Dylan Harper is projected to go No. 2 overall in the latest Bleacher Report Mock Draft.
• 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) — The 2025 NBA Draft Combine was held in Chicago this past week, and while Cooper Flagg remains the consensus No. 1 overall prospect, we’ve made substantial moves to our Mock Draft since last Monday’s Lottery reveal.
Along with full two-round predictions and pro player comparisons, we’re proposing trade ideas for certain first-round picks below.
We’re also breaking down player fits for lottery teams.
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 Dallas Mavericks.
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 trade obviously left Dallas without a long-term centerpiece, and Flagg is a perfect fit to fill that void. More immediately, 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% 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
TRADE IDEA
- Spurs Receive: Jaylen Brown
- Celtics Receive: No. 2 pick, No. 14 pick, Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, Jeremy Sochan and a 2030 first-round pick (via SAS, DAL or MIN)
3. Philadelphia 76ers: 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: With Paul George on the decline, the Sixers could look to Bailey to add more scoring and shotmaking around the perimeter.
TRADE IDEA
- Philadelphia 76ers Receive: Kevin Durant
- Phoenix Suns Receive: No. 3 pick, Paul George and a 2030 first-round pick (top-three protected)
4. Charlotte Hornets: 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: With offense running through LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller, Edgecombe gives Charlotte a different type of scorer and defender with his rim pressure and quickness.
5. Utah Jazz: 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: With Keyonte George and Isaiah Collier handling the ball, Johnson gives Utah a pure shotmaker who may have enough size to play either wing spot.
6. Washington Wizards: 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 3-point numbers. His 38 made threes still indicate clear shotmaking ability, and he was a 42.6% 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. The Wizards should value upside and can afford to let the 18-year-old play through missed threes and early turnovers —Zach Buckley, NBA Analyst
7. New Orleans Pelicans: Khaman Maluach (Duke, C)
- Size: 7’2″, 250 lbs
- Age: 18
- Nationality: South Sudan
- Pro Comparison: Dereck Lively
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: 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.
Team fit: The Nets are focused strictly on drafting the best player available. Knueppel has separated himself from being labeled “just a shooter” with his passing, driving and IQ.
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 (via Suns): 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 3-point percentage wasn’t overly convincing, but he did convert 41.5% 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 complement Alperen Sengun well as a floor-spacing, switchable big off the bench. Houston also seems likely to shop this pick.
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
- Portland Trail Blazers Receive: Cameron Johnson
- Brooklyn Nets Receive: No. 11 pick, Robert Williams III and a 2030 pick swap (via POR or MIL)
12. Chicago Bulls: 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: Murray-Boyles would give Chicago’s frontcourt a different dimension of offense with his unconventional face-up game and power around the basket.
TRADE IDEA
- Hawks Receive: No. 6
- Wizards Receive: Nos. 13 and 22
13. Atlanta Hawks (via Kings): 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 3-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. He’d give Atlanta another needed half-court option the Hawks can go to, aside from Trae Young.
14. San Antonio Spurs: 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.
Team fit: With the Spurs adding Harper to pair alongside De’Aaron Fox, they could target positional wing size, athleticism, shotmaking and defense at No. 14. Carter has become a hot name during the predraft process.
15. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Heat): 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.
16. Orlando Magic: 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.
TRADE IDEA
- Orlando Magic Receive: Anfernee Simons
- Portland Trail Blazers Receive No. 16 pick, Jonathan Isaac and Cole Anthony
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 3-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): 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.
20. Miami Heat: 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.
21. Utah Jazz (via Timberwolves): 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.
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 3-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): 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.
25. Orlando Magic (via Nuggets): Cedric Coward (Duke, SF/PF)
- Size: 6’6″, 206lbs
- Age: 21
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparison: Jarace Walker
Scouts anticipate Cedric Coward rising into the first round after his measurements mirrored Kawhi Leonard’s and he lit up shooting drills at the combine. While he only played six games in 2024-25, he created enough intrigue with his three-level shotmaking, defense, body type and athleticism to create serious intrigue and visions of upside.
TRADE IDEA
- Orlando Magic Receive: Cam Whitmore
- Houston Rockets Receive: No. 25 pick and Jett Howard
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): Tahaad Pettiford (Auburn, PG)
- Size: 6’2″, 175lbs
- Age: 19
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparison: Devonte’ Graham
Tahaad Pettiford had a needle-moving NBA combine, measuring a 6’5.5″ wingspan, jumping 42 inches and lighting up Wednesday’s scrimmage with 23 points and eight assists. While his shot fell off on Thursday, his talent still popped relative to the other nine players on the floor. The ability to spots, shoot and leverage his elusiveness into playmaking made Pettiford look like a change-of-pace offensive bench spark at the least.
28. Boston Celtics: 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% 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% 3-point shooting.
29. Phoenix Suns (via Cavs): Maxime Raynaud (Stanford, C)
- Size: 7’1″, 250 lbs
- Age: 22
- Nationality: France
- Pro Comparison: Alex Len
Maxime Raynaud was the clear best prospect on the floor during Wednesday’s NBA combine scrimmage. The combination of 7’1″ size, footwork and touch with both hands was too effective for any of the other projected second-rounders.
But he also buried 67 threes this season. Raynaud’s body, production, offensive skill and stretch-5 fit all scream pro, and now he’s in strong position to crack the first round.
30. Los Angeles Clippers (via OKC): 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.
31. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Jazz): 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.
32. Boston Celtics (via Wizards): 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.
33. Charlotte Hornets: 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.
34. Charlotte Hornets (via Pelicans): 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 3-point shooter.
The upside with Kalkbrenner isn’t overly exciting unless that 3-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.
35. Philadelphia 76ers: 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.
36. Brooklyn Nets: 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.
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 3-point makes from last year. And the shooting improvement showed at the NBA combine. At 6’9″, his range, off-ball finishing and wing mobility should make him one of the top options after the first round finishes.
38. San Antonio Spurs: Chaz Lanier (Tennessee, SG)
- Size: 6’4″, 199 lbs
- Age: 23
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparisons: Seth Curry, Alec Burks
Chaz Lanier finished second at the NBA combine in aggregate shooting, unsurprising based on his 229 made threes over the past two seasons. NBA teams that could use more offensive firepower will look past age and lack of versatility for such advanced shotmaking.
39. Toronto Raptors (via Blazers): 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.
40. Washington Wizards (via Suns): Tyrese Proctor (Duke, PG/SG)
- Size: 6’6″, 183 lbs
- Age: 21
- Nationality: Australia
- Pro Comparison: Landry Shamet
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.
41. Golden State Warriors (via Heat): 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% 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.
42. Sacramento Kings (via Bulls): Yanic Konan Niederhauser (Penn State, C)
- Size: 7’0″, 250lbs
- Age: 22
- Nationality: Switzerland
- Pro Comparisons: Jaxson Hayes
One of the big storylines from the NBA combine was the emergence of Yanic Konan Niederhauser. After dominating Elite Camp and earning a call-up, he put up big numbers during athletic testing and delivered plenty of highlight finishes during scrimmages.
Though clearly raw, Niederhauser’s physical and athletic talent can appear highly enticing for teams searching for late value and second-round upside.
43. Utah Jazz (via Mavericks): Koby Brea (Kentucky, SF)
- Size: 6’6″, 215 lbs
- Age: 22
- Nationality: USA/Dominican Republic
- Pro Comparisons: Duncan Robinson
Koby Brea joined a short list of college players 6’6″ and over to shoot 42.0% on 700 career attempts. Half carved out NBA careers or roles, including Allan Houston, Dennis Scott, Jason Kapono, Kyle Korver, Sam Hauser, Steve Novak.
Teams could see a specialist and value with Brea in the second round.
44. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Hawks): 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 3-point shooter.
45. Chicago Bulls (via Kings): 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.
46. Orlando Magic: Milos Uzan (Houston, PG/SG)
- Size: 6’4″, 190 lbs
- Age: 22
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparison: Andrew Nembhard
44.0% 3-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.
47. Milwaukee Bucks (via Pistons): Hansen Yang (Qingdao, C)
- Size: 7’1″, 240 lbs
- Age: 19
- Nationality: China
- Pro comparison: Andrew Bogut
Every scout presumably watched film of Hansen Yang put up numbers in China. But they also had to see him execute against mostly different-caliber athletes in the 2025 NBA draft discussion. And Yang looked like he belonged, playing with swagger and confidence while scoring 12 points in the opening scrimmage and totaling 11 points, six boards and six assists on Thursday.
He delivered a number of wow plays, including a 3-pointer, some fancy footwork from the post and a few beautiful dimes that highlighted obvious passing IQ and quick processing.
48. Memphis Grizzlies (via Warriors): Kobe Sanders (Nevada, SF)
- Size: 6’9″, 207 lbs
- Age: 22
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparisons: Kyle Kuzma
A 6’9″ three-level shotmaker who averaged 4.5 assists should draw interest. Kobe Sanders won’t test well athletically, but he possesses a shoot-create-pass skill set that suggests enticing versatility.
49. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Bucks): 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.
50. New York Knicks (via Grizzlies): 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.
51. Los Angeles Clippers (via Timberwolves): 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% FT), as Tonje’s shotmaking and physical driving ability have become worth looking into for teams in the late second round.
52. Phoenix Suns (via Nuggets): 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.
53. Utah Jazz (via Clippers): 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.
54. Indiana Pacers: Lachlan Olbrich (Illawarra, PF/C)
- Size: 6’10”
- Age: 21
- Nationality: Australia
Lachlan Olbrich double-doubled in both scrimmages and didn’t look out of place in spite of athletic limitations.
His instincts were evident and functional for timing dives to the basket, spin moves and offensive rebounds. He showed advanced footwork and body control to create separation and touch to convert from different angles.
55. Los Angeles Lakers: 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.
56. Memphis Grizzlies (via Rockets): 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%).
57. Orlando Magic (via Celtics): Mark Sears (Alabama, PG)
- Size: 6’1″, 190lbs
- Age: 23
- Nationality: USA
- Pro Comparison: Trey Burke
Mark Sears led all players in shooting drills at the combine before combining for 31 points and 11 assists in two scrimmages. Late in the second round, teams figure to see a gamble worth taking on an undersized scoring guard with Sears’ production, shotmaking and toughness.
58. Cleveland Cavaliers: Ryan Nembhard (Gonzaga, PG)
- Size: 6’0″, 180lbs
- Age: 22
- Nationality: Canada
- Pro Comparison: Tre Jones
After leading the nation in assists, Ryan Nembhard dished out 14 in two NBA combine scrimmages (three turnovers). Athletic and scoring limitations are evident, but he’ll get looks from teams who value his ability to run offense and set the table.
59. Houston Rockets (via Thunder): 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.
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.
