Bleacher Report's 2025 NBA Mock Draft has undergone major updates following key developments in men's college basketball over the past month. Several freshmen have made significant leaps in the rankings, capitalizing on increased freedom and opportunities on the court.
One of the biggest risers is Auburn’s Johni Broome, a potential National Player of the Year candidate whose impact has become impossible to ignore. His dominant performances have pushed him higher on the draft board, making him one of the most intriguing prospects to watch.
It’s also important to consider the impact of NIL deals, as many prospects are now earning more money in college than they would in the NBA or G League, making the decision to declare for the draft or return to school more complex than ever before.
1. Washington Wizards: Cooper Flagg (Duke, PF)
Washington Wizards record: 10-47
Previous Mock Position: No. 1
Size: 6’9”, 205 lbs
Age: 18
Nationality: USA
Pro Comparisons: Andrei Kirilenko (defensive), Jalen Johnson (offensive)
Cooper Flagg has continued to showcase his dominance during Duke’s string of decisive victories. His two-way performance is rewriting freshman record books, solidifying his status as one of the most impactful one-and-done players in recent history.
Analytics suggest he is having one of the most productive freshman seasons ever, trailing only Zion Williamson, Anthony Davis, Kevin Love, and Michael Beasley in box plus-minus (14.4). His impressive mix of athleticism, shot creation, passing IQ, and defensive instincts validates the immense hype surrounding him, which isn’t far from the level seen with Victor Wembanyama in 2023.
2. New Orleans Pelicans: Dylan Harper (Rutgers, PG/SG)
New Orleans Pelicans record: 14-43
Previous Mock Position: No. 2
Size: 6’6”, 215 lbs
Age: 18
Nationality: USA
Pro Comparisons: Coby White, De’Aaron Fox, Jalen Brunson
Dylan Harper further solidified his draft stock with a 34-point performance in a road victory against Washington, demonstrating his elite finishing ability and scoring instincts. He followed that up with an even stronger all-around performance against USC, posting 25 points, 9 assists, and 6 steals—arguably his most complete showcase of creativity, passing, shot-making, and defensive effort.
Teams such as the Washington Wizards, New Orleans Pelicans, Utah Jazz, Charlotte Hornets, and Brooklyn Nets will likely be drawn to his ability to create offense, pressure the rim, and draw fouls at his size. Despite being somewhat streaky from deep, Harper possesses clear shot-making confidence, elite scoring instincts, and enough playmaking skill to operate as a primary guard at the next level.
3. Utah Jazz: Ace Bailey (Rutgers, SF)
Utah Jazz record: 14-43
Previous Mock Position: No. 3
Size: 6’10”, 200 lbs
Age: 18
Nationality: USA
Pro Comparisons: Brandon Miller, Michael Porter Jr., Rashard Lewis
Ace Bailey’s unique combination of positional size, shooting ability, and defensive upside has firmly cemented him in the top-three tier behind Cooper Flagg. However, there are ongoing discussions within scouting circles regarding his ball-handling, playmaking, and decision-making under pressure.
While his offensive role allows for shot-hunting, his 7.6% assist rate highlights some tunnel vision issues, and his turnover rate of 20% in both pick-and-roll and transition situations raises concerns about his ability to handle NBA-level defensive pressure.
Still, at 6’10” with elite shooting ability, Bailey presents a highly desirable skill set. His floater touch and off-ball movement allow him to generate efficient scoring opportunities without needing complex dribble moves. Even if his weaknesses limit his ceiling, his worst-case projection remains extremely valuable—every lottery team will be excited about the prospect of adding a big-wing shot-maker with strong defensive tools.
4. Charlotte Hornets: VJ Edgecombe (Baylor, SG/SF)
Charlotte Hornets record: 14-42
Previous Mock Position: No. 4
Size: 6’5”, 180 lbs
Age: 19
Nationality: Bahamas
Pro Comparisons: Andrew Wiggins, Victor Oladipo, Iman Shumpert
While some scouts may prefer Ace Bailey’s size and shooting, others see VJ Edgecombe as separating himself in the next tier of elite prospects. Baylor has recently expanded his offensive role, allowing him to initiate plays and showcase improved ball-handling and burst.
Though his jump shot remains streaky, Edgecombe has shown encouraging catch-and-shoot potential, posting a 79.6% free-throw percentage and hitting 46.2% of his floaters—strong indicators of shooting touch.
Meanwhile, his 27 dunks in 24 games, 20% assist rate, and 3.9% steal rate emphasize his impressive blend of functional athleticism, defensive playmaking, and passing IQ.
5. Toronto Raptors: Khaman Maluach (Duke, C)
Toronto Raptors record: 18-39
Previous Mock Position: No. 9
Size: 7’2”, 250 lbs
Age: 18
Nationality: South Sudan
Pro Comparison: Mark Williams
Despite raw offensive skills, Khaman Maluach’s size, defensive presence, and finishing ability make him one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2025 NBA Mock Draft. While his shot-blocking numbers may not be elite, scouts are highly impressed by his mobility at 7’2” and his potential as a rim protector and lob threat.
Given his limited offensive role at Duke, Maluach will have a chance to impress scouts in workouts, where he may reveal hidden shooting upside. His pre-Duke flashes of mid-range shot-making suggest there is untapped offensive potential, making him a high-upside pick for any team in need of a defensive anchor with long-term offensive development potential.
6. Philadelphia 76ers: Tre Johnson (Texas, SG)
Philadelphia 76ers record: 20-37
Previous Mock Position: No. 9
Size: 6’6”, 190 lbs
Age: 18
Nationality: USA
Pro Comparisons: Allan Houston, Tyler Herro
Tre Johnson’s standout 32-point performance against Kentucky has significantly boosted his draft stock. While some scouts had concerns about his lack of rim pressure and playmaking, his ability to self-create and score in diverse ways has reassured teams about his offensive potential. His consistent production and polished execution make him a high-value prospect as teams begin to prioritize pure scorers in the mid-to-late lottery range.
7. Brooklyn Nets: Kasparas Jakucionis (Illinois, PG/SG)
Brooklyn Nets record: 21-36
Previous Mock Position: No. 6
Size: 6’6”, 200 lbs
Age: 18
Nationality: Lithuania
Pro Comparisons: Chauncey Billups
Kasparas Jakucionis faced a tough challenge when Duke dominated Illinois in front of dozens of NBA executives at Madison Square Garden. While his lack of explosiveness and quickness remains a question mark, his positional size, craftiness, shotmaking ability, and high-level passing IQ keep him firmly in the lottery discussion.
Jakucionis has showcased his ability to control the pace, execute step-backs, and finish through contact, though he also struggles against pressure defense. Despite a recent slump from three, his impressive shooting history with Barcelona and Lithuania gives teams confidence in his long-term development as a reliable shot-creator and floor general.
8. Chicago Bulls: Asa Newell (Georgia, PF/C)
Chicago Bulls record: 23-35
Previous Mock Position: No. 8
Size: 6’11”, 220 lbs
Age: 19
Nationality: USA
Pro Comparisons: Jalen Smith, Brandon Clarke, Jonathan Isaac
Asa Newell has built a reputation for his offensive efficiency, excelling in timing cuts, finishing at the rim, and sealing off defenders to create scoring opportunities. His 54.3% post-up conversion rate and nation-leading dunk totals make him one of the most efficient big men in college basketball.
However, it’s his shooting flashes and defensive versatility that elevate his ceiling. Though he’s still developing as a consistent three-point threat, his ability to stretch the floor (17 made 3s) and defend multiple positions at 6’11” makes him a valuable modern frontcourt piece.
9. Portland Trail Blazers: Kon Knueppel (Duke, SG/SF)
Portland Trail Blazers record: 25-33
Previous Mock Position: No. 10
Size: 6’6”, 217 lbs
Age: 19
Nationality: USA
Pro Comparisons: Kevin Huerter
Kon Knueppel has cemented himself as one of the most reliable shooters in the draft. His balance, accuracy, and ability to score from various situations make him an attractive pick for teams needing a floor-spacer and high-IQ offensive player.
While some teams question his shot-creation upside, his ability to contribute off spot-ups, screens, and movement sets makes him an ideal fit for a team looking for an NBA-ready role player who can immediately impact a rotation.
10. San Antonio Spurs: Jase Richardson (Michigan State, SG)
San Antonio Spurs record: 24-31
Previous Mock Position: No. 21
Size: 6’3”, 185 lbs
Age: 19
Nationality: USA
Pro Comparisons: Cason Wallace
Jase Richardson’s rise in draft stock came after earning a starting role in February, where he immediately dropped 29 points against Oregon. While he doesn’t project as a primary playmaker, he has proven to be an efficient scorer who can create opportunities in isolation.
His off-ball movement, spot-up shooting (44.0% from three), and decision-making in ball screens make him a compelling pick for teams looking for a secondary ball-handler and reliable scorer.
11. San Antonio Spurs (via Hawks): Liam McNeeley (Connecticut, SF/PF)
Atlanta Hawks record: 27-31
Previous Mock Position: No. 14
Size: 6’7”, 210 lbs
Age: 19
Nationality: USA
Pro Comparisons: Keegan Murray
Liam McNeeley’s 37-point outburst showcased his elite scoring instincts despite lacking advanced shot-creation skills. A proven off-ball threat, McNeeley thrives in transition, cutting actions, and three-point shooting.
His pick-and-roll playmaking, strong defensive instincts, and efficiency from deep make him an ideal fit for teams needing an immediate contributor on the wing.
12. Houston Rockets (via Suns): Ben Saraf (Ratiopharm Ulm, PG/SG)
Phoenix Suns record: 27-30
Previous Mock Position: No. 8
Size: 6’5”, 201 lbs
Age: 18
Nationality: Israel
Pro Comparisons: Manu Ginobili
Ben Saraf’s production in the German League and EuroCup has impressed scouts, particularly his ability to control tempo, create off the dribble, and finish in traffic.
His lack of three-point volume and average explosiveness might limit his ceiling, but his basketball IQ, mid-range pull-up game, and passing vision make him a valuable combo guard option for teams needing offensive versatility.
13. Atlanta Hawks (via Kings): Collin Murray-Boyles (South Carolina, PF)
Sacramento Kings record: 29-28
Previous Mock Position: No. 11
Size: 6’7”, 245 lbs
Age: 19
Nationality: USA
Pro Comparisons: Julius Randle, Anthony Mason
Despite South Carolina’s struggles, Collin Murray-Boyles continues to dominate inside, averaging 15.5 points on 60.3% shooting. While his three-point shot remains unpolished, his footwork, physicality, and defensive versatility make him a valuable frontcourt prospect.
His playmaking flashes and mobility suggest he could develop into a well-rounded modern power forward.
14. Miami Heat (via Warriors): Jeremiah Fears (Oklahoma, PG)
Golden State Warriors record: 30-27
Previous Mock Position: No. 12
Size: 6’4”, 182 lbs
Age: 18
Nationality: USA
Pro Comparisons: Jaden Ivey, Scoot Henderson
Jeremiah Fears impressed scouts with a 27-point, 10-assist performance against Mississippi State, showcasing his quick first step, shot creation, and passing vision.
However, concerns remain about his erratic shooting, turnover issues, and struggles scoring in traffic. Teams willing to invest in his development as a lead guard will need patience, but the potential is undeniable.
15. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Heat): Noa Essengue (Ratiopharm Ulm, PF)
Miami Heat record: 26-30
Previous Mock Position: No. 15
Size: 6’9”, 198 lbs
Age: 18
Nationality: France
Pro Comparisons: Jabari Walker, Precious Achiuwa
Noa Essengue has remained consistent all season, finding easy scoring opportunities through off-ball movement, transition play, and putbacks. His activity level and athleticism make him an attractive prospect, even though he is unlikely to develop into a primary shot-creator. Teams see his value as a high-energy forward who can contribute without needing the offense to run through him.
16. Orlando Magic: Derik Queen (Maryland, PF/C)
Orlando Magic record: 29-30
Previous Mock Position: No. 18
Size: 6’10”, 246 lbs
Age: 20
Nationality: USA
Pro Comparisons: Wendell Carter Jr., Jared Sullinger
Derik Queen is one of the most polarizing players in this draft class. His elite footwork, passing vision, and soft touch around the rim give him a high offensive ceiling, but concerns about his lack of defensive versatility and outside shooting could push him into the mid-first round rather than the lottery. Teams that prioritize skill and size over athleticism will be most intrigued by his potential.
17. Utah Jazz (via Timberwolves): Nolan Traore (Saint-Quentin, PG)
Minnesota Timberwolves record: 32-27
Previous Mock Position: No. 13
Size: 6’4”, 184 lbs
Age: 18
Nationality: France
Pro Comparisons: Lonzo Ball
Nolan Traore has flashed elite playmaking instincts, but his inconsistent shooting and finishing struggles remain concerns. He is currently shooting 28.7% from three, 70.7% from the free-throw line, and just 28.6% on floaters—all areas that will need improvement. However, his ability to read the floor, control tempo, and distribute effectively keeps him in first-round discussions.
18. Dallas Mavericks: Egor Demin (BYU, PG/SF)
Dallas Mavericks record: 31-27
Previous Mock Position: No. 17
Size: 6’9”
Age: 18
Nationality: Russia
Pro Comparisons: Josh Giddey
Egor Demin started the season with high expectations, but his inefficient scoring and turnovers have raised concerns about his NBA readiness. His 6’9” frame and passing ability still make him an appealing oversized playmaker, but teams will need to assess whether his shooting struggles are temporary or a long-term issue.
19. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Pistons): Thomas Sorber (Georgetown, C)
Detroit Pistons record: 32-26
Previous Mock Position: No. 16
Size: 6’10”, 255 lbs
Age: 18
Nationality: USA
Pro Comparisons: Onyeka Okongwu
Thomas Sorber’s season-ending foot surgery has left teams with limited scouting opportunities, but his rim protection, rebounding, and efficient post scoring keep him in the first-round mix. His ability to stretch the floor could elevate his stock if he shows improvement in workouts.
20. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Clippers): Will Riley (Illinois, SF, Freshman)
Los Angeles Clippers record: 31-26
Previous Mock Position: No. 26
Size: 6’8”, 180 lbs
Age: 18
Nationality: Canada
Pro Comparisons: Kyshawn George
Despite struggling against Duke, Will Riley has shown flashes of improvement as a playmaker. His ability to score at all three levels and contribute as a secondary ball-handler makes him an interesting upside pick in the late-first round.
21. Brooklyn Nets (via Bucks): Carter Bryant (Arizona, SF/PF)
Milwaukee Bucks record: 32-24
Previous Mock Position: No. 25
Size: 6’8”, 220 lbs
Age: 19
Nationality: USA
Pro Comparisons: Marcus Morris
Carter Bryant has positional size, defensive versatility, and a reliable shooting stroke. His 35.7% three-point shooting and 75.7% finishing at the rim showcase his scoring efficiency, making him an ideal role player at the next level.
22. Indiana Pacers: Rasheer Fleming (Saint Joseph’s, PF)
Indiana Pacers record: 32-24
Previous Mock Position: No. 27
Size: 6’9”, 240 lbs
Age: 20
Nationality: USA
Pro Comparisons: Taylor Hendricks
Rasheer Fleming’s ability to stretch the floor and play above the rim has significantly boosted his draft stock. He’s currently the only college player with 30+ dunks and 40+ made threes, making him an appealing stretch-4 option.
23. Brooklyn Nets (via Rockets): Isaiah Evans (Duke, SF)
Houston Rockets record: 35-22
Previous Mock Position: Off the board
Size: 6’6”, 175 lbs
Age: 19
Nationality: USA
Pro Comparisons: AJ Griffin
Isaiah Evans has flourished as an off-ball shooter, demonstrating elite shot prep and accuracy. His 90.0% of offense coming from spot-ups, screens, and transition shows he can be an effective catch-and-shoot threat at the next level.
24. Atlanta Hawks (via Lakers): Noah Penda (Le Mans, SF/PF)
Los Angeles Lakers record: 34-21
Previous Mock Position: No. 22
Size: 6’8”, 225 lbs
Age: 20
Nationality: France
Pro Comparisons: Nicolas Batum
Noah Penda’s two-way versatility has made him a popular target among NBA scouts. While he won’t be a primary offensive option, his ability to knock down open threes, facilitate, and defend multiple positions keeps him in the late-first round discussion.
25. Washington Wizards (via Grizzlies): Hugo Gonzalez (Real Madrid, SF)
Memphis Grizzlies record: 37-20
Previous Mock Position: No. 19
Size: 6’7”, weight unlisted
Age: 18
Nationality: Spain
Pro Comparisons: Jonathan Kuminga
Hugo Gonzalez has struggled with playing time at Real Madrid, but his spot-up shooting and defensive effort continue to intrigue scouts. He remains an international prospect to monitor closely leading up to the draft.
26. Brooklyn Nets (via Knicks): Boogie Fland (Arkansas, PG)
New York Knicks record: 37-20
Previous Mock Position: No. 24
Size: 6’2”, 175 lbs
Age: 18
Nationality: USA
Pro Comparisons: Kemba Walker, Rob Dillingham
Boogie Fland’s season was cut short due to thumb surgery, leaving scouts to debate whether he showed enough creation, shotmaking, and playmaking to justify a first-round selection. His 36.0% finishing on layups and lack of dunk attempts raise concerns about his size and athleticism, but his spot-up shooting efficiency, pull-up game, floater touch, and excellent assist-to-turnover ratio make him a promising bench scorer and secondary playmaker.
27. Orlando Magic (via Nuggets): Danny Wolf (Michigan, PF/C)
Denver Nuggets record: 38-20
Previous Mock Position: No. 23
Size: 7’0”, 250 lbs
Age: 20
Nationality: USA/Israel
Pro Comparisons: Hedo Turkoglu
Danny Wolf remains an intriguing prospect as scouts assess whether he is more of a stretch big or a jumbo playmaking forward. His ability to handle the ball, attack off the dribble, and shoot pull-up and step-back threes adds versatility to his game. Averaging 9.9 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 1.5 blocks per game, Wolf continues to make an impact despite low three-point volume and inconsistent free-throw shooting.
28. Boston Celtics: Nique Clifford (Colorado State, SF/PF)
Boston Celtics record: 41-16
Previous Mock Position: No. 20
Size: 6’6”, 200 lbs
Age: 22
Nationality: USA
Pro Comparisons: Landry Fields
Nique Clifford has unlocked new levels of shot-creation and self-scoring, showing an ability to generate offense off drives, pull-ups, and fallaways. Despite his improvements as a scorer, NBA teams will likely be most intrigued by his ability to fill multiple roles—providing play-finishing, rebounding, passing, and defensive playmaking. His all-around production, including double-double averages with four assists and one three-pointer per game, makes him a Swiss Army knife prospect.
29. Los Angeles Clippers (via Thunder): Kam Jones (Marquette, PG/SG)
OKC Thunder record: 46-11
Previous Mock Position: No. 29
Size: 6’5”, 205 lbs
Age: 22
Nationality: USA
Pro Comparisons: Malik Monk
Kam Jones has built a reputation as a consistent shotmaker and efficient finisher over the past three years. His expanded role as a lead guard has allowed him to showcase improved playmaking, averaging 5.8 assists per game. While some scouts question his listed 6’5” height, his skill set as a scoring combo guard with secondary playmaking upside remains appealing for teams in need of offensive firepower.
30. Phoenix Suns (via Cavaliers): Johni Broome (Auburn, PF/C)
Cleveland Cavaliers record: 47-10
Previous Mock Position: No. 43
Size: 6’10”, 240 lbs
Age: 22
Nationality: USA
Pro Comparisons: Markieff Morris
Age concerns may impact Johni Broome’s draft stock, but his dominant performances and refined skill set demand a second look. His 31-point, 14-rebound, four-assist, two-block outing against Georgia highlighted his paint touch, rebounding, post skills, and defensive impact. His emerging three-point shooting and ability to attack off the dribble add further intrigue for teams seeking NBA-ready production.
31. Boston Celtics (via Wizards): Ian Jackson (North Carolina, SG)
Previous Mock Position: No. 28
Size: 6’4”, 190 lbs
Age: 19
Nationality: USA
Pro Comparisons: Malik Beasley
Ian Jackson’s season has been inconsistent, but his seven three-pointers across games against Syracuse and NC State showcased his offensive potential. While he offers shot creation, confident scoring, and strong driving ability, his streaky shooting and lack of playmaking may limit his overall impact at the next level.
32. Charlotte Hornets (via Pelicans): Alex Toohey (Sydney, SF)
Previous Mock Position: No. 30
Size: 6’9”, 223 lbs
Age: 20
Nationality: Australia
Pro Comparisons: Bojan Bogdanovic
Alex Toohey has doubled his three-point makes from last season, solidifying himself as a floor-spacing wing. His game thrives in transition, cutting, and handoff situations, but his limited shot creation keeps him in the early second-round conversation.
33. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Jazz): Labaron Philon (Alabama, PG)
Previous Mock Position: No. 31
Size: 6’4”, 177 lbs
Age: 19
Nationality: USA
Pro Comparisons: Kobe Bufkin
Labaron Philon has impressed with his pacing, touch, and playmaking. While he lacks elite athleticism and shooting consistency, his float game (21-of-32) ranks among the best in recent draft cycles. Scouts remain divided on whether his skill set will translate effectively to the NBA.
34. Charlotte Hornets: Yaxel Lendeborg (UAB, SF/PF)
Previous Mock Position: No. 35
Size: 6’9”, 240 lbs
Age: 22
Nationality: USA
Pro Comparisons: Jalen Slawson, Enrique Freeman
Yaxel Lendeborg is on pace to join Ron Harper Sr. as one of the only players to average 15 points, 10 rebounds, four assists, 1.5 blocks, and 1.5 steals. His ability to defend, finish plays, and pass makes him a versatile second-round pick, while his shooting development (14 made threes) adds extra intrigue.
35. Detroit Pistons (via Raptors): Maxime Raynaud (Stanford, C)
Previous Mock Position: No. 32
Size: 7’1”, 250 lbs
Age: 21
Nationality: France
Pro Comparisons: Alex Len
Maxime Raynaud’s floor-spacing ability (1.8 threes per game) and post scoring make him an intriguing option as a stretch five. While his lack of rim protection may limit his minutes at the next level, teams seeking offensive versatility from the center position will be interested.
0 comments:
Post a Comment