All eyes are now on Dallas who will almost certainly select Cooper Flagg with the No. 1 pick.
• 2025 NBA Draft: Complete coverage
Editor’s Note: Find more of Jonathan Wasserman’s coverage of the 2025 Draft on Bleacher Report or to read this article on BleacherReport.com, click here. The views on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of the NBA or its teams.
(B/R) — We now know which franchise Cooper Flagg will transform after the 2025 NBA draft lottery.
The Dallas Mavericks were the big winners landing the No. 1 overall pick, while the San Antonio Spurs and Philadelphia 76ers also jumped into the top three.
Here are the full results:
1. Dallas Mavericks
2. San Antonio Spurs
3. Philadelphia 76ers
4. Charlotte Hornets
5. Utah Jazz
6. Washington Wizards
7. New Orleans Pelicans
8. Brooklyn Nets
9. Toronto Raptors
10. Houston Rockets
11. Portland Trail Blazers
12. Chicago Bulls
13. Atlanta Hawks
14. San Antonio Spurs
Along with full two-round predictions and pro player comparisons, we’re proposing trade ideas for certain lottery teams below. We’re also breaking down player fits for lottery teams, courtesy of B/R NBA Analyst Zach Buckley.
1. Dallas Mavericks: Cooper Flagg (Duke, PF)
- Size: 6’9″, 205 lbs
- Age: 18
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparisons: Jalen Johnson, Kevin Garnett
There won’t be much of a predraft process for Cooper Flagg. Aside from mandatory drilling and testing at the NBA combine, the No. 1 overall pick will likely only meet with the lottery winner.
Flagg should provide an instant rookie impact with his frontcourt athleticism, high-IQ passing and defensive activity, but his ball-handling, creation and shotmaking are improving at rapid rates. While two-way versatility should help Flagg adapt to any situation or fit, the on-ball development we saw at Duke suggests it won’t be long before offense is running through him.
Team Fit: The Luka Dončić deal obviously left Dallas without a long-term centerpiece, and Flagg is a perfect fit to fill that void. More immediately, though, his play-finishing will shine alongside Kyrie Irving, once Irving returns from his March ACL tear, and the Mavs’ defense will be all kinds of disruptive with Flagg, Anthony Davis and Dereck Lively II all filling the frontcourt—provided there’s enough shooting to throw out the jumbo look as a change-of-pace option. —Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst
2. San Antonio Spurs: Dylan Harper (Rutgers, PG/SG)
- Size: 6’6″, 215 lbs
- Age: 19
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparisons: Cade Cunningham/Jalen Brunson
Dylan Harper’s downhill game, elite finishing package and shotmaking capabilities have extended a gap between him and the No. 3 prospect.
He should be interchangeable between both guard spots thanks to a dangerous handle, 6’6″ size and 39.0 percent catch-and-shoot stroke. However, you draft Harper to initiate offense, put pressure on the rim, create opportunities and have a player who can take over stretches of a game with his elite driving ability and confidence pulling up, stepping back or shooting from deep.
Team Fit: The Spurs’ young core would be fully loaded if Harper joined Victor Wembanyama, reigning Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle and this club’s bounty of high-end role players in the Alamo City. But do the Spurs, who brokered a big deal for De’Aaron Fox in February, really want to add another young guard with an iffy jumper to the mix? Or will they turn their lottery winnings into another aggressive move for established talent? Stay tuned. —Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst
3. Philadelphia 76ers: VJ Edgecombe (Baylor, SG/SF)
- Size: 6’5″, 180 lbs
- Age: 19
- Nationality: Bahamas
- Pro Comparisons: Andrew Wiggins, Victor Oladipo, Iman Shumpert
Every team’s tier behind Flagg and Harper will include VJ Edgecombe. Front offices that value his 100th percentile explosiveness, shotmaking and defensive quickness could slot him at No. 3, particularly if they question Ace Bailey’s handle and tunnel vision, Tre Johnson’s lack of rim pressure and Jeremiah Fears’ shooting.
The draft process should only help illuminate his incredible athletic ability and improving shooting stroke.
Team Fit: The Sixers maybe didn’t get the grand prize at the lottery, but they still rank as one of the night’s big winners. Edgecombe, an S-tier athlete who should set a tone defensively and dazzle in the open court, feels like a fit for Philly regardless if this group moves forward with its win-right-now roster or pivots toward a reset around Tyrese Maxey and lottery representative Jared McCain. —Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst
4. Charlotte Hornets: Ace Bailey (Rutgers, SF)
- Size: 6’10”, 200 lbs
- Age: 18
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparisons: Brandon Miller, Michael Porter Jr., Rashard Lewis
Scouts sound mostly willing to look past Ace Bailey’s questionable shot selection and tunnel vision for the advantage created by 6’10” size and special shotmaking skill.
The bar was ultra high coming in, and teams aren’t likely to over nitpick an 18-year-old who possesses his unique ingredients for on/off-ball scoring potential.
A reliance on tough shots, poor assist-to-turnover ratio, low free-throw rate and disappointing 69.2 free-throw percentage will enter the equation. But Bailey still sounds locked into the top-five mix, and the workout and interview process should only help strengthen teams’ interest.
Team Fit: As long as the Hornets don’t mind staying down a little longer, they should see a snug fit for Bailey’s size-shooting combo alongside LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. Bailey has legitimate star potential, and Charlotte needs to up its talent level. —Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst
5. Utah Jazz: Jeremiah Fears (Oklahoma, PG)
- Size: 6’4″, 182 lbs
- Age: 18
- Nationality: American
- Pro Comparisons: Dejounte Murray
Once Dylan Harper is off the board, teams interested in adding more backcourt creation, rim pressure and playmaking will focus their attention on Jeremiah Fears. Scouts are anticipating the 18-year-old drawing top-five consideration, particularly after he averaged 22.3 points and 4.8 assists over Oklahoma’s final nine games.
Workouts will give Fears a chance to ease some concerns over his three-point numbers. His 38 made threes still indicate clear shotmaking ability, and he was a 42.6 percent mid-range shooter.
Unreliable range, a high turnover rate and limited off-ball skill will have certain teams looking elsewhere. But Fears seems to be a realistic candidate for guard-needy teams early in the lottery.
Team Fit: Fears brings plenty of creativity and confidence, both of which could mold him into becoming a high-end lead guard with time. That said, he takes a lot of chances that he probably shouldn’t, which can plague his shooting rates and turnover count. There’s a lot of overlap with current Jazz guard Keyonte George, for better and worse. —Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst
6. Washington Wizards: Tre Johnson (Texas, SG)
- Size: 6’6″, 190 lbs
- Age: 19
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparisons: Tyler Herro
Scouts believe Tre Johnson will remain in the top-five mix with eye-test approval on the self-creation and shotmaking that fueled his 19.9 points per game.
Workouts should only help his case, given how big of a role shooting plays in these settings, and how mechanically sharp and projectable Johnson looks.
Those scouts who aren’t as confident in Johnson’s upside question his ability to blow by or create for others. But there seems to be enough certainty tied to his perimeter scoring and competitiveness that there won’t be much nitpicking in the No. 5-8 range.
Team Fit: After loading up their defense in recent drafts, the Wizards are in desperate need for more offensive punch. Johnson could provide plenty. He’s an ignitable scorer who can hit from anywhere and free himself in space. If he fine-tunes the floor general aspects of the lead guard spot, he could be a massive get for Washington. —Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst
7. New Orleans Pelicans: Khaman Maluach (Duke, C)
- Size: 7’2″, 250 lbs
- Age: 18
- Nationality: South Sudan
- Pro Comparison: Mark Williams
Workouts should create a favorable setting for Khaman Maluach to showcase shotmaking touch and on-ball footwork that was mostly hidden by a loaded Duke roster.
At baseline, his 7’2″ size, massive wingspan and mobility will draw serious consideration from late lottery teams interested in adding play-finishing and defense. But Maluach pre-Duke tape showed more shooting range and scoring versatility, and flashes of that during the draft process could start to entice teams even further up the board.
Team Fit: The Pels got great mileage out of Yves Missi this past season, but things could go even further with Maluach. He could fill the same rim-running role, ensuring New Orleans always has a bouncy big in the middle, but the hope is Maluach could one day add some element of shot-making to the mix. —Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst
TRADE IDEA
- Pelicans Receive: Kevin Durant
- Suns Receive: No. 7, CJ McCollum, Kelly Olynyk, Jordan Hawkins, a 2029 first-round pick (top-three protected) and a 2027 first-round pick swap (via MIL)
8. Brooklyn Nets: Derik Queen (Maryland, C)
- Size: 6’10”, 246 lbs
- Age: 20
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparison: Alperen Sengun
Scouts who thought highly of Derik Queen before the NCAA tournament should only feel more confident after Maryland’s Sweet 16 exit. His three three-point makes and 27-point game against No. 1 seed Florida could have only helped turn some of the skeptics.
Queen’s skill level, scoring versatility and passing IQ have been strong enough indicators of offensive success that certain teams will be willing to look past his defensive limitations.
Team Fit: Queen is a unique prospect who could really impact the game with a seldom seen blend of size, scoring, vision and feel. It’ll take the right kind of roster to first let him spread his wings and later to supplement his strengths and cover for his weaknesses. With Brooklyn being in the blank-slate stage of its roster-building, the Nets could try to slowly construct something around Queen if they don’t find any quick-fix options this offseason. —Zach Buckley
9. Toronto Raptors: Noa Essengue (Ratiopharm Ulm, PF)
- Size: 6’10”, 198 lbs
- Age: 18
- Nationality: France
- Pro Comparisons: Jerami Grant
Big scoring outputs are becoming more common for Noa Essengue in the German BBL.
The easy baskets off rim runs, cuts and offensive rebounds have been consistent all season. But he’s looking more comfortable converting off self-created drives and knocking down rhythm threes.
His improving on-ball skill and rising offensive production are becoming notable draft storylines, considering he’s the draft’s second-youngest prospect who also offers exciting defensive tools and movement.
Team Fit: Essengue already feels pretty Raptors-y. He’s young, long and athletic, and he should shine in the open floor and do some interesting things on defense. He’s also a work-in-progress shooter who lacks polish offensively. —Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst
10. Houston Rockets: Kon Knueppel (Duke, SF)
- Size: 6’6″, 217 lbs
- Age: 19
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparisons: Cameron Johnson, Kevin Huerter, Corey Kispert, Saddiq Bey
Kon Knueppel has the type of consistent shooting stroke that could mesmerize during predraft workouts. And while shooting remains the No. 1 selling point, the pick-and-roll passing, driving efficiency and IQ plays create more versatility and perceived upside.
Any encouraging athletic testing numbers will be deemed a bonus, and it wouldn’t be surprising if Knueppel does surprise teams with his foot speed and agility.
Team Fit: If the Rockets don’t move this pick, Knueppel might find floor time easier to come by than it was for last year’s No. 3 pick, Reed Sheppard. Knueppel already boasts an NBA-ready blend of size and shooting, and with his advanced feel, he should be able to contribute to a winning team right now—provided he can hold his own defending in space. —Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst
TRADE IDEA
- Rockets Receive: Giannis Antetokounmpo and Pat Connaughton
- Bucks Receive: No. 10, Alperen Şengün, Reed Sheppard, Cam Whitmore, Jock Landale, a 2027 first-round pick (via PHO) and a 2028 first-round pick
11. Portland Trail Blazers: Kasparas Jakucionis (Illinois, PG/SG)
- Size: 6’6″, 200 lbs
- Age: 18
- Nationality: Lithuania
- Pro comparison: Coby White
Kasparas Jakucionis will earn workouts and consideration from top-10 teams, though backcourt logjams and questions about creating separation could also push him into the late lottery.
His 6’6″ size and scoring/playmaking versatility should help teams see a combo that can play off an established lead ball-handler like De’Aaron Fox.
While Jakucionis struggled from the field down the stretch, he mostly showed enough effective change of speed, creative shotmaking and high-IQ passing for scouts to believe he can compensate for limited athletic traits.
Team Fit: After developing a stingy defense under coach Chauncey Billups, the Blazers could try boosting their offense here with Jakucionis. He’s a crafty, creative scorer, and while he has a tendency to sometimes get over his skis, he might thrive in a multi-creator offense while splitting touches with Scoot Henderson, Anfernee Simons and Deni Avdija. —Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst
TRADE IDEA
- Blazers Receive: Lauri Markkanen
- Jazz Receive: No. 11, Deandre Ayton, Kris Murray, a 2029 first-round pick (top-five protected) and a 2030 first-round pick swap (via MIL)
12. Chicago Bulls: Asa Newell (Georgia, PF/C)
- Size: 6’11”, 220 lbs
- Age: 19
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparisons: Jalen Smith, Brandon Clarke, David Lee
The draft process creates a chance for Asa Newell to sell more scouts on his shooting. It’s an obvious swing skill for upside, given what a regular three-ball can do for a 6’11” finishing weapon with excellent paint touch and encouraging defensive feet.
Newell’s 29.2 three-point percentage wasn’t overly convincing, but he did convert 41.5 percent of his threes at Montverde last year, while his 26 made threes at Georgia reflect clear shooting capability/potential.
Team Fit: If Newell’s shooting perks up, he could be an ideal long-term replacement for Nikola Vučević. Newell may never be quite as skilled offensively, but he already plays with more force and bounce at the rim. —Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst
13. Atlanta Hawks (via Kings): Collin Murray-Boyles (South Carolina, PF)
- Size: 6’7″, 245 lbs
- Age: 19
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparisons: Julius Randle, Anthony Mason
Collin Murray-Boyles will give a team a physical presence who’ll put pressure on defenses with his inside scoring strength/instincts and face-up power/agility.
The passing skills and defensive foot speed create some newer avenues to upside.
Teams will be most interested in Murray-Boyles measurements and jumper during predraft, given his unique frame for a power forward who hasn’t shown much shooting.
Team Fit: The Hawks are forever hunting for stoppers to surround Trae Young, and Murray-Boyles is among the stingiest in this class. There would be an absurd amount of two-way playmaking packed between him, Jalen Johnson and Onyeka Okongwu, although the lack of shooting could make it impossible to play all three at once. —Zach Buckley
TRADE IDEA
- Hawks Receive: No. 6
- Wizards Receive: Nos. 13 and 22
14. San Antonio Spurs: Jase Richardson (Michigan State, SG)
- Size: 6’3″, 185 lbs
- Age: 19
- Nationality: USA
- Pro comparison: Reed Sheppard
Scouts admired Jase Richardson’s scoring efficiency and decision-making. He managed to produce consistently on low usage, making open threes, picking the right spots to attack and finishing plays with advanced adjustments and instincts at the rim.
But it also became clear that he offers more creativity than the numbers suggest. Richardson was one of the nation’s most efficient ball-screen scorers whose self-creation shined more and more as his role increased.
Team Fit: The Spurs could be overloaded with creators by this point, allowing Richardson to come in and shine as a play-finisher. He aced that role early in his career at Michigan State, before later upping his appeal with flashes of creation and playmaking. If he could do the same as a Spur, he could be a quick-impact reserve out of the gate and perhaps a backcourt starter down the line. —Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst.
TRADE IDEA
- Spurs Receive: Sam Hauser
- Celtics Receive: No. 14 and Malaki Branham
15. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Heat): Nique Clifford (Colorado State, SF/PF)
Size: 6’6″, 200 lbs
Age: 23
Nationality: USA
Pro Comparison: Cody Martin
Nique Clifford’s 21 points, seven boards and six assists weren’t enough to hold off Maryland, but his overall production and development from a year ago definitely won more NBA scouts.
He had come off as a prospect to watch this season based on his ability to play a Swiss Army knife role by finishing plays, passing, defending different spots and making enough open threes. But he quickly turned into a top-option skill player who can get his own shot or serve as the offense’s playmaker.
16. Orlando Magic: Carter Bryant (Arizona, SF)
- Size: 6’8″, 220 lbs
- Age: 19
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparison: Marcus Morris
Despite Carter Bryant’s limited role, production and creation, there will be first-round interest in an athletic, 6’8″ wing with clear shotmaking ability and defensive quickness/tools.
Teams may have to use their imaginations to picture serious upside, but Bryant has an NBA foundation and coveted archetype.
17. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Pistons): Nolan Traore (Saint-Quentin, PG)
- Size: 6’4″, 184 lbs
- Age: 18
- Nationality: France
- Pro Comparison: Lonzo Ball
Nolan Traore is in the midst of one of his best stretches of the season. He’s going to enter the draft with the field’s highest assist percentage regardless, but now he’s confidently stepping into three-point makes and creating for himself with visible decisiveness.
Shooting struggles and inefficiency caused by athletic limitations had scared scouts off. But the bar was awfully high entering the season. And now the 18-year-old has looked highly effective generating offense as a starting point guard in Pro A.
18. Washington Wizards (via Grizzlies): Egor Demin (BYU, PG/SF)
- Size: 6’9″, weight unlisted
- Age: 19
- Nationality: Russia
- Pro Comparison: Josh Giddey
Egor Demin’s playmaking at 6’9″ will sway teams to look past some of the questions around his shooting and turnovers. He was still a capable shotmaker and strong driving finisher using his size and ambidexterity.
Teams will study his shot and mindset during the predraft process. The mid-first round remains a realistic range, with his suitors likely to be teams that want another ball-handler who can set the table.
19. Brooklyn Nets (via Bucks): Liam McNeeley (Connecticut, SF/PF)
- Size: 6’7″, 210 lbs
- Age: 19
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparison: Keegan Murray
NBA teams have envisioned a clear picture of what Liam McNeeley offers and what he doesn’t.
His spot-up shooting, off-screen scoring and transition finishing should translate first and get the most use. He should eventually provide some ball-screen handling with the ability to attack downhill and make passing reads.
The athletic and defensive limitations just make it difficult to envision star-caliber upside, and he’ll need to grow his pull-up game to pose more of a threat offensively. A 43.9 two-point percentage is relatively concerning if we’re talking about a lottery pick.
20. Miami Heat: Ben Saraf (Ratiopharm Ulm, PG/SG)
- Size: 6’5″, 201 lbs
- Age: 19
- Nationality: Israel
- Pro Comparison: Manu Ginobili
In the mid-to-late first round, Ben Saraf should start to earn consideration from teams interested in adding more creation and playmaking.
The numbers and eye test show a guard with an advanced handle and passing feel in ball-screen situations. Teams will debate his shooting and defensive projection, but he’s been effective pulling up in the mid-range, and his competitiveness has looked like a plus.
Teams will be hoping to see him at the NBA combine, where they’ll learn official measurements and analyze his shot.
21. Utah Jazz (via Timberwolves): Thomas Sorber (Georgetown, C)
- Size: 6’10”, 255 lbs
- Age: 19
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparison: Onyeka Okongwu
A foot injury on a big guy will draw extra attention during predraft and medical reviews. Teams will be hopeful to watch Thomas Sorber work out, since he hasn’t played since February 15 and was often kept in check against ranked or NCAA tournament teams.
His finishing tools, post skill and passing were noticeably advanced throughout the season. He was disruptive defensively (2.0 blocks, 1.5 steals) and despite poor jump-shooting percentages, the confidence/comfort he showed to keep taking mid-range shots and threes was still encouraging.
22. Atlanta Hawks (via Lakers): Danny Wolf (Michigan, PF/C)
- Size: 7’0″, 250 lbs
- Age: 21
- Nationality: USA/Israel
- Pro comparison: Kyle Anderson, Hedo Turkoglu
Danny Wolf made a strong, final pitch to scouts against Auburn, finishing with 20 points and a number of eye-opening highlights that showcased his creation and shotmaking.
Though his three-point numbers might not indicate shooting improvement, he added a pull-up and step-back to his repertoire this year. A 7-footer who made 21 dribble jumpers, served as Michigan’s lead playmaker and still averaged 9.7 boards and 1.4 blocks is bound to entice a number of teams.
23. Indiana Pacers: Joan Beringer (Cedevita, C)
- Size: 6’11”
- Age: 18
- Nationality: France
- Pro Comparison: Clint Capela
Joan Beringer has entered this year’s draft discussion with a high shot-blocking rate and highlights of defensive mobility at 6’11”.
Despite lacking any real offensive skill, his physical tools, movement and effectiveness suggest the rim protection, shot-contesting and finishing should be translatable to the same role he plays for Cedevita.
24. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Clippers): Walter Clayton Jr. (Florida, PG/SG)
- Size: 6’3″, 195 lbs
- Age: 22
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparisons: Payton Pritchard, Cole Anthony
Confidence in Walter Clayton Jr. peaked after his 34 points against Auburn. The fearlessness and clutch shotmaking have scouts starting to buy in and ultimately look past the size questions for a scoring guard.
Despite struggling in the first half in the national title game against Houston, who made him priority No. 1 on the scouting report, Clayton ultimately did an effective job switching into playmaker mode. And then he came on late—which has become a theme—delivering a pair of tough finishes and a movement three to help bring Florida back.
Scouts acknowledge his stock is rising entering the predraft process.
25. Orlando Magic (via Nuggets): Will Riley (Illinois, SF)
- Size: 6’8″, 180 lbs
- Age: 19
- Nationality: Canada
- Pro Comparison: Kyshawn George
Scouts saw the best and worst of Will Riley in the NCAA tournament, which he opened by scoring 22 points on 12 shots against Xavier. He put on a shotmaking clinic late while also mixing in some strong drives earlier.
However, he was mostly silent in Illinois’ following loss to Kentucky, struggling to create separation inside the arc. Weak explosion and a negative wingspan are concerning from a translatability standpoint, and he doesn’t offer much versatility for games when his jump shot isn’t falling.
But over the last month, Riley has still looked more confident and decisive in terms of shooting and using his dribble to make plays for himself and teammates.
Some teams will see upside in a 6’8″ scoring wing. Others may see a lengthy NBA-ready timetable and bust potential.
26. Brooklyn Nets (via Knicks): Rasheer Fleming (Saint Joseph’s, PF)
- Size: 6’9″, 240 lbs
- Age: 20
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparison: Taylor Hendricks
A rough postseason for Rasheer Fleming was disappointing, though it won’t blind NBA teams from his shooting development and the archetype it’s helped create.
He was the only player in the country with at least 60 threes and 40 dunks (one of eight players ever), and there should be a clear stretch-4 role at the next level for a 6’9″, 240-pound forward who can catch-and-shoot, finish at a high level and disrupt defensively.
27. Brooklyn Nets (via Rockets): Yaxel Lendeborg (UAB, PF)
- Size: 6’9″, 240 lbs
- Age: 22
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparisons: Jalen Slawson, Enrique Freeman
Yaxel Lendeborg has become a hot name entering the predraft process after a historic season production-wise and some outstanding performances in the AAC tournament and NIT.
At 6’9″, 240 pounds, the versatility to attack, finish plays, pass, get second-chance points and make plays defensively should lower the bar when it comes to his shooting. And it’s still not out of the question that he can develop into a capable catch-and-shoot threat. His 25 made threes are almost twice as many as he hit last season.
28. Boston Celtics: Noah Penda (Le Mans, SF/PF)
- Size: 6’8″, 225 lbs
- Age: 20
- Nationality: France
- Pro Comparison: Nicolas Batum
Even if Noah Penda’s production seems pedestrian, it’s helped illuminate specific versatility the NBA often covets.
There will be plenty of interest in a 6’8″ 225-pound forward who can make open threes, pass, cut for easy baskets and react/move well defensively. Fit outweighs upside with Penda.
29. Phoenix Suns (via Cavaliers): Maxime Raynaud (Stanford, C)
- Size: 7’1″, 250 lbs
- Age: 22
- Nationality: France
- Pro Comparison: Alex Len
A loss to Kent State in the NIT ended an outstanding season for Maxime Raynaud, who made the second-most threes for a 7-footer in a season behind Lauri Markkanen.
He also averaged 20.2 points and 10.6 rebounds using his massive frame, touch with both hands, expanding shotmaking skill and capable ball-handling in space. Regardless of what teams think about his defensive projection or passing, Raynaud’s production and scoring versatility have become too strong to nitpick this late.
30. Los Angeles Clippers (via Thunder): Kam Jones (Marquette, PG/SG)
- Size: 6’5″, 205 lbs
- Age: 23
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparison: Malik Monk
Kam Jones didn’t have his best game in Marquette’s NCAA tournament loss to New Mexico, but he’d entered it averaging 28.0 points over his previous three.
The departure of Tyler Kolek helped unlock his playmaking this year, a key development for a 6’5″ guard who has 300-plus career threes and high-level finishing efficiency every season.
Concerns about age or upside possibilities should become less alarming late outside the 20s. Teams just looking for another ball-handler or additional firepower should start to consider Jones once the younger, flashier names are off the board.
31. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Jazz): Hugo Gonzalez (Real Madrid, SF)
- Size: 6’7″, weight unlisted
- Age: 19
- Nationality: Spain
- Pro Comparison: Jonathan Kuminga
Hugo Gonzalez has had some productive minutes in early May, though the bar has been moved fairly low. Only five minutes a game for Real Madrid creates a tough evaluation for teams that will be eager to learn more at the NBA combine.
Teams will admire Gonzalez’s physical foundation and defensive outlook, but there’s likely to be some guesswork when it comes to projecting his shooting consistency and on-ball development.
32. Boston Celtics (via Wizards): Adou Thiero (Arkansas, SF)
- Size: 6’8″, 220 lbs
- Age: 20
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparison: Keldon Johnson
Though Adou Thiero only played five minutes against Texas Tech after missing a month with a knee injury, the return suggested he could be good to go for predraft workouts.
His shooting remains problematic, but he’s improved his ability to create for himself inside the arc, a needed development that has turned him into a more versatile scoring threat in the half court.
Between the open-floor athleticism for transition offense, the play-finishing, defensive playmaking and now the tougher driving ability, teams could start to talk themselves into an outlier, non-shooting wing or combo forward.
33. Charlotte Hornets: Johni Broome (Auburn, C)
- Size: 6’10”, 240 lbs
- Age: 22
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparison: Markieff Morris
After putting up 25 points and 14 boards against Michigan State, Johni Broome would go on to play his final game for Auburn. While he had his way around the basket using strength, patience and touch against Florida, he did struggle against its bigs when forced to make his first move from the perimeter.
Projecting Broome to the next level, teams should be able to bank on him for low-post offense, second-chance points, passing and shot-blocking. His usage, value and role ultimately changes if he becomes a more reliable spot-up or pick-and-pop three-point shooter.
34. Charlotte Hornets: Drake Powell (North Carolina, SG/SF)
- Size: 6’6″, 195 lbs
- Age: 19
- Nationality: USA
- Pro comparison: Will Barton, Keon Johnson
Teams figure to put extra stock into Drake Powell’s NBA combine performance and workouts after he spent the year spotting up 49.2 percent of North Carolina’s possessions and taking just 5.7 shots per game.
Despite the lack of production, there could still be first-round interest based on his outstanding physical profile, defensive projection and 37.9 percent three-point shooting.
35. Philadelphia 76ers: Ryan Kalkbrenner (Creighton, C)
- Size: 7’1″, 220 lbs
- Age: 23
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparison: Colin Castleton
Ryan Kalkbrenner put together another productive season of post scoring, finishing and shot-blocking. He’ll head back to the NBA after participating last May and improving marginally over this past season as a three-point shooter.
The upside with Kalkbrenner isn’t overly exciting unless that three-point shot becomes a regular weapon at the next level. Teams will be evaluating his jumper closely in workout settings in May and June. But 7’1″ size, a refined inside game and defensive presence create a high floor that is attractive for a likely second-round pick.
36. Brooklyn Nets: Labaron Philon (Alabama, PG)
- Size: 6’4″, 177 lbs
- Age: 19
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparisons: Elfrid Payton
Labaron Philon could earn first-round looks from teams that buy his creativity, playmaking and unteachable touch shots around the key. It’s difficult to picture anyone reaching early on a 177-pound guard who lacks explosion around the rim and shotmaking firepower. Philon may ultimately work best as more of a Swiss Army knife player than a lead guard.
37. Detroit Pistons (via Raptors): Alex Toohey (Sydney, SF)
- Size: 6’9″, 223 lbs
- Age: 21
- Nationality: Australia
- Pro Comparison: Bojan Bogdanović
Alex Toohey finished the season doubling his three-point makes from last year. Betting on him means betting on his shooting development, given what it could do for a 6’9″ wing who struggles as a creator but thrives finishing plays off in transition and on cuts, drives and handoffs.
He will be a key player to watch during NBA combine scrimmages.
38. San Antonio Spurs: Tyrese Proctor (Duke, PG/SG)
- Size: 6’6″, 183 lbs
- Age: 21
- Nationality: Australia
- Pro Comparison: Shake Milton
Tyrese Proctor couldn’t get his shot going against Houston in the Final Four, but he made 16 threes during Duke’s first four NCAA tournament wins.
NBA teams will mostly be drawn to Proctor’s shotmaking, but there is enough tape of passing IQ to recognize he has more playmaking feel than the assist numbers suggest.
39. Toronto Raptors: Boogie Fland (Arkansas, PG)
- Size: 6’2″, 175 lbs
- Age: 18
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparisons: Bones Hyland
Boogie Fland made an admirable return for the NCAA tournament after missing the last two months. It didn’t go well—he shot a combined 4-of-18 in three games and only played nine minutes against Texas Tech.
He wasn’t convincing enough this year to sell teams on a starting NBA point guard. The size and athleticism questions popped up too much whenever he was driving or trying to finish.
But his ball-handling and shiftiness for creation and playmaking, and his reliable shotmaking, do paint him as an attractive scoring/playmaking spark for NBA teams to think of for instant offense off the bench
40. Washington Wizards (via Suns): Bogoljub Markovic (Mega, PF)
- Size: 6’11”, 195 lbs
- Age: 19
- Nationality: Serbia
- Pro Comparison: Aleksej Pokusevski
Bogoljub Markovic capped off a week of scrimmaging and practices in Portland with 16 points on seven shots against USA at the Nike Hoop Summit.
Up to 43.8 percent from three with Mega, Markovic hit three triples on Saturday while continuing to show off his rim running and passing.
He doesn’t block many shots, but his inside-out offensive production and skill level for a 6’11”, 19-year-old are becoming more consistent.
41. Golden State Warriors (via Heat): Chaz Lanier (Tennessee, SG)
- Size: 6’4″, 199 lbs
- Age: 23
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparisons: Seth Curry, Alec Burks
Chaz Lanier struggled to connect against Houston’s smothering defense, but he buried 10 threes in Tennessee’s first two NCAA tournament wins.
NBA teams that could use more offensive firepower will look past age and lack of versatility for such advanced shotmaking
42. Sacramento Kings (via Bulls): Kobe Sanders (Nevada, SF)
- Size: 6’9″, 207 lbs
- Age: 22
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparisons: Kyle Kuzma
Kobe Sanders was an easy standout at the Portsmouth Invitational, and now an invite to Chicago for Elite Camp seems likely. A 6’9″ three-level shotmaker who averaged 4.5 assists should draw attention. He won’t test well athletically, but he possesses a shoot-create-pass skill set that suggests enticing versatility.
43. Utah Jazz (via Mavericks): Milos Uzan (Houston, PG/SG)
- Size: 6’4″, 190 lbs
- Age: 22
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparison: Andrew Nembhard
44.0 percent three-point shooting, an elite floater game and an outstanding assist-to-turnover ratio should earn Milos Uzan mentions in every team’s second-round discussion.
44. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Hawks): Koby Brea (Kentucky, SF)
- Size: 6’6″, 215 lbs
- Age: 22
- Nationality: USA/Dominican Republic
- Pro Comparisons: Duncan Robinson
Koby Brea was silent during Kentucky’s loss to Tennessee, and the performance reminded scouts that he’s not offering much else when his shot isn’t falling. But some scouts think he’s too skilled of a shooter to let go undrafted.
The list of college players at 6’6″ to shoot 42.0 percent on 700 career attempts is short, and half carved out NBA careers or roles (Allan Houston, Dennis Scott, Jason Kapono, Kyle Korver, Sam Hauser, Steve Novak).
45. Chicago Bulls (via Kings): Alex Condon (Florida, C)
- Size: 6’11”, 230lbs
- Age: 20
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparison: Isaiah Hartenstein
There’s likely serious incentive for Alex Condon to withdraw and return to school, between Florida’s back-to-back title quest, the roster it just built and NIL money.
However, there’s also going to be NBA interest in a 6’11” big with finishing athleticism, passing skill and some shooting potential.
46. Orlando Magic: Hunter Sallis (Wake Forest, SG)
- Size: 6’5″, 185 lbs
- Age: 22
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparisons: Malaki Branham, Tim Hardaway Jr.
One of the draft’s most productive/efficient pull-up shooters, Hunter Sallis is auditioning for a scoring 2-guard role at the next level. For a 6’5″ guard, the lack of playmaking will limit his first-round looks, but consecutive years averaging 18 points , effective self-creation and three-level shotmaking should generate second-round interest.
47. Milwaukee Bucks: John Tonje (Wisconsin, SG)
- Size: 6’5″, 218 lbs
- Age: 24
- Nationality: USA/Cameroon
- Pro Comparison: Chris Duarte
After four years at Colorado State and one with Missouri, John Tonje put himself in the draft discussion by averaging 19.6 points for Wisconsin. He made 85 threes and 231 free throws (90.9 percent FT), as Tonje’s shotmaking and physical driving ability have become worth looking into for teams in the late second round.
48. Memphis Grizzlies (via Warriors): Brice Williams (Nebraska, SG/SF)
- Size: 6’7″, 214 lbs
- Age: 23
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparison: Johnny Juzang
Brice Williams could fall under the value-pick category for teams more interested in adding immediate shotmaking over searching for upside.
Making 1.8 threes, shooting 43.8 percent on pull-ups, 53.1 percent on shots after handoffs and 61.6 percent at the rim, he’s been an efficient three-level scorer playing on and off the ball.
49. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Bucks): Hansen Yang (Qingdao, C)
- Size: 7’1″, 240 lbs
- Age: 19
- Nationality: China
- Pro comparison: Andrew Bogut
Averaging 21.0 points and 11.3 boards in the CBA since March 19, Hansen Yang is putting himself in the conversation this year, especially with NIL offers expected to bring a number of draftable prospects back to college.
Though slower moving and lacking explosion, he’s developed a high skill level and feel with his footwork and touch shots from the post. Seventeen made threes make him even more intriguing for a 7’1″ 19-year-old averaging 2.7 blocks.
Front offices will likely want to get Yang to this year’s NBA combine, assuming their scouts haven’t spent much or any time in China.
50. New York Knicks (via Grizzlies): Darrion Williams (Texas Tech, SF)
- Size: 6’6″, 225 lbs
- Age: 22
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparison: Kevin McCullar Jr.
Despite having an off night against Arkansas, Darrion Williams still came up big late with a game-winning drive and followed by scoring 23 points against Florida.
He has scouts divided entering the predraft process, as there is love for his shotmaking, passing and post-up offense and questions about his athletic limitations and reliance on using strength.
His offensive versatility should ultimately be a big enough draw in the second round.
51. Los Angeles Clippers (via Timberwolves): Dink Pate (Mexico City, PG/SG)
- Size: 6’8″, 210 lbs
- Age: 19
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparison: AJ Johnson
With shooting a big question mark coming into the season, Dink Pate appeared to be making some encouraging strides early on. But his three-point accuracy fell off these last two months, and now that shot seems far from reliable again entering the draft.
Despite playing two years in the G League, he just turned 19 earlier in March. With a second-round pick, certain teams will still see a worthwhile project in a 6’8″ ball-handler/guard who can create for himself, get to spots and score in various ways.
52. Phoenix Suns (via Nuggets): Mouhamed Faye (Reggio Emilia, C)
- Size: 6’10”
- Age: 20
- Nationality: Senegal
- Pro Comparison: Usman Garuba
Mouhamed Faye’s defensive range is the draw, though he’s also used his size and quick leaping to rack up 59 dunks so far this year.
He could be tougher holding his ground defending the post, but the way he’s able to slide his feet and cover ground could help teams picture a switchable big who guards in space and blocks shots.
53. Utah Jazz (via Clippers): Vladislav Goldin (Michigan, C)
- Size: 7’1″, 250 lbs
- Age: 23
- Nationality: Russia
- Pro Comparison: Jonas Valanciunas
Vladislav Goldin went for 23 points, 12 boards and three blocks against Texas A&M, but Michigan couldn’t get him involved against Johni Broome and Auburn.
He’s become a second-round name to think about for teams with how tough his combination of 7’1″, 250-pound size and touch has become.
After attempting zero threes through four seasons, Goldin hit 11 this year, a potentially intriguing development that teams will surely look into during predraft workouts.
54. Indiana Pacers: Alijah Martin (Florida, SG)
- Size: 6’2″, 210 lbs
- Age: 23
- Nationality: USA
- Pro comparison: Marcus Sasser
Though there aren’t many successful, 6’2″ off guards, Alijah Martin scored an NBA combine invite with his shooting, athleticism and 210-pound frame. He’ll have a chance to stick playing the same role he thrived in at Florida—knocking down jumpers and attacking downhill.
55. Los Angeles Lakers: Rocco Zikarsky (Brisbane, C)
- Size: 7’2″, 227 lbs
- Age: 18
- Nationality: Australia
- Pro Comparison: Donovan Clingan
The draft process will be important for Rocco Zikarsky after an unproductive season that ended early due to injury. A mobile, 7’2″ 18-year-old with pro experience may sway some teams to gamble and stay patient. The last few drafts have shown teams interested in adding Zikarsky’s kind of size in the middle, even if they lack a modernized skill set.
56. Memphis Grizzlies (via Rockets): Jevon Small (West Virginia, PG)
- Size: 6’3″, 190lbs
- Age: 22
- Nationality: USA
Scouts sound interested in Jevon Small, whose production has drawn more attention to his shotmaking and playmaking. Tough shots off the dribble can hurt his efficiency, but an NBA team could see his creation, downhill game, confidence around the perimeter working for a bench spark role.
57. Orlando Magic (via Celtics): Eric Dixon (Villanova, PF)
- Size: 6’8″, 265 lbs
- Age: 24
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparison: Eric Paschall
There are a lot of questions about Eric Dixon’s fit at the next level, such as who does he defend and will he create separation offensively. But late in the second round, teams will at least talk about the nation’s leading scorer who just hit 94 threes at 6’8″, 265 pounds.
He may have become a sharp enough shotmaker for teams to see some type of stretch-4 and pick-and-pop role.
58. Cleveland Cavaliers: Sion James (Duke, SF)
- Size: 6’6″, 220 lbs
- Age: 22
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparison: Wendell Moore Jr.
Teams could want to take a chance on Sion James’ outlier strength for a wing or ball-handler. At 220 pounds, he’s a force downhill with secondary playmaking ability and accurate spot-up shooting numbers (50.0 percent).
59. Houston Rockets (via OKC): Nate Bittle (Oregon, C)
- Size: 7’0″, 220 lbs
- Age: 21
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparison: Jay Huff
With a career 8.1 block percentage, Nate Bittle gradually morphed into a potential stretch 5 by his senior year. There should be second-round interest in a 7-foot defensive anchor who hit 36 threes and offers plus passing ability.
Jonathan Wasserman is the lead scout and NBA Draft analyst for Bleacher Report. You can follow him on X. The views on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of the NBA, its clubs or Warner Brothers Discovery.
Stats courtesy of Synergy Sports and Sports Reference.
