The basketball world witnessed a dramatic reshuffling of draft boards as the 2025 NBA Draft Combine scrimmages concluded in Chicago. Several prospects seized the spotlight, transforming their trajectories with performances that had scouts frantically updating notes and general managers rethinking strategies.
From dominant centers to explosive guards, these athletes made statements that echoed throughout the NBA Combine.
Top 5 Biggest Winners From NBA Combine Scrimmages
NBA Insider Brett Siegel highlighted eight standout performers from the combine scrimmages, including Yaxel Lendeborg, Maxime Raynaud, Tahaad Pettiford, PJ Haggerty, Ryan Nembhard, Mark Sears, Jamir Watkins, and Miles Byrd.
From this impressive group, we’ll focus on five prospects whose performances most dramatically altered their draft projections.
Here are my biggest winners from the scrimmages at the 2025 NBA Draft Combine:
Yaxel Lendeborg (UAB)
Maxime Raynaud (Stanford)
Tahaad Pettiford (Auburn)
PJ Haggerty (Memphis)
Ryan Nembhard (Gonzaga)
Mark Sears (Alabama)
Jamir Watkins (Florida State)
Miles Byrd (SDSU)— Brett Siegel (@BrettSiegelNBA) May 15, 2025
Maxime Raynaud, Stanford
Raynaud, a 7′ forward from Stanford, left an indelible impression in his scrimmage appearance, posting an impressive 20 points on 7-of-12 shooting along with nine rebounds and three assists in 25 minutes on thursday.
His fluid three-point stroke coupled with refined post footwork answered lingering questions about his offensive capabilities, while his defensive versatility surprised many observers who had previously questioned his NBA readiness.
Raynaud’s confidence was palpable as he withdrew from further scrimmages after his dominant showing, a power move that screamed self-assurance. Once projected as a late first round selection, Raynaud has likely elevated himself some places up in first round consideration.
Tahaad Pettiford, Auburn
Auburn’s freshman phenom electrified the combine with a scorching 23-point performance in his second scrimmage. Pettiford’s 42-inch max vertical leap translated directly to game action as he sliced through defenses with advanced footwork and finished creatively at the rim with either hand, showcasing the kind of two-way dynamism that NBA teams covet.
His playmaking impressed equally with eight assists against just one turnover while shooting 4-of-8 from beyond the arc. This perimeter accuracy addressed the primary concern in his scouting report, transforming him from a borderline second-round prospect into a player generating serious first-round buzz.
Miles Byrd, San Diego State
San Diego State’s Byrd transformed his draft narrative from defensive specialist to legitimate two-way wing. The 6’8″ forward averaged 12.0 points, four rebounds, and 3.5 steals across his two scrimmages, while shooting 5-of-11 from three-point territory, which is a massive improvement over his 30.1% collegiate mark.
His 6’10” wingspan and lateral quickness allowed him to guard multiple positions effectively, shutting down both perimeter threats and interior scorers. Though still weighing a return to college, his draft stock has risen from undrafted projections to solid second round consideration.
PJ Haggerty, Memphis
The Memphis transfer emerged as the combine’s premier marksman, posting an impressive 73% aggregate score in shooting drills while averaging 17.0 points across his two scrimmage appearances.
Haggerty’s offensive arsenal proved diverse as he torched defenses with both off-the-dribble creativity and catch and shoot precision, connecting on 7-of-13 attempts from beyond the arc.
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His standout Thursday performance of 18 points, seven rebounds, and three assists against elite competition, silenced doubters questioning his level of competition. Haggerty’s decisive declaration of “100% commitment” to the draft following the combine speaks volumes about his newfound confidence and potential as a second-round pick.
Jamir Watkins, Florida State
Florida State’s Watkins delivered perhaps the most surprising performance of the combine, erupting for 23 points, four rebounds, four assists, and five steals on thursday’s scrimmage. The 6’5″ wing with a 6’11” wingspan showcased impressive scoring ability and disruptive defensive potential, shooting an efficient 8-of-13 from the field.
His 214-pound frame allowed him to guard position effectively, while his improved off-ball movement created clean looks from deep. Watkins’ ability to impact the game in multiple facets has dramatically altered his professional outlook, transforming him into an intriguing prospect for teams seeking late-round value.
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