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Cooper Flagg SF, DUKE

OVR RK: 1 • POS RK: 1 • HT: 6-8 • WT: 221

Sometimes it's better to be lucky than good. Dallas had less than a 2% chance of getting this pick and in Flagg the Mavs are getting not just an elite two-way prospect but an elite two-way player. He's ready to impact the team and help them win right now and be the bridge to the franchise's future. He can dominate defensively on and off the ball. Great shot blocker. High steal rate. Terrific passer. In his lone college season, he took major strides as a shooter and a creator. He's the future face of the franchise. A home run for Dallas. (Adam Finkelstein)

A

Rating: 98.5
Pro Comparison: Scottie Pippen
Summary

A prodigious talent who profiles as one of the five best prospects of the last decade. Flagg entered Duke as the No. 1 high school recruit and led the Blue Devils to a 35-win season that ended in the Final Four on a team he led that rated No. 1 in offensive efficiency and No. 5 in defensive efficiency. There are no obvious holes in his game and his all-around impact on both ends make him situation-proof.

About
  • Led Duke to 35 wins (T-2nd most in school history) while leading the team in scoring, rebounding, assists, steals and blocks.
  • Fourth player in college basketball history to win Naismith National Player of the Year as a freshman, joining Kevin Durant (2007), Anthony Davis (2012) and Zion Williamson (2019)
Strengths
  • Elite defensive skills with preternatural timing and instincts. Has a knack for consistently finding ways to alter and block shots.
  • Passing vision of a lead guard. Understands defensive schemes and reads defenses at a high level with great anticipation and has skills to execute intricate passes with ease.
  • Great shooting touch anywhere on the floor. Shot 38.5% from 3-point range and made 84% of his free throws.
Weaknesses
  • Has room to improve as a post-up defender. Flagg has a tendency to reach in an effort to make plays, which can at times put him out of position.
  • His post positioning as a defender can be inconsistent. At times he loses feel for where the basket is or doesn’t appropriately leverage his body between defender and the hoop.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.92 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 0 inch
  • Standing vertical leap: 29 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 10.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.64 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.30 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 35.5 inches

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

30.5

19.2

7.5

4.2

.481

1

2

Dylan Harper PG, RUT

OVR RK: 2 • POS RK: 1 • HT: 6-5 • WT: 213

The Spurs have an inside-out tandem they can build around for the next 15 years with Harper and Wemby. He's a big lead guard with a natural feel for the game and great playmaking instincts. He makes those around him better. There are some long-term questions about his shooting potential and durability. If he can address those areas, there are clear All-Star outcomes for him in San Antonio. (Adam Finkelstein)

A

Rating: 95
Pro Comparison: Cade Cunningham
Summary

Harper is the son of former NBA player Ron Harper and the younger brother of Ron Harper Jr. A former five-star recruit, he spent one season at Rutgers where he finished second among all freshmen in points per game (19.4) and had the sixth-most assists per game (4.0) among qualifying players.

About
  • One of two five-star recruits to ever sign with Rutgers as a high school prospect.
  • Earned MVP honors at both the McDonald’s All-American Game and Jordan Brand Classic in 2024.
  • Left-handed shooter worked out with two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo before the 2024-25 season.
Strengths
  • Savvy scorer who gets to his spots with ease. Averaged 19.4 points and 4.0 assists per game – both highest on his team – while making 33.3% of his 3-pointers as a high-usage player.
  • Crafty defensive playmaker. Very tactical with poking and prodding on defense and led Rutgers in steals.
  • King of pacing. Rarely plays rushed and can control a game with his handle, passing and scoring. Had six games of 25 or more points and seven games of six or more assists.
Weaknesses
  • Missed several stints during his freshman season dealing with nagging ankle injury and a bout with the flu.
  • Also missed time leading into freshman season with right knee injury, which required a procedure.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.05 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 10.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 6 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.07 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.16 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 36.5 inches

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

32.6

19.4

4.6

4

.484

1

3

VJ Edgecombe SG, BAYLOR

OVR RK: 5 • POS RK: 2 • HT: 6-4 • WT: 193

This is solid, not spectacular. Edgecombe is a spectacular athlete with incredible defensive potential. He can put a ton of pressure on the rim but he needs growth with his guard skills, particularly making spot up 3s and being a primary ball handler. I don't know how much he can help drive winning right away but he's a very quality longterm piece. (Adam Finkelstein)

B

Rating: 92.5
Pro Comparison: Victor Oladipo
Summary

A superstar athlete with five-star credentials, Edgecombe hails from the Bahamas after a stellar one-and-done season at Baylor under national championship-winning coach Scott Drew. He was ranked as the No. 5 player in the national class entering college and earned All-Big 12 honors and Big 12 Rookie of the Year honors in 2024-25.

About
  • A Bimini, Bahamas, native, who has experience on the FIBA circuit playing alongside fellow Bahamians Buddy Hield and Deandre Ayton.
  • Ranked as a five-star, top-five recruit, he was a stellar scorer at Long Island Lutheran (LuHi) who went on to earn McDonald’s All-American honors.
  • Finished his high school career collecting back-to-back Gatorade Player of the Year honors in New York.
Strengths
  • Dynamic athlete with explosive leaping ability. If any player bangs his head on the backboard in a future basketball game while dunking, it might be him
  • Smooth operator. Athletically fluid with a buttery shot to boot. Made 34% of 3-pointers as second-leading scorer for Baylor as true freshman.
  • Long strider who plays smart basketball. Knows when to cut off the ball and has a knack for getting to the cup.
Weaknesses
  • Limited scoring diet. 21st percentile finisher on dribble jumpers and 15th percentile among short shots, per Synergy data.
  • Showed improvement but needs to continue making strides with the ball in his hands. 43rd percentile on pick-and-roll as ballhandler and averaged nearly two turnovers per game.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.93 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 7.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 5.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.27 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.20 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 38.5 inches

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

32.8

15

5.6

3.2

.436

1

4

Kon Knueppel SF, DUKE

OVR RK: 6 • POS RK: 3 • HT: 6-5 • WT: 219

He can play right now. He knows how to play with other good players and can hold his own offensively. He showed it at Duke. And when Cooper Flagg went down in the ACC Tournament, he showed he can be the alpha. He's an incredibly skilled, very strong, very smart player. My concern is on the defensive end. He's not an elite athlete. He wasn't guarding NBA-level two-guards at Duke. How will that fit next to LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller in Charlotte? (Adam Finkelstein)

B

Rating: 91
Pro Comparison: Austin Reaves
Summary

A highly-coveted shooter whose offensive game is among the most lethal in the class, Knueppel was a vital Robin to Cooper Flagg’s Batman in his one season leading a 35-win Duke team to within seconds of a national title game appearance. He’s the prince of pacing who plays with poise and control.

About
  • A prolific shooter and scorer who averaged 26.4 points per game as a senior in high school and blossomed into a five-star recruit before choosing Duke over a number of other offers.
  • Earned an invite to the Jordan Brand Classic and was named Wisconsin Mr. Basketball, joining company that includes former first-round picks Brandin Podziemski, Johnny Davis, Henry Ellenson, Kevon Looney and Sam Dekker.
  • Playing alongside Cooper Flagg at Duke, he instantly became a star, hitting 40.6% on 3-pointers and finishing as the second-leading scorer on a 35-win team.
Strengths
  • Elite shooter. Made 40.6% of 3-pointers on 207 total attempts at Duke in 2024-25 and missed only nine of his 128 total free-throw attempts.
  • Undeterred when unable to create separation; rated in the 92nd percentile on guarded shots from deep at Duke, per Synergy data.
  • Smart player who consistently overcomes lack of athleticism with savvy. Plays with good pacing and body control, and rated 70th percentile on shots at the rim.
Weaknesses
  • Room to improve his versatility as a shot-maker. Very reliable on set shots even when guarded, but was in the 33rd percentile on dribble jumpers and scored just 0.826 points per possession on handoffs.
  • Needs to improve foot speed and lateral quickness. Frequently struggled defending at the point of screens defensively at Duke. Navigating through pick-and-rolls by adding physicality and speed will be critical for his role in the NBA.
  • Too much reliance on the right hand for finishing. Becoming more comfortable and confident as a lefty scorer will add more lethality to his offensive game and make him even more potent a scorer.
Combine Data
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 6.25 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 5.5 inches

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

30.4

14.4

4

2.7

.479

1

5

Ace Bailey SF, RUT

OVR RK: 4 • POS RK: 2 • HT: 6-8 • WT: 203

I give this an enthusiastic "A." His upside is significant. He didn't work out for them but Utah was not going to get bullied by Bailey's representation. They took the best prospect on the board. I believe he's a top three prospect in the draft. He's a jumbo wing, high-level athlete and tough shot-maker. If everything clicks, he could have the highest upside in the draft. Ace Bailey is going to have an opportunity to have an immediate impact. I think in the long run this can work out very, very well for the Jazz. (Adam Finkelstein)

A

Rating: 93
Pro Comparison: Brandon Ingram
Summary

The highest-ranked signee in Rutgers history, Bailey was a five-star recruit ranked No. 2 in the national class of 2024. He was a McDonald’s All-American and Mr. Georgia Basketball in 2024 before choosing the Scarlet Knights over Kentucky, Kansas and others. In his one college season, he earned Third Team All-Big Ten honors.

About
  • One of two five-star high school recruits to sign with Rutgers in program history. Highest-rated of the two, alongside teammate and projected top-five pick Dylan Harper Jr.
  • Parents both played college basketball in college. His mother, Ramika McGee, played at West Virginia; his father, Richard Bailey, played at Houston.
  • First name is “Airious” but he prefers to go by “Ace” — a nickname he’s held for a long time because of his ability to thrive in multiple sports.
  • Earned Georgia Gatorade Player of the Year as a senior after averaging 33.4 points, 15.5 rebounds and 3.9 assists per game for McEachern High School, leading it to a 26-6 record and a Class A title.
Strengths
  • Impressive size and skill for age. He doesn’t turn 19 years old until August 2025 and has a 6-foot-10 frame with fluid agility.
  • Scorer who can get you a bucket at any point in any game on any spot on the floor. Quick release and crafty with the ball, and doesn’t need a ton of space to rise and fire over defenders.
  • Reliable shooter — not just a scorer. He rated in the 80th percentile on catch and shoot opportunities as a freshman and was in the 94th percentile when guarded in such situations.
Weaknesses
  • Defensive effort can wax and wane not only possession-by-possession but also within the same possessions. Frequently can get caught ball-watching and lose his man. Needs to improve eye discipline defensively.
  • Worrisome free-throw shooting for a player whose best trait is his shooting. He made 69.2% from the foul line, which can be an indicator to future success/failure shooting from 3-point range.
  • As physically gifted as he is, often settles for jumpers and lacks aggressiveness/assertiveness at times. Can also tend to play off one foot when he does attack, relying on his athleticism. Developing more skill around the rim as a finisher will do wonders for his overall offensive versatility.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.78 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 0.5 inch
  • Standing vertical leap: 27.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 11 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.97 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.12 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 34.5 inches

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

33.4

17.6

7.2

1.3

.460

1

6

Tre Johnson SG, TEXAS

OVR RK: 3 • POS RK: 1 • HT: 6-5 • WT: 190

The Wizards had the last option of a clear top six in this draft. They tried to get Bailey and came close. If Johnson is the contingency plan, that's a good outcome. He has NBA-caliber size and will be able to score right away in the NBA. He showed tremendous growth in his efficiency at Texas. He made tough shots as the focal point of the opposing defense and made strides with his passing. (Adam Finkelstein)

A

Rating: 92.5
Pro Comparison: Malik Monk
Summary

A former top-10 national recruit who is on track to be the first one-and-done Texas player taken in the top 10 of the draft since Jaxson Hayes in 2019. Led all freshmen in scoring in 2024-25, averaging 19.9 points per game — most among all SEC players.

About
  • A Dallas native, Johnson won SEC Freshman of the Year in 2024-25 and was a Second Team All-SEC performer.
  • Was seventh nationally among major conference players in points per game in 2024-25.
  • His father, Richard Johnson Jr., played college basketball in the Lone Star State at Baylor before transferring to Midwestern State.
Strengths
  • High-level scorer. Had the seventh-most points on per-game basis in 2024-25 among all major conference players and shot 39.7% on 3-pointers in a high-usage role.
  • Developing playmaker. Needs to cut down on turnovers but showed promise as a passer and has grown his feel for the game to be more than a one-trick pony.
  • Electric quick-release weapon. Rated 84th percentile on catch-and-shoot shots and knows when to be aggressive in getting release off quickly.
Weaknesses
  • Not an aggressive attacker and can settle despite his big frame; this is exacerbated by his poor finishing numbers: 28th percentile at-rim finishing, 33nd percentile on layups, per Synergy
  • Has traits of a potentially impactful defender but lacks strength; at times he could easily be pushed down by bigger bodies and worked into position inside the painted area
  • Needs to raise comfort-level shooting from top of the key; struggled taking and making shots from this area as a freshman. Improving here – and eventually taking and making shots off the dribble/in transition from this range – will make him more dynamic.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.11 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 10.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 32 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.49 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.28 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 37.5 inches

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

34.6

19.9

3.1

2.7

.427

1

7

Jeremiah Fears PG, OKLA

OVR RK: 11 • POS RK: 3 • HT: 6-3 • WT: 180

I'm skeptical. Fears is one of the most polarizing prospects in the draft. There is bust potential. When you take a guard like Fears, you are saying you believe he can be a primary creator. I think his most likely outcome is an instant impact scorer on a second unit. There are major questions about how a guy who doesn't shoot it great from 3 and is ball dominant fits next to Zion Williamson. Can he adapt to having less chances with the ball in his hands? It's a risky bet given the archetype (Adam Finkelstein)

C+

Rating: 91
Pro Comparison: De'Aaron Fox
Summary

A sub-60 national recruit who reclassified up a year and played his entire freshman season at Oklahoma as an 18-year-old. Carried a top-20 usage rate among all college basketball players and led Sooners to NCAA tournament appearance while averaging 17.1 points, 4.1 assists and 4.1 rebounds per game.

About
  • Reclassified up one year and played freshman season as an 18-year-old.
  • Earned SEC All-Freshman honors.
  • Has an older brother, Jeremy, who plays at Michigan State. His father, Jeremy Fears Sr., played college basketball at Ohio University and Bradley.
Strengths
  • Bursty athlete who can blow by defenders with quick-twitch and speed. Uses his angles well to leverage his frame and get around defenders.
  • Elite-level handles. Has the game of an And-1 mixtape player. Very flashy with his dribbling skills and has tremendous control.
  • Has a tendency to be big in clutch time. Made multiple game-winning plays and shots as a freshman at OU. Ice in his veins.
Weaknesses
  • Had a 20.2% turnover rate at Oklahoma. Needs to find the thin line between flash and functional passing. Can struggle with lazy passes or misreads.
  • Ball-dominant guard with ball-dominant game. Big question about how his game fits if he isn’t the lead operator. Struggled to shoot from 3-point range and isn’t additive as a cutter yet.
  • Smaller, lanky frame. Can get into the paint with his pacing and handles with ease, but needs to improve his strength and improve his finishing ability.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.09 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 5.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 32.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 2.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.95 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.05 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 36.5 inches

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

30.1

17.1

4.1

4.1

.434

1

8

Egor Demin PG, BYU

OVR RK: 13 • POS RK: 4 • HT: 6-8 • WT: 199

I'm surprised. Everybody calls him a point guard, but he's 6-foot-9. I don't buy into that. I see him as a facilitating forward. To draft him this high you believe in the upside and believe he's a point guard. You don't take a facilitating forward at this point in the draft especially when he struggles defensively and with shooting from the outside. He mostly defended forwards at BYU. Who will he guard in the NBA? (Adam Finkelstein)

C+

Rating: 90
Pro Comparison: Josh Giddey
Summary

One-and-done talent from BYU who played with the Cougars after growing up in Russia. Demin played professionally with Madrid prior to his time in college and developed into a five-star, top-20 talent.

About
  • The Moscow native played with Real Madrid’s second team in Spain during 2023-24 season prior to one season at BYU and became a five-star recruit.
  • He was named to FIBA’s Europe 20 Under 20 list.
  • Was named to the All-Big 12 Freshman team and was an All-Big 12 Honorable Mention slection with the Cougars.
Strengths
  • Excellent frame for true point guard. Measured 6-8.25 at NBA Draft Combine without shoes. Needs to add muscle and weight but owns height (and passing; more on that in a bit) similar to that of a young Ben Simmons.
  • Sensational passer. Can make every pass thanks to great anticipation skills, high IQ and big frame that allows him to see over defenders.
  • Trustworthy lead guard with skills fit for the modern game. Can make every pass and showed promise running as the lead in pick-and-roll handler. Also finished at a very high clip around the basket.
Weaknesses
  • Shooting will be his big swing skill and is an area he needs to improve. Made just 27.3% of his 3-pointers at BYU and was a 24th percentile jump shooter, per Synergy data.
  • Hoppy on defense. Showed good effort and competitiveness on that end, but struggled maintaining his defensive positioning. Staying down in his stance and being consistent in his fundamentals may help him improve.
  • Hard to project on defense. BYU played a lot of zone and Demin, with his big frame, was sometimes asked to defend out of position. He needs to either improve his lateral quickness substantially, or add a significant amount of muscle, or both, to be able to hold up on that end. Suspect that is an area he will struggle with in the NBA for the duration of his career.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.93 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 10.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 26.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 9.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.31 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.33 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 32.0 inches

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

27.5

10.6

3.9

5.5

.412

1

9

Collin Murray-Boyles PF, SC

OVR RK: 12 • POS RK: 1 • HT: 6-7 • WT: 239

I like him more than most. The knock is he is an undersized big -- he's 6-foot-6 without shoes on -- and is not a 3-point shooter. But he is very long with a 7-foot wingspan and very strong. He plays bigger than he is and is an excellent processor of the game. He's very smart and versatile defensively. In Toronto, he's similar to Scottie Barnes but not as good. Fit becomes important when you try to maximize an asset. (Adam Finkelstein)

B

Rating: 91
Pro Comparison: Julius Randle
Summary

A two-and-done prospect who played his way from a sub-100 national recruit to a potential lottery pick in the span of two seasons at South Carolina, Murray-Boyles is an old-school big man with a back-to-the-basket interior scoring game who adds physicality on defense. He was an All-SEC performer in 2024-25 who dominated on the glass and showed impressive versatility as a passer.

About
  • A South Carolina native born and raised who stayed home to play his college basketball after starring locally at the high school level (his senior year was played in Utah after three years in Columbia, S.C.)
  • Earned SEC All-Freshman honors in his first season in 2023-24 and turned down a chance to become a potential first-round pick to return to South Carolina, where he became an All-SEC performer in 2024-25.
  • Led SEC in field-goal percentage with 58.6%.
Strengths
  • Effective and efficient interior scorer. Improved on his 59.7% eFG% in 2023-24 by finishing at 59.9% eFG% in 2024-25 for the Gamecocks.
  • Physical interior presence on defense. What he lacks in total height he compensates for with strength and girth. He’s a load to get by on defense and makes you work for every inch.
  • Has a nose for the basketball. Finished as third-leading rebounder in SEC in sophomore season.
  • Plays with great feel and skill. Willing and capable passer who can make smart reads out of the short roll and operate as a playmaking hub.
Weaknesses
  • Needs to refine shot beyond the painted area. Not a threat taking shots from 3-point range, a swing skill that could take him from a very good prospect to an elite prospect.
  • May need to improve foot speed and trim down. His bigger frame allowed him to bang down low against college bigs but being lighter on his feet and adding quickness could be a superpower for him.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.86 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, .75 inch
  • Standing vertical leap: 29.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 10 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.21 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.15 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 34.5 inches

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

30.7

16.8

8.3

2.4

.586

1

10

Khaman Maluach C, DUKE

OVR RK: 8 • POS RK: 1 • HT: 7-1 • WT: 253

I'm a big believer in Maluach. He has a long future in the league. He's 7-2 with a 7-6 wingspan and is an extreme lob threat. That's what he does best right now. He's exceptionally mobile for his size. He can run end-to-end and also move laterally. He has shot blocking potential but is not a big time shot blocker just yet. Phoenix doesn't have anybody in its frontcourt right now, so he can play immediate minutes and turn into a very good player for a long time. Good value (Adam Finkelstein)

A-

Rating: 90.25
Pro Comparison: Mitchell Robinson
Summary

Maluach is a center from South Sudan who fled the war-torn area at a young age and grew up in Uganda. He began playing basketball at 13 years old and developed playing in Senegal under NBA Academy Africa before becoming a five-star recruit. He spent one season with Duke.

About
  • Picked up basketball at 13 years old after growing up a soccer fan and flashed on the radar in Africa at a camp hosted by fellow South Sudanese sensation Luol Deng.
  • Attended Bethel Covenant College before COVID shutdown and later joined NBA Academy Africa in Senegal before garnering attention from the likes of UCLA, Duke, Kentucky and Kansas.
  • Played for South Sudan’s national team at the 2023 FIBA World Cup and helped his country qualify for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, where South Sudan narrowly lost 101-100 to Team USA.
  • Earned All-ACC Honorable Mention and ACC All-Rookie Team honors
Strengths
  • Game-altering length. Measured in at 7-2 with nearly 7-7 wingspan at NBA Draft Combine.
  • First Team All-Teammate caliber person. Cooper Flagg called him a “pure soul” and Duke coach Jon Scheyer said he’s “one of the best human beings.”
  • Frame and game of a future defensive anchor. Plays with great anticipation on the defensive end and regularly blocks or alters shots with his length.
  • Stellar finisher around the basket. Led college basketball among major conference players in KenPom’s offensive rating metric and rated in the 98th percentile on finishing at the rim.
Weaknesses
  • Still a very raw prospect. Has only played basketball five years and even shorter time than that in an organized fashion. Can improve his positioning and tweak fundamentals to become even more dynamic, which will come in time.
  • Unproven shooter. Took just 16 3-pointers at Duke, making four. Played with a glove all season because of hand injury, which could have affected his shot efficiency and selection.
  • Can be too passive. Playing next to Flagg and Kon Knueppel, he was too willing – and understandably so – to cede the floor to the team’s co-stars. To take his game to the next level he will need to understand when to be more assertive and play with more confidence, particularly on offense.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.44 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 6.75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 24.0 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 6 inches
  • Lane agility: 12.05 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.50 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 30.0 inches

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

21.3

8.6

6.6

0.5

.712

1

11

Cedric Coward SG, WASHST

OVR RK: 18 • POS RK: 3 • HT: 6-5 • WT: 213

Coward is a late bloomer who worked his way up from the Division III level and was headed to Duke before sticking in the draft. He has long arms, huge hands and a frame that should keep evolving. He'll provide Memphis with much-needed floor spacing and has the tools to be a valuable wing defender alongside Jaylen Wells. The hope is that those two can impact winning right away and evolve into a tandem the Grizzlies can rely on for years to come. He's 23, so this is a pick that needs to have an immediate return after the Desmond Bane trade. If he can contribute at the low salary associated with this pick, then it makes a lot of sense. (Adam Finkelstein)

B

Rating: 88.75
Pro Comparison: Dalen Terry
Summary

Coward is coming off a shoulder surgery that limited him to just six games at Washington State. But a strong combine performance assuaged any health concerns, as Coward put his appealing combination of size, athleticism and shooting on display. The Fresno, California, native began his career in Division III before bursting on to NBA radars during a two-year stint at Eastern Washington.

About
  • — Was named to the All-Big Sky team in 2023-24
  • — Nine double-doubles in 72 Division I games
  • — Committed to Duke out of the transfer portal before deciding to stay in the draft.
  • Turns 22 on Sept. 11
Strengths
  • — A behemoth wingspan of over 7-2 offers suggests Coward will be a versatile NBA defender.
  • — Shot 41.4% on 111 catch-and-shoot attempts in 2023-24
  • — Strong paint finisher
Weaknesses
  • Wasn’t strong as a pick-and-roll ball-handler at Washington State
  • — Miniscule experience playing against high-major competition
  • — Not an instinctive/natural passer
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.91 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 2.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 24 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 10 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.97 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.51 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 30 inches

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

33

17.7

7

3.7

.557

1

12

Noa Essengue PF, France

OVR RK: 14 • POS RK: 2 • HT: 6-10 • WT: 200

This is an upside swing, which is more justifiable at this point in the draft. He's one of the youngest players in the draft and one of the best athletes in the draft with his court coverage and leaping ability. He was playing pro in Germany and was impactful at a high level of international play. There is a lot to be encouraged about but he has to refine his game and add muscle mass to his frame. There's a lot of untapped upside on the defensive end and offensively he has a knack for finding ways to score and getting to the free-throw line. (Adam Finkelstein)

B

Rating: 89.75
Pro Comparison: Chris Boucher
Summary

Essengue is one of the youngest players in the draft and loaded with long-term upside. He’s extremely mobile and athletic for his size and while his game doesn’t yet have an obviously translatable niche, he’s been plenty productive this season with Ratiopharm Ulm.

About
  • One of the youngest players in the draft.
  • Played on French u16 and u18 national teams
  • Played for Ratiopharm Ulm in the German League
Strengths
  • Mobility and athleticism: His physical gifts are glaring with his court coverage, leaping ability, and fluidity. In total, he’s viewed as one of the highest-level athletes in the draft.
  • Transition weapon: He’s an obvious runner and finisher, who can make the type of dunks that immediately change the momentum of a game, and also capable of starting the break at times. He’s similarly effective as a roller and lob threat.
  • Physicality: While he has a frame that needs to be built up, he consistently goes to the glass and also has a high free-throw rate.
Weaknesses
  • Length and strength: While he’s athletic and physical, he does not have especially long arms and also needs to add a significant amount of muscle mass to his frame.
  • Unrefined offensive skill set: His shooting is improving and he can put the ball on the floor a couple of times, but his face-up skill-set is not yet reliable or on par with an NBA perimeter four-man.
  • Defensive tools exceed reliability: His mobility, court coverage, and twitchiness at his size give him clear defensive upside, but his tools exceed his results and consistency at this point.

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

1

13

Derik Queen C, MD

OVR RK: 9 • POS RK: 2 • HT: 6-9 • WT: 248

I think he's a top 8 or 10 prospect in this class. People criticize his conditioning and athletic concerns, and that brings implications on the defensive end. But he has arguably the best hands in this draft and is exceptionally skilled at his size, particularly as a playmaker, dribbler and passer. The only concern is the fit. It's questionable since Zion Williamson and Jeremiah Fears are also non-shooters. The spacing could be problematic, unless, of course, Williamson is on the trade block. (Adam Finkelstein)

A-

Rating: 90.5
Pro Comparison: Alperen Sengun
Summary

A Baltimore native, Queen was part of a legendary Montverde Academy team that included Cooper Flagg, Asa Newell and Liam McNeeley before developing into a five-star, top-15 national recruit. He chose to return to his home state to play one season of college basketball at Maryland under coach Kevin Willard where he earned All-Big Ten honors and was named the league’s Freshman of the Year.

About
  • Earned McDonald’s All-American honors and was named Co-MVP of the game in 2024. Top-15 national prospect and consensus five-star.
  • Was the league’s Freshman of the Year and named to All-Big Ten First Team.
  • Voted an AP All-America Honorable Mention.
Strengths
  • Ultra-skilled for a player his size, he has nimble feet and soft hands allowing him to operate in tight spaces and catch everything.
  • Gifted with grace. Not the most athletic big but a graceful ball-handler for his size and position who can make advanced passing reads and be a playmaker.
  • Dynamic scorer. Has an old-school post game that allows him to finish at a high level around the basket and with the ability to finish with both hands.
  • High-level IQ. Seems to process the game quickly and be able to see things before they unfold. Real potential for him to be trusted as a decision-maker on short rolls and something more – perhaps a playmaking hub – in the future.
Weaknesses
  • Defensive capabilities may be limited. Maryland did a good job hiding him on that end of the floor, but it says a lot that they made it a point to do so. Not the quickest mover laterally and may struggle defending in space.
  • May need to trim down bulky frame to maximize his potential. On the thicker size and may not stand up to a full starter’s workload if he is not able to cut weight and improve his conditioning.
  • Only a theoretical stretch big at this point. Took only 35 3-pointers at Maryland, of which he made seven (20%). He’s very much a throwback big in many ways with his efficiency as a post scorer but with limitations right now of a throwback center in his inconsistency to be a reliable shooter.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.27 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 0.5 inch
  • Standing vertical leap: 23.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 1.5 inch
  • Lane agility: 12.45 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.52 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 28.0 inches

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

30.3

16.5

9

1.9

.526

1

14

Carter Bryant SF, ARIZ

OVR RK: 10 • POS RK: 4 • HT: 6-7 • WT: 215

Bryant only averaged 6.5 points and 4.1 rebounds, but shot 46% on unguarded catch-and-shoot 3-pointers. He's a high-level athlete and multi-positional defender at just 19 years old. He's 6-foot-7 and sometimes Arizona would even match him up defensively with opposing point guards. There aren't many 3-and-D players in this draft but he fits that archetype. It's critical to build floor spacing for Wemby, Dylan Harper and Stephon Castle. They needed shooting and they got it with this pick. (Adam Finkelstein)

A

Rating: 89.75
Pro Comparison: Dorian Finney-Smith
Summary

Bryant is a California native who was a prolific high school basketball player and earned invites to the McDonald’s All-American game and Jordan Brand Classic. A top-30 national recruit, he signed with Arizona over Louisville and other suitors, and he spent one season with the Wildcats.

About
  • A prolific high school star who earned McDonald’s All-American honors, Bryant was a top-30 consensus national recruit.
  • Before college Bryant played for his father, D’Cean Bryant, played college basketball at Long Beach State.
  • One of four freshmen to have at least 150 rebounds, 35 assists, 35 blocks and 35 steals last season joining Duke’s Cooper Flagg, Maryland’s Derik Queen and Georgetown’s Thomas Sorber.
Strengths
  • Ideal frame for a big wing. Measured 6-6.5 at NBA Draft Combine without shoes and has a wingspan of 6-11.75 to go with 8-10 standing reach.
  • Projectable role. Showed immense defensive potential in a limited role at Arizona and was a 66th percentile weapon on catch-and-shoots, 80th percentile jump shooter and 92nd percentile at-rim finisher.
  • Prolific scorer in high school. Averaged 22.1 points and 13.7 rebounds per game and was named Pacific Coast MVP as a junior.
Weaknesses
  • Room for improvement with his ability to create on offense. Did not get a ton of chances to handle the ball or initiate at Arizona but looked uncomfortable when he did. Using his frame and strength to be an attacker can unlock a big piece of his potential in the NBA.
  • Made a respectable 37.1% of his 3-point attempts but has room to improve overall as a shooter given his usage in a smaller role. If he isn’t going to be a dynamic movement shooter he needs to be consistent when asked to catch and shoot in spot-up situations.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.14 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 11.75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 10 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.25 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.07 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 39.5 inches

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

19.3

6.5

4.1

1

.460

1

15

Thomas Sorber C, GTOWN

OVR RK: 22 • POS RK: 3 • HT: 6-9 • WT: 263

Coming off a title, Oklahoma City doesn't have rotation minutes up for grabs but the supporting cast needs to turn over around the team's stars. Don't expect much impact right away from Sorber, who has long, magnetic hands and has improved at a rapid rate in recent years. He should be able to really contribute in a year or two, which is what OKC is looking for. (Adam Finkelstein)

B

Rating: 88.25
Pro Comparison: Roy Hibbert
Summary

The former No. 46 overall recruit in the 2024 recruiting cycle by 247Sports emerged as one of the best players in his class during his lone season at Georgetown. Although his freshman campaign was cut short due to a season-ending foot injury, Sorber showed enough to be a likely first-round pick.

About
  • All-Big East Third Team selection
  • Averaged 14.5 points and 8.5 rebounds in 24 games
  • Recorded 2.0 blocks per game, which ranked second in the Big East
Strengths
  • Frame. Sorber measured in at 6-9.25 without shoes at the combine with a 7-6 wingspan -- tied with Ryan Kalkbrenner for the second-longest wingspan of any player in the class. Sorber is a throwback big man at 262.8 pounds who can use his size to create advantages against smaller defenders.
  • Shot blocking. Sorber was one of the best-shot blockers in college basketball. He used his athleticism and length to disrupt shots at and around the rim.
Weaknesses
  • Shooting. Sorber wasn’t a shooting threat at Georgetown. He only attempted 1.5 3-pointers per game and connected on 16.2% of those attempts. Sorber shot 72.4% from the free throw line, which is a positive sign for his long-term development as a shooter.
  • Long-term injury concern. Like any center who suffers a season-ending foot injury, there will be some concerns about it lingering into his NBA career. Sorber has a powerful frame, which makes the concerns tenfold. If it’s an isolated foot injury, Sorber will be fine.
Combine Data
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 6 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 1 inch

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

31.4

14.5

8.5

2.4

.532

1

16

Yang Hansen C, China

OVR RK: 43 • POS RK: 10 • HT: 7-1 • WT: 253

He's 19 years old and averaged 16 points and 10 rebounds with three blocks and three assists in the CBA in China. This is higher than anyone projected him to be drafted. This is a swing of epic proportions and comes on the heels of the Blazers drafting Donovan Clingan. Perplexing. Can those guys play together? We've had some surprises tonight. This is the biggest surprise bar none. If it hits, they'll be smarter than everyone. (Adam Finkelstein)

C

Rating: 79
Pro Comparison: Nikola Vucevic
Summary

Yang, a center from China, has made mutiple appearances for his national team despite being just 19 years old. His size and skill give him a chance, but his lack of mobility could make things difficult in a league filled with some of the world’s best athletes.

About
  • 2025 CBA All-Star
  • 2024: CBA Defensive Player of the Year
  • 2024: CBA Rookie of the Year
Strengths
  • Size: Although there are ideal times to go small in the NBA Playoffs, everybody still needs at least one traditional big, and Yang is a traditional big with traditional size and an array of moves in the post.
  • Passing: Guards can throw the ball to Yang and trust he might give it back, as he has a unique ability at his size to see the floor and make good decisions with the ball quickly.
Weaknesses
  • Slow feet: Yang has struggled switching onto smaller players in China, which doesn’t bode well for how he’ll do in the NBA.
  • Shooting: Yang might be a stretch-option eventually, but, at this point in his career, he’s a below-average shooter both inside and outside of the arc.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.01 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 2.75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 26 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 3 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.79 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.38 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 30 inches

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

1

17

Joan Beringer C, France

OVR RK: 23 • POS RK: 4 • HT: 6-11 • WT: 235

He's very young. He doesn't turn 19 until November and has only played for a few years. But he's just under 7-feet without shoes and has better than a 7-foot-4 wingspan. He's an extreme athlete with excellent mobility and good hands. His archetype is a rim-running shot blocker and lob threat. That's very valued in today's NBA. In Minnesota, Beringer gets to learn under Rudy Gobert -- and could potentially take over for him a few years down the road. That's a great succession plan at the center spot. (Adam Finkelstein)

A

Rating: 88
Pro Comparison: Yves Missi
Summary

The 18-year-old Frenchman is a true late-bloomer of a prospect who didn’t begin playing basketball competitively until after he had turned 14. While he’s still raw, he has intriguing physical upside, projects as a potentially elite rim protector and has been showing significant potential as a finisher and rapid all-around improvement as he learns the game.

About
  • Played for Team France U18 Team in the 2023
  • Led the ABA League in blocks while playing just 18.3 minutes per game for Cedevita Olimpija
Strengths
  • Elite physical profile with a 7-4.5 wingspan and a 9-3 standing reach.
  • Finisher at the rim with good hands, plus body control and explosive athleticism.
  • High volume shot blocker whose fluidity allows him to defend in pick and roll and transition.
Weaknesses
  • Extremely raw on the offensive end where lacks post game and relies on guards to create easy looks for him at the rim
  • Given that he just began playing in 2021, the game is still very new to him and he could get lost in the fast-moving NBA ecosystem that chews up and spits out young players
  • Timing as a rebounder isn’t great and he is reliant on physical gifts to make up for sometimes slow reactions.

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

1

18

Walter Clayton Jr. PG, FLA

OVR RK: 29 • POS RK: 7 • HT: 6-2 • WT: 199

He is an elite shooter. When you're talking about perimeter role players in the NBA, that's the most important criteria. He is one of the very best shooters in this draft and has the versatility to play both on and off the ball. He has the body type to defend and the physical strength to be a more competitive defender in the NBA than what we saw for most of his college career. (Adam Finkelstein)

A-

Rating: 85
Pro Comparison: Jordan Clarkson
Summary

Clayton was arguably the best guard in college basketball this season. A first-team All-American by CBS Sports, Clayton was the head-of-the-snake of the best team in college basketball. Clayton’s clutch gene and timely shotmaking helped the Gators win their first national title since 2007.

About
  • First-team All-American by CBS Sports
  • NCAA Tournament Final Four Most Outstanding Player
  • Averaged 18.3 points and shot 38.6% from the 3-point line
Strengths
  • Clutch gene. Clayton could take over games when it mattered late, especially during Florida’s NCAA Tournament run. He is a fearless shotmaker capable of pulling up from anywhere on the floor.
  • Shooting. Clayton shot 38.6% during his college career at Florida and Iona on 5.8 attempts per game. Clayton’s volume from beyond the arc increased from 7.1 last season to 7.8 during his final year with the Gators.
Weaknesses
  • Size. Clayton measured at 6-2 exactly without shoes at the draft combine. Clayton profiles as more of a combo guard at the NBA level and will be undersized for the position.
  • Passing. While Clayton has a high basketball IQ, he does tend to turn it over more than a lead guard should. Clayton averaged a career-high 2.4 turnovers per game. That can also be attributed to his high usage rate.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.81 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 4 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 1.5 inch
  • Lane agility: 10.52 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.14 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 37 inches

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

32.6

18.3

3.7

4.2

.448

1

19

Nolan Traore PG, France

OVR RK: 15 • POS RK: 5 • HT: 6-4 • WT: 175

I am high on Traore. He came into the cycle as a top five prospect but regressed a little bit – at least the perception of his stock did. He played better late in his pro season. He has burst as a playmaker with tons of creativity. He gets into the paint and has shown gains as a shooter. Traore at this spot is good value but I'm surprised Kasparas Jakucionis was not in the mix at this spot with Brooklyn choosing a point guard. (Adam Finkelstein)

B

Rating: 89.75
Pro Comparison: Andrew Nembhard
Summary

Long viewed as a likely lottery pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, Traore is next in a long line of French basketball talents who have been productive professionally overseas. He played for Centre Federal from 2021-24 before spending the subsequent time leading up to the draft playing with Saint Quentin in the LNB Pro A. During that time he earned distinction as the FIBA Champions League Best Young Player and ascended into one of the best guards in the class.

About
  • Traore is a born-and-raised French product who has been identified as an elite prospect for years.
  • In 2021, he was admitted to INSEP, an elite training institute in Paris, and he has blossomed since then into one of the best international prospects in the world. He is top 10 in the LNB Pro A in assists per game.
  • Has a brother named Armel who was a 2024 prospect who went undrafted, later signed with the Lakers and is back in France playing in the Liga ACB.
Strengths
  • Solid overall build for a projected point guard. Measured 6-3 with long 6-8 wingspan. Already accustomed to playing against professionals in France and has a strong frame.
  • Crafty ballhandler who can get to his spots at will. Capable of putting pressure on the rim as an attacker and has excellent pacing and feel.
  • Innate sense for knowing how and when to get his teammates involved. Overall a selfless player who knows when to call his own number and when the defense dictates he should distribute.
Weaknesses
  • Strong shooting finish to the 2024-25 with Saint Quentin but largely has underwhelmed in that area. Shot 30% on 3-pointers in 2023-24 and only marginally improved in that area by percentage in 2024-25.
  • Can be an erratic decision-maker. Capable of making every pass in the playbook but equally capable of making dumbfounding, sometimes simple and correctable mistakes.

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

1

20

Kasparas Jakucionis PG, ILL

OVR RK: 7 • POS RK: 2 • HT: 6-5 • WT: 205

I understand the concerns. His skill and his basketball acumen are his best assets. He has good size, skill and processing instincts. However, he didn't shoot the 3 particularly well and he had a high turnover rate. I understand why people are nervous, but you just put a chip on this guy's shoulder and sent him to the Miami Heat. This is terrific value. If you're a Heat fan, you are ecstatic about this. They're rebuilding without bottoming out. They're not interested in tanking. (Adam Finkelstein)

A

Rating: 90.5
Pro Comparison: Spencer Dinwiddie
Summary

A Lithuanian guard who spent one season in college leading a 22-win Illinois team in usage rate, points and assists, Jakucionis has an already-productive basketball career having played professionally from his mid-teens. He began his career with Perlas Vilnius in Lithuania playing in the NKL before several seasons with FC Barcelona — first with its junior and reserve teams and later with the first team.

About
  • Jakucionis is a one-and-done from the University of Illinois who was born and raised in Vilnius, Lithuania.
  • He played professionally with Vilnius in Lithuania and with FC Barcelona and has experience playing on the FIBA circuit, too, where he helped his home country win the U16 European Championship.
  • Named to All-Big Ten Freshmen Team
Strengths
  • Smooth lead guard who effortlessly gets to his spots and plays to his size.
  • Crafty scorer who consistently finds ways to finish. Rated in the 78th percentile finishing at the rim as an 18-year-old college freshman at Illinois and was in the 82nd percentile finishing in isolation.
  • Pace and poise the key pieces of his game. What he lacks in athletic pop he makes up for with playmaking and finesse, and he shows great promise operating as a primary facilitator.
Weaknesses
  • Turnover-prone despite flashes of passing excellence. Had a 25.4% turnover rate to a 26.2% assist rate and finishes each of his final four college games – including two NCAA Tournament outings – with six turnovers.
  • Limited success as a shooter. Shot 31.8% on 3-pointers at Illinois and rated in the 47th percentile as a jump shooter.
  • Could be role-confined at NBA level. High turnover rate may force him to become a secondary playmaker asked to play off the ball and make shots. But struggles shooting the ball dictate he may be best play-making. He needs to dramatically improve one, or both, of his shooting and turnovers to consistently stick as a winner.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.82 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 7.75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 28.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 3.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.99 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.22 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 35 inches

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

31.6

15

5.7

4.7

.440

1

21

Will Riley SF, ILL

OVR RK: 32 • POS RK: 10 • HT: 6-8 • WT: 186

This is an upside swing similar to Kyshawn George last year. Riley is a long-term stock as he builds up his body and gets more consistent. He has great positional size at 6-8 but he shot just 32% from 3. If you believe in the upside, you believe the shooting will click and you're optimistic about some of the playmaking he showed at Illinois late in the season. But that's a long ways away. He needs time to develop his physicality to finish through contact at the rim in the NBA. I also question the fit. Washington seems to have a lot of similar pieces. Most guys like this went back to college. (Adam Finkelstein)

C+

Rating: 85
Pro Comparison: Ziaire Williams
Summary

Riley is a 19-year-old tweener forward from Canada who came off the bench in his one and only season at Illinois. A former five-star prospect, Riley was 20th in 247 Sports' rankings in the Class of 2024 after finishing his high school career playing in the United States. He lacked significant production but has been tabbed as a potential NBA player since his breakout year in 2024. Riley reclassified — he was initially scheduled to enter college this year — and as a result, has solid stock thanks to quick development at a younger age.

About
  • Averaged 12.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, 2.2 assists and shot 43.2% off the bench while averaging 25.6 minutes in his one and only season of college basketball
  • Emerged in the final third of the season, averaging 16 points from Jan. 30 on
  • Big Ten Sixth Man of the Year
Strengths
  • Has nice feel for the game, which reflects in his touch around the rim on floaters, two-foot put-backs and contested layups
  • Though not an above-average defender, he isn't sloppy and wasn't prone to regrettable fouls
Weaknesses
  • Received a projected first-round grade despite his obvious shortcomings as a shooter. Is borderline serviceable as an NBA shot-taker at this stage
  • Has a neutral wingspan (6-8.75) on his 6-8.25 frame, which needs filling out in the next couple of years
  • Needs a bit more work on floor spacing and how to use motion and action to get daylight on his jumper
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.08 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 8.75 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 27.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 8 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.73 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.21 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 32 inches

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

25.7

12.6

4.1

2.2

.432

1

22

Drake Powell SF, UNC

OVR RK: 28 • POS RK: 7 • HT: 6-5 • WT: 199

This is a little bit of a reach. The upside is a 3-and-D wing but the offense is not there yet. It's a major work in progress. Good athlete. Good defender with long arms. High character kid. Not NBA ready right now. The theme of this class for Brooklyn is they seem to think they can develop shooters. If these guys can develop as shooters, they'll be fine. I don't think he'll help the Nets next year. It's only because of my faith in the Nets' player development program that I'm not being more harsh. (Adam Finkelstein)

C+

Rating: 86
Pro Comparison: Derrick Jones Jr.
Summary

Powell might have played himself into a top-20 pick a year from now if he returned to North Carolina, but the elite athlete opted to chase the NBA after a reassuring showing at the combine. If he continues along his developmental path, Powell could grow into a top-15 defender by the end of his first contract. A lot of work to do offensively. Good hoops IQ, willing to learn, important he lands with a team that can foster his development.

About
  • Averaged 7.4 points, 3.4 rebounds in 25.5 minutes per game in his one season at UNC
  • Shot 37.9% from 3-point range on 95 attempts (2.6 per game)
  • Former five-star recruit, ranked No. 11 in Class of 2024
Strengths
  • High-level on-ball defender with the size and length to excel as a ball-stopper for years to come
  • Has a 7-foot wingspan on a 6-5.25 frame, giving him a model body type for an NBA 3-and-D wing
  • Not a selfish player by any means, and seems to hunt the right shot more often than not
Weaknesses
  • Overall offensive game is not close to NBA-ready as a true contributor
  • Needs to work on tightening up the dribble, and in the process, being more of a playmaker by cutting into defenses
  • For all his defensive prowess, he's not a player magnetized to the rim. Must add to repertoire in first phase of his NBA journey
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.79 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 0 inch
  • Standing vertical leap: 37.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 7 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.71 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.07 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 43 inches

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

25.6

7.4

3.4

1.1

.483

1

23

Asa Newell PF, UGA

OVR RK: 21 • POS RK: 4 • HT: 6-9 • WT: 224

He's a high-energy and mobile big who can split time between the four and the five, though he's probably undersized to play the small-ball 5 in the NBA. Good athlete with a good motor. Plays with great physicality and showed promise guarding the pick and roll. He didn't show much growth with his shooting potential at Georgia. If that hits in the NBA, the pick is a steal. (Adam Finkelstein)

B+

Rating: 88.25
Pro Comparison: John Collins
Summary

One of four potential first-round draft picks from Montverde (Florida) Academy’s loaded 2024 squad, Newell arrived at Georgia as a five-star prospect with a high ceiling. A fluid mover with plus athleticism, he backed up the hype that came along with arriving on campus as a five-star prospect and helped the Bulldogs reach the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2025.

About
  • McDonald’s All-American and No. 19 ranked player in the Class of 2024 by 247Sports
  • SEC All-Freshman team
  • Averaged 15.4 points and 6.9 rebounds per game
Strengths
  • Good positional size to go along with plus athleticism and a frame to build on
  • One of the best finishers in college basketball; converted on over 73% of his attempts at the rim ranking him in the 95th percentile of PPS per Synergy.
  • High volume offensive rebounder despite spending a lot of time away from the rim because of how many three pointers he takes
Weaknesses
  • With just a 6-11.25” wingspan at the NBA Draft Combine, he’s not particularly big for a player likely to spend some time playing center as he irons out his faceup game.
  • Only an average rim protector at best due to his struggles with physicality.
  • Settles for way too many deep jump-shots (2.7 3-pointers per game) when he’s a poor shooter (29.2%) from deep.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.78 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 11.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 29.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 11.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.95 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.26 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 36.5 inches

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

29

15.4

6.9

0.9

.543

1

24

Nique Clifford SF, COLOST

OVR RK: 16 • POS RK: 5 • HT: 6-5 • WT: 202

It's a very solid pick. Clifford is a versatile wing and a good athlete on the perimeter. He's an excellent perimeter rebounder and a good passer and cutter. He became an NBA prospect because he made substantial gains with his shooting. If that's sustainable, then he'll prove to be a very solid NBA player for years to come. (Adam Finkelstein)

B

Rating: 89
Pro Comparison: Josh Hart
Summary

Clifford is already 23 years old after playing five years of college basketball. He is perceived as a plug-and-play wing who could be a nice complimentary two-way piece and crack a rotation sooner rather than later, especially if the shooting gains we saw recently prove to be sustainable.

About
  • Played 3 seasons at Colorado before transferring to Colorado State.
  • Averaged 18.9 points, 9.6 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 1.2 steals with 50/38/78 shooting splits last season.
  • Named first-team and defensive team All-Mountain West and was MVP of the MW Tournament in his final season.
Strengths
  • Versatile defender: He can guard multiple positions and also has good playmaking instincts on that end of the floor.
  • Perimeter rebounding: His 9.6 rebounds per game, and 8.1 on the defensive glass, were among the best in college basketball last year, especially for a wing.
  • Cutting, passing, and pull-up shooting: While the 3-point shooting is the single most important offensive variable, he owns a variety of complimenting skills on that end of the floor.
Weaknesses
  • One of the oldest prospects in the draft: He already turned 23 years old and so he’s 5 years older than other first-round candidates.
  • Lack of perceived upside: He took on more playmaking responsibilities this year at Colorado State, but that isn’t expected to be his role in the NBA.
  • Uncertainty about his long-term shooting consistency: While his shooting improved in the last two years at Colorado State, he was still streaky and had a somewhat inconsistent release after retooling his mechanics at CSU.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.96 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 8 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 31 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 6.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.87 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.07 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 35.5 inches

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

35.4

18.9

9.6

4.4

.496

1

25

Jase Richardson SG, MICHST

OVR RK: 19 • POS RK: 4 • HT: 6-1 • WT: 178

The Magic needed backcourt depth and floor spacing with shooting after the Desmond Bane trade. Richardson checks both boxes. He scores in many different spots and did so with efficiency. He even finished well at the rim despite his size. He can play on and off the ball and score at various levels, but he was smaller than expected at the combine. He's just under 6-1, so being a combo guard at that size is going to be tough at the NBA level. Can he develop into a point guard? (Adam Finkelstein)

B+

Rating: 88.5
Pro Comparison: Monte Morris
Summary

A year ahead of the pace, if not two. Richardson emerged in the second half of last season, when he was inserted as a starter in Michigan State's lineup. Has pro pedigree (father Jason played 14 years in the NBA) and played his way to top-20 stock in the 2025 class. Richardson plays left-handed and his floor is higher than a lot of players in his draft range. He's been raised to be ready to find a way to make it in the NBA.

About
  • Averaged 12.1 points for the season, but was at 16 points in his final 15 games with the Spartans
  • A former high-end four-star prospect who became MSU's most important player in the final six weeks of the season
  • Was named All-Big Ten Third Team
Strengths
  • Craftiness as a playmaker and someone comfortable at going with his own speed
  • Quality 3-point shooter on sufficient freshman-year sample size (41.2% on 114 attempts)
  • Mature for his age, a plus in the huddle and the locker room
Weaknesses
  • Has to hit the weight room and get stronger. Will likely be weathered by NBA physicality in Year 1
  • Frequent critique is his lack of right-handed ability. Needs to work on dexterity to enhance his effectiveness against NBA defenders
  • Needs to form a bit more into the combo point guard he'll have to be in order to grow into an NBA starter
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 3.08 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 6 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 2.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 10.97 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.22 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 38 inches

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

25.2

12.1

3.3

1.9

.493

1

26

Ben Saraf PG, Israel

OVR RK: 25 • POS RK: 6 • HT: 6-5 • WT: 200

Saraf is a jumbo southpaw guard with a strong frame. He's one of the most creative passers off the dribble in the draft. He's very creative and he puts pressure on the rim. The question is the shooting, which is a trend with these international guards that Brooklyn has selected tonight. (Adam Finkelstein)

B

Rating: 86
Pro Comparison: D'Angelo Russell
Summary

Saraf is a point guard from Israel who could eventually play on or off the ball if the perimeter jumper improves. His parents were both professionals, which likely contributes to his impressive feel for the game. A questionable jumper and concerns about his strength and athleticism are real things — but the upside should have Saraf selected in the first round.

About
  • Was MVP of the FIBA U18 European Championship in 2024
  • Named the Israeli League Premier Rising Star in 2023-24
  • Earned Israeli National League Sixth Man of the Year honors in 2023
Strengths
  • Positional size: Saraf will be among the latest taller-than-normal point guards to enter the league, ensuring he won’t be overwhelmed physically the way little guards often are in this era of the NBA.
  • Ability to change speeds: Saraf makes up for a lack of athleticism by changing speeds well off the dribble to keep defenders off-balance.
  • High basketball IQ: Saraf plays the game intelligently the way young prospects often do after being raised by multiple former professional players.
Weaknesses
  • Lack of strength: Saraf is only about 200 pounds and not particularly strong in his upper body, which leads to him sometimes struggling to absorb contact on drives.
  • 3-point shooting: Saraf is good in the midrange but struggles from deep and only made 30% of his 3-point teams over the past year in Germany.
  • Off-hand dribbling: Saraf is a crafty lefty but one who really struggles to do much with his right hand — whether that’s dribble, pass or shoot.

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

1

27

Danny Wolf PF, MICH

OVR RK: 20 • POS RK: 3 • HT: 6-11 • WT: 252

Wolf is highly skilled at nearly 7-feet tall, especially as a ball handler and passer. He was Michigan's primary initiator for significant stretches last season and was a real playmaker. He has terrific hands and terrific touch and his ability to pass the ball is very rare at his size. He didn't shoot it well from outside in college, a common theme with the picks from the Nets in Round 1. There are also questions about his defense. (Adam Finkelstein)

B+

Rating: 88.5
Pro Comparison: Kelly Olynyk
Summary

Danny Wolf is a 7-foot center with guard skills who helped Michigan win the Big Ten Tournament in March after spending the previous two seasons at Yale. He can dribble. He can pass. He can shoot. And he projects as a stretch-the-floor big and above-average rebounder at the next level.

About
  • A Second Team All-Big Ten selection in 2024-25
  • In 2023-24 was named to the All-Ivy League First Team
  • Was named the Ivy League Tournament MVP in 2024
Strengths
  • Skill: Wolf can dribble, pass and shoot unusually well for a player his size and is comfortable making plays for himself or others.
  • Rebounding: Wolf had a defensive-rebounding rate of 25% at Michigan that ranked top-15 nationally among all power-conference players.
  • Motor: Wolf consistently plays hard on both ends of the court, which helps make up for a lack of athleticism and lateral quickness.
Weaknesses
  • Athleticism: As much as playing in space is a strength for Wolf, his ability to guard in space is an area of concern.
  • Turnovers: Wolf is a gifted passer but also a reckless one, evidence being his 3.2 turnovers per game at Michigan that accounted for the team’s highest turnover-rate.
  • Rim-protection: Despite standing 7-feet tall, Wolf offers little in the way of true rim-protection and averaged just 1.1 blocks per game in three years of college basketball.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.91 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 2.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 24 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 1 inch
  • Lane agility: 11.26 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.51 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 30 inches

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

30.5

13.2

9.7

3.6

.497

1

28

Hugo Gonzalez SF, Spain

OVR RK: 30 • POS RK: 8 • HT: 6-6 • WT: 205

Gonzalez had a big early reputation in the Real Madrid system. He's a big wing with solid size and a high motor and defensive upside, especially on the ball. The defense is the intrigue here as his best offense is in transition. The shooting is the swing skill -- he shot just 29% last year. Boston shoots a lot of threes, so he'll need to show improvement there to really stick with the Celtics. (Adam Finkelstein)

B-

Rating: 85
Pro Comparison: Ron Holland
Summary

Gonzalez came up the ranks as a decorated young prospect in Spain, but has been relegated to a largely bench role in the last two years for Real Madrid. He has a long-standing reputation and NBA caliber physical tools, but some significant questions about how his game will translate, especially on the offensive end.

About
  • Began playing in the Real Madrid system back in 2019.
  • Made multiple FIBA appearances with Spain, beginning with 2022 u17 World Championships.
  • Played 27 EuroLeague games this season and averaged 1.9 points and 1.4 rebounds in 8 minutes/game.
Strengths
  • Physical tools: He has solid positional size for a wing at 6-6, a strong 210-pound frame, and good athleticism, particularly vertically.
  • High motor and defense: Gonzalez plays extremely hard, especially on the defensive end, and that’s where he has both the most immediate value and long-term upside as both a playmaker and potentially versatile on-ball defender.
  • Cutting and rebounding: He’s a very good cutter away from the ball offensively and also very active on the offensive glass.
Weaknesses
  • Shooting: He made only 29% of his 3-pointers this season, which is on par with what we’ve historically seen from him, and also has a more elongated natural release.
  • Overall guard skills: In addition to the shooting, he lacks much wiggle as a ball-handler and can get sped-up into being an inconsistent decision-maker with the ball.
  • Offensive role: There’s not a glaringly translatable niche on this end right now, particularly when the game slows down. The bottom line may be if he makes spot-up 3-pointers, he’s a long-term NBA player. If he doesn’t, he might not be.

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

1

29

Liam McNeeley SF, UCONN

OVR RK: 17 • POS RK: 6 • HT: 6-7 • WT: 215

This is a steal for Charlotte. At pick No. 29, you're looking for a surefire NBA player. McNeeley is that. He's a competitive 6-8 wing and was the primary offensive option for UConn when healthy for much of last season. This is terrific value. There's little doubt in my mind that he's a better shooter than what we saw this year. I think he's a pro for 10-plus years. (Adam Finkelstein)

A

Rating: 88.75
Pro Comparison: Deni Avdija
Summary

McNeely is a 6-foot-7 sharpshooter with a strong feel and IQ for the game but is limited athletically. While shooting is his calling card, he is also a reliable decision maker and passer who can operate as a connector and initiator on offense bringing versatility to the offensive end of the floor.

About
  • Former five-star recruit, gold medalist, McDonald’s All American and high school national champion.
  • 2024-25 Big East Freshman of the Year
  • All Big East Third Team Selection
Strengths
  • Shooting: shot 35.4% from 3-point range in Big East competition
  • Versatility: comfortable handling the basketball to initiate offense, can play in ball screens and is a good passer
  • Feel and IQ for the game
Weaknesses
  • Only a theoretical shooter at this stage. Struggled to shoot in one season at UConn, hitting just 31.7% on 3s while rating out in the 50th percentile on jumpers.
  • Struggled finishing at the rim in college, Rated in the 12th percentile on at-rim attempts, per Synergy data. Needs to become more dynamic around the basket and develop his finishing package.
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.75 seconds
  • Wingspan: 6 feet, 8.5 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 30.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 8 feet, 3.5 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.11 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.16 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 36.5 inches

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

32.1

14.5

6

2.3

.381

1

30

Yanic Konan Niederhauser C, PSU

OVR RK: 33 • POS RK: 7 • HT: 6-11 • WT: 243

Seven-footers who are high-level athletes are pros until proven otherwise. Niederhauser was a big winner at the combine. He played well and opened eyes with his athletic testing. He's got legit size and athleticism. He fits the NBA game perhaps better than he did college. He's a rim runner and lob threat. He could end up being a good backup big for the Clippers. (Adam Finkelstein)

B

Rating: 84
Pro Comparison: Nicolas Claxton
Summary

An explosive big man who swats shots and throws down dunks as an effective roll guy. Those traits should help him find a home in the league. If Niederhauser can channel that athleticism into effective perimeter defense and develop an outside shooting stroke, he could be a starting center.

About
  • — Led the Big Ten in blocks per game at 2.3 last season
  • — Was a 2024-25 All-Big Ten honorable mention selection
  • — Has represented Switzerland in international play
Strengths
  • — Good leaper for his size with the athleticism to recover and block shots
  • — Excellent lob threat
  • — Has long-term upside as a switchable defender on the perimeter
Weaknesses
  • — Unpolished as a traditional post player
  • — Shot just 21.6% from 3-point range on limited volume in college
  • — Turns 23 before the end of his rookie year
Combine Data
  • 20-yard shuttle run: 2.84 seconds
  • Wingspan: 7 feet, 3.25 inches
  • Standing vertical leap: 33.5 inches
  • Standing reach: 9 feet, 3 inches
  • Lane agility: 11.45 seconds
  • Three quarter sprint: 3.2 seconds
  • Max vertical leap: 37 inches

2024-25 College Stats

MPG

PPG

RPG

APG

FG%

25.1

12.9

6.3

0.8

.611

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