Oumar Ballo is an imposing center standing 7’0″ and weighing 260 pounds from Indiana (via Arizona) who has put his name into the 2025 NBA Draft pool. Centred on strength, low-post scoring, and elite rebounding, Ballo is truly a present-day version of the old-school big man.
After a very successful college career, NBA teams are now evaluating how Ballo’s physicality and improved skill set would translate to the next level, now that he has decided to go pro.
Where Will Indiana C Oumar Ballo Go in the 2025 NBA Draft?
Ballo’s height and experience make him a candidate for the long-term starting big who remains in the rotation. His ability to seal the rim and dominate under the boards makes Ballo a more intriguing option for depth purposes in the frontcourt.
Indiana’s @OumarBallo32 is declaring for the NBA Draft pic.twitter.com/XDyM4VMJRy
— Adam Zagoria (@AdamZagoria) April 22, 2025
1. Miami Heat
Miami loves rugged, hard-nosed players, and Ballo certainly fits the mould. Being a solid backup for Bam Adebayo up front, he could be quite astute in being paired in some appearances, as well as in other situations, on dual-big lineups.
Costing in even more with Miami being a cash cow for player development would give him a real polish on his offensive skills.
2. Portland Trail Blazers
Portland is in a youth movement and needs a true interior presence to pair with its growing guard core. Ballo’s strength and rebounding would instantly add toughness to a rebuilding team looking to establish its identity in the paint.
3. Dallas Mavericks
They always got them wavering on playing consistently at the centre position. So, here comes Ballo as a reliable rim-running big, for whom Luka Dončić playmakes. He would do wonders for the offense’s rhythm because of his physicality and screen-setting.
4. Charlotte Hornets
Charlotte is in need of size and interior defense. Ballo could eventually see a developmental role at an early stage by working under veterans while bringing on the second unit some strength and shot-blocking, two areas where the Hornets have lacked.
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5. Utah Jazz
At this point, with a deep roster and multiple picks, the Jazz would be in a great position to take a flyer on Ballo as more of a platoon rather than an entirely committed big-to-the-future selection. Perhaps most importantly for Utah, his rebounding and rim protection flexibility would go a long way in improving their interior defense.
It’s probably because flashy prospects are not so common, but Ballo’s sheer size, power, and presence in the paint definitely make him a strong candidate for a mid-to-late second-round selection- or maybe even an undrafted gem if a team is willing to invest in his growth.
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