Penn State’s Yanic Konan Niederhauser has rapidly emerged as one of the most intriguing big men in the 2025 NBA Draft class. After a standout junior season with the Nittany Lions and eye-popping performances at the NBA G League Elite Camp and Draft Combine, Niederhauser’s stock has climbed into second-round territory, with projections placing him anywhere from the mid-30s to the early 40s.
The Swiss-born, 7-foot, 250-pound forward-center brings elite athleticism, rim protection, and a growing offensive skill set—qualities that NBA teams covet in modern bigs.
Five Potential Landing Spots for Yanic Konan Niederhauser
Brooklyn Nets
With the early second round in their sights, the Brooklyn Nets would be a good place for Niederhauser. Historically, the Nets have focused on building athletic bigs, and right now, they could benefit from a player who can protect the rim.
With his defense around the hoop and athleticism, Niederhauser would immediately provide Brooklyn with extra support. Finishing lobs is also a key part of the team’s fast offense.
Under the guidance of Brooklyn’s developmental staff, Niederhauser could refine his offensive game and learn to wield his size more consistently. The Nets’ focus on player growth means he’d have the opportunity to improve his physicality and add muscle, addressing concerns about sporadic physical play.
As one scout put it, “He’s a hell of a prospect—an athlete, 7 feet tall, dunks everything, can block shots and he’s still pretty young”.
Penn State’s Yanic Konan Niederhauser is a ridiculous athlete that’s been a major steal of the portal so far
The 7’0 big from Switzerland has been averaging 13.3 PPG while shooting 70% and averaging 2.4 BPG in 21 MPG
He doesn’t move like a normal 7’0 250 pounds, he can handle… pic.twitter.com/q3jQjp2ykX
— Arman Jovic (@PDTScouting) December 8, 2024
Sacramento Kings
The Sacramento Kings, who hold a second-round pick via Chicago, have shown interest in athletic, high-upside bigs. Niederhauser’s mobility and shot-blocking would complement Domantas Sabonis, allowing the Kings to mix and match frontcourt pairings. His ability to anchor a second unit and provide energy off the bench could be invaluable for a team with playoff aspirations.
Coach Mike Brown is known for maximizing defensive talent, and he could help Niederhauser improve his awareness and consistency, especially in defending pick-and-rolls and switching schemes.
With Sacramento’s emphasis on fast-paced offense, Niederhauser’s transition skills and rim-running would be put to good use. At the same time, the coaching staff could work on expanding his shooting range and overall offensive repertoire.
Utah Jazz
The Utah Jazz are undergoing a rebuild and searching for young players to help the team’s leading players improve. The Jazz greatly emphasize interior defense, which Niederhauser would be good at. He would give Utah cover at the rim when their center rests and assist in handling the rise of modern bigs who stretch the basketball court.
Coach Hardy builds the skills of frontcourt players. Under Utah’s regime, Niederhauser would get time and space to improve his defense outside the paint.
With the Jazz, he could improve his ability to close in on shooters and swap positions when playing defense, which is a key issue in his scouting report.
Oklahoma City Thunder
The Oklahoma City Thunder are known for taking chances on high-upside prospects and have a strong developmental culture. Niederhauser’s raw tools and defensive instincts would make him a valuable addition to OKC’s young core. His rim protection and vertical spacing complement the Thunder’s dynamic guards and wings.
Coach Mark Daigneault’s system emphasizes versatility and player growth. With the Thunder, Niederhauser would have the chance to expand his offensive game, perhaps developing a mid-range shot or improving his passing out of the post. The coaching staff’s patient approach could help him become a more consistent contributor, defensively and offensively.
Boston Celtics
With the Boston Celtics interested in having a solid frontcourt, Niederhauser might fit as a young big man learning behind their leading players. Adding him would give the bench a brand-new option for shutting down the paint and finishing mixed plays in the lane.
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Because Boston has strong coaches and a championship culture, Niederhauser could learn to predict plays and maintain the proper positioning. If Dwight came to the Celtics, he could strengthen his blocking skills and watch the best defenders work, making him an essential part of the team for several years.
“Niederhauser’s physicality can be sporadic, and he’ll need to wield his size to his advantage more consistently to establish himself in the NBA,” wrote ESPN’s Jeremy Woo, highlighting both his promise and the developmental path ahead.
Any team that picks Konan Niederhauser will have an exciting prospect in the second round due to his size, athleticism, and defensive abilities. The correct guidance and a strong team environment make it likely for him to succeed as a big man in the NBA.
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