With the 2025 NBA Draft entirely underway, college basketball fans are already discussing the talent pool that will be available early. The season may be finished, but the fun is just getting started for several talented players who have already declared for the draft. Scouts are taking notice of these early entrants, who are undoubtedly worth keeping an eye on as the draft draws near. They range from defensive mainstays and high-upside prospects to experienced scorers.
From Rising Stars to International Sensations, These 11 Early Entrants are Making Waves Ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft
Due to the early declarations of international and college standouts, the 2025 NBA Draft looks to be one of the most thrilling in recent memory. Fans can’t wait to watch which talented young players will advance in their basketball careers as clubs get ready to make their selections on June 25–26 at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center. Eleven early entrants that every college basketball fan ought to keep an eye on are as follows:
Notable early entry names to monitor:
Carter Bryant, Arizona
Alex Condon, UF
Josh Hubbard, Miss St
Karter Knox, Arkansas
Yaxel Lendeborg, Michigan
Otega Oweh, UK
Tahaad Pettiford, Auburn
Thomas Sorber, Gtown
Milos Uzan, UH
Jamir Watkins (transfer)
Darrion Williams (transfer) https://t.co/QEv2QVZk1U— Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) April 29, 2025
Cooper Flagg (Duke, Forward)
The consensus No. 1 pick, Flagg’s elite two-way play and relentless motor have scouts buzzing.
Dylan Harper (Rutgers, Guard)
Known for his strength and playmaking ability, Harper is a likely No. 2 pick despite concerns about his perimeter shooting.
Tre Johnson (Texas, Shooting Guard)
A scoring machine with an explosive first step, Johnson has emerged as one of the most prolific guards in college basketball.
V.J. Edgecombe (Baylor, Guard/Forward)
Edgecombe’s quickness and elite athleticism have drawn comparisons to NBA guards like De’Aaron Fox.
Nolan Traore (France, Guard)
The top international prospect, Traore, is projected as a top-five pick due to his quick first step and elite point guard skills.
Khaman Maluach (Duke, Center)
A 7’2″ center with a soft touch and mobility, Maluach has already made his mark on the international stage with South Sudan.
Egor Demin (BYU, Point Guard)
At 6’9″, Demin’s size and facilitation skills make him a unique prospect rising to draft boards.
Jase Richardson (Michigan State, Guard)
Jase, the son of former NBA player Jason Richardson, has shown promise in his scoring and leadership abilities.
Liam McNeeley (UConn, Forward)
A natural shooter with versatility, McNeeley’s performance has scouts considering him a potential first-round pick.
Carter Bryant (Arizona, Forward)
Initially considered a lottery pick, Bryant’s freshman season has him projected later in the first round, but his potential remains high.
Adou Thiero (Arkansas, Forward)
Thiero’s breakout season under Coach John Calipari has showcased his offensive skills and defensive prowess, making him a prospect to watch.
KEEP READING: Former 5-Star Prospect Mikey Williams Looks For Redemption With Mike Bibby’s Sacramento State Hornets
The deadline for these early entrants to opt out of the draft and keep their college eligibility is May 28. Scouts and fans will closely monitor these athletes as they prepare for the next level as evaluations go on.
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