As the college basketball season comes to a close, the NBA Draft will soon become the focus for many draft-eligible prospects. Meanwhile, the NBA is still going strong, with the playoffs soon approaching. While that means many teams are ramping up for the postseason, others are in a free fall toward the bottom of the standings — with hopes of capitalizing on a loaded 2025 draft class.
The NBA Draft Combine, private workouts, and interviews have yet to commence, but less than three months remain before the draft will take place. Where will some of the best college basketball — and international — prospects land?
Let’s get into it, beginning with a player who many consider to be a generational talent.
The draft order is established via the NBA standings as of April 2.
1) Cooper Flagg, Duke
Utah Jazz
Flagg, the ultimate prize of this draft class and the expected top pick for years now, will head to Utah, where his services are badly needed. The Jazz haven’t fielded a competitive team come March and April since 2022, as they’ve tanked to achieve higher draft picks in the final months of the season.
This year, however, Utah is on track to finish with under 20 wins — putting them in prime position to take Flagg. During the regular season, the Blue Devils’ star led the team in points (18.0 ppg), rebounds (7.5 rpg), assists (4.1 apg), steals (1.5 spg), and blocks (1.3 bpg), showing his entire repertoire of skills. Mind you, Duke was a perennial top-two team in the country for a majority of the season, led by the young 18-year-old.
His game should translate extremely well to the next level, as his defensive versatility and unselfishness will have a winning impact early on, while the ability to create his own shots will come with time. The Jazz should be ecstatic to land a bona-fide generational talent to build around for the next decade and beyond in Salt Lake City.
2) Dylan Harper, Rutgers
Washington Wizards
While Harper isn’t as much of a slam dunk prospect as Flagg, he’s still a tremendous addition for a team in the Wizards who are navigating through the midst of a massive rebuild.
His ceiling is tremendously high, as his shot creation — for himself and others — is top-tier as a 6’6″, 215-pound lead guard. The knock on the former Scarlet Knight is whether his helio-centric style of play will translate to winning in the NBA, as his Rutgers team only won 15 games this season.
Washington selected point guard Carlton “Bub” Carrington at pick No. 14 in last year’s draft, and while he’s had a solid rookie campaign, the Wizards aren’t in a position to second guess in terms of short-term fit; stockpiling high-level talent now should be the priority. Figuring out how everyone fits together is an issue for years down the road.
Harper’s 19.4 ppg and 4.0 apg would provide instant offense in Washington, with the expectation of him being the point guard of the future for the Wizards.
3) V.J. Edgecombe, Baylor
Charlotte Hornets
It’s hard to make out exactly what the Hornets’ direction is. Seemingly, they have a franchise point guard (LaMelo Ball), small forward (Brandon Miller), and big man in place (Mark Washington), but they haven’t been able to stay healthy as a whole and win games. Edgecombe would be another piece in the lineup for the future, sliding right into the shooting guard position with ball-handling capabilities.
As the college season progressed, Edgecombe came into his own as a primary creator and overall contributor in all facets of the game. His defense is tremendous, as he uses his length to disrupt ball-handlers and get into passing lanes to create turnovers.
He scores at a clip of 15.0 ppg, and while his regular-season shooting numbers aren’t awesome, he progressed until the very end of the season, when he produced 16 points on six of 12 shooting against the Blue Devils.
It may not have been the season that Edgecombe envisioned when he committed to Baylor, but his immense talent still nestles him inside the top three with an outside chance of jumping Harper during the pre-draft process.
4) Ace Bailey, Rutgers
New Orleans Pelicans
New Orleans, a rare team with a complete roster but finding themselves deep in the lottery after a disastrous season, will select the prolific scoring wing in Bailey. It’s unclear whether he’ll be able to contribute high-level play right away, as the playoff-contending Pelicans would likely bring him off the bench in the short term — but his potential is sky-high.
At 6’10”, Bailey functions more as a combo guard than anything, with the ability to get his shot off over nearly any defender, a la Kevin Durant. He poured in 17.6 ppg on 46.0% shooting from the field and 34.6% from three-point range — solid efficiency considering the load placed upon both he and his teammate, Harper — while mixing it up inside, leading Rutgers with 7.2 rpg.
His defense became a positive trait later into the season, with the hope being that his length and positional size makes it tough for opponents. With the addition of Bailey, New Orleans will, barring trade, field a young core of Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy III, Jordan Hawkins, and Yves Missi — a strong quintet of contributors.
5) Tre Johnson, Texas
Philadelphia 76ers
Another organization that has contending hopes are the 76ers, who can take an immediate scoring option with Johnson. The SEC was absolutely loaded this season, but Texas’ guard led all scorers with 19.9 ppg on 42.7% from the floor. He was a major threat from deep, shooting 39.7% on 6.8 attempts per game.
The drawback on him as a prospect is his shot selection, as he routinely took — and made — extremely tough looks. But part of that was purely out of necessity, as the Longhorns lacked other creators. With Philadelphia, Johnson would immediately be able to contribute off the bench with the ball in his hands. Turnovers weren’t a huge problem at the college level and, with reps, shouldn’t become one in the NBA.
The potential for Johnson is high as a 6’6″ high-scoring shooting guard — a make-up we’ve seen before that has produced all-time greats. While he may not reach that potential, the former Longhorn is one of the sure-thing prospects in terms of having a place in the league for a long time.
6) Kasparas Jakucionis, Illinois
Brooklyn Nets
The Nets are in the market for their lead guard of the future, and they find him with the sixth pick. During his lone season with the Fighting Illini, Jakucionis, a Lithuanian native, excelled in the pick-and-roll, consistently making the right reads by finding the open man and knowing when to be aggressive himself. It helps that he stands at 6’6″, in that he can see over many of the players he was guarded by.
He filled up the stat sheet, averaging 15.0 ppg, 5.7 rpg, and 4.7 apg while shooting 44.0% from the floor. He was the leader behind an NCAA Tournament team — where he had a near triple-double in the first round — while also excelling the season prior in Europe, earning MVP honors in several different tournaments.
His resume in Europe and at the college level bodes well for his transition to the NBA, and Brooklyn should be ecstatic to find a player they can build around for the coming years.
7) Khaman Maluach, Duke
Toronto Raptors
This is where the draft truly starts, as there seems to be a rock-solid top-six with uncertainty beyond that. The Raptors, who have suddenly begun to win games down the stretch of the season, find themselves in position to take a young center with loads of potential.
On the surface, Maluach is a raw prospect in that he first picked up a basketball just six years ago at the age of 13. But a closer look at his game shows that he excels on the boards, grabbing 6.8 rpg, and at blocking and changing shots, averaging 1.3 bpg. At 7’2″, he’s also a major lob threat. Although he only made four three-pointers — on only 16 attempts — with the Blue Devils, he has a beautiful stroke and will continue to develop that part of his game.
Regardless of if he’s able to become a threat from deep, Maluach will be able to contribute right away to a Raptors team that’s suddenly looking to contend for the postseason led by All-Stars Scottie Barnes and the newly-acquired Brandon Ingram, alongside talented guards Immanuel Quickley and R.J. Barrett.
8) Kon Knueppel, Duke
San Antonio Spurs
Knueppel makes it three Blue Devils in the top eight and will be heading to San Antonio to join the Spurs. With megastar 7’5″ Victor Wembanyama in the middle and newly-acquired point guard De’Aaron Fox, San Antonio’s needs are squarely in between those two. Knueppel would fit extremely well right away, providing the requisite spacing (40.1% from beyond the arc) and allowing those two to go to work.
But that’s not all the Duke star is good for. During the course of the season, the sweet-shooting guard blossomed from a terrific standstill shooter to an above-average scorer, slashing to the rim and finding mid-range and three-point opportunities off the dribble. Just how much he can continue to improve those aspects of his game will determine his ceiling. But regardless, Knueppel will be a floor-spacer with the ability to knock down open looks.
9) Jeremiah Fears, Oklahoma
Portland Trail Blazers
While this selection doesn’t necessarily mean the Blazers have given up entirely on 2023 No. 3 overall pick Scoot Henderson, but it does represent the franchise taking another shot with a young, talented guard. Henderson hasn’t lived up to expectations, failing to secure a starting role in two seasons while shooting under 42% from the field.
Meanwhile, Fears is a fast and aggressive scoring guard, averaging 17.1 ppg while dishing out 4.1 apg for his teammates. At only 18, he was the leader behind an NCAA Tournament team out of the SEC while revealing a clutch gene, registering multiple last-second go-ahead buckets.
However, his outside shooting is cause for concern, as Fears shot only 28.4% from deep. Just like many others, his ceiling will be determined with how well he can shoot the ball at the next level.
10) Derik Queen, Maryland
Chicago Bulls
Queen’s star rose through March Madness, highlighted by a game-winning floater to beat the Colorado State Rams in the second round of the tournament. His unique style of play in regards to his comfortability on the perimeter and with handling the ball at 6’10” and nearly 250-pounds somewhat resembles Nikola Jokic — but obviously at a micro-level.
The Bulls have holes across their roster; nabbing the Terrapins big man at this spot would be a terrific addition. Queen can score and grabs rebounds, as evidenced by his 16.5 ppg and 9.0 rpg in his lone season with Maryland. Although he did nail three treys during the NCAA Tournament, outside shooting is a potential concern. Despite that, his talent alone warrants him being a top-ten pick.
11) Jase Richardson, Michigan State
Miami Heat
The Heat have long been yearning for another scoring guard. With the 11th pick, Richardson, the son of former NBA veteran Jason Richardson, has the potential to become that in the near future.
After starting the season on the bench, the lefty was thrust into the starting lineup and produced instantly, leading the team in scoring down the stretch of the season and establishing himself as the team’s go-to scorer. He can shoot the three (41.2%) and get to the rim, finishing with a beautiful scoop lay-up. Transitioning into “Heat Culture” wouldn’t be a big deal for Richardson, as he was previously coached by the legendary Tom Izzo with the Spartans.
12) Will Riley, Illinois
Houston Rockets
The Rockets continue to add wing talent with this pick, adding the 6’8″ Riley. It took some time for the freshman to adapt to the college game, but he flourished in the second half of the season, eventually earning the Big Ten Sixth Man of the Year after averaging 12.6 ppg. He can shoot the three, as evidenced by his three triples on his way to a 22-point performance in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.
But where he excels is driving to the basket. His ability to maneuver through contact and finish around the rim despite his slight frame gives further hope that he can become even better with added mass. However, his defense suffers due to his lack of strength — something that could land him on the bench during his first year in Houston with the caveat that he’ll need to grow on that end of the floor in order to receive minutes.
13) Collin Murray-Boyles, South Carolina
Atlanta Hawks
Despite playing for the SEC’s last-place team, Murray-Boyles is a strong draft prospect due to his relentless defensive effort and versatility. He’s not the most athletic forward, while also not possessing ideal size at only 6’7″, but he’s a burly 245 pounds and uses it well, out-physicalling opponents. Murray-Boyles’ instincts are top-tier, as he amassed 2.8 steals and blocks combined per game.
He’s no slouch offensively either, averaging 16.8 ppg and grabbing 8.3 boards as the main focus on opponents’ scouting reports. Atlanta’s front court is a bit crowded, with both Clint Capela and Onyeka Okongwu each holding positions. But Capela is unrestricted free agent following the season, and Murray-Boyles could slide right into Okongwu’s current position as a backup four and small-ball five-man.
14) Egor Demin, BYU
Dallas Mavericks
It’s no secret that the Mavericks have a clear necessity for a lead guard after the trade of Luka Doncic and the unfortunately-timed torn ACL of Kyrie Irving, which will keep him out for much of the 2025-26 season. Whether that’s in the draft or through free agency remains a question; but if Demin falls to them on the edge of the lottery, it’s a hand-in-glove fit.
Demin is an excellent passer and could feed big men Daniel Gafford and Dereck Lively II for finishes around the rim while also spreading the ball around to shooters as he did at an elite level with the Cougars. There are concerns about his ability as a scorer, as he averaged only 10.6 ppg and struggled mightily from beyond the arc. But for a team like the Mavericks, filling the point guard role is a must if Demin is available here.
15) Liam McNeeley, UConn
San Antonio Spurs
Just seven picks after selecting Knueppel, the Spurs will be looking to continue adding that similar type of player in McNeeley. A fellow 6’7″ freshman with outside shooting ability, McNeeley grew into one of the Huskies’ top scoring options as the season progressed.
He showed a tremendous ability to create his own shot, which in turn sacrificed his overall three-point percentage of 31.7% — yet much of the opposing defense was focused on stopping the young forward.
He projects to be an above-average shooter from deep in the pros, especially on wide-open catch-and-shoots off passes from Fox and Wembanyama, who are sure to grab much of the defensive attention. He’s not a negative defensively, as McNeeley showed the ability to move his feet and stay in front. He and Knueppel would be the perfect duo to complement the already-established Spurs stars.
16) Nolan Traore, France
Orlando Magic
The first non-college international player is likely to be Traore, who’s believed by many to be the fastest player in the draft despite standing 6’5″. He plays hard and fast all the time — exactly what the Magic need an interjection of.
Orlando has repeatedly been in the bottom ten in scoring in recent years due to a stagnant offensive system which often resolves into half-court possessions with the ball in the hands of star forwards Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner.
Enter Traore, who, despite being only 19 years old by the start of the NBA season, has the potential to transform the Magic and take them to the next level by progressing their offense.
Shooting is another issue with Orlando, and while Traore doesn’t necessarily solve that problem and will need more development in that aspect of his game, he does a tremendous job at creating for others from his point guard position — something Orlando is in dire need of.
17) Tahaad Pettiford, Auburn
Brooklyn Nets
After selecting Jakucionis with the sixth pick, the Nets may look to pair another young guard with loads of potential with him, making Pettiford an ideal selection. His counting stats don’t blow you away, averaging just under 12 ppg and 3.0 apg — but if he weren’t on such a stacked Tigers squad, which claimed the No. 1 overall seed in the NCAA Tournament, his numbers would likely be much higher.
Only 6’1″, Pettiford makes up for his lack of size with a terrific lefty three-point shooting stroke and an extremely creative ability to finish over and around bigger guys in the paint. His stock has risen greatly in the tournament, as he’s averaging 17.3 ppg so far in four games despite playing under 30 mpg. His quickness, coupled with the ability to shoot the ball from deep, will pose well for his prospects of success in the league.
18) Danny Wolf, Michigan
Minnesota Timberwolves
Wolf has a wide draft range, as there are a vast amount of opinions on how his game will translate to the NBA. At seven-feet tall, he plays like a guard with the ability to stroke it from deep and distribute to others. His rebounding is a tremendous skill as well, as he’s averaging a near points-rebounds double-double.
As far as Minnesota picking Wolf, we’ve seen this before. The franchise traded away All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns prior to the 2024-25 season and have felt the drawbacks almost immediately.
In Wolf, they once again pair four-time Defensive Player of the Year Rudy Gobert with another stretch big — something that brought them all the way to the Western Conference Finals in 2024. The former Wolverine isn’t on Towns’ level as a shooter but pulls defenses out to the perimeter in a similar manner while providing adequate defense with positional size.
19) Noa Essengue, France
Oklahoma City Thunder
For the second consecutive year, the Thunder will take a chance on an overseas player with potential. While Nikola Topic, OKC’s first-round pick in 2024, was largely unknown in terms of how his play would translate (he is out the entire season with a partially torn ACL) Essengue has played in an NBA game — preseason, nonetheless.
In October of 2024, his German team played the Trail Blazers in which Essengue scored 20 points on six of 14 from the field and three of six from deep while grabbing eight boards and dishing three assists.
He looked comfortable on the floor as a rangy, 6’9″ wing with the ability to step out and hit open threes. The Thunder seem to have a number of these types of players — why not add another and reap the benefits if he hits big and becomes a star? For the Thunder brass, this would be a smart pick.
20) Alex Condon, Florida
Washington Wizards
Condon was one of the biggest risers during the 2024-25 college season, emerging as a potential first-round pick as a versatile 6’11” forward who has shown the ability to stretch the floor and play on the perimeter. His all-around game should fit well with Washington’s 2024 second-overall pick, Alex Sarr, who can also stretch the floor.
Along with his perimeter capabilities, the Australian native is also a fierce rebounder, grabbing 7.7 per game, including nearly three offensive boards a night. His athleticism also translates to the defensive end of the floor, where he can switch onto guards exceptionally well while registering 1.4 bpg.
Only a sophomore, Condon still has room to grow and Washington would be an ideal place to do that with a number of reps to go around as a rebuilding team.
21) Asa Newell, Georgia
Utah Jazz
Once believed to be a lottery pick, Newell had a terrific season at Georgia, leading them to the NCAA Tournament for the first time in a decade. He averaged team highs in points at 15.4 ppg and rebounds with 6.9 rpg. He was consistently the best player for the Bulldogs in the vaunted SEC. So why did he fall seven spots outside of the lottery?
Though only a freshman, the 6’11” Newell relied heavily on his athleticism around the rim to score — a concern that often translates to less production at the next level. Additionally, he only weighs 220 pounds, putting a question mark over his ability to rebound and defend at a high enough level in the NBA.
Regardless, the Jazz have a lot of young talent; the addition of Newell would further the potential of the future team and provide at worst a backup center for the foreseeable future.
22) Carter Bryant, Arizona
Indiana Pacers
A four-star freshman, Bryant plays in less than 20 minutes a night but his talent and athleticism is on display in every second he’s on the court. He’s a tremendous off- and on-ball defender, taking pride in getting stops on that end. Offensively, he helped himself greatly in the NCAA Tournament, nailing five of 12 shots from beyond the arc. Shooting is still a question mark but his pure shooting form provides hope for his development from deep.
Indiana’s fast-paced style of play would fit the athleticism of Bryant, as he could provide immediate help defensively — where they need it — and run the floor, producing his patented highlight-reel dunks.
23) Nique Clifford, Colorado State
Miami Heat
This is the point in the draft when teams begin to start grabbing older, more experienced prospects. Clifford is exactly that after spending five seasons at the college level, finally breaking out in his fifth season. With the Rams in 2024-25, he averaged 18.9 ppg, 9.6 rpg, and 4.4 apg and was named an AP All-American Honorable Mention. At 6’6″, he has an innate ability to rebound the ball and score at all three levels.
The Heat, after drafting Richardson with the 11th pick, take Clifford, who can provide a more immediate impact while not having nearly as high of a ceiling — something that’s simply a reality with a mid-20’s pick.
24) Hugo Gonzalez, Spain
Atlanta Hawks
Once considered a potential lottery pick, the 19-year-old Gonzalez has been seated on the bench for Real Madrid as they compete for a EuroLeague title. His 6’7″, 190-pound frame is ideal once he can add a little bit of mass, but it’s been hard for him to show scouts what he can do while college and other international prospects have been in more featured roles this past year.
When he has been scouted on World Cup teams, he’s shown the requisite skills in nearly every aspect of his game. A three-and-D role may be his calling, with the potential to grow more offensively, but he’s still a relative unknown before he can go through the draft process in the US. For Atlanta, they add yet another versatile wing — something they continue to stockpile.
25) Thomas Sorber, Georgetown
Orlando Magic
Not expected to be a one-and-done prospect, Sorber had an excellent season with the Hoyas, launching himself into NBA draft talks as the season progressed. A 6’10” forward with elite strength who would likely play center in the NBA, Sorber averaged 14.5 ppg and 8.5 rpg at Georgetown. He showed off his soft touch and finishing ability around the basket while remaining strong and physical on the boards and on the defensive end.
The Magic already have Wendell Carter Jr. locked up for multiple seasons, but Sorber could serve as a similar type of player who can learn from the veteran big man. And while Carter Jr. is solid, he’s never quite reached what seemed to be his full potential coming out of college as the seventh pick. The hope would be that Sorber can succeed Carter Jr. and become the center of the future.
26) Adou Thiero, Arkansas
Brooklyn Nets
The first of Brooklyn’s two consecutive picks will be the Razorbacks’ forward, who was having a breakout season prior to a knee injury that essentially ended his season. Thiero has an NBA frame at 6’8″, 220 pounds, and offers switchability on the defensive end of the floor — likely where he’ll find his niche in the league.
The Pennsylvania native doesn’t break down his defender off the dribble; rather, he attacks closeouts at an exceptional rate, resulting in much of his 15.1 ppg this past season. Rebuilding teams rarely select college-aged juniors in the draft, but the improvement Thiero showed with Arkansas may illustrate that he can take his game to yet another level.
27) Drake Powell, North Carolina
Brooklyn Nets
A five-star prospect in the high school class of 2024, Powell had high expectations with the Tar Heels yet failed to meet them, scoring only 7.4 ppg and failing to establish much of a rhythm throughout the season. Despite that, his talent was evident. An athletic wing at 6’6″, 190 pounds, it’s possible Powell’s skill set will translate better in the wide-open game of the NBA than at the college level.
The Nets are in a prime position to take a chance on that with the 27th pick, throwing another dart at the board with a high-ceiling, low-floor prospect.
28) Joan Beringer, France
Boston Celtics
The defending champion Celtics have no glaring needs at this point, but with the eventual retirement of Al Horford and the injury history of Kristaps Porzingis, the forward/center position is something Boston must look into within the next few seasons.
Beringer has played basketball for less than four years, which doesn’t project him to having any sort of impact for at least a season or two. But that’s okay with the Celtics, who will let the 6’11” French big man develop his skills as a pick-and-roll finisher and rim defender at the G-League level.
With Boston picking in this range in each of the last two seasons and with an outlook of championship contention in the near future, the most they can ask for is a player to stick and eventually contribute. With continued development, Beringer fits that bill.
29) Walter Clayton Jr., Florida
Phoenix Suns
Over the course of the last month, Clayton Jr. has seen his draft projection soar. As the leader on a Final Four team, he’s averaging 18.1 ppg, 3.6 rpg, and 4.2 apg in his senior season, along with a number of key moments in the clutch. His outside shot is a major strength, as he can shoot extremely well off the dribble.
Outside of his shooting, the 6’3″ guard also has a quick first step that allows him to get to the rim and draw fouls at the basket, where he’s a n86.5% free-throw shooter.
Ever since Chris Paul left the desert, Phoenix has been without a difference-maker at the point guard position. With his experience, Clayton Jr. could provide some stability while also posing as a scoring threat from deep, further opening up the floor for the Suns’ stars.
30) Ben Saraf, Israel
Los Angeles Clippers
Despite likely making the playoffs and producing a surprisingly good season behind the play of lead guard James Harden, the Clippers must start looking to the future, where they find themselves with very little young talent. Drafting Saraf would be a good place to start, as he has a similar play style to Harden as a lead ball-handler at 6’6″.
While playing in Germany, Saraf has showcased a combination of passing creativity and feel for the game while also developing his scoring capabilities. The Clippers would benefit from taking a shot at the long-term potential of the 18 year old Israelian prospect.
Round 2
31) Alex Toohey, Australia
Minnesota Timberwolves
You may not know Toohey now, but you’ll know his name soon enough. Having played two seasons in the Australian NBL, the 20-year-old has already established himself as one of the best shooters in the league while possessing NBA athleticism. Add in that he’s 6’8″, and taking a flier on Toohey in the second round would be good business for any team — but especially Minnesota, who lack wings in their second unit.
32) Bennet Stirtz, Drake
Boston Celtics
Right in the sweet spot of his draft range, there’s not a more fitting place for Stirtz to land than with the Celtics. After two seasons at D2’s Northwest Missouri State, Stirtz followed head coach Ben McCollum to Drake for his junior season.
In short, he broke out, establishing himself as one of the top players in the country and a legit NBA prospect. The MVC Player of the Year, Stirtz, standing 6’4″, is a do-it-all point guard with a sweet shooting touch. Boston’s wide open offensive system would be a perfect fit for Stirtz to reach his full potential.
33) Alex Karaban, UConn
Charlotte Hornets
It’s finally time for the Hornets to stop drafting off of pure potential and start drafting players who are can fill roles. They have their core in place, and despite not seeing wins — largely due to injury and lack of cohesion — they need role players to begin filling in the other spots.
Karaban would slide right in as a wing spacer who can knock down open shots, much like he did during his first two seasons with the Huskies. While he expanded his offensive game this season, he’s been asked to do too much, resulting in inefficient shooting throughout the season and drop in his draft projection. Regardless, he still holds a chance of carving out a nice as a shooter in the league.
34) Yaxel Lendeborg, UAB
Charlotte Hornets
Following a similar trend, Charlotte will also welcome Lendeborg, who spent four seasons at the collegiate level. He’s a tank at 6’9″, 240 pounds, and he plays like it, grabbing 11.4 rpg and scoring 17.7 ppg, much of them around the basket. But he also has some finesse to his game, as evidenced by his team-high 4.2 apg.
His 3.5 steals and blocks combined per game represent the idea that the Hornets will be getting a true all-around, mature prospect in the second round with the potential of this being a steal of a pick.
35) Rasheer Fleming, Saint Joseph’s
Philadelphia 76ers
Excelling at Saint Joseph’s, Fleming wouldn’t have to move far to join the 76ers as the campus is in Philadelphia. A contending team with limited moves to make in free agency, the 76ers would benefit from the addition of Fleming, who grew into being a strong, active big man with an excellent three-point shooting stroke across his three seasons with the Hawks. He would be an alternative option off the bench for Philly.
36) Isaiah Evans, Duke
Brooklyn Nets
Evans, a former five-star prospect, failed to live up to the hype during his lone season with the Blue Devils, scoring just 7.0 ppg. Nonetheless, he displayed his sharpshooting ability, shooting 41.6% from deep. This would be the fifth Brooklyn pick of the draft — an unlikely circumstance. Evans could be a key trade target for a contending team, as shooters are always needed.
37) Noah Penda, France
Detroit Pistons
As the Pistons have boosted themselves into the playoff picture, it’s imperative for them to continue their search for big wings who can space the floor. Their fifth-overall pick in the 2024 draft, Ron Holland II, has immense talent but hasn’t been able to find the range. Penda stands 6’8″ as well but has a solid shooting stroke and a well-rounded skill set. He may not have a high-level future, but Penda could be a useful spacer for Detroit.
38) Maxime Raynaud, Stanford
San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs have an established starting center (an understatement, to say the least), but what they don’t have is an established backup center. Raynaud could provide those services while allowing the offense to be of similar ilk to when Wembanyama is on the floor. At 7’1″, the former Cardinal averaged 20.2 ppg and 10.6 RPG, along with shooting 34.7% from deep — a respectable mark for a big man — as a senior.
39) Labaron Philon, Alabama
Toronto Raptors
Young talent is at a premium at this point in the draft, and Philon is one of the few true freshman prospects still available at this point. Extremely raw, Philon put together a solid season where he did just about everything at a good, but not great level. He doesn’t project as a prospect with star potential; rather, the aim would be that he develops into a change-of-pace guy in the second unit with his energy and repertoire of all-around skills.
40) Milos Uzan, Houston
Sacramento Kings
After transferring to Houston for his junior season, Uzan grew into one of the steadiest lead guards in the Big 12. On his way to helping lead the Cougars to a conference title, he averaged 11.6 ppg on 44.5% from beyond the arc while dishing out a team-high 4.4 apg. The Kings just traded Fox, leaving a void at the point guard position in which Uzan’s poise and maturity would be put to good use as a backup option, especially this late in the draft.
41) Chaz Lanier, Tennessee
Golden State Warriors
A sharpshooting prospect is always going to be on Golden State’s radar and Lanier is someone who demonstrates those abilities in this draft. With Stephen Curry’s age, the Warriors will likely be looking to add college veterans who can contribute sooner rather than later.
Lanier spent five seasons in college and shot 39.5% from three-point range on 8.2 attempts per game last season with the Volunteers, leading them in scoring while being a capable defender. Golden State would be happy to land Tennessee’s 6’4″ guard.
42) J.T. Toppin, Texas Tech
Washington Wizards
The Big 12 Player of the Year, Toppin is a terrific college player but questions arise about how it will translate to the pros. As a lean 6’9″ forward, he failed to consistently develop a jumper but was a terrific rebounder and collected numerous blocks and steals.
While he was the top scorer for the Red Raiders, his high motor and workmanlike mentality would likely be best suited in the form of an energetic bench player for an NBA team. At this point in the draft, even rebuilding teams need to begin looking for role players, and the Wizards could find one here in Toppin.
43) Johni Broome, Auburn
Oklahoma City Thunder
The streak of accomplished college players in the mid-second round continue with Broome, a Naismith National Player of the Year candidate. He reached that status by leading the Tigers to an SEC regular-season title and being the stat leader in every major category for Auburn.
Despite that, his transition and ceiling in the NBA is limited, as his game is predicated on being bigger and stronger than his opponents. A bench role would be best for him, as it’s foreseeable for him to be productive in spot minutes for a contending team like the Thunder.
44) Ryan Kalkbrenner, Creighton
Chicago Bulls
Chicago lacks youth at the center position and while Kalkbrenner is already 23 years old after five years in college, he’d provide a change of pace from the center rotation of Nikola Vucevic and Jalen Smith — which hasn’t provided much success this season.
The Bulls need to begin rebuilding; breaking free of Vucevic, who is an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2027, would be key to begin that process. Kalkbrenner should serve as a contributor off the bench and could be in line to receive more reps if the organization embraces a full rebuild.
45) Kam Jones, Marquette
Orlando Magic
After adding Traore with the 16th pick, the Magic double dip at the guard position and add a proven 6’5″ scorer from Marquette in Jones. The biggest weakness in Jones’ game is his outside shooting, where his three-point percentage curiously dipped to 31.1% after registering 40.6% as a junior.
Orlando, still needy for depth at the two guard spots, selects the former Golden Eagle with hopes of him regaining his form from deep and growing into a creator and scorer off the bench.
46) Boogie Fland, Arkansas
Utah Jazz
A 6’2″ freshman, Fland had a terrific season with the Razorbacks in averaging 5.1 apg and scoring 13.5 ppg. He’s shifty and quick-footed, something that allowed him to blow by defenders at the college level.
His shooting was questionable, as he made only 34.0% of his three-pointers. He also only played in 21 games after suffering a hand injury in January, making him a relative unknown as far as his potential in the league. Utah is one of those teams in position to take a chance on that type of player, especially this late in the draft.
47) Sion James, Duke
Cleveland Cavaliers
Conversely, the Cavaliers are hopeful of continued title contention, which puts them in the market for James, Duke’s fifth-year senior point guard. At 6’6″, 220 pounds, James is a bull on defense, consistently using his physicality to shut down opposing ball-handlers. He’s agile for his size as well with an ability to stay in front and shut off driving lanes.
His offense is the stain on his game, as he lacks any sort of dynamic skills. James is unlikely to be much of a factor on that end, making defense the key for him to stick in the NBA.
48) Ian Jackson, North Carolina
Washington Wizards
A one-and-done five-star prospect, Jackson had a disappointing season with the Tar Heels relative to expectations. He began the season in the starting lineup and was productive yet it didn’t translate to wins for UNC. As the Tar Heels made their NCAA Tournament push, Jackson found his minutes and production decreasing.
He only played 10 minutes and scored a single point in their first-round matchup. A fading prospect who some still believe has potential, Washington would be wise to add him to their guard rotation.
49) Dink Pate, G-League
Utah Jazz
A 6’8″ guard, Pate was one of the last products of the G-League Ignite experience. After not garnering much draft buzz in 2024, he decided to once again compete in the G-League this season, joining the Mexico City Capitanes. He’s had limited success, scoring 10.5 ppg but on rough shooting splits of 40.8% from the field and 26.1% from deep.
He’s athletic but, at times, out of control and outmuscled due to his frail frame. As unfortunate as it sounds, Pate will likely be sent right back to the G-League to further develop once he’s drafted. Despite the rebuilding nature of the Jazz, that’s likely where he’d end up.
50) Bogoljub Markovic, Serbia
Los Angeles Clippers
A 6’11” center with a thin frame, Markovic has clear talent combined with an innate feel for the game that isn’t seen by many players at his height. He moves well despite not having tremendous athleticism. Not a traditional center, Markovic is comfortable playing on the perimeter and has a solid stroke when spotting up from deep.
The Clippers need young talent in their front court and they get that with the 19 year old Markovic, potentially securing one of the steals of the draft.
51) Rocco Zikarsky, Australia
New York Knicks
The Knicks have a clear need in their frontcourt as well, selecting the 7’2″ Zikarsky with their lone pick in this draft. The Australian runs the floor well and finishes high above the rim on lobs, something current Knicks center Mitchell Robinson does at a high level.
Zikarsky also protects the rim very well, using every bit of his 7’5″ wingspan to deflect and change shots. Outside of raw talent, he doesn’t possess any elite basketball skills and will likely need seasoning in the G-League for multiple seasons before contributing in the NBA.
52) Michael Ruzic, Croatia
Washington Wizards
Once again, the Wizards take a young player with their fifth and final draft pick. A 6’9″ forward, the 18 year old Ruzic moves well for his size and his IQ has been lauded by many scouts. He possesses a soft touch around the rim and has shown improvement with his outside jumper over the years.
He lacks strength and lateral quickness, limiting his ability to become a plus defender in the NBA. Regardless, these are exactly the type of prospects Washington should take with the odds stacked against Ruzic to become a rotational player — but if he does, it’ll be a huge win for the organization.
53) Tyrese Proctor, Duke
Indiana Pacers
After a disappointing freshman season in 2022, Proctor, a five-star prospect out of high school, improved across his sophomore and junior seasons with the Blue Devils and now poses as a guy who may carve out a role in the league after being picked late in the draft.
He doesn’t do one particular thing at an elite level, but he’s solid all-around. For the Pacers, he’s a mature prospect with hopes of eventually contributing to their second unit.
54) Koby Brea, Kentucky
Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers are always looking — and should be even more now with the acquisition of Luka Doncic — to add shooters with LeBron James on the roster, and they’ll add one here in Brea.
One of the top shooters in college basketball in 2024-25, the former Wildcat nailed six and seven three-pointers in games this season and was a consistent threat from multiple feet behind the line. This is a low-risk, potentially high-reward selection for Los Angeles as they continue to construct a roster built around their two stars.
55) Darrion Williams, Texas Tech
Phoenix Suns
Williams broke out during the Red Raiders’ NCAA Tournament run, averaging 21.0 ppg and nailing six threes in four games while creating much of the teams’ offense. At 6’6″, 225 pounds, Williams should be able to adjust to the physicality of the NBA.
Rather, it’s a question of his lateral foot speed, as he may have trouble staying in front of faster players. If he’s able to make an impact, it’ll be with his playmaking skills from the forward position and improved consistency from deep.
56) John Tonje, Wisconsin
Memphis Grizzlies
Tonje was a prolific scorer for the Badgers in his sixth-year senior season, averaging 19.6 ppg on 46.5% shooting from the field. He was one of the best scorers in the Big Ten and created his own shot at an elite level. He has a mature build at 6’5″ and nearly 220 pounds, giving him a potential to be a solid role player with a requisite outside shot.
Just how quickly he can embrace and find comfortability in that role will determine if he can stay in the league. Memphis is known to take prospects similar to Tonje and turn them into productive bench players.
57) Igor Milicic Jr., Tennessee
Orlando Magic
The Volunteers wouldn’t have made it to the Elite Eight if it weren’t for Milicic Jr. His contributions go further than the stat sheet, as he was the ultimate glue-guy that allowed everyone else to flourish.
He competes on both ends of the court and squeezes everything he can out of his frame, which at 6’10” and 225-pounds ends up with him getting pushed around inside — making it a necessity for him to bulk up. Milicic Jr. played four years in college filling numerous roles, potentially giving him a leg up in knowing how to do similar things in the NBA.
58) Grant Nelson, Alabama
Cleveland Cavaliers
A similar prospect to Milicic Jr., Nelson is another do-it-all player who wasn’t necessarily a star, but rather a star in his role. Standing 6’11”, Nelson moves extremely well and, while not being considered a traditional stretch four, is comfortable playing around the perimeter.
He’s not a great defender, but he shows extreme competitiveness when guarding one on one. With this pick, Cleveland would be adding another long, athletic player to their front court.
59) Javon Small, West Virginia
Houston Rockets
Small would be a perfect fit in the Rockets organization. Head coach Ime Udoka preaches toughness — there’s no better player left that embodies that trait more than the former Mountaineers guard. Small scored (18.6 ppg) and assisted (5.6 apg) at a high rate but it’s his competitiveness that should appeal to Houston.
Being the final pick in the draft will only motivate him more, as Small landing with the Rockets would be the best-case scenario for both sides.
Of Note: The New York Knicks forfeited their second-round pick due to illegal contact with Jalen Brunson prior to signing him in 2022. As a result, there will only be 29 second-round picks and 59 overall picks in this draft class.
Intriguing Undrafted Free Agents
- Mark Sears, Alabama
- Amari Williams, Kentucky
- Ryan Nembhard, Gonzaga
- Augustus Marciulionis, Saint Mary’s
- Eric Dixon, Villanova
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