The 2025 NBA Draft is approaching quickly, and this year’s class features exceptional guard play that has NBA scouts buzzing. With the draft scheduled for June 25-26 in Brooklyn, teams are finalizing their evaluations of a talented crop of backcourt players who could reshape franchises.
Several freshman phenoms have commanded attention at the top of draft boards, showcasing diverse skills from pure scoring to playmaking.
Top 5 Guards
Dylan Harper (SG – Rutgers)
Dylan Harper has established himself as an elite offensive talent and a virtual lock for the second overall pick despite playing on an underwhelming Rutgers team. His exceptional physical tools at 6’5″ with a solid 215-pound frame and impressive 6’10” wingspan set him apart from other guard prospects.
Harper leverages his size and strength to create scoring opportunities at all three levels while demonstrating playmaking skills beyond his years. NBA scouts consistently reference him as a potential number one overall talent in most draft classes, drawing comparisons to James Harden and a stronger version of Coby White.
Tre Johnson (G – Texas)
Tre Johnson enters the draft as perhaps the purest scorer among guard prospects. During his lone season at Texas, he showcased his elite shooting touch. His ability to manufacture buckets has kept him firmly entrenched in top-5 draft discussions despite some inconsistency throughout the season.
One evaluation succinctly describes his game as “If you need buckets, you need Tre Johnson.” Though not possessing elite athleticism, Johnson compensates with skill, footwork, and a shooting touch that should translate immediately to the NBA level. Scouts have noted his developing playmaking abilities.
VJ Edgecombe (G – Baylor)
VJ Edgecombe has steadily ascended draft boards throughout the season, combining explosive athleticism with developing skill at Baylor. His elite speed and devastating first step allow him to consistently beat defenders off the dribble, producing highlight-reel dunks throughout the season.
The only physical concern scouts have noted regarding Edgecombe is his relatively short wingspan, which could limit his defensive versatility. Nevertheless, his two-way potential and continued development as a shooter have teams increasingly convinced of his star potential.
Jeremiah Fears (PG – Oklahoma)
Oklahoma’s Jeremiah Fears has generated significant buzz in recent months as one of the youngest prospects in the draft at just 18 years old. Standing 6’4″ with a developing frame, he combines excellent size for the point guard position with exceptional fluidity and creativity with the ball.
Fears’ 57.0% actual shooting percentage demonstrates efficiency despite carrying a significant offensive load for the Sooners. His impressive workouts in New York City under former NBA player Mike Miller showcased his rapidly improving physical profile and developing jump shot, complementing his impressive shot creation.
Kasparas Jakucionis (PG – Illinois)
Illinois’ Kasparas Jakucionis, at 6’6″, brings exceptional size and basketball IQ to the point guard position. At 18, he offers youth-based upside similar to Fears, though with a different stylistic approach centered on feel, vision, and toughness.
KEEP READING: Top 5 Shooting Guards Entering the 2025 NBA Draft Ft. VJ Edgecome
Jakucionis posted an efficient 59.8% actual shooting percentage despite occasional struggles adjusting to the physical demands of the Big Ten. While not possessing explosive athleticism, he compensates with craft, size, and basketball intelligence that should translate well to the NBA level.
With the lottery several weeks away, teams like the Wizards, Hornets, and Pelicans have the highest odds for top picks. As these young guards prepare for workouts and the NBA Combine, they’ll have additional opportunities to solidify their standings before hearing their names called on draft night.
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