March Madness is finally here as college basketball’s top players enter the NCAA tournament spotlight, giving NBA scouts the platform to get one last look at the many 2025 draft prospects competing before spring combines.
The top of the class has been occupied all season by Duke’s Cooper Flagg, who is the projected No. 1 pick in June’s draft.
Along with Flagg, who are the tournament’s players whom NBA scouts have their eyes on?
ESPN NBA draft insiders Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo provide their list of the top 50 prospects to watch over the next few weeks. This list only includes players participating in the NCAA tournament, not to be confused with ESPN’s Top 100 rankings. Players such as Rutgers freshmen Dylan Harper (No. 2 in the Top 100) and Ace Bailey (No. 3) were omitted because of their team not qualifying for the field of 68.
Notes: All times are ET. True shooting percentage (TS%) is a formula that blends field goal percentage with free throw shooting and 3-point shooting into one catch-all ratio.
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50. Augustas Marciulionis, PG, Saint Mary’s
Height: 6-4 | Senior | Top 100 Rank: 88 | TS%: 55.5%
First game: No. 7 Saint Mary’s vs. No. 10 Vanderbilt, Friday, 3:15 p.m. (truTV)
Augustas, the son of Basketball Hall of Famer Sarunas Marciulionis, has carved out his own niche, winning West Coast Conference Player of the Year back-to-back. The 6-foot-4 point guard is a skilled ball handler who plays with pace and feel. He controls tempo while using and rejecting ball screens and finding teammates, unselfishly whipping the ball all over the court.
Marciulionis is a competitive defender with high-level intensity and smarts, playing a key role in Saint Mary’s top-10 ranked defense. Not blessed with elite explosiveness or scoring prowess, his streaky perimeter shooting and finishing ability will be tested against Vanderbilt. — Givony
49. Tomislav Ivisic, C, Illinois
Height: 7-1 | Sophomore | Top 100 Rank: 62 | TS%: 60.1%
First game: No. 6 Illinois vs. TBD, Friday, 9:45 p.m. (CBS)
Ivisic became one of the most underrated big men in college basketball this season after following his twin brother, Zvonimir (who plays for Arkansas), to the United States. He made the jump to Illinois from the Adriatic League, supplying plus-passing ability operating in the middle of the floor and playing a reliable brand of basketball.
While not a clear-cut case for this year’s draft — another year in college would prove beneficial to sharpen his game and better showcase his offense — there are NBA teams already drawn to his size and skill level at the center position. If Illinois can string tournament wins together, Ivisic should benefit from more exposure. — Woo
48. Jalon Moore, SF/PF, Oklahoma
Height: 6-7 | Senior | Top 100 Rank: 79 | TS%: 60.4%
First game: No. 9 Oklahoma vs. No. 8 UConn, Friday, 9:25 p.m. (TNT)
Moore broke out in a major way during his final season in college, putting his tremendous physical tools to use while scoring from all over the floor for the Sooners. He is powerful running the floor, attacking in a straight line and drawing fouls with his ripped frame; he converted a strong 39% of his 3-pointers, albeit on a small sample of makes (43 in 33 games).
Moore isn’t as impactful a defender or rebounder as one might hope despite his length and explosiveness. He’s a step slow with his awareness, which also manifests with his lack of passing ability. He’s undersized for a power forward and will need to buy into that end of the floor more consistently as a pro. — Givony
47. Grant Nelson, PF, Alabama
Height: 6-11 | Super senior | Top 100 Rank: 76 | TS%: 60.4%
First game: No. 2 Alabama vs. No. 15 Robert Morris, Friday, 12:40 p.m. (truTV)
After starting his college career at North Dakota State, Nelson has become a much better all-around player after two seasons at Alabama, and he will likely get a chance to earn a back-end roster spot in the NBA.
While not a great shooter (29% from 3 over five college seasons), Nelson has some legitimate perimeter functionality at his size and has upped his effort and toughness as a rebounder and defender. The dearth of 6-foot-11 players with his skill set will earn him looks from pro teams. — Woo
46. Amari Williams, C, Kentucky
Height: 6-10 | Super senior | Top 100 Rank: 74 | TS%: 61.9%
First game: No. 3 Kentucky vs. No. 14 Troy, Friday, 7:10 p.m. (CBS)
Arriving at Kentucky after winning three straight Coastal Athletic Association Defensive Player of the Year awards at Drexel, Williams has been a solid performer with NBA-caliber size and length. While not a polished scorer by any means, he has shown plus-passing ability at his position.
Williams has put himself in the mix for a two-way contract, with NBA teams constantly searching for depth at center — a position that could turn out somewhat thin in this draft class. His tools, rebounding ability and chance to be a passable defender, should see him make the back end of a pro roster. — Woo
45. Dailyn Swain, SF, Xavier
Height: 6-8 | Sophomore | Top 100 Rank: 57 | TS%: 60.8%
First game: No. 11 Xavier vs. No. 11 Texas, Wednesday, 9:10 p.m. (truTV)
Swain passes the eye test as a future NBA wing with an intriguing frame (220 pounds). Most of his value comes on the defensive end, where he fills up the stat sheet with rebounds, steals and blocks. He brings strong versatility guarding all over the floor in Xavier’s switch-heavy scheme. Swain made significant strides this season, mostly pushing in the open floor and operating in pick-and-roll, but he has a long way to go with his jump shot, hitting 4-for-22 3s in the season (but 83% of his career free throw attempts).
He has a huge opportunity matching up with a projected top-five pick in Texas and Tre Johnson in the First Four in Dayton, Ohio. Most scouts consider Swain a 2026 draft prospect, but it’s never too early to build his candidacy by showing how he can shut down an elite scorer such as Johnson. — Givony
44. Igor Milicic Jr., PF, Tennessee
Height: 6-10 | Senior | Top 100 Rank: 73 | TS%: 58.4%
First game: No. 2 Tennessee vs. No. 15 Wofford, Thursday, 6:50 p.m. (TNT)
Milicic transferred from Charlotte and became an immediate lineup fixture at Tennessee, offering inside-out versatility that’s not easy to find at the college level. Though not a big-time scorer, he proved to be an effective complement to the Vols’ guards and has solid feel and skill level at his size, capable of knocking down the occasional shot from range (35% for his career).
Milicic doesn’t truly excel in any one area in an NBA sense, but he offers appeal as a potential two-way contract option thanks to his frame and flashes of potential defensively. — Woo
43. PJ Haggerty, PG, Memphis
Height: 6-3 | Sophomore | Top 100 Rank: 69 | TS%: 60.1%
First game: No. 5 Memphis vs. No. 12 Colorado State, Friday, 2 p.m. (TBS)
The American Athletic Conference player of the year, Haggerty is one of college basketball’s best scorers, putting pressure on opposing defenses with his dynamic ballhandling and lethal first step. He’s a menace one-on-one and pushing in the open court, drawing free throw attempts almost at will. With a slight frame, a low release on his jumper (taking only 2.9 3-pointers per game compared with 11.6 2s) and inconsistent decision-making and defensive engagement, Haggerty has questions to answer about how his bucket-getting prowess could translate to the NBA.
There is a market for players with his scoring instincts and aggressiveness, though, and the fact that his style of play has driven winning all season bodes well for his outlook. How he performs in the tournament will help scouts determine if he can make the jump to the pros or if he is best suited to return for his final season of eligibility, likely as one of the highest-paid guards in college. — Givony
PJ Haggerty gets the steal, then runs for the floor for an and-1 layup.
42. Walter Clayton Jr., PG, Florida
Height: 6-4 | Junior | Top 100 Rank: 68 | TS%: 59.1%
First game: No 1 Florida vs. No. 16 Norfolk State, Friday, 6:50 p.m. (TNT)
Clayton, a first-team All-SEC member and All-American, was the leading scorer and offensive engine of Florida’s No. 1 seed NCAA tournament ranking and SEC championship run. One of the best shotmakers in college, he leans into his role of creating chaos for opposing defenses with his speed and unpredictable nature. Boasting average size, length and strength, and somewhat feast or famine with his defense and passing, Clayton’s ability to make good decisions in Florida’s biggest moments during the tournament will be scrutinized by NBA teams.
There isn’t a huge appetite among scouts for smaller combo guards, but Clayton’s scoring instincts, productivity and the way he has driven winning all season shouldn’t be ignored. — Givony
41. Koby Brea, SG/SF, Kentucky
Height: 6-7 | Super senior | Top 100 Rank: 63 | TS%: 64.0%
First game: No. 3 Kentucky vs. No. 14 Troy, Friday, 7:10 p.m. (CBS)
Three-point shooting (43% for his career) has been Brea’s calling card for five college seasons, something that translated immediately after transferring from Dayton to play a season at Kentucky. While it’s the only NBA-caliber skill he has at this stage, it’s an important one, and he offers enough size on the wing to get his shot off and potentially hold his own as a specialist.
That should be enough to get him in the mix for a potential two-way contract as he works to earn a spot on the end of an NBA bench. — Woo
40. RJ Luis Jr., SF/PF, St. John’s
Height: 6-7 | Junior | Top 100 Rank: 80 | TS%: 53.5%
First game: No. 2 St. John’s vs. No. 15 Omaha, Thursday, 9:45 p.m. (CBS)
The Big East Player of the Year, Luis did a little bit of everything helping coach Rick Pitino claim a No. 2 seed along with the regular-season and conference tournament championships. He generates rebounds, steals and blocks prolifically, playing hard on both ends and getting to the free throw line in bunches off his aggressiveness and willingness to seek out contact. He has made big plays for St. John’s all season off his fearless nature, embodying the Red Storm’s bully-ball style with the way he punishes opponents and flies over the court.
Luis’ shooting, with wonky mechanics and career 31% 3-point accuracy, raises questions about how his game translates to higher settings, as his decision-making inside the arc also can leave much to be desired. The 22-year-old has another year of eligibility and will have a difficult decision ahead of him considering his team’s season and the individual accolades he garnered. — Givony
Seth Greenberg, Jay Bilas and Jay Williams dive into the storyline of John Calipari’s Arkansas potentially facing Rick Pitino’s St. John’s in a highly anticipated second-round matchup.
39. Zvonimir Ivisic, PF/C, Arkansas
Height: 7-2 | Sophomore | Top 100 Rank: 61 | TS%: 60.5%
First game: No. 10 Arkansas vs. No. 7 Kansas, Thursday, 7:10 p.m. ET (CBS)
Ivisic has been on the radar of NBA teams for years, entering and withdrawing from the 2022 and 2023 drafts before enrolling at Kentucky (and then landing at Arkansas). He has long intrigued scouts with his unicorn potential at his height, hitting 3-pointers in bunches, blocking shots prolifically and, every so often, exploding for huge games.
Ivisic has been frustratingly inconsistent simultaneously, with wild swings in productivity, struggling to play through contact and showing concerning lapses in awareness on both ends of the floor. He seems likely to return to college next season, but he has the type of talent that will be closely monitored, as stretch bigs in this mold are difficult to come by. — Givony
38. Braden Smith, PG, Purdue
Height: 6-0 | Junior | Top 100 Rank: 81 | TS%: 55.7%
First game: No. 4 Purdue vs. No. 13 High Point, Thursday, 12:40 p.m. (truTV)
Smith, the Big Ten Player of the Year, has turned heads from a pro perspective in spite of his major limitations with size (170 pounds) and physicality. He starred this season with Zach Edey off to the pros and Purdue playing a more guard-friendly style, shooting close to 40% from 3 on good volume and leading the conference in assists.
One of the toughest and smartest floor leaders as a junior, Smith could likely make more money returning to college but has forced NBA scouts to think harder about his candidacy as a potential depth player. — Woo
37. John Tonje, SF, Wisconsin
Height: 6-6 | Super senior | Top 100 Rank: 60 | TS%: 65.0%
First game: No. 3 Wisconsin vs. No. 14 Montana, Thursday, 1:30 p.m. (TNT)
Playing at his third school in six years, Tonje broke out as an All-American for Wisconsin, improving his NBA outlook significantly despite turning 24 next month. Tonje’s combination of size, strength, aggressiveness and scoring instincts are difficult to match up with at the college level, especially when he is making perimeter shots like he did in several impressive outings this season. He is a load getting downhill in the open court, attacking closeouts and with straight line drives out of pick-and-roll, absorbing contact in the lane and living at the free throw line, helping him score with impressive efficiency.
Tonje is an average passer and not showing great awareness off the ball defensively. There are questions about how Tonje’s style will translate, as the track record of older NBA players in his mold isn’t great, historically speaking. — Givony
36. Joseph Tugler, PF/C, Houston
Height: 6-8 | Sophomore | Top 100 Rank: 50 | TS%: 55.3%
First game: No. 1 Houston vs. No. 16 SIU Edwardsville, Thursday, 2 p.m. ET (TBS)
Tugler, the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, brings an exceptional combination of length (7-foot-6 wingspan), mobility and versatility, leading all draft prospects with his 13% block percentage. No college player is asked to do more with the way he frenetically shows on ball screens nearly out to half court in Houston’s stifling defensive system and then flies back to the paint, recovering to contest shots, requiring an incredible amount of energy.
The rest of Tugler’s game is a work in progress, as he is not a skilled or prolific scorer (5.6 points per game in 22 minutes), struggles from the free throw line (54% free throw percentage) and can be mistake-prone due to the reckless abandon he plays with. At 19 years old, another year in college to polish his skill set might prove beneficial, but a deep NCAA tournament run with big outings along the way might boost his stock enough to keep him in this year’s class. — Givony
35. Sion James, SF, Duke
Height: 6-6 | Super senior | Top 100 Rank: 47 | TS%: 65.8%
First game: No. 1 Duke vs. TBD, Friday, 2:50 p.m. (CBS)
James transferred from Tulane and became an essential role player for Duke, functioning as a versatile ball handler, defender and energy source while supplying experience on a young team. His skill set coupled with his physical strength makes him an unorthodox but intriguing back-end roster candidate for the NBA level, provided he can continue to make enough 3s (35.9% for his college career) to comfortably space the floor.
There should be some appeal on a two-way contract at minimum, with the exposure he has gained at Duke helping his cause. — Woo
34. Ian Jackson, SG, North Carolina
Height: 6-4 | Freshman | Top 100 Rank: 33 | TS%: 58.4%
First game: No. 11 North Carolina vs. No. 11 San Diego State, Tuesday, 9:10 p.m. ET (truTV)
Jackson saw his role and playing time dwindle from February on, making him more of a fringe prospect for 2025 who might benefit from more time in college. He’s a natural scorer but can be streaky due to his shot selection. He isn’t much of a playmaker for others. With his minutes trending in the wrong direction, it’s unclear how big an impact Jackson will have on UNC’s success in the tournament. — Woo
33. Tyrese Proctor, PG, Duke
Height: 6-6 | Junior | Top 100 Rank: 43 | TS%: 56.6%
First game: No. 1 Duke vs. TBD, Friday, 2:50 p.m. (CBS)
Proctor’s stay at Duke has been longer than initially expected, but he has shown gradual improvement as a three-year starter. He has played a useful complementary role for the Blue Devils, shooting 37% from 3 and doing a good job limiting turnovers. NBA teams have always been drawn to his positional size and offensive flashes, but he has plateaued to an extent, lacking the playmaking chops to play point guard full-time at the next level and never quite delivering on his early one-and-done hype.
He’ll play a big role in whatever success Duke has this month and might be best served using another year of his eligibility before turning pro. — Woo
Jay Williams, Seth Greenberg, Jay Bilas and Rece Davis make their selections for the men’s NCAA tournament.
32. Darrion Williams, SF/PF, Texas Tech
Height: 6-6 | Junior | Top 100 Rank: 44 | TS%: 55.0%
First game: No. 3 Texas Tech vs. No. 14 UNC Wilmington, Thursday, 10:10 p.m. (truTV)
Few players in college basketball demonstrate the versatility and feel for the game Williams does, sliding between the point guard and power forward spots. He makes the game easy for teammates with the way he moves the ball, operating out of ball screens patiently, finding cutters on the move, making skip passes, playing out of the post and attacking closeouts. He shows a nice blend between scoring and facilitating with clutch plays down the stretch.
Williams is a career 39% 3-point shooter despite a low volume of makes (121 in 95 games) and is 85% from the free throw line. But funky mechanics raise questions about just how good a shooter he is. He is not blessed with elite explosiveness or the most appealing frame, and NBA teams will want to get a better feel for this part of his game, as he is also not a lockdown defender. The fact that he is intelligent, competitive and instinctual helps, but his team struggles to get stops, and he plays a role. Williams’ health has been a concern the past few weeks and it remains to be seen how healthy he’ll be this weekend. — Givony
31. Miles Byrd, SG, San Diego State
Height: 6-7 | Sophomore | Top 100 Rank: 38 | TS%: 52.6%
First game: No. 11 San Diego State vs. No. 11 North Carolina, Tuesday, 9:10 p.m. (truTV)
Byrd is an analytics darling who caught NBA scouts’ eyes in November at the Players Era tournament in Las Vegas, where San Diego State posted wins against Creighton and Houston, ultimately paving the way for the Aztecs’ tourney inclusion. Byrd has impressive instincts on both ends of the floor; no college player has posted a similar assist/block/steal rate since 2010, with his defensive event percentages comparing favorably with the likes of Tari Eason and Matisse Thybulle.
Byrd’s inconsistent perimeter shooting (31% 3P%), rudimentary ballhandling, thin frame and struggles putting on weight are things scouts want to learn more about in the predraft process. He was especially cold late in the season for the Aztecs and has a fascinating matchup with another defensive specialist wing prospect in Drake Powell, who is also vying for first-round consideration. — Givony
30. Bennett Stirtz, PG/SG, Drake
Height: 6-4 | Junior | Top 100 Rank: NR | TS%: 60.8%
First game: No. 11 Drake vs. No. 6 Missouri, Thursday, 7:35 p.m. (truTV)
Stirtz, the player of the year in the Missouri Valley Conference, leads all Division I players averaging over 40 minutes per game. His size, feel for the game, unselfishness and competitiveness are attractive traits with the advanced playmaking ability he displays operating out of pick-and-roll. NBA analytics models love his statistical profile. His production and efficiency sparkle, adjusting for Drake’s tempo — ranked as the slowest-paced team in college basketball, putting his per-possession ability to rack up points, assists, rebounds, steals and free throw attempts (while hitting 39% of his 3s and 79% of his free throws) in a different light.
Facing just one other NCAA tournament team all season (Vanderbilt), teams are interested in getting a better gauge on Stirtz’s ability to create efficient offense against longer, more athletic opponents, as he struggles to separate from his first step and finish in traffic in the paint, as well as hold his own defensively with his thin frame. — Givony
29. Boogie Fland, PG, Arkansas
Height: 6-2 | Freshman | TS%: 51.5%
First game: No. 10 Arkansas vs. No. 7 Kansas, Thursday, 7:10 p.m. (CBS)
Fland has been out of action since Jan. 18, suffering a thumb injury that required surgery. Arkansas was 0-5 in the SEC at that point but went 9-6 without him, turning around its season around to earn an at-large bid. Fland has resumed practice and is expected to play “barring any setbacks,” adding another talented backcourt scorer to a team lacking depth. Fland brings shot creation prowess, shotmaking and aggressiveness moving the defense and dishing, but he struggled to score efficiently inside the arc and was a target for opposing teams to attack with his thin frame.
Fland doesn’t have much to lose at this point as returning to college was appearing his best bet, considering his injury and how much better his team played without him. So it will be interesting to see how much he’ll be utilized as the hierarchy of the squad has shifted back toward veteran guard Johnell Davis. — Givony
28. Isaiah Evans, SG/SF, Duke
Height: 6-6 | Freshman | Top 100 Rank: 42 | TS%: 65.1%
First game: No. 1 Duke vs. TBD, Friday, 2:50 p.m. (CBS)
Evans has seen his role fluctuate for much of the season, giving the Blue Devils microwave scoring when called upon but lacking consistency as a defender and a decision-maker to entrench himself as a go-to option on a deep team. A highly regarded high school recruit, his potent shooting ability will keep him on NBA radars, but he is still a project player a ways away from being ready for the pros.
NBA scouts remain curious about Evans in the long term and will be monitoring how he handles any opportunities he gets in March, although his best bet might be to remain in college another year. — Woo
27. Kam Jones, PG/SG, Marquette
Height: 6-4 | Senior | Top 100 Rank: 46 | TS%: 55.6%
First game: No. 7 Marquette vs. No. 10 New Mexico, Friday, 7:25 p.m. (TBS)
Jones became a first-team, All-Big East selection after taking over as Marquette’s de facto point guard following Tyler Kolek’s jump to the NBA. After shooting 40% from 3 as a junior, his spike in usage drew increased NBA attention this season, albeit predictably at the cost of some efficiency.
While his average positional size and relatively basic game off the bounce doesn’t portend huge upside, Jones has had a strong senior season and offers appeal as a potential bench option at the next level. — Woo
26. JT Toppin, PF, Texas Tech
Height: 6-8 | Sophomore | Top 100 Rank: 59 | TS%: 59.9%
First game: No. 3 Texas Tech vs. No. 14 UNC Wilmington, Thursday, 10:10 p.m. (truTV)
Toppin, the Big 12 Player of the Year, had a productive season on the second-best team in a loaded conference. At 19, he is one of the best pick-and-roll big men in college basketball, setting screens and spinning to left-hand finishes while drawing fouls and grabbing offensive rebounds in bunches. He is undersized for a center, doesn’t have consistent range on his jumper, isn’t a great passer and is a little caught between positions defensively. Still, he has made considerable progress over the past two years, has tremendous natural scoring instincts and is productive, making him likely to hear his name called on draft night.
The question is whether Toppin has another notch he can get to with another year in college that could move him closer to first-round consideration, something that might depend on how he finishes the season, as he has struggled at times against some of the best teams Texas Tech has faced. — Givony
JT Toppin makes Baylor pay for leaving him open with a 3-pointer for Texas Tech.
25. Labaron Philon, PG/SG, Alabama
Height: 6-4 | Freshman | Top 100 Rank: 49 | TS%: 55.1%
First game: No. 2 Alabama vs. No. 15 Robert Morris, Friday, 12:40 p.m. (truTV)
Philon has been playing some of his best basketball since sliding back into Alabama’s starting five on Feb. 19, a timely reminder of why scouts were high on him early in the season. His versatility, competitiveness and improving consistency have been key for the Crimson Tide.
While there are still long-term questions for Philon to address — he’s a streaky shooter and doesn’t have a top-end physical profile for a combo guard — he will draw significant workout interest if he tests the draft waters this year, creating an interesting stay-or-go situation if he can play his way firmly into the first round. March could be a useful stage for him to solidify his standing. — Woo
24. Milos Uzan, PG, Houston
Height: 6-4 | Junior | Top 100 Rank: 82 | TS%: 56.4%
First game: No. 1 Houston vs. No. 16 SIU Edwardsville, Thursday, 2 p.m. (TBS)
Uzan improved significantly as the season progressed, playing an essential role in Houston’s 19-1 run though the Big 12. While not blessed with great length, strength or explosiveness, he has good size for a point guard and made notable gains with his intensity, toughness and technique defensively, a non-negotiable for coach Kelvin Sampson.
Uzan has made strides with this shooting, hitting 43% on somewhat limited 3-point attempts, operating heavily in the midrange with a steady dose of runners and floaters in the short range. Somewhat of a jack-of-all-trades, master of none, his play in Houston’s tournament games could determine whether the 22-year-old uses his final year of eligibility next season or enters the draft. — Givony
23. Johni Broome, C, Auburn
Height: 6-10 | Super senior | Top 100 Rank: 41 | TS%: 56.1%
First game: No. 1 Auburn vs. TBD, Thursday, 2:50 p.m. ET (CBS)
Broome, the SEC Player of the Year, is a throwback college big, relying on his strength and physicality to punish defenders and work the glass. He has been a driving force for a terrific Auburn team expected to make a deep run in March, giving him an opportunity to further showcase his abilities.
NBA scouts will question how his game translates to the next level, as he is not supremely skilled, doesn’t space the floor and isn’t a high-end athlete. But there are NBA teams that will see value in what Broome supplies from a roster depth perspective. — Woo
22. Chaz Lanier, SG, Tennessee
Height: 6-5 | Super senior | Top 100 Rank: 40 | TS%: 56.6%
First game: No. 2 Tennessee vs. No. 15 Wofford, Thursday, 6:50 p.m. (TNT)
Lanier stepped successfully into a key role at Tennessee after transferring from North Florida, maintaining his high-level 3-point shooting (40.4%) and leading the Vols in scoring (17.9 points per game). While his offensive skill set isn’t especially diverse, his ability to make shots makes him an easy candidate for a potential NBA role, even though he will be playing catch-up on the defensive end, where he often struggles.
At 23 years old, Lanier’s late-blooming trajectory adds a layer of intrigue despite his age and should make him an option for teams searching for shooters in the second round. — Woo
21. Alex Karaban, PF, UConn
Height: 6-8 | Junior | Top 100 Rank: 32 | TS%: 57.8%
First game: No. 8 UConn vs No. 9 Oklahoma, Friday, 9:25 p.m. (TNT)
After playing a big role in UConn’s 2023 and 2024 championships, Karaban is a known name for NBA teams and a likely plug-and-play bench player in the pros. He’s a reliable shooter, passer and cutter who could plug in and add offensive value early in his NBA career, but he likely won’t ever be a focal point offensively.
Karaban’s defensive projection is a bit more dubious because of his athletic limitations — his strong instincts have made up for that in college, but he’ll be further challenged to guard in space and chase away from the ball in the pros. His decorated career with the Huskies should make him attractive to teams in the late first round or in Round 2. — Woo
20. Ryan Kalkbrenner, C, Creighton
Height: 7-2 | Super senior | Top 100 Rank: 30 | TS%: 69.3%
First game: No. 9 Creighton vs. No. 8 Louisville, Thursday, 12:15 p.m. (CBS)
Along with Basketball Hall of Famer Patrick Ewing, Kalkbrenner is the only player to win Big East Defensive Player of the Year honors four straight seasons. He improved his scoring, rebounding and efficiency numbers from this past season but is largely a known name for NBA scouts as a 23-year-old in his fifth season of college basketball.
Kalkbrenner’s reliable blend of high-level intensity, rim-protection instincts, pick-and-roll finishing and cerebral, mistake-free style on both ends gives him a high floor as a solid backup projecting to the NBA. There’s nothing terribly exciting about what he brings, but his plug-and-play nature could be appealing to playoff teams when accounting for his low, cost-controlled contract over the next few years. — Givony
19. Nique Clifford, SG, Colorado State
Height: 6-6 | Super senior | Top 100 Rank: 39 | TS%: 62.0%
First game: No. 12 Colorado State vs. No. 5 Memphis, Friday, 2 p.m. (TBS)
Clifford exploded late in the season, propelling Colorado State into the NCAA tournament with 10 consecutive wins while posting All-American caliber numbers: 22.1 points, 9 rebounds and 5.1 assists per game, shooting 57% for 2 and 56% for 3. Likely to be scaled down to a smaller role at higher levels, his ability to hit 3s in a variety of ways — at his size no less — is interesting with the way he fills up the box score. He’s a highly competitive rebounder and defender who flies around the floor with strong intensity.
Clifford has struggled historically against top-level competition, especially at this past year’s G League Elite Camp. He has some things to prove regarding his awareness on both ends, making this NCAA tournament a terrific opportunity to show his scorching production as of late is real. — Givony
18. Adou Thiero, PF, Arkansas
Height: 6-8 | Junior | Top 100 Rank: 27 | TS%: 62.0%
First game: No. 10 Arkansas vs. No. 7 Kansas, Thursday, 7:10 p.m. (CBS)
Thiero suffered a knee injury on Feb. 22 that knocked him out six games and will almost assuredly prevent him from playing in the NCAA tournament. He has a lot to offer from an NBA standpoint with his shredded frame and unique combination of quickness, power and explosiveness that makes him a mismatch nightmare at power forward. When dialed in, he can do impressive things defensively one-on-one, racking up steals and blocks in bunches.
Thiero’s lack of perimeter shooting (11 made 3-pointers in 26 games, 69% FT%) and poor technique and awareness off the ball defensively are things he’ll have to address to be the type of role player NBA coaches can trust in the 3-and-D mold he’s likely destined for long-term. — Givony
17. Drake Powell, SG/SF, North Carolina
Height: 6-6 | Freshman | Top 100 Rank: 26 | TS%: 59.6%
First game: No. 11 North Carolina vs. No. 11 San Diego State, Tuesday, 9:10 p.m. (truTV)
North Carolina just snuck into the tournament, earning a spot in a First Four that is relatively strong on prospects, including Powell. A poor team context as well as limited offensive skills made this a somewhat forgettable freshman season for him — and though NBA teams still like his defensive upside in the long run, he’ll have work to do in the predraft process to enhance his standing.
It’s possible Powell plays another year in college with UNC ramping up its NIL budget moving forward, and his first-round status up for debate. — Woo
16. Alex Condon, C, Florida
Height: 6-11 | Sophomore | Top 100 Rank: 28 | TS%: 57.2%
First game: No 1 Florida vs. No. 16 Norfolk State, Friday, 6:50 p.m. (TNT)
The Australian big man acts as a significant playmaking hub in Florida’s offense with his excellent ballhandling and passing ability while covering ground fluidly defensively and making plays with his mobility and sharp basketball instincts.
Still growing into his body in his fifth year of organized basketball — and with work to do on his perimeter shooting — he wasn’t expected to emerge as a possible first-rounder this quickly, but his impactful two-way play has certainly caught the eyes of NBA scouts. The longer Condon and Florida play in the NCAA tournament, the better he’ll be positioned in this draft class. — Givony
Alex Condon catches the dime and elevates for a strong dunk vs. Alabama.
15. Will Riley, SG/SF, Illinois
Height: 6-8 | Freshman | Top 100 Rank: 22 | TS%: 53.4%
First game: No. 6 Illinois vs. TBD, Friday, 9:45 p.m. (CBS)
Riley was up and down for Illinois this season from an efficiency standpoint but is clearly oozing with talent as a 6-foot-8 versatile scorer with outstanding shotmaking prowess. He shows intriguing flashes of ability creating shots for himself and others, along with polished scoring instincts and creativity as a passer, which is intriguing for a just-turned-19-year-old.
With a thin frame and clear limitations on the defensive end, Riley is the type of long-term prospect NBA teams will need to be patient with as he develops his body and all-around game, but he has significant upside to grow into long-term. — Givony
14. Asa Newell, PF/C, Georgia
Height: 6-11 | Freshman | Top 100 Rank: 20 | TS%: 61.7%
First game: No. 9 Georgia vs. No. 8 Gonzaga, Thursday, 4:35 p.m. (TBS)
Newell was selected to the SEC All-Freshman Team after leading Georgia in scoring (15.3 PPG) and rebounding (6.8 RPG), using his size and motor to produce in consistent minutes. The Bulldogs wound up on the right side of the bubble, earning a No. 9 seed and doing enough in a deep SEC to build their résumé.
Newell played a large part in that, and while long-term questions persist regarding his perimeter shooting, defensive versatility and feel for the game, he has put himself firmly in the first-round discussion with what he has shown in college.– Woo
13. Carter Bryant, SF/PF, Arizona
Height: 6-8 | Freshman | Top 100 Rank: 19 | TS%: 60.9%
First game: No. 4 Arizona vs. No. 13 Akron, Friday, 7:35 p.m. (truTV)
Bryant has shown what makes him interesting long-term in a bench role for Arizona, bringing strong defensive versatility and the makings of a functional perimeter game. Though not a good ball handler, he is a plus-passer and a capable catch-and-shoot player with upside left to tap into.
Bryant will have a chance to benefit from the March spotlight if Arizona can mount a run in the NCAA tournament, and there’s an interesting draft decision ahead depending on just how strong his first-round interest level winds up being. — Woo
12. Danny Wolf, PF/C, Michigan
Height: 7-0 | Junior | Top 100 Rank: 17 | TS%: 57.7%
First game: No. 5 Michigan vs. No. 12 UC San Diego, Thursday, 10 p.m. (TBS)
Wolf might be college basketball’s most unique player, ranking as the best pick-and-roll player in this draft class despite being 7-foot tall. He is exceptionally skilled with his ability to handle, pass and finish with either hand. Wolfe is also making 34% of his 3-pointers. He rebounds prolifically, makes plays in passing lanes and protects the rim with outstanding basketball instincts.
Wolf is a little polarizing among scouts because of his unorthodox style, average speed, high turnover rate (22%) and poor free throw shooting (62%). He will have many NBA eyes on him to see how he fares in the biggest games he has played in his career. — Givony
11. Liam McNeeley, SG/SF, UConn
Height: 6-7 | Freshman | Top 100 Rank: 12 | TS%: 54.6%
First game: No. 8 UConn vs No. 9 Oklahoma, Friday, 9:25 p.m. (TNT)
McNeeley had an inconsistent but overall positive freshman season and will be a key player as UConn defends its 2023 and 2024 championships. On a team lacking ball handlers, he has been tasked with more shot creation responsibility than he is equipped for, and probably will be asked to play a very different role in the NBA, where his perimeter shooting will be more attractive than his playmaking.
McNeeley’s feel for the game and positional size gives him a solid base to work with in the long run if he can improve his frame and defensive contributions over time. — Woo
10. Jase Richardson, PG/SG, Michigan State
Height: 6-3 | Freshman | Top 100 Rank: 24 | TS%: 64.9%
First game: No. 2 Michigan State vs. No. 15 Bryant, Friday, 10 p.m. (TBS)
Richardson turned the corner in a major way over the second half of the season, finding another notch with his aggressiveness and productivity shouldering greater offensive responsibility efficiently as a starter for Michigan State. His pace, skill level, feel for the game and shotmaking prowess give him an outstanding framework to build off at 19 years old, especially with the intensity he brings defensively.
Though Richardson’s somewhat pedestrian measurements (6-foot-2 in shoes and 185 pounds) might limit his ceiling to an extent in the eyes of NBA teams, the way he affects winning on both ends of the court, along with his tremendous statistical profile, can’t be discounted, especially if he can continue to make strides as a slasher and passer. — Givony
9. Egor Demin, PG/SG, BYU
Height: 6-9 | Freshman | Top 100 Rank: 10 | TS%: 50.8%
First game: No. 6 BYU vs. No. 11 VCU, Thursday, 4:05 p.m. (TNT)
Demin is a polarizing prospect with extreme strengths and weaknesses accentuated by roller-coaster moments in Big 12 play. Few players can thread the needle with pick-and-roll passes that he executes every game; it’s unlike any other 6-foot-9 college player. He has also made strides with his finishing and defense as the season has progressed, helping BYU win nine straight games to end Big 12 regular-season play and improve its NCAA tournament outlook.
Demin’s struggles as an outside shooter (27% on 3s) and at the free throw line (68%), inability to beat defenders off the dribble, turnover proneness and occasional mental lapses make him a situational fit for most NBA teams. How the 18-year-old performs in BYU’s biggest games will likely play a role in the narrative around his long-term projection. — Givony
8. Derik Queen, C, Maryland
Height: 6-10 | Freshman | Top 100 Rank: 11 | TS%: 60.0%
First game: No. 4 Maryland vs. No. 13 Grand Canyon, Friday, 4:35 p.m. (TBS)
Queen led Maryland to a strong season and has a big platform in March as the focal point for the Terps’ offense. He is the most offensively gifted big in this draft class, presenting matchup problems with his ability to put the ball on the floor and attack out of different spots on the interior.
Despite Queen’s production, there have been gripes from NBA scouts who have critiqued his consistency of effort, leaving room for doubt particularly on the defensive end, where he can be lethargic. Teams will be closely monitoring how he handles the tournament spotlight. — Woo
7. Jeremiah Fears, PG, Oklahoma
Height: 6-4 | Freshman | Top 100 Rank: 9 | TS%: 57.0%
First game: No. 9 Oklahoma vs. No. 8 UConn, Friday, 9:25 p.m. (TNT)
Fears has been one of college basketball’s best freshmen despite being one of the youngest players in the country (he turns 19 in October). His combination of size, speed, pace, shot creation prowess, shotmaking and scoring instincts is intriguing for his age, as he gets virtually anywhere he wants on the floor, either to create opportunities for teammates dishing on the move, finish skillfully in the lane or get to the free throw line in bunches.
Lapses in decision-making and inconsistency defensively and as a perimeter shooter are the main things scouts want to see Fears improve on long-term, along with his lack of strength, which is not a surprise considering his youth. — Givony
SEC Now’s Ron Slay picks up three clutch players from the SEC tourney and adds space in the backseat for Drayke Sharpe after he displayed some serious skills at halftime.
6. Kasparas Jakucionis, PG, Illinois
Height: 6-6 | Freshman | Top 100 Rank: 6 | TS%: 60.5%
First game: No. 6 Illinois vs. TBD, Friday, 9:45 p.m. (CBS)
Jakucionis’ talent popped right early in the season for NBA scouts, with his impressive combination of size, toughness, pace, feel for the game, playmaking and shotmaking prowess. He’s an outstanding pick-and-roll player who plays an intelligent and unselfish brand of basketball, getting to spots on the floor and playing through contact aggressively.
The past six weeks have been somewhat of a struggle for Jakucionis, as he has struggled to make shots consistently (14-for-54 on 3-pointers through March 13), making questionable decisions with the ball and seeing his productivity fall in a number of areas. Finishing the season on a strong note would assuage any recent concerns. — Givony
5. Khaman Maluach, C, Duke
Height: 7-2 | Freshman | Top 100 Rank: 7 | TS%: 72.6%
First game: No. 1 Duke vs. TBD, Friday, 2:50 p.m. (CBS)
Maluach has provided excellent paint protection for Duke and held his stock steady as the most interesting long-term center in this draft class. There have been ups and downs, but defensive-minded bigs with his caliber of size, tools and consistent effort tend to earn the benefit of the doubt from NBA evaluators. He has converted around the rim at a high rate and shown improvement as a screener.
Staying out of foul trouble and maximizing his impact under the postseason magnifying glass would help Maluach’s case, with his presence in the paint even more critical if Cooper Flagg misses any time. — Woo
4. Kon Knueppel, SG/SF, Duke
Height: 6-7 | Freshman | Top 100 Rank: 8 | TS%: 63.7%
First game: No. 1 Duke vs. TBD, Friday, 2:50 p.m. (CBS)
Knueppel stepped up big in the ACC tournament, helping Duke to a title without the injured Flagg. He played a supporting role much of the season but reinforced that he has the chops as a scorer to step up when called upon. His consistency and mature style of play should give him a pathway to helping an NBA team in short order.
Scouts are divided on Knueppel’s ultimate upside due largely to his average physical profile, but there’s an attractive floor here as a winning role player who is reliable and should make shots from Day 1. If Flagg misses time or isn’t at 100%, Duke will need Knueppel to increase his contributions as a scorer and playmaker, something NBA teams will be curious to track. — Woo
3. Tre Johnson, SG, Texas
Height: 6-6 | Freshman | Top 100 Rank: 5 | TS%: 56.0%
First game: No. 11 Texas vs. No. 11 Xavier, Wednesday, 9:10 p.m. (truTV)
Johnson turned it on in February, taking on a bigger workload on offense and ultimately lifting Texas to the right side of the NCAA tournament bubble, earning a spot in the First Four in Dayton, Ohio. The 18-year-old is versatile and dynamic, creating shots in bunches and showing flashes with his passing.
NBA teams continue to have questions about Johnson’s shot selection and tendencies, but there has been more positive than negative to take away from his season from a long-term standpoint. — Woo
2. VJ Edgecombe, SG, Baylor
Height: 6-5 | Freshman | Top 100 Rank: 4 | TS%: 55.8%
First game: No. 9 Baylor vs. No. 8 Mississippi State, Friday, 12:15 p.m. (CBS)
Edgecombe came on for Baylor in the second half of the season, helping the Bears earn a No. 9 seed. He’s the most explosive athlete in this draft, has a feel for the game and has had some exceptional defensive moments, helping to solidify his standing as a likely top-five pick.
Much improvement will be in order for his ballhandling, but Edgecombe has more room to grow as he refines that skill and finds another gear with his aggressiveness. That long-term upside has held his draft stock steady, and a big showing this week, with a potential Round of 32 matchup against Duke looming, couldn’t hurt. — Woo
Joe Lunardi breaks down Duke’s NCAA tournament prospects.
1. Cooper Flagg, SF/PF, Duke
Height: 6-9 | Freshman | Top 100 Rank: 1 | TS%: 60.4%
First game: No. 1 Duke vs. TBD, Friday, 2:50 p.m. (CBS)
Flagg injured his left ankle on March 14 in the ACC tournament (which Duke won without him) but appears on track to return in the NCAA tournament. The consensus projected No. 1 pick has managed to exceed preseason expectations, providing a sturdy backbone for an excellent Duke team that should contend for a Final Four spot as long as he is available. He has impacted winning on both sides of the ball while filling up the box score, supplying on-court substance and competitive mettle.
Flagg has also made strides offensively, showcasing his ability as a passer, decision-maker and shooter. He has made a strong case as the best player in college basketball at age 18. — Woo
Source: espn.com