The Florida Gators won the 2025 Men’s NCAA Championship with a close 65-63 win over the Houston Cougars. Florida came back from 12 points down in the second half, led by Walter Clayton Jr., who stepped up big in the biggest moment. Their strong defense also helped seal the game and stop Houston from winning their first title.
Clayton Jr., who played great throughout the tournament, is now rising up NBA Draft boards. Some people even think he should be a lottery pick.
1. Cooper Flagg, Duke
Washington Wizards
The Washington Wizards are in position to finish with the worst record, giving them the best chance to win the NBA Draft lottery. Whoever ends up with the top pick is expected to take Cooper Flagg—he’s seen as the clear choice at No. 1 right now.
KEEP READING: Cooper Flagg Scouting Report: A True Generational Prospect?
2. Dylan Harper, Rutgers
Utah Jazz
The Utah Jazz are near the top of the draft order after a rough season, giving them a strong shot at landing a top pick. Grabbing the No. 2 spot still puts them in great position, with Dylan Harper looking like a long-term answer at guard.
3. Ace Bailey, Rutgers
Charlotte Hornets
Ace Bailey brings scoring and defense to a Hornets team looking for a fresh start after a tough season. His shooting and all-around game could be a great match with LaMelo Ball, giving Charlotte the two-way boost they’ve been missing.
4. Tre Johnson, Texas
New Orleans Pelicans
Injuries have slowed down the Pelicans, but they’ll look to bounce back with help in the draft. Tre Johnson’s scoring ability gives them a needed boost in the backcourt and adds balance next to their solid group of forwards.
5. Derik Queen, Maryland
Philadelphia 76ers
The 76ers are set in the backcourt with Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain, but adding another scoring option in the frontcourt could help them long-term. Queen impressed with his offensive skills and had a knack for drawing fouls, giving Philly another weapon to build around.
6. VJ Edgecombe, Baylor
Brooklyn Nets
VJ Edgecombe gives the Nets an exciting guard option as they continue to rebuild after trading Mikal Bridges. He brings energy on both ends of the floor, with strong scoring ability and a willingness to defend. His playstyle fits well with Brooklyn’s young core and gives them a much-needed boost on the perimeter.
7. Jeremiah Fears, Oklahoma
Toronto Raptors
Jeremiah Fears looks like a strong fit for the Raptors as they continue building around their young core. He brings scoring, speed, and playmaking—exactly what the team needs in the backcourt. With solid numbers in his freshman year and the ability to create for himself and others, Fears could be a key piece in helping Toronto take a step forward.
8. Kon Knueppel, Duke
San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs are focused on putting the right players around Victor Wembanyama, and Kon Knueppel could be a great piece to add. He’s a smart player who can space the floor and play off a star, making him a natural fit for a team looking to take the next step.
9. Collin Murray-Boyles, South Carolina
Portland Trail Blazers
The Trail Blazers are still rebuilding but showed flashes of promise this past season. Collin Murray-Boyles would give them a reliable forward who can contribute right away and continue to grow alongside their young core.
10. Khaman Maluach, Duke
Houston Rockets
Steven Adams and Alperen Şengün formed one of the league’s best defensive duos this season, but with Adams aging and hitting free agency, the Rockets could use a young rim protector.
Khaman Maluach brings elite shot-blocking and mobility, being able to guard both bigs and smaller players. He’s still raw on offense and needs to get stronger, but his potential makes him a long-term project worth developing.
11. Asa Newell, Georgia
Miami Heat
The Miami Heat are entering a new chapter after moving on from Jimmy Butler as their go-to star. Asa Newell gives them a chance to bring in scoring and energy at the forward position, helping support Bam Adebayo and the rest of the young core as they reshape the roster.
12. Rasheer Fleming, Saint Joseph’s
Chicago Bulls
Fleming brings defensive energy and versatility to the Bulls’ frontcourt for the 2025–26 season, giving them a much-needed boost alongside their young core. With Coby White providing scoring and Josh Giddey handling playmaking duties, Fleming fits in as a hustle player who can rebound, defend multiple positions, and finish around the rim.
13. Jase Richardson, Michigan State
Atlanta Hawks
Jase Richardson gives the Hawks a strong backcourt piece to grow next to Trae Young. He can score in different ways, shoot the three well, and help run the offense when needed. His feel for the game and background make him a solid addition for a team looking to bounce back.
14. Egor Demin, BYU
Dallas Mavericks
With Kyrie Irving expected to miss time next season, the Mavericks could use another playmaker to help run the offense. Bobi Klintman has the passing vision to handle the ball early on and the instincts to contribute off the ball once Irving returns. He still has work to do as a shooter and shot creator, but his tools and feel give Dallas something to build on.
15. Liam McNeeley, UConn
San Antonio Spurs
Liam McNeeley would be a strong fit for the Spurs as they continue building around Victor Wembanyama. He brings reliable shooting and a good feel for the game, helping to space the floor and make smart plays on both ends. His skill set fits well in a team system, giving San Antonio another young piece that can grow with their core.
16. Thomas Sorber, Georgetown
Orlando Magic
Sorber made a name for himself as one of the top shot blockers in college basketball and finished strong around the rim, making nearly 60% of his shots inside the arc. A foot injury ended his season early, though, and teams will be keeping a close eye on his health.
Big men with foot issues always bring some risk, but Sorber’s size, effort, and impact on defense still make him a strong option in the draft.
17. Carter Bryant, Arizona
Minnesota Timberwolves
The Timberwolves are looking to add more depth on the wing as they keep building around Anthony Edwards. Carter Bryant brings strong athleticism and solid shooting that could help right away. He showed flashes of being a two-way threat during his freshman year at Arizona, knocking down threes at a good rate and holding his own defensively.
His energy, ability to finish plays above the rim, and potential to guard multiple positions fit well with a team focused on staying tough on defense while adding more scoring punch.
18. Nolan Traoré, Saint-Quentin
Washington Wizards
The Wizards are still deep in the rebuild, and finding long-term stability in the backcourt is a big part of that. Nolan Traoré offers a fresh look as a creative playmaker with a great feel for the game. His smooth handle and ability to set up teammates give Washington a new dynamic to build around, especially next to scoring-minded guards like Jordan Poole.
As the Wizards continue to search for an identity, Traoré’s poise and upside give them a guard who can grow into a key piece of the future.
19. Danny Wolfe, Michigan
Brooklyn Nets
The Nets continue to reshape their roster with an eye on long-term development, and Danny Wolf adds a unique element to the frontcourt. He brings floor-spacing, smart passing, and solid rebounding—skills that blend well alongside Nic Claxton’s rim protection and Noah Clowney’s athleticism.
With the Nets focused on finding pieces that can grow together, Wolf offers the kind of modern big who can stretch the floor and operate within the flow of the offense, giving Brooklyn another tool in its rebuild.
20. Will Riley, Illinois
Miami Heat
Riley brings exciting upside as a jumbo-sized wing with standout driving ability and playmaking instincts. His potential as a shot creator fits the mold of a modern perimeter weapon. Taking him would reflect the same developmental philosophy the Heat followed with Kel’el Ware—trusting their elite culture to mold raw talent into a polished contributor.
While his shooting consistency and defensive fundamentals still need work, Miami’s track record suggests they could help him grow into a high-impact piece.
21. Tahaad Pettiford, Auburn
Utah Jazz
Utah may still be figuring out if Isaiah Collier or Keyonte George is truly the franchise point guard of the future. Both have shown promise, but adding another option like Auburn’s Aden Holloway Pettiford could provide depth and competition at the position—especially if the Jazz land a talent like Cooper Flagg with the first pick.
Pettiford played a key role off the bench during Auburn’s Final Four run, showcasing his ability as a combo guard with deep shooting range, crafty floaters, and tough two-way energy.
His playmaking flashes and competitive edge make him an intriguing piece, though his smaller frame means he’ll need to tighten up his shot selection and decision-making to thrive in the NBA.
22. Walter Clayton Jr, Florida
Indiana Pacers
Walter Clayton Jr., a 6’3” guard from Florida, is a strong fit for the Pacers’ 2025-26 roster, adding scoring depth alongside Tyrese Haliburton and Andrew Nembhard.
KEEP READING: Could Boston Draft Walter Clayton Jr.? A Look at the Florida Star’s Potential With the Celtics
After averaging 17.2 points and shooting 43.5% from three in the NCAA Tournament, Clayton brings elite shooting and shot creation—addressing Indiana’s need for more offensive firepower. His winning pedigree and floor-spacing make him a valuable addition for a playoff-ready team led by Pascal Siakam and Myles Turner.
23. Noa Essengue, Ratiopharm Ulm
Orlando Magic
Noa Essengue brings toughness, rebounding, and defensive upside to the Orlando Magic, giving them frontcourt depth behind Paolo Banchero. His high motor and physical playstyle complement Banchero’s offensive versatility and help take pressure off him inside. With Jalen Suggs leading the backcourt defense, Essengue adds more grit and energy to a young Magic team that’s building its identity around defense and effort.
24. Noah Penda, Le Mans Sarthe
Oklahoma City Thunder
Noah Penda fits the Thunder’s system with his switchable defense and smart playmaking, adding depth behind Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams. His motor, length, and feel align with OKC’s uptempo, versatile approach as they continue building around Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
25. Yaxel Lendeborg, UAB
Brooklyn Nets
Yaxel Lendeborg brings rebounding, playmaking, and defensive energy to a rebuilding Nets team. His versatility complements Nic Claxton and Noah Clowney up front, while giving Brooklyn a reliable interior presence to support scorers like Cam Thomas.
26. Ben Saraf, Ratiopharm Ulm
Atlanta Hawks
Ben Saraf is a skilled guard who could bring valuable playmaking and scoring to the Atlanta Hawks. With Trae Young leading the offense, Saraf’s ability to handle the ball and create opportunities would provide much-needed depth in the backcourt. His experience playing professionally overseas adds a level of maturity that could benefit the team’s rotation.
As the Hawks aim to improve their standing, adding a versatile guard like Saraf could be a strategic move to enhance their roster.
27. Kasparas Jakucionis, Illinois
Brooklyn Nets
Kasparas Jakucionis fits the Brooklyn Nets’ 2025-26 roster as a creative scoring guard off the bench, bringing shot creation and playmaking behind Cam Thomas. His deep range, shiftiness, and Big Ten accolades give Brooklyn a much-needed offensive spark for a second unit lacking consistent firepower after a rough 26-53 season.
28. Labaron Philon, Alabama
Boston Celtics
Labaron Philon fits the 2025–26 Boston Celtics off the bench by bringing a poised, shot-creating guard who complements stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. His ability to handle the ball and create in the pick-and-roll gives Boston a steady secondary playmaker, easing pressure on Tatum and Brown in halfcourt sets.
Defensively, Philon’s toughness and instincts align with Boston’s switch-heavy system, while his calm, unselfish play allows him to thrive in a supporting role without disrupting the flow of the offense.
29. Nique Clifford, Colorado St
Phoenix Suns
With Durant and Booker carrying the scoring load, Clifford’s role as a glue guy who can crash the glass, make smart cuts, and defend wings or guards gives Phoenix much-needed depth and athleticism in their second unit. His effort-driven game fits well with a team chasing a title.
30. Kam Jones, Marquette
LA Clippers
Kam Jones fits the Los Angeles Clippers’ 2025-26 roster as a dynamic scoring guard who can bring instant offense off the bench and complement the playstyles of James Harden and Kawhi Leonard.
With Harden serving as the primary playmaker and Leonard focusing on two-way dominance, Jones adds value as a catch-and-shoot threat and slasher who doesn’t need the ball in his hands to be effective.
Round 2
31. Johni Broome, Auburn
Minnesota Timberwolves
Johni Broome gives the Timberwolves a physical presence off the bench who can rebound, protect the rim, and bring energy behind Julius Randle. His pick-and-roll ability fits well alongside Anthony Edwards, creating easy looks and keeping the floor spaced.
Broome’s defense and toughness add depth to a Minnesota squad looking to make a deeper playoff push.
32. Hugo Gonzalez, Real Madrid
Boston Celtics
Gonzalez’s defensive versatility and off-ball movement complement the offensive strengths of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, providing depth and balance to the wing rotation. González’s ability to contribute without dominating the ball aligns well with the team’s established stars, enhancing the overall cohesion of the lineup.
33. Alex Condon, Florida
Charlotte Hornets
Alex Condon fits the Hornets’ bench by bringing energy, rebounding, and smart team play to support stars LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, and Miles Bridges. He runs the floor well and can finish plays off passes from Ball or cuts alongside Miller and Bridges. Condon gives Charlotte a reliable big man off the bench who can help with defense and hustle.
KEEP READING: Alex Condon NBA Draft Projections: 5 Potential Landing Spots for the Florida Forward
34. Sergio de Larrea, Valencia
Charlotte Hornets
Larrea has gained experience playing for Valencia Basket in Spain’s Liga ACB and has represented the Spanish national team in various youth competitions. His skills include effective pick-and-roll execution, three-level scoring, and strong court vision, making him a valuable asset off the bench for teams seeking a dynamic and agile playmaker.
35. Ryan Kalkbrenner, Creighton
Philadelphia 76ers
Ryan Kalkbrenner’s exceptional shot-blocking and defensive prowess would bolster the 76ers’ rim protection, complementing Joel Embiid’s presence in the paint.
His efficient scoring and rebounding abilities would provide valuable support to Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Paul George, addressing the team’s depth concerns after a challenging season marked by injuries.
Kalkbrenner’s Naismith Defensive Player of the Year accolade underscores his readiness to contribute immediately to the 76ers’ frontcourt.
36. Adou Thiero, Arkansas
Brooklyn Nets
Adou Thiero would bring energy, defensive toughness, and versatility off the bench for the Brooklyn Nets. He can guard multiple positions and play alongside wings like Cam Johnson or Dariq Whitehead, giving the team more flexibility. His hustle and rebounding would also help support Nic Claxton in the paint, especially when the starters rest.
37. Boogie Fland, Arkansas
Detroit Pistons
Boogie Fland fits the Pistons off the bench as a quick, shot-creating guard who can relieve pressure from Cade Cunningham and keep the offense flowing. His scoring ability and confidence add a spark to a young backcourt looking for consistent production.
38. Chaz Lanier, Tennessee
San Antonio Spurs
Chaz Lanier fits the Spurs as a bench scorer who can stretch the floor and provide instant offense. His shooting complements De’Aaron Fox’s playmaking and Victor Wembanyama’s interior presence. Lanier’s ability to space the court helps create driving lanes for Fox and room for Wembanyama to operate inside.
39. Thomas Haugh, Florida
Toronto Raptors
Thomas Haugh fits the Raptors as a high-IQ, stretch big who can space the floor and make smart plays in the flow of the offense. Playing alongside Scottie Barnes, Haugh’s shooting and passing ability help open up the floor for Barnes to attack and create. His size and effort on defense also give Toronto added depth in the frontcourt, making him a solid rotational piece for the 2025–26 season.
40. Miles Byrd, San Diego State
Washington Wizards
Miles Byrd fits the Washington Wizards’ bench by bringing defensive energy and smart playmaking to a young roster. His ability to disrupt opponents and make quick decisions complements Jordan Poole’s scoring focus. Byrd’s versatility and high basketball IQ make him a valuable addition to the team’s rebuilding efforts.
41. Isaiah Evans, Duke
Golden State Warriors
Isaiah Evans would be a strong addition to the Warriors’ bench, bringing perimeter shooting and scoring versatility to support Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler. His off-ball movement and ability to hit shots off screens would fit seamlessly into Golden State’s offensive system.
Evans’ presence would help alleviate the scoring load on the team’s veteran stars, providing valuable depth and energy off the bench.
42. Milos Uzan, Houston
Sacramento Kings
Milos Uzan pass-first style complements scorers like Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, and Domantas Sabonis by keeping the ball moving and getting them quality looks.
43. Maxime Raynaud, Stanford
Oklahoma City Thunder
Raynaud’s ability to space the court complements Chet Holmgren’s interior presence, while his defensive skills add depth to the frontcourt. With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams leading the offense, Raynaud’s contributions off the bench can bolster the team’s championship aspirations.
44. Alex Karaban, UConn
Utah Jazz
Karaban fits the Utah Jazz as a reliable floor-spacer and high-IQ forward who can complement their young core. His shooting and team-oriented playstyle align well with Utah’s emphasis on ball movement and versatile lineups.
45. Rocco Zikarsky, Brisbane
Chicago Bulls
Zikarsky would be a strong addition to the Chicago Bulls’ bench, offering elite rim protection and rebounding to support Josh Giddey and the team’s backcourt. His defensive presence complements the Bulls’ need for interior defense, especially with Giddey’s playmaking abilities.
Zikarsky’s mobility and shot-blocking skills would enhance the team’s overall defensive capabilities.
46. Alex Toohey, Sydney
Orlando Magic
Toohey brings versatility and scoring off the bench for the Orlando Magic. His experience with the Sydney Kings in the NBL, where he averaged 10.5 points and 3.9 rebounds, adds depth behind starters like Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner.
47. Bogolijub Markovic, KK Mega Basket
Milwaukee Bucks
Marković would be a strong addition to the Milwaukee Bucks’ bench, offering energy, rebounding, and defensive versatility. His ability to play both forward positions complements Giannis Antetokounmpo’s inside-out game and Damian Lillard’s perimeter scoring.
48. Darrion Williams, Texas Tech
Cleveland Cavaliers
Williams would bring hustle, rebounding, and a two-way effort off the Cleveland Cavaliers’ bench. His defensive versatility and ability to space the floor make him a solid fit next to Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell, while also easing the load on Evan Mobley in the frontcourt.
49. Michael Ruzic, Joventut
New York Knicks
Ruzic is a skilled stretch forward who could bolster the Knicks’ bench by providing floor spacing and smart off-ball movement. His ability to play alongside Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns would enhance the team’s offensive versatility. Ružić’s shooting and decision-making make him a valuable addition to New York’s rotation.
50. Sion James, Duke
LA Clippers
James brings defensive versatility and smart off-ball movement to the Clippers’ bench, complementing stars James Harden and Kawhi Leonard. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute without dominating the ball makes him a valuable asset in their rotation.
51. Dink Pate, Mexico City
Memphis Grizzlies
Pate would provide the Memphis Grizzlies with a versatile offensive option off the bench. His size and athleticism allow him to play multiple positions, complementing Ja Morant’s explosiveness, Desmond Bane’s shooting, and Jaren Jackson Jr.’s inside presence.
Pate’s experience in the G League has prepared him for the NBA’s pace, making him a valuable addition to the Grizzlies’ rotation.
52. Drake Powell, North Carolina
Utah Jazz
Powell would be a strong fit for the Utah Jazz, bringing defensive tenacity and positional flexibility to their young core. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute on both ends of the floor complements Utah’s emphasis on two-way players
KEEP READING: Top Underrated Players in the 2025 NBA Draft Class You Need To Know
53. Johann Grunloh, Vechta
Phoenix Suns
Grunloh’s ability to guard multiple positions and contribute on both ends of the floor would offer valuable support to the Suns’ core, enhancing their depth and flexibility as they aim for a deeper playoff run.
54. Koby Brea, Kentucky
Indiana Pacers
Brea’s elite three-point shooting would enhance the Indiana Pacers’ floor spacing, creating more room for Tyrese Haliburton to orchestrate the offense and for Myles Turner to operate inside.
55. Hansen Yang, Qingdao
LA Lakers
Yang would provide the Los Angeles Lakers with a defensive anchor and rim protector off the bench. His presence would allow stars like LeBron James and Luka Dončić to focus more on offensive playmaking, while Rui Hachimura could benefit from Yang’s interior defense and rebounding.
56. Tyrese Proctor, Duke
Memphis Grizzlies
Proctor’s high basketball IQ and playmaking skills make him ideal off the bench for Ja Morant in the Grizzlies’ fast-paced, movement-heavy offense. His ability to facilitate ball movement and make smart decisions aligns well with Memphis’s system, which emphasizes off-ball motion and quick decision-making
57. Eric Dixon, Villanova
Orlando Magic
Dixon brings a blend of scoring, rebounding, and basketball IQ to the Orlando Magic’s frontcourt. His ability to stretch the floor with mid-range shooting and his physical presence in the paint complement Paolo Banchero’s dynamic scoring and playmaking abilities.
58. John Tonje, Wisconsin
Cleveland Cavaliers
Tonje would be a valuable addition to the Cleveland Cavaliers’ roster. His scoring ability, highlighted by a career-high 41 points in a game against Arizona, aligns well with the Cavaliers’ offensive needs.
59. Alijah Martin, Florida
Houston Rockets
Martin would be a valuable addition to the Houston Rockets. His scoring ability, highlighted by a career-high 41 points against Arizona, and his leadership in guiding Florida to a national championship in 2025 align with the Rockets’ need for a dynamic backcourt presence.
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