Jamir Watkins is starting to grab serious attention ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft. The Florida State senior recently confirmed he won’t return to college and is ready to take his talents to the pros. However, that decision didn’t surprise many, especially with the kind of numbers he’s been putting up.
But stats aren’t the only reason people are talking about him. Whether you agree or not, his unique ability to draw contact and earn trips to the free-throw line is a rare skill in today’s game—one that NBA teams will value highly during the draft.
Experts Break Down Why Jamir Watkins Is Climbing 2025 NBA Draft Boards
Many experts believe this strength could help Watkins secure a long-term role in the league. NBA Draft analyst Andy Patton is one of them. He recently pointed out just how much potential Watkins has, calling him one of the most intriguing picks in this year’s draft class. In fact, Patton didn’t hesitate to say it—Watkins already looks like a true NBA player.
Jamir Watkins will be keeping his name in the 2025 NBA Draft, he told @League_Him. At 6-foot-6 with a 6-11 wingspan, the FSU wing checks a lot of boxes with his IQ, skill, toughness, athleticism, and defensive range. pic.twitter.com/eueSoEWhFQ
— Jacob Myers (@League_Him) May 28, 2025
Watkins is quickly becoming one of the most exciting names in the 2025 NBA Draft. His rising stock has caught the attention of analysts, who say his skill set is something NBA teams will value highly. ESPN’s latest mock draft even projects him as the 44th pick to the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Now, let’s break down why.
Watkins, a 6’7″ wing, has a powerful game. He attacks the rim fearlessly, finishes strong through contact, and knows how to draw fouls like a pro. Last season, he averaged 18.5 points, nearly six rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game. Those numbers made him one of the top scorers in the ACC.
Plus, the 23-year-old made 183 free throws, ranking 11th in the entire country. That shows just how often he gets to the line and how effective he is once he’s there.
College basketball expert Patton highlighted this unique skill, saying, “Watkins was the only player in all of college basketball last year to have multiple games with 20 or more free throw attempts.” This shows just how aggressive and fearless he is on offense.
On defense, he’s just as impactful as he is on offense. With a 6’11” wingspan, he has the tools to become a strong two-way player. His 3-point shot still needs work, but Patton doesn’t seem too concerned.
He added, “If he’s 36, 37% from three, he’s capable of attacking closeouts, getting to the free throw line, plays good defense—that’s an NBA player.”
Watkins also impressed scouts at the NBA Draft Combine. In his second scrimmage, he scored 23 points on highly efficient shooting. Still, some analysts don’t see him as a first-round pick.
Patton shared, “Is he a guy you take a chance on in the middle of the second round, like the mock has him here to Oklahoma City? Absolutely. I wouldn’t be surprised at all if Watkins finds himself carving out a solid career at the next level doing exactly that.”
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Now, ESPN projects him as the 44th overall pick. But what’s my take on his draft position? If he were a strong three-point shooter, he could easily be a first-round pick, no doubt.
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