Harper, the best NBA Draft prospect who did not make March Madness tourney 3. Philadelphia 76ers: V.J. Edgecombe TEAM: Baylor POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 6' 4.00'' DRAFT AGE: 19.9 After a strong performance for the Bahamas during the Olympic qualifiers last year, V.J. Edgecombe became a name to watch for scouts and evaluators. At the start of the NCAA season, he showed a lot of promise as a defensive player, though that actually slowed down a bit as his freshman campaign progressed. However, while at Baylor, he also showed promise as one of the bounciest scorers. While the Philadelphia 76ers have reportedly not met with Ace Bailey yet, Edgecombe did travel for a private workout. He 'impressed' during this environment, per The Philadelphia Inquirer. The organization liked his 'work ethic, personality and interviews' during the visit, via The Stein Line. The Big 12 Freshman of the Year joined Flagg as the only first-year collegiate players with at least 30 dunks and 3-pointers recorded, per Bart Torvik. 4. Kon Knueppel TEAM: Duke POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 6' 5.00'' DRAFT AGE: 19.9 In the event that the 76ers do not pick Edgecombe and he is still on the board, the organization may target him over Bailey as a defensive anchor. He reportedly had an 'excellent' interview for the team during the 2025 NBA Draft Combine, per Yahoo's Kevin O'Connor. But assuming he is off the board, Duke's Kon Knueppel is an ideal candidate. The Hornets 'appear to have interest' in the ACC tournament MVP, according to ESPN's Jonathan Givony. "I try to focus on all the little things," Knueppel recently told For The Win. "I'm going to make it as hard on the guy that's got the ball that I'm guarding. I'm going to make it super hard on him. I'm going to box out. I'm going to rebound. I'm going to get a loose ball. Those things add up. It all goes into having a good plus-minus or making winning plays on the court." The Blue Devils outscored opponents by 625 points when Knueppel was on the court this season, per CBB Analytics, which was the highest plus-minus among all men's college basketball players. More: Meet NBA draft prospect Kon Knueppel, the other Duke star you're not talking enough about 5. Utah Jazz: Tre Johnson TEAM: Texas POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 6' 4.75'' DRAFT AGE: 19.3 It is hard to predict what kind of decisions Austin Ainge will make in his new role as an executive for the Jazz. For example, Duke big man Khaman Maluach is considered a 'potential draftee' for Utah, via The Stein Line. This would give Utah the flexibility to potentially trade center Walker Kessler. Texas freshman Tre Johnson, however, is another player who is reportedly gaining significant momentum in the pre-draft process so far. Johnson was named SEC Freshman of the Year because he is such a natural scorer whose passing is better than his assist stats might suggest. He is very difficult to stop in the open-court and led all freshmen in 3-pointers made in transition (21) and above the break (65) this season, per CBB Analytics. He measured with a nearly plus-six (6-foot-10) wingspan at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine, which should help him in the pros. Johnson also recorded the fastest lane agility time (10.49 seconds) at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine and his upside makes him a good option for a franchise like the Jazz. 6. Washington Wizards: Jeremiah Fears TEAM: Oklahoma POSITION: Guard HEIGHT: 6' 2.50'' DRAFT AGE: 18.7 Oklahoma freshman Jeremiah Fears has reportedly had multiple workouts with the Jazz, who are on the clock immediately before the Wizards. But if Utah decides to go a different direction, don't expect Fears to wait long to hear his name called. His mentality helps explain why. "Whoever picks me on draft night, you guys are going to be getting a dog," Fears recently told For The Win. "Somebody that's going to come in, work hard, bring star power, and give it his all every time they step on the court." Fears gave fans some amazing highlights as he climbed up draft boards this season. He deservedly received SEC All-Freshman honors, can score at multiple levels from the floor, and he is a fantastic playmaker on both offense and defense as well. The guard is the second-youngest NCAA prospect we have projected in the first round behind only Flagg and was still one of the best overall performers in March Madness. He was one of the fastest players at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine, recording a 3.05-second three-quarter sprint. 7. New Orleans Pelicans: Derik Queen TEAM: Maryland POSITION: Big HEIGHT: 6' 9.25'' DRAFT AGE: 20.5 The New Orleans Pelicans are another difficult team to predict in the 2025 NBA Draft because they have a new front office led by Joe Dumars. But the Pelicans do have rumored interest in Queen and he was one of the 'headliners' of a workout with the organization, per NBA Big Board's Rafael Barlowe. Queen was named Big Ten Freshman of the Year and proved his versatility and eye-catching skill set as a big man who is incredibly fun to watch. Then after recording perhaps the biggest moment of the NCAA men's basketball tournament, Queen skyrocketed his draft status. While his athletic testing was less than desirable at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine, he plays at his own speed and could provide a unique addition for any roster. Yahoo's Kevin O'Connor reported that "most front-office executives" believe Ace Bailey is their target, even if it means they need to make a trade. However, per The Stein Line, the interest is "overstated" and that they are not "actively" trying to trade up for the Rutgers standout. More: Derik Queen's game-winner just cemented his NBA Draft status 9. Brooklyn Nets: Ace Bailey TEAM: Rutgers POSITION: Forward HEIGHT: 6' 7.50'' DRAFT AGE: 18.9 There is a lot to unpack about why Ace Bailey's draft stock is apparently plummeting lately, especially after he measured a bit shorter than expected at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine. While this is much lower than where he was projected in our latest consensus rankings at No. 3 overall earlier this month, fans shouldn't expect him to fall much lower than this. It's possible that Bailey's representation wants him to land in a big market where he can get a lot of playing time, and the Nets would provide exactly that. Back when For The Win spoke to his teammate Dylan Harper, he said that his favorite thing about Bailey is how much joy he plays with on the court. Harper described him as tall, lanky, twitchy and a nearly constant presence because of his ability to get a bucket. While some evaluators feel that he might take a bit too many mid range shots, his ability to shoot at his size is something that is going to entice every team in the NBA. His consistency will define just how much success he has, though, as will any development as a passer or as a defensive playmaker. More: The alarming reasons why Ace Bailey's NBA draft stock is plummeting 9. Toronto Raptors: Khaman Maluach TEAM: Duke POSITION: Big HEIGHT: 7' 0.75'' DRAFT AGE: 18.8 South Sudan's Khaman Maluach enjoyed an excellent, efficient campaign and earned ACC All-Freshman honors for Duke. As a lob threat, per CBB Analytics, he had the second-most alley-oops completed (38) among all players in college basketball. He is raw on both ends of the court but has a strong defensive presence thanks to his nearly 7-foot-7 wingspan and 9-foot-6 standing reach measured at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine. Other teams that could have interest include the Utah Jazz, Washington Wizards, Brooklyn Nets, and Atlanta Hawks. 10. Houston Rockets (via PHX): Collin Murray-Boyles TEAM: South Carolina POSITION: Big HEIGHT: 6' 6.50'' DRAFT AGE: 20.1 No one expects the Rockets to actually use this pick and are likely candidates to make a trade, but if they do, expect them to look at versatile defensive forward like South Carolina sophomore Collin Murray-Boyles. Murray-Boyles is perhaps the most enticing collegiate player who was not a one-and-done prospect. According to ESPN's Jeremy Woo, the Rockets are considered a "team that makes sense as a fit" for the the forward. He who averaged 16.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 1.5 steals, as well as 1.3 blocks per game this season. He is ready to contribute in many ways at the next level. Murray-Boyles is a bit undersized for someone who is virtually a non-threat from beyond the arc but he can offer enough impact as a defender to potentially make up for it. 11. Portland Trail Blazers: Carter Bryant TEAM: Arizona POSITION: Forward HEIGHT: 6' 6.50'' DRAFT AGE: 19.6 Arizona freshman Carter Bryant is a former McDonald's All-American forward who had a strong collegiate debut despite a relatively limited role. He was the only freshman aside from Flagg with at least three dunks and 3-pointers during the NCAA men's basketball tournament, per Bart Torvik. Bryant is unselfish, he works hard on defense, he measured with a wingspan just short of 7-foot, he recorded a 39.5-inch max vertical and 3.07-second three-quarter sprint. Bryant plays with a high IQ, and already looks like one of the biggest risers during the pre-draft process. It was a no-brainer for him to stay in the 2025 NBA Draft. He told The Athletic that he studies Portland's Toumani Camara and he could soon become his teammate on the Trail Blazers. 12. Chicago Bulls: Kasparas Jakučionis TEAM: Illinois POSITION: Guard HEIGHT: 6' 4.75'' DRAFT AGE: 19.1 Lithuania's Kasparas Jakučionis was briefly one of the hottest names in draft circles and he eventually earned Big Ten All-Freshman honors. He has an effective pull-up jumper and led all high-major freshmen in unassisted 3-pointers made (34), per CBB Analytics. As a distributor, in the same group, he also had the most assists finished at the rim (76) this season. Jakučionis needs his jump shot to look more like it did in the first two months of the season than it did in the final three for this pick to work out. 13. Atlanta Hawks (via SAC): Noa Essengue TEAM: ratiopharm ulm (Germany) POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 6' 10.00'' DRAFT AGE: 18.5 NBA teams have had a slightly difficult time evaluating France's Noa Essengue because he is still playing in the postseason while overseas. Essengue is the second-youngest player in the draft but has still managed impressive productivity in one of the more competitive basketball leagues. He ranks fifth-best among all players in Defensive Statistical Impact (DSI) among those with at least seven games played in the Eurocup, per Cerebro Sports. Essengue is an interesting prospect who a variety of teams should have on their radar and, per ESPN's Jeremy Woo, has "drawn increasing interest from teams in the 9-to-15 range" in the 2025 NBA Draft. He is seen as one of the "potential candidates" for the Hawks, according to Woo. 14. San Antonio Spurs (via ATL): Joan Beringer TEAM: KK Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana (Slovenia) POSITION: Big HEIGHT: 6' 11.00'' DRAFT AGE: 18.6 If the Spurs decide to keep their second lottery pick, France's Joan Beringer is one of the names they will consider. Beringer was not able to participate in the 2025 NBA Draft Combine in Chicago because he was playing overseas but he is a great rim runner and legitimate vertical lob threat. He has a strong defensive presence with a high upside who can impact the game defensively right away. Beringer led the ABA League in blocks this season and ranks third overall in Defensive Statistical Impact (DSI) in his league, per Cerebro Sports. 15. Oklahoma City Thunder (via MIA): Cedric Coward TEAM: Washington St. POSITION: Forward HEIGHT: 6' 5.25'' DRAFT AGE: 21.8 Perhaps the most fascinating player in the 2025 NBA Draft is Cedric Coward, who was originally committed to Duke in the transfer portal before deciding to turn pro. "I think I can play anywhere because I'm adaptable," Coward recently told For The Win. "I know who I am as a player and I know who I am as a person and all I want to do is impact winning. I don't care about individual accolades, all of that stuff. That stuff comes with it. But for me, I just want to win. That's all I want to do. I want to win and I want to get better ... Whatever team is looking for that in a player has it right here with me." He shot 40.0 percent on his 3-pointers while averaging 17.7 points per game before getting hurt last season. Coward is one of the hottest names in draft circles right now after measuring with a 7-foot-2 wingspan with a 38.5-inch max vertical and 3.06-second three-quarter sprint at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine. Coward reportedly met with the Thunder for a private one-on-zero workout, per ESPN's Jonathan Givony. 16. Memphis Grizzlies (via ORL): Nique Clifford TEAM: Colorado St. POSITION: Forward HEIGHT: 6' 5.25'' DRAFT AGE: 23.4 Colorado State senior Nique Clifford is the oldest player we have projected in the first round but he looks ready to contribute to an NBA rotation. Teams are betting on the assumption that the do-it-all forward is going to make an impact on winning right away in the NBA. He led an upset in the first round of the NCAA tournament and averaged a productive 18.9 points. 9.6 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game during his final collegiate campaign. He has reportedly "received positive feedback" from his workouts and is drawing interest from teams picking in the teens, per ESPN's Jeremy Woo. Perhaps that team is Memphis now that they have traded back into the first round. Clifford fits a statistical profile that the Grizzlies have valued in previous draft cycles under executive Zach Kleiman, which we have written about in the past. Other prospects who fit this description include Collin Murray-Boyles and Adou Thiero. 17. Minnesota Timberwolves (via DET): Asa Newell TEAM: Georgia POSITION: Forward HEIGHT: 6' 9.00'' DRAFT AGE: 19.7 Georgia's Asa Newell, who was named SEC All-Freshman, is recorded the second-most layups and dunks combined this season among freshmen, per CBB Analytics. But he is also developing his 3-pointer after changing his shooting motion. 'I've always been extremely confident in my jump shot from high school to college and now in the NBA,' Newell recently told For The Win. 'You have to have a 3-point shot to survive in the NBA.' He trailed only his high school teammate, Flagg, among all freshmen in Player Efficiency Rating (PER) last season. 'I know I play with a lot of energy,' Newell added. 'I'm a match waiting for some gasoline and causing a whole fire … That is very contagious when you have someone who plays very hard, with a motor, and doesn't take plays off.' Newell has worked out with the Timberwolves, per Rookie Wire's Cody Taylor. Q&A: Asa Newell pitches his 'contagious' energy as NBA draft prospect 18. Washington Wizards (via MEM): Thomas Sorber TEAM: Georgetown POSITION: Big HEIGHT: 6' 9.25'' DRAFT AGE: 19.5 Georgetown freshman big Thomas Sorber, who has a 7-foot-6 wingspan, was an analytics darling before he suffered a season-ending foot injury. He could provide an exciting young piece to a developing young core and defensive presence for a team that could use a spark on that end of the floor like the Wizards. "You never hear a lot of people say that their favorite joy is playing defense. I think that's one thing that's rare about me," Sorber recently told For The Win. "I know that defense wins games, so I basically just put my all into the defensive end and try my best to not let my opponent score or anybody on the other team score because that can also start breaks and also get my team quick, easy points." It made a lot of sense for him to stay in the 2025 NBA Draft considering that, per ESPN's Jeremy Woo, he "has solid interest inside the top 20" for this class. 19. Brooklyn Nets (via MIL): Nolan Traoré TEAM: Saint-Quentin (France) POSITION: Guard HEIGHT: 6' 3.00'' DRAFT AGE: 19.1 After a slow start to his season in France, based on his priors before this season, it was only a matter of time before Nolan Traoré eventually started to heat up. He averaged 13.8 points and 5.0 assists per game while shooting 42.7 percent on 3-pointers over the course of his last ten games, per RealGM. Traoré was named 2025 Best Young Player of the Basketball Champions League and is inarguably one of the best playmakers in the 2025 NBA Draft. If he is more consistent at the next level, he could become something special as a point guard of the future. Other teams that may have interest include the Washington Wizards, Toronto Raptors, Miami Heat, and Phoenix Suns (especially if they land an additional pick as part of their trade return for Kevin Durant). 20. Miami Heat (via GSW): Will Riley TEAM: Illinois POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 6' 8.25'' DRAFT AGE: 19.3 Canada's Will Riley "could be very much in the Heat's wheelhouse at 20" in the 2025 NBA Draft, per Miami Herald. Riley had multiple big performances during his freshman campaign for Illinois, including a debut in which he had 31 points while shooting 5-of-6 on 3-pointers. He also had 21 points with 7 rebounds and 5 assists during a win over Iowa in the Big Ten tournament and had another great game against Xavier shooting 3-of-4 on 3-pointers during March Madness. Riley was named Big Ten Sixth Man of the Year. Any team drafting Riley is betting on his continued development. He has reportedly worked out with the Heat, per Rookie Wire's Cody Taylor. 21. Utah Jazz (via MIN): Egor Demin TEAM: BYU POSITION: Guard HEIGHT: 6' 8.25'' DRAFT AGE: 19.3 Russia's Egor Demin was initially having one of the strongest freshman campaigns of anyone in the nation for BYU. But his relatively poor overall performance and shooting against top-100 competition causes some room for concern. He measured at 6-foot-8 barefoot at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine and his playmaking still makes him intriguing. especially if he stays in the same state where he went to college. Demin "has a relationship with" Jazz governor Ryan Smith and executive Danny Ainge, per The Salt Lake Tribune. Jazz decision makers Ryan Smith and Danny Ainge, both BYU alums. Ainge often attends BYU games as a former player, whose jersey is retired at the Marriott Center. 22. Atlanta Hawks (via LAL): Maxime Raynaud TEAM: Stanford POSITION: Big HEIGHT: 7' 0.25'' DRAFT AGE: 22.2 TEAM: Stanford POSITION: Big HEIGHT: 7-1 DRAFT AGE: 22.2 Every team in the NBA should want a guy like France's Maxime Raynaud, who measured with a wingspan above 7-foot-1 and a standing reach above 9-foot-2. Those are excellent numbers for a player who averaged 20.2 points and 10.6 rebounds per game. But is even better when also considering he made nearly two 3-pointers per game. Raynaud was easily one of the biggest standouts during five-on-five scrimmages at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine. Raynaud has reportedly worked out with the Hawks, per Rookie Wire's Cody Taylor. More: 2025 NBA Draft Combine: 5 biggest winners, including Maxime Raynaud 23. New Orleans Pelicans (via IND): Walter Clayton Jr. TEAM: Florida POSITION: Guard HEIGHT: 6' 2.00'' DRAFT AGE: 22.3 ne enough to earn first-round consideration. As we wrote then: The archetype of undersized players who are a bit older relative to the other players in their draft class are typically not early draft picks. Clayton, however, could provide a legitimate exception to this rule after winning NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player. It makes a lot of sense for the Magic to find someone who can get a bucket as easily as Clayton. More: Is Walter Clayton Jr. an NBA Draft first-round pick after his incredible March Madness? 24. Oklahoma City Thunder (via LAC): Rasheer Fleming TEAM: Saint Joseph's POSITION: Forward HEIGHT: 6' 8.25'' DRAFT AGE: 21.0 One of the most pleasantly surprising prospects in this class is Saint Joseph's Rasheer Fleming, who has great positional size and shooting feel. He was the only player in college basketball to record at least 40 dunks and 50 shots from beyond the arc, per Bart Torvik. He measured with a wingspan above 7-foot-5 and a standing reach above 9-foot-1 at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine. 25. Orlando Magic (via DEN): Liam McNeeley TEAM: Connecticut POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 6' 6.75'' DRAFT AGE: 19.7 UConn freshman Liam McNeeley won Big East Freshman of the Year and showed flashes during his freshman campaign, like when he had 38 points with 10 rebounds while making five 3-pointers against Creighton on Feb. 11. He also had a solid performance against the eventual national champions during the NCAA men's basketball tournament, recording 22 points while adding 2 rebounds as well as 3 assists and 2 steals. McNeeley is solid value at this point in the draft but should get consideration even higher. 26. Brooklyn Nets (via NYK): Jase Richardson TEAM: Michigan St. POSITION: Guard HEIGHT: 6' 0.50'' DRAFT AGE: 19.7 Michigan State freshman Jase Richardson earned Big Ten All-Freshman honors after a solid collegiate campaign. He averaged 16.1 points, 4.6 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 0.9 steals per game while shooting 42.0 percent on 3-pointers after moving into the starting lineup for Michigan State. However, he measured small for a traditional two-guard and may not have the playmaking skills as a floor general to run point. He has reportedly worked out with the Nets, per HoopsHype. 27. Brooklyn Nets (via HOU): Alex Toohey TEAM: Sydney (Australia) POSITION: Forward HEIGHT: 6' 7.75'' DRAFT AGE: 21.2 Australia's Alex Toohey is a fascinating prospect who contributes well on both sides of the floor. He is a legitimately strong wing defender whose Defensive Statistical Impact (DSI) ranks as the best among those who have played more than one game in Australia's NBL this season, per Cerebro Sports. He measured just short of 6-foot-8 barefoot at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine with a wingspan nearly 6-foot-11 and played well during five-on-five scrimmages. 28. Boston Celtics: Drake Powell TEAM: North Carolina POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 6' 5.25'' DRAFT AGE: 19.8 North Carolina freshman Drake Powell was one of the biggest winners at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine, measuring with a 43-inch max vertical and a standing vertical four inches higher than any other prospect. Although he had a relatively limited role during his time in the NCAA, you're betting on upside by selecting Powell in the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft. He has reportedly worked out with the Celtics, per Rookie Wire's Cody Taylor. 29. Phoenix Suns (via CLE): Danny Wolf TEAM: Michigan POSITION: Big HEIGHT: 6' 10.50'' DRAFT AGE: 21.2 Michigan's Danny Wolf is a do-it-all big man who has averaged 13.2 points, 9.7 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.4 blocks per game this season. Wolf had the most assists (132) of any college player who is 6-foot-10 or taller, per CBB Analytics. The big man is an incredibly gifted and skilled playmaker considering his height, even though there are questions about how it may translate in the NBA. According to ESPN's Jeremy Woo, feedback on Wolf has been "mixed" in the pre-draft process. He has reportedly worked out with the Suns, per Rookie Wire's Cody Taylor. 30. L.A. Clippers (via OKC): Adou Thiero TEAM: Arkansas POSITION: Wing HEIGHT: 6' 6.25'' DRAFT AGE: 21.1 After transferring from Kentucky last season, Arkansas junior Adou Thiero had a well-rounded season in which he averaged 15.1 points and 5.8 rebounds with 1.9 assists and 1.6 steals per game. While his 3-pointer was inefficient at just 25.6 percent, he missed time due to a knee injury in February and that factored into why he stopped getting as much buzz as the season progressed. However, he still showed enough to decide to stay in the 2025 NBA Draft. Second Round 31. Minnesota Timberwolves (via UTA): Noah Penda (Le Mans) 32. Boston Celtics (via WAS): Chaz Lanier (Tennessee) 33. Charlotte Hornets: Hugo González (Real Madrid0 34. Charlotte Hornets (via NOP): Ben Saraf (Ulm) 35. Philadelphia 76ers: Ryan Kalkbrenner (Creighton) 36. Brooklyn Nets: Hansen Yang (Qingdao) 37. Detroit Pistons (via TOR): Johni Broome (Auburn) 38. San Antonio Spurs: Yanic Konan Niederhauser (Penn State) 39. Toronto Raptors (via POR): Jamir Watkins (Florida State) 40. Washington Wizards (via PHX): Bogoljub Marković (Mega) 41. Golden State Warriors (via MIA): Tamar Bates (Missouri) 42. Sacramento Kings (via CHI): Tyrese Proctor (Duke) 43. Utah Jazz (via DAL): Rocco Zikarsky (Brisbane) 44. Oklahoma City Thunder (via ATL): Kam Jones (Marquette) 45. Chicago Bulls (via SAC): Mark Sears (Alabama) 46. Orlando Magic: Koby Brea (Kentucky) 47. Milwaukee Bucks (via DET): Hunter Sallis (Wake Forrest) 48. Memphis Grizzlies (via GSW): Kobe Sanders (Nevada) 49. Cleveland Cavaliers (via MIL): Eric Dixon (Villanova) 50. New York Knicks (via MEM): Sion James (Duke) 51. L.A. Clippers (via MIN): Javon Small (West Virginia 52. Phoenix Suns (via DEN): John Tonje (Wisconsin) 53. Utah Jazz (via LAC): Alijah Martin (Florida) 54. Indiana Pacers: Ryan Nembhard (Gonzaga) 55. Los Angeles Lakers: Izan Almansa (Perth) 56. Memphis Grizzlies (via HOU): RJ Luis Jr. (St. John's) 57. Orlando Magic (via BOS): Vlad Goldin (Michigan) 58. Cleveland Cavaliers: Amari Williams (Kentucky) 59. Houston Rockets (via OKC): Grant Nelson (Alabama)

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