2025 NBA mock draft: First-round intel, 59 pick predictions

The 2025 NBA draft continues to look stronger by the day, as the top of the class is solidifying with each of the projected top-five candidates delivering serious fireworks in January and February. Cooper Flagg, who is exceeding expectations with outstanding productivity for Duke, is the headliner, with Rutgers freshmen Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey and Baylor standout VJ Edgecombe flashing significant talent as well.

NBA executives tell us they are excited about not only the star power at the top but also the overall depth, as a number of freshmen have unexpectedly emerged as clear lottery talents, and the international class also appears better than advertised with as many as nine potential first-rounders.

An important final month of the college regular season looms as scouts want to see if players can finish strong and perform under pressure in some of the biggest games of their careers heading into conference tournaments and the Big Dance.

The first- and second-round order was generated by ESPN’s BPI forecast, which predicts how well all 30 NBA teams will perform during the rest of the season.

Notes: The draft order, as updated through Monday morning, reflects picks owed and owned via trades. 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.

More NBA draft coverage:
What trade deadline meant for 7 lottery teams
NBA execs on Flagg’s strengths, weaknesses
Top 100 rankings | Previous mock draft | More

First round

1. Washington Wizards

Cooper Flagg, SF/PF, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 59.6%

Scouting report: While other prospects have seen their production decline in conference play, Flagg has emerged as the best player in college basketball, and he has a chance to cement his legacy at Duke with a Final Four run. He’s the country’s most competitive and versatile defender, and he has put a stranglehold on the No. 1 pick conversation with the myriad ways he affects winning despite turning 18 in December. How he handles the spotlight moving forward will tell us more about whether he projects as “merely” an All-Star, or if, as some scouts suggest, he can develop into one of the NBA’s most impactful players. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: The Wizards were active during last week’s trade deadline, using their flexibility to take on salary and add to their growing stockpile of draft picks. Those decisions won’t change their calculus picking near the top of the lottery. Flagg would be a tone-setting player around whom Washington could center its rebuild, and his growth in the shot-creation department has to be interesting to the Wizards, given the need for a playmaker to lead the team (on that note, Dylan Harper will surely be attractive to them as well). A long-term defensive front line of Flagg, Alex Sarr and Bilal Coulibaly could give opposing teams real problems. — Woo

play2:42How does Flagg compare with previous freshman Wooden Award winners?

Seth Greenberg and Sean Farnham break down what makes Duke star freshman Cooper Flagg a strong candidate for the Wooden Award

2. New Orleans Pelicans

Dylan Harper, SG/PG, Rutgers
Freshman | TS%: 58.8%

Scouting report: Harper returned from a 10-day absence in a highly impressive fashion, dropping 28 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists in a win against Illinois, thoroughly outplaying point guard Kasparas Jakucionis, a fellow projected top-five pick. Though Harper hasn’t fully locked down the No. 2 pick with the difficult January he endured battling the flu and an ankle injury, more games like the Illinois one to finish the season could cement him as the top non-Flagg option. The 18-year-old’s combination of size, shot-creation prowess, passing creativity, finishing skill and scoring instincts have drawn comparisons in NBA circles to a young James Harden. It will be fascinating to see how he finishes the season for a Rutgers team that likely needs to win the Big Ten tournament to earn an NCAA tournament berth. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: The prospect of adding one of the draft’s elite talents at least offers some recompense for New Orleans, which has had one of the unluckiest stretches of injuries in recent NBA history. Offseason acquisition Dejounte Murray was set to lead the offense, broke his left hand in the opener, then appeared in 31 games before tearing his right Achilles, and Brandon Ingram was traded to Toronto at the deadline. Quality shot creation on the perimeter remains a major need. Harper’s mix of size, playmaking chops and star power could address many of the issues here at once and bolster the rotation on a roster that is trying to compete while still skewing young. — Woo

3. Utah Jazz

Airious “Ace” Bailey, SG/SF, Rutgers
Freshman | TS%: 55.5%

Scouting report: Bailey has had some spectacular moments in Big Ten play, benefiting from Harper’s absence to show off his talent as a 6-foot-10 shotmaker with incredible scoring prowess, posting three outings of 30-plus points in January. Bailey, who turns 19 in mid-August, is also making notable strides as a passer and defender, as the game appears to be slowing down as he gains experience against high-level competition. There’s no ceiling on Bailey’s long-term upside considering the development trajectory he is on, and a positive final month of the season could help him challenge Harper for the No. 2 pick. Every team in the NBA is searching for a big, explosive shooter and scorer with a competitive streak in Bailey’s mold. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: Utah didn’t make any major deals at the deadline, instead holding on to its veteran players and maintaining its status quo of angling for draft position. At some point, the Jazz will have to make strides, but the star power in this draft and atop the 2026 class likely has Utah set to wait things out. Bailey’s youth and shotmaking would give the Jazz a potential offensive centerpiece. He would benefit from landing on a team with an extreme long-view approach. — Woo

4. Charlotte Hornets

VJ Edgecombe, SG, Baylor
Freshman | TS%: 57.9%

Scouting report: Edgecombe bounced back from a slow start with several exhilarating performances in Big 12 play, hitting 46% of his 3s in his past 10 games while showcasing considerable two-way upside. His combination of explosiveness, defensive intensity, feel for the game and upside has helped solidify his standing as a likely top-five pick, as Baylor has done a better job of figuring out how to use his talent. Continuing to show that his improved shooting is real, while establishing his future as a big combo guard could help cement Edgecombe as the clear-cut No. 4 prospect in a loaded draft. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: Edgecombe’s athletic, slashing style would be a compelling fit in Charlotte, giving the Hornets a high-energy, competitive, two-way shooting guard to slide in between LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. His strong flashes of upside in recent weeks have reaffirmed his appeal at the top of the draft. The fit here on paper is strong, with Charlotte still in the talent-gathering stage of its rebuild. — Woo

5. Toronto Raptors

Kasparas Jakucionis, PG, Illinois
Freshman | TS%: 62.6%

Scouting report: Jakucionis jumped out of the gate quickly for Illinois, building a strong case as a potential top-five pick with productivity, efficiency and feel for the game that is uncommon for an 18-year-old point guard making the transition from European junior competition to the NCAA. He has been up and down lately, shooting 6-for-32 on 3-pointers over the past seven games. NBA scouts love his combination of size, toughness, finishing and pick-and-roll playmaking acumen but are eager to see how he bounces back with many stern tests on the horizon, including a tantalizing Feb. 22 matchup with Duke at Madison Square Garden. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: Toronto’s addition of Brandon Ingram at the deadline positions the Raptors to push for the playoffs as soon as next season, but they will presumably slow-play that process in the interest of one more strong chance at the top of the lottery. Jakucionis on a rookie deal might eventually provide better value than the highly paid Immanuel Quickley, and he would give Toronto a true pass-first point guard the roster presently lacks. The Raptors could benefit from adding a playmaker to reduce stress on Scottie Barnes and RJ Barrett. — Woo

6. Brooklyn Nets

Kon Knueppel, SG/SF, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 61.3%

Scouting report: Knueppel has played a significant role in Duke’s 20-3 season, shouldering shot-creation duties while hitting 40% of his 3-pointers and holding his own defensively. He’s an underrated passer, ranked as the third-best pick-and-roll player in this draft by Synergy Sports. He brings a unique combination of competitiveness, feel for the game and versatility that would make him a seamless fit on any NBA roster. Struggling against long-armed athletes at times in nonconference play, Knueppel’s ability to maintain his efficiency in Duke’s biggest games in March will play a role in where he gets drafted. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: The Nets, armed with the league’s most salary cap space (projected $60 million), are working with a clean slate roster-wise and could be interested in adding another top talent in the 2026 draft. Once the top names in this group are off the board, Knueppel’s shooting and offensive feel could make him an appealing building block. His skill set would make sense for whichever direction the Nets choose, whether that’s returning to relevance in the short term or waiting another year before cashing in their stockpile of assets. Part of the appeal with Knueppel is his near-universal fit as an off-ball scorer. — Woo

7. Chicago Bulls

Khaman Maluach, C, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 76.0%

Scouting report: Maluach has been a rock for Duke, anchoring one of college basketball’s best defenses with his 7-6 wingspan, nonstop intensity and rim-protection prowess. He plays his role cleanly and efficiently for the Blue Devils, bringing vertical pick-and-roll spacing, offensive rebounding and a serious-minded, mature approach despite his lack of previous experience. Maluach isn’t exceptionally skilled or polished — his ability to stay out of foul trouble, minimize mistakes and contribute offensively in Duke’s biggest games will be an important barometer for his NBA readiness and help to determine how high he gets drafted in June. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: Chicago got the San Antonio Spurs to lift their rights to this pick (previously top-10 protected) as part of the three-team De’Aaron Fox/Zach LaVine trade. Though the Bulls should be worse without LaVine and might end up drafting in the top 10 anyway — making for a somewhat minor return in that deal — Chicago was flirting with the play-in and is now guaranteed to have a first-round selection regardless. Maluach, the clear top rim-protecting prospect, would fill a void, giving a young roster a long-term defensive backbone. The Bulls have been without a defensive-minded big for some time, with this era largely defined by their trade for Nikola Vucevic in 2021. — Woo

8. Portland Trail Blazers

Egor Demin, PG/SG, BYU
Freshman | TS%: 51.9%

Scouting report: Demin’s lackluster shooting (20% on 3-pointers and 63% from the free throw line) and turnover struggles (25% TO%) have come to the forefront more vividly in Big 12 play, but he continues to show high-level flashes of talent and feel for the game that are difficult to come by in a 6-9, 18-year-old point guard. Demin is this draft’s best passer and is making strides with his finishing and defense, giving him a clear avenue to success in the NBA as his shooting evolves. The transition from European junior competition to the Big 12 would always be challenging, considering his lack of strength and experience. Still, Demin is showing good things on the court and has potential to grow as his frame fills out. Finishing the season on a strong note would push him higher in the top 10. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: Winning 10 of their past 13 games, the Blazers have vaulted into the middle of the lottery pack. Portland doesn’t have a ton of playmaking on its roster outside of Scoot Henderson (who has started to flash promise in his second season), and adding a change-of-pace ball handler with size could be an interesting long-term play. There’s certainly less duplication with Demin than there would be with some of the other guards left on the board here, and his upside tied to his frame and impressive passing vision would hold appeal for Portland and other teams through his ups and downs. — Woo

play0:24Egor Demin buries triple against West Virginia Mountaineers

Egor Demin buries triple against West Virginia Mountaineers

9. San Antonio Spurs

Jeremiah Fears, PG, Oklahoma
Freshman | TS%: 58.3%

Scouting report: The SEC has been unforgiving at times for the 6-4, 182-pound 18-year-old who plays an outsized role for Oklahoma, leading all projected first-rounders with his 32% usage rate. Still, what makes Fears special is the way he handles the ball, gets to spots on the floor out of pick-and-rolls, passes, draws fouls and scores in a variety of ways, helping keep the Sooners in the NCAA tournament conversation. Showing growth with his defense, decision-making and shooting would help cement his candidacy as a top-10 pick. Fears’ talent has been vividly displayed even when he has struggled from an efficiency perspective. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: Shot creation was a major need for the Spurs prior to acquiring De’Aaron Fox, and Fears should be intriguing as a potential sparkplug scorer who wouldn’t have to be forced into major minutes. His flashes of talent will have to outweigh his shortcomings from a physical and defensive perspective, but he’d have the opportunity to learn behind Fox and eventually pair with the bigger and more defensive-minded Stephon Castle. — Woo

10. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Philadelphia)

Derik Queen, C, Maryland
Freshman | TS%: 59.5%

Scouting report: Queen is one of the most skilled, versatile big men in college basketball, a huge mismatch in the post, facing the basket or as a pick-and-roll finisher with elite hands, footwork, body control, strength, passing ability and soft touch. He has had some mesmerizing moments creating shots for himself and teammates, and he looks like one of this draft’s best offensive players at times. Queen took some lumps early in Big Ten play, as his apathy defensively, lack of shooting range and limited explosiveness have led to some uninspiring moments against lengthier opponents; his unorthodox profile probably isn’t a fit for every NBA team. Queen will have a strong platform with the No. 25-ranked Terrapins to show how his skills translate, which will help determine whether he’s a legitimate top-10 prospect or perhaps more of a mid-first-round player. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: The Thunder will receive this pick unless it lands in the top six, a scenario that is not entirely off the table given how difficult the Philadelphia 76ers’ season has been. Queen would be a big bet on talent, considering his effectiveness and the Thunder’s broad positional roster depth, allowing them to take a chance on developing him into a contributor and helping him improve his frame. His defensive struggles could be mitigated next to a rim protector such as Chet Holmgren, while his intriguing offensive talent could pop even more on a highly unselfish and well-constructed Thunder team. — Woo

11. Houston Rockets (via Phoenix)

Tre Johnson, SG, Texas
Freshman | TS%: 56.4%

Scouting report: Johnson continues to score prolifically, but his efficiency struggles (31% from 3 in the SEC) and lackluster defense makes him an acquired choosing for some NBA teams, who have questions about his capacity for driving winning at the next level. The Longhorns’ 4-7 conference record hasn’t helped that narrative. Still, a relatively favorable schedule could give Texas and Johnson runway to build momentum in the regular season’s final month. Wings who are 18, 6-6 and long-armed and have his scoring prowess are unique, especially with the confidence and late-game character Johnson has displayed. There won’t be a shortage of suitors, especially if he can finish strong. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: Houston owns swap rights on this selection by way of Brooklyn, and with the Suns struggling, the Rockets could have an opportunity to add a significant prospect to a group that has successfully made the jump this season. The Rockets have plenty of offensive talent, with Alperen Sengun, Amen Thompson and Jalen Green, but Johnson’s excellent perimeter shooting and flashes of self-creation could still make him a worthwhile addition. Landing on a team with an established offensive hierarchy, such as Houston, might expedite him settling into the right role and adjusting his style of play. — Woo

12. San Antonio Spurs (via Atlanta)

Joan Beringer, C, Cedevita Olimpija (France)
Slovenia | TS%: 59.6%

Scouting report: Beringer has drawn increasingly significant crowds of NBA decision-makers in Slovenia. The 18-year-old has responded with some spectacular moments on the defensive end, proving to be one of the most versatile players in the class with his ability to cover ground on the perimeter, switch onto smaller players, and protect the rim, leading both the EuroCup and Adriatic League in block percentage. Playing basketball for only three years, Beringer had zero high-level experience coming into the season but is improving every week, giving him unlimited upside to grow into long term. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: San Antonio owns this pick unprotected from Atlanta, originally acquiring it in the 2022 Dejounte Murray trade. Adding a high-upside young interior defender in Beringer, who could take on some responsibility in the paint and allow Victor Wembanyama to handle a more versatile defensive role, would give the Spurs a different dimension. Beringer’s upside and ability to defend bigger bodies would make him an intriguing option as a young rim protector on the right timeline with the rest of the team’s core players. — Woo

13. Atlanta Hawks (via Sacramento)

Liam McNeeley, SG/SF, UConn
Freshman | TS%: 58.2%

Scouting report: McNeeley recently returned from a five-week absence because of an ankle injury and put together one of the most impressive performances we’ve seen at the college level — a-38 point explosion in a win at Creighton on Tuesday. McNeeley had been up and down prior to his injury on a team lacking shot creation in a major way, which often asks him to do too much with the ball in his hands, exposing some of the athletic limitations that are noticeable on the defensive end. McNeeley’s size, shotmaking prowess, feel for the game and toughness are all important attributes that NBA teams value at the wing position, and he will look to remind them of his many winning qualities in an important upcoming month. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: Sacramento’s pick is top-12 protected, placing it right on the cusp of conveying depending on how the Kings’ season finishes. Here it conveys to Atlanta (via the Kevin Huerter trade). Adding a tough, smart, versatile ball-mover such as McNeeley would be a good move as the Hawks build out tall perimeter lineups around Trae Young. His unselfish approach should help him slide into minutes and provide depth as he develops his individual scoring. — Woo

14. Dallas Mavericks

Nolan Traore, PG, Saint Quentin (France)
France | TS%: 48.8%

Scouting report: Traore, 18, is in the middle of an up-and-down season, struggling to score efficiently while shouldering an abnormally high 30% usage rate. Traore doesn’t have the biggest margin for error with his thin frame, and some teams have questions about his lack of leadership qualities and toughness. The flashes Traore displays with his speed, ballhandling and passing will keep him in lottery conversations, as there’s little doubt he has significant talent with the ball in his hands. NBA teams are hoping that now that his team is eliminated from the FIBA Champions League, he won’t look quite as fatigued as he has at times, playing a once-a-week schedule and practicing more regularly. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: While the controversial Luka Doncic trade won’t lead to the Mavericks bottoming out anytime soon, Dallas does control its own first-round picks in 2025 and 2026. While there’s no easy way to replace Doncic, there should be some imperative to add additional playmakers next to Kyrie Irving. Should Traore wind up falling toward the back of the lottery, he becomes an interesting value play for teams looking to swing big on his playmaking talent. Though Dallas will still likely need to add an older guard in the offseason to create offense, a chance to develop Traore in a low-pressure situation as a high-upside depth addition — or, if things go well, an eventual successor to Doncic — could be tempting. — Woo

play0:47Who’s the best international NBA draft prospect?

Jeremy Woo details why Nolan Traore from France is the highest-ranked international prospect on ESPN’s NBA draft board

15. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Miami)

Hugo Gonzalez, SG/SF, Real Madrid (Spain)
Spain | TS%: 52.2%

Scouting report: Gonzalez has seen an uptick in minutes — 16 per game over the past six contests — due to improved play and some absences in Real Madrid’s wing rotation. When given the opportunity, Gonzalez has proven capable of holding his own even against top EuroLeague teams, which is notable for someone who turned 19 a week ago. His defensive intensity, propensity for making explosive plays on both ends of the floor and improved shooting — he has converted 46% of his 3s since Jan. 1 — have helped him carve out a role. It has also solidified his standing in NBA conversations as he has drawn a steady stream of decision-makers to his games, even when he wasn’t playing much. Playing mistake-free basketball will convince Real Madrid’s coaching staff to continue to use him. There will likely be more ups and downs with his minutes because of the depth of his team’s roster and its championship ambitions in the ACB and EuroLeague. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: Oklahoma City owns Miami’s pick with lottery protections, which currently projects right on the cutline, depending on which way the Heat’s season goes after moving on from Jimmy Butler. In this scenario, it narrowly conveys to the Thunder, giving Oklahoma City an additional first-round pick in June. The Thunder are again selecting from a position of strength — attempting to add to a well-balanced younger roster — and could see value in bringing in a natural glue guy such as Gonzalez, who would presumably be content to fill in the blanks and supply energy. — Woo

16. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Detroit)

Danny Wolf, C, Michigan
Junior | TS%: 59.7%

Scouting report: Wolf might be college basketball’s most unique player, ranking as the best pick-and-roll player in this draft class while being measured at 7-0. He’s exceptionally skilled with his ability to handle, pass and finish with either hand, and is making 37% of his 3-pointers. He also rebounds prolifically, makes plays in passing lanes and protects the rim with outstanding basketball instincts. He isn’t seeing as many reps at point guard as he did earlier in the season after racking up 22 turnovers in a recent five-game span — NBA teams have seen different sides of his game, however, with the myriad ways he contributes to winning. He’s a little polarizing among scouts because of his unorthodox style, combined with his average speed, high turnover rate (27%) and poor free throw shooting (63%). He will have a lot of NBA eyes on him in March to see how he fares in some of Michigan’s biggest games. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: The Timberwolves likely weren’t expecting to receive this pick at the outset of the season, with the Pistons’ resurgence now giving it a real chance to convey, despite top-13 protections. It would be a nice break for Minnesota, given the team is not replete with future draft assets and the roster could use some balancing after trading away Karl-Anthony Towns. Timberwolves president Tim Connelly has historically been unafraid to swing big on talent, and Wolf’s unique perimeter skill set at his size makes him one of the more interesting first-round prospects to monitor going into the spring. His playmaking could give the Minnesota rotation a boost. — Woo

17. Orlando Magic

Ben Saraf, PG/SG, Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany)
Germany | TS%: 52.5%

Scouting report: Saraf continues to rack up points, assists, free throws and steals in bunches — doing things you don’t often see from an 18-year-old, 6-6 point guard at this level of competition. His confidence, feel for the game and character give him a high floor when paired with his sheer productivity. Still, there are questions about his struggles from 3 (27%), propensity for turnovers (20% TO%) and lackluster defense. Those issues have been a little more pronounced lately, especially against better competition, and scouts will be interested in how he fares now that Ulm is eliminated from the EuroCup and he’s able to focus on playing once a week in the German BBL. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: The Magic have never traded their first-round pick during president of basketball operations Jeff Weltman’s tenure, preferring to add young depth to the roster each year as they slowly build. Saraf has been somewhat divisive with teams, but his creative talent could make him an interesting investment for Orlando, an organization that has favored positional size and tough, high-feel players in building its current roster. There’s a need for more creation and individual shotmaking in the Magic’s backcourt, and Saraf could make sense. — Woo

18. Miami Heat (via Golden State)

Collin Murray-Boyles, PF/C, South Carolina
Sophomore | TS%: 62.6%

Scouting report: Murray-Boyles’ feel for the game and defensive versatility have been on full display in a Draymond Green-type role for South Carolina; he slides all over the floor as he’s tasked with slowing down guards and big men alike, while racking up rebounds, steals and blocks. He’s an excellent passer whose unselfishness and smarts are somewhat wasted on a disappointing South Carolina team currently 0-10 in the SEC, making for a problematic evaluation from a team context standpoint. Murray-Boyles won’t be a fit for every NBA team — he’s undersized and lacks perimeter shooting (6-of-22 from 3, 66% on free throws) — and is a little stuck between positions, with some questions to answer about how he scores at the NBA level as a skilled but unconventional big. Still, an out-of-the-box, playoff-caliber team will likely be attracted to all the excellent role-playing qualities he brings. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: The Heat got this pick from Golden State in the Butler trade, with the Warriors retaining top-10 protections but giving Miami a presumptive point of entry back into the first round. The Heat will be in position to recenter their team around Bam Adebayo, Tyler Herro and a host of younger players, including emerging rookie Kel’el Ware. Murray-Boyles’ toughness, smarts and productivity could check some of the boxes this front office values. He’d fit nicely on a team that can put rim protection behind him and allow him to slide into a more natural role at the 4. — Woo

play0:18Collin Murray-Boyles powers in a South Carolina bucket

Collin Murray-Boyles muscles through the paint to get a tough bucket to fall for South Carolina vs. Kentucky

19. Utah Jazz (via Minnesota)

Noa Essengue, PF, Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany)
Germany | TS%: 59.3%

Scouting report: The second-youngest prospect in this draft after Flagg, Essengue, 18, continues to play a significant role for Ulm in the German BBL, a rarity at this level of competition. While Essengue’s offense has been understandably inconsistent (especially his 21% 3-point percentage), the flashes he shows with his defensive versatility guarding smaller players on the perimeter is pretty unique. He also draws fouls prolifically, because of his quickness and explosiveness, and plays a pretty mistake-free style for his age — all intriguing qualities that will help draw a steady stream of NBA talent evaluators to Germany the rest of the season. Finding a way to space the floor more effectively will ease some positional concerns teams have. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: The Jazz received this pick unprotected from Minnesota in the Rudy Gobert trade and can continue to patiently stockpile young talent, with the direction they go here presumably influenced by what happens with their first selection. Essengue has the type of skilled, physical blueprint NBA teams are often willing to take a chance on. Landing with a patient organization might be the ideal outcome for him as he adds strength and develops his offensive game. He’d give the Jazz another long, versatile forward to develop in line with some of their selections in recent drafts. — Woo

20. Brooklyn Nets (via Milwaukee)

Will Riley, SG/SF, Illinois
Freshman | TS%: 53.2%

Scouting report: Riley started the season with a bang but cooled off significantly in December and January, struggling with his shooting, defense and finishing. He’s beginning to show his talent again recently, hitting 3s, creating shots for himself and others, and demonstrating polished scoring instincts and creativity as a passer, which is intriguing for a 6-8 19-year-old. Riley’s thin frame, porous defense and lack of explosiveness mean he’ll likely be viewed as a long-term project, but his size, shotmaking prowess and court vision give him significant upside to grow into long term. If his recent surge continues, he’ll likely be right back in the lottery in our next update. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: The Nets own Milwaukee’s pick with top-four protections and could wind up selecting three times in the 20s, meaning some consolidation of picks is likely in order. Having said that, Brooklyn sorely needs to reload on younger talent. Riley’s production has been inconsistent, but his overall profile still holds plenty of appeal with the caveat that it’s going to take patience as he develops his frame and adds the strength he needs to be effective at the highest level. Having so many picks should make it easier for the Nets to take a swing like this. — Woo

21. Oklahoma City Thunder (via LA Clippers)

Asa Newell, PF, Georgia
Freshman | TS%: 62.2%

Scouting report: Newell is having a highly productive season at Georgia, scoring prolifically and efficiently with a steady dose of post-ups, offensive rebounds, dunks and occasional spot-3s. His size, mobility, motor and touch have allowed him to be effective against almost every team he’s played in the SEC — no small feat at 19 years old. Some scouts question precisely what he does at an elite level to stay on the floor in the NBA. Does he have the length (7-foot wingspan), physicality and toughness to hold up as a full-time center in the NBA? Can they buy his jumper (26% 3-point percentage) and perimeter defense if not? At 4-7 in the SEC, Georgia will need to stack some wins over the next month to improve its NCAA tournament hopes, something its best player (Newell) will have a significant impact on. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: Oklahoma City has the rights to swap its own pick with the better of the Clippers and Rockets’ firsts. Newell has been productive but will need some targeted development to settle into an optimal long-term role. One of the advantages the Thunder have currently (in addition to creative coaching) is the ability to afford those types of prospects time and patience. Given how much talent they have across the roster and the amount of future draft capital they still hold, Oklahoma City is an optimal situation for a player like this, albeit actually finding NBA minutes might take time. — Woo

22. Indiana Pacers

Drake Powell, SG/SF, North Carolina
Freshman | TS%: 57.0%

Scouting report: Powell hasn’t made a jump in productivity in ACC play, averaging 7.8 points on middling efficiency (53% on 2-pointers, 34% from 3 and 58% on free throws), boasting a 14% usage rate that ranks last among all projected collegiate draft picks. He is struggling to impose himself in his 26 minutes per game because of his rudimentary ball handling and perimeter shooting. Some, but not all, of that, can be explained by North Carolina’s ill-fitting roster flush with shoot-first guards lacking much in the way of frontcourt size, relegating Powell to standing and watching for long stretches from the power forward position he is clearly undersized for. NBA teams do like Powell’s defense, feel for the game and long-term upside, and would like to see him in a different setting at the NBA combine and private workouts, but are concerned about the red flags identified by their analytic models, which point to a distinct dearth of defensive playmaking event (rebounds, blocks, steals), which also isn’t helping his cause. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: Indiana could use a bigger, defensive-minded wing to help cover alongside Tyrese Haliburton, and while Powell’s offense is a work in progress, he has the blueprint of a player who could fill that high-value role for the Pacers. He’s still a developmental gamble given his struggles, but a move to his more natural position on the wing might help in the pros. If the Pacers feel they can develop his offense, he could be a good addition to their supporting cast. — Woo

23. Brooklyn Nets (via Houston)

Carter Bryant, SF/PF, Arizona
Freshman | TS%: 62.3%

Scouting report: Bryant doesn’t play a significant role for Arizona, at just 17 minutes per game and a 16% usage rate. Still, he is making the most of his opportunities with strong efficiency (67% on 2-pointers), versatile defense, and plenty of highlight-reel moments. Analytic models point to him as one of college basketball’s best freshmen. And at the same time, traditional eye-test scouts love his physical tools, 3-and-D profile, and willingness to play within the confines of a Wildcats team flush with depth and experience, even when he has outplayed their veterans. Bryant could be a major riser in the predraft process as teams get a closer look at his talent in workouts, but a big game or two to finish the season, indicating he isn’t too much of a long-term project, certainly wouldn’t hurt. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: The Nets will end up with Houston’s pick after the Rockets exercise their swap rights to Brooklyn’s Suns pick. While it’s unclear whether Brooklyn will actually make all four of their first-round picks (it’s a reasonable guess they’ll consolidate in some way), the Nets should be looking to invest in developmental players such as Bryant, who has shown more lately after a slow start to the season. It’s hard to truly overindex on big, versatile defenders, particularly ones who can knock down an open shot. — Woo

24. Brooklyn Nets (via New York)

Thomas Sorber, C, Georgetown
Freshman | TS%: 58.0%

Scouting report: Sorber has exceeded expectations as a freshman in an outsized role for Georgetown, allowing him to showcase his strong feel for the game, defensive versatility, length, physicality, and skill level as a pick-and-roll finisher. Not possessing elite physical tools in terms of size or explosiveness, and lacking experience like most freshmen, Sorber has struggled with scoring efficiency, turnovers and defensive mishaps versus top-level competition, suggesting another year in college might be beneficial for his long-term outlook. The dearth of centers in this class, and what that could mean for his draft stock, might make it difficult to take that kind of risk, though. Upcoming games against Creighton, UConn and Marquette, as well as the Big East tournament, should shed more insight into Sorber’s standing and where he stacks up in this draft. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: In this scenario, Brooklyn ends up with back-to-back picks, and would select one of the draft’s more intriguing young centers in Sorber after adding perimeter talent with its first three picks. Sorber’s defensive instincts and all-around impact as a 19-year-old freshman portend some level of upside, despite a below-average athletic profile for his position. The Nets remain in the process of turning the roster over and could stand to get younger up front, giving them more latitude to seek trade value for incumbent starter Nic Claxton. — Woo

25. Orlando Magic (via Denver)

Adou Thiero, SF/PF, Arkansas
Junior | TS%: 64.4%

Scouting report: Thiero is having an All-SEC caliber campaign for Arkansas, and 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 the power forward position. When dialed in, he can also do some impressive things defensively one-on-one, racking up steals and blocks in bunches. Thiero’s lack of perimeter shooting (9 made 3-pointers in 22 games) 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. Arkansas will need Thiero locked in on both ends to make a late push at an NCAA tournament bid. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: With its second first-round pick (by way of Denver), the Magic could inject energy to the roster with Thiero, who is still raw as a player in many ways, but inarguably one of the draft’s best athletes. Orlando wouldn’t be depending on him to play immediately and could help him develop into a steadier offensive contributor in the meantime. He’s much closer to helping a team defensively at this stage, and his penchant for racking up blocks and steal could warrant a long look in this stage of the draft. Due to the wide range of outcomes long-term, Thiero should be particularly appealing as something of a luxury pick for a team holding multiple selections. — Woo

play0:16Adou Thiero soars for a putback jam for Arkansas

Adou Thiero crashes the offensive glass to throw down a dunk for the Razorbacks

26. Atlanta Hawks (via Los Angeles Lakers)

Alex Condon, PF/C, Florida
Freshman | TS%: 57.4%

Scouting report: Condon is playing an essential role for the No. 3-ranked Gators, as evidenced by his outstanding performance this past weekend, outplaying potential national player of the year candidate Johni Broome in a win at Auburn. 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, another season at Florida could propel his standing into lottery territory next season, but his impactful two-way play is becoming increasingly hard for NBA scouts to look past. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: Atlanta seems to have successfully reloaded its perimeter talent over the past few years, with versatile Jalen Johnson emerging as a standout, Dyson Daniels proving a major addition, and 2024 No. 1 pick Zaccharie Risacher settling in. Investing in a playmaking big such as Condon would be an interesting direction here, particularly with veteran Clint Capela headed for free agency. Condon’s passing ability and overall feel could help enhance lineups for the Hawks long-term, giving them a change of pace up front. — Woo

27. Washington Wizards (via Memphis)

Noah Penda, SF/PF, Le Mans (France)
France | TS%: 54.7%

Scouting report: We watched Penda put on an outstanding showing at the LNB Young Star game in Paris last month in front of dozens of NBA scouts and executives. Penda is in the middle of a strong season with Le Mans in the French first division, playing an important role for a playoff team, showcasing his strong feel for the game, defensive versatility, passing, and many positive role-playing qualities that drive winning. NBA teams will want to take a closer look at his shooting, quickness, and explosiveness in the predraft process as soon as Penda’s season is complete to determine his precise standing among his American peers in this class and what position he best projects at defensively. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: The Wizards picked up this selection from the Grizzlies at the trade deadline in exchange for taking on Marcus Smart’s contract, with Memphis maneuvering to save costs. Penda would offer long-term sleeper potential and profiles as the type of prospect Washington has shown a willingness to invest in developmentally, operating with the luxury of a longer timeline. Given the early stage of this process, it won’t be a surprise to see the Wizards target younger players, after adding Alex Sarr, Bub Carrington and Kyshawn George in last year’s draft. — Woo

28. Boston Celtics

Rasheer Fleming, PF, Saint Joseph’s
Junior | TS%: 64.8%

Scouting report: Fleming has had a productive, largely consistent junior season scoring efficiently (64% on 2-pointers) with some impressive highlight reel moments filling up the box score with rebounds, blocks and steals. His Saint Joseph’s team has had trouble stringing together consecutive wins, so doing what he can to drive winning and finish on as strong as possible would give Fleming momentum in the predraft process. Every NBA team is looking for long-armed big men who can stretch the floor, finish above the rim and make plays defensively, so removing some of the theoretical qualities to his profile with improved awareness and feel for the game would solidify his standing. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: The Celtics are operating in a title contention window and can help thread the needle between short and long-term value with a prospect such as Fleming. His physical tools and motor could give him a pathway to a spot role off the bench on a good team in 2025-26. Developing his 3-point shot and gaining more comfort offensively would enhance his contributions in a real way long-term. The Celtics would likely hope to draft a player who can add on-court value on their rookie contract, and Fleming would make for an intriguing depth bet. — Woo

29. Phoenix Suns (via Cleveland)

Alex Karaban, PF, UConn
Junior | TS%: 57.5%

Scouting report: Karaban isn’t having the breakout season some were hoping as a junior, again ranking fifth in usage rate for UConn and seeing his 3-point percentage stagnate to 31% in Big East play. That’s not ideal for the 22-year-old who doesn’t project as a great defender or shot-creator at the NBA level, and something he’ll have to improve on in the final couple of months of his college career. Karaban’s size, length, feel for the game and two-time national championship-winning pedigree are held in high regard in NBA circles, but finishing on a positive note by helping UConn bounce back from their recent slide (4-4 in its last eight games) would allow him to enter the predraft process with better momentum as a first-round pick come June. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: As currently constituted with a cap sheet built heavily around their star players, the Suns should be targeting experienced prospects who might add immediate value on a rookie contract. Karaban is one of the draft’s most proven players, and NBA evaluators are familiar with the accolades and accomplishments he brings, as well as his shortcomings. Plugging and playing alongside elite talent, such as Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, is probably a best-case scenario for him, too, reducing the stress on him to create shots and accentuating the ball-moving and shotmaking at which he excels. — Woo

30. LA Clippers (via Oklahoma City)

Jase Richardson, PG/SG, Michigan State
Freshman | TS%: 67.1%

Scouting report: Richardson, filling in for starting point guard Jeremy Fears Jr., posted his best game (29 points on 13 shots) of his college career this past weekend in a win against Oregon, leaving scouts to ponder what kind of season he might be having if used in a different context within the team. Richardson’s average physical profile (6-3, 185 pounds) and shot-creation prowess might limit his long-term upside, but his defensive intensity, outstanding efficiency (61% on 2-pointers and 41% from 3) and feel for the game give him a high ceiling to grow into as a 3-and-D off-guard. Returning to college and absorbing full-time playmaking responsibilities next season might be beneficial for both his long-term development and draft outlook, but it will be interesting to see how his role evolves now that he has shown what he can do. — Givony

NBA fit and intel: The Clippers don’t have full control of their own draft until 2030, meaning there are presently limited opportunities for them to swing on top talent. While Richardson has an intriguing stay-or-go decision, he’s the type of younger prospect with whom it would make sense for LA to target — he could return to college and conceivably play his way up the board in a year’s time. Assuming the Clippers make this selection (they can still trade it on draft night), it should be a best-available situation. — Woo

play0:15Jase Richardson drills 3-pointer

Jase Richardson drills 3-pointer

Second round

31. Boston Celtics (via Washington)
Ryan Kalkbrenner, C, Creighton, super senior

32. Charlotte Hornets (via New Orleans)
Michael Ruzic, PF, Joventut (Spain)

33. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Utah)
Ian Jackson, SG, North Carolina, freshman

34. Charlotte Hornets
Sergio De Larrea, PG/SG, Valencia ACB (Spain)

35. Detroit Pistons (via Toronto)
Maxime Raynaud, C, Stanford, senior

36. Brooklyn Nets
Alex Toohey, SF/PF, Sydney (Australia)

37. Sacramento Kings (via Chicago)
Boogie Fland, PG, Arkansas, freshman

38. Toronto Raptors (via Portland)
Miles Byrd, SG, San Diego State, sophomore

39. San Antonio Spurs
Chaz Lanier, SG, Tennessee, super senior

40. Philadelphia 76ers
Tyrese Proctor, PG, Duke, junior

41. Washington Wizards (via Phoenix)
Johni Broome, C, Auburn, super senior

42. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Atlanta)
Dink Pate, SG/SF, Mexico City Capitanes (G League)

43. Chicago Bulls (via Sacramento)
Darrion Williams, SF/PF, Texas Tech, junior

44. Utah Jazz (via Dallas)
Eric Dixon, C, Villanova, super senior

45. Golden State Warriors (via Miami)
Kam Jones, PG/SG, Marquette, senior

46. Washington Wizards (via Detroit)
Sion James, SF, Duke, super senior

47. Orlando Magic
Johann Grunloh, C, Vechta (Germany)

48. Washington Wizards (via Golden State)
Joseph Tugler, PF/C, Houston, sophomore

49. LA Clippers (via Miami)
Nique Clifford, SG, Colorado State, super senior

50. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Milwaukee)
Isaiah Evans, SG/SF, Duke, freshman

51. Utah Jazz (via LA Clippers)
Rocco Zikarsky, C, Brisbane (Australia)

52. Indiana Pacers
Bogoljub Markovic, PF/C, Mega MIS Adriatic (Serbia)

53. Memphis Grizzlies (via Houston)
Mouhamed Faye, C, Reggio Emilia (Italy)

54. Phoenix Suns (via Denver)
Cedric Coward, SF, Washington State, senior

55. Los Angeles Lakers
Yaxel Lendeborg, PF/C, UAB, senior

56. New York Knicks (via Memphis)
Zvonimir Ivisic, PF/C, Arkansas, sophomore

57. Orlando Magic (via Boston)
JT Toppin, PF, Texas Tech, sophomore

58. Cleveland Cavaliers
Koby Brea, SG/SF, Kentucky, super senior

59. Houston Rockets (Oklahoma City)
Malique Lewis, SF/PF, South East Melbourne (Australia)

Note: The New York Knicks forfeited their 2025 second-round pick.

Source: espn.com