With the culmination of men`s college basketball season where the Florida Gators were crowned champions and the NBA regular season nearing its end, attention now shifts to the NBA draft. Prospects and teams are keenly focused on the future talent pool.
The NCAA tournament provided a significant platform for players like Walter Clayton Jr. from Florida, Kon Knueppel of Duke, Derik Queen from Maryland, and Nique Clifford of Colorado State to impress NBA scouts and executives.
Internationally, Joan Beringer (Cedevita/Slovenia) and Noa Essengue (Ratiopharm Ulm/Germany) have also solidified their positions as top-20 prospects, impressing talent evaluators.
Draft experts Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo have compiled their latest mock draft, utilizing their scouting expertise and insights from league executives to project team selections. The draft order for the first and second rounds is based on ESPN`s BPI forecast, predicting team performance for the remainder of the season.
Notes: The draft order is updated as of April 7 and reflects pick trades. True shooting percentage (TS%) combines field goal, free throw, and 3-point percentages into a single efficiency metric.
First Round
1. Utah Jazz
Cooper Flagg, SF/PF, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 60.0%
Cooper Flagg`s impressive freshman season at Duke concluded after a controversial call against Houston in the national championship game. Despite the loss, Flagg showcased his exceptional talent on both ends of the court, reinforcing his status as a top college player. He recorded 27 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 blocks, and 2 steals in the game.
It is widely anticipated that Flagg will declare for the NBA draft, with the No. 1 pick potentially at stake. The Jazz would likely welcome Flagg`s versatility and star potential to complement Lauri Markkanen and Walker Kessler, forming a strong frontcourt. — Givony
2. Washington Wizards
Dylan Harper, SG/PG, Rutgers
Freshman | TS%: 59.3%
Despite Rutgers not reaching the NCAA tournament, Dylan Harper solidified his position as a likely No. 2 pick. His playmaking guard archetype, known for pick-and-roll skills, scoring, and physicality, is highly sought after by NBA teams.
Questions remain about Harper`s shooting consistency (75% free throw, 33% 3-point), which predraft workouts could clarify. He is projected as a strong fit for the Wizards, who need a playmaker of his caliber. — Woo
3. Charlotte Hornets
Airious `Ace` Bailey, SG/SF, Rutgers
Freshman | TS%: 54.0%
Ace Bailey`s freshman season presented a mix of high potential and inconsistency. His rare skill set keeps him high on draft boards. Despite some inconsistency and efficiency issues, his size (6-foot-10, 200 pounds) combined with shot-creation ability is attractive for NBA teams.
While not immediately ready to contribute significantly, a patient team like Charlotte could be ideal for his development, despite some overlap with Brandon Miller. — Woo
4. New Orleans Pelicans
VJ Edgecombe, SG, Baylor
Freshman | TS%: 56.1%
VJ Edgecombe, the Big 12 Freshman of the Year, showcased explosive athleticism, intensity, and improved ball-handling and shooting skills throughout the season.
The Pelicans, seeking star power, could create an exciting duo with Edgecombe and Zion Williamson. — Givony
5. Philadelphia 76ers
Tre Johnson, SG, Texas
Freshman | TS%: 56.1%
Tre Johnson fits the NBA wing prototype with his 6-6 height, 6-10 wingspan, and dynamic scoring ability. He averaged around 20 points per game with 40% 3-point shooting in 2024-25.
The 76ers, possibly rebuilding, could benefit from adding a young, high-scoring wing like Johnson. — Givony
6. Brooklyn Nets
Jeremiah Fears, PG, Oklahoma
Freshman | TS%: 57.0%
Jeremiah Fears emerged as a top freshman, despite being among the youngest college players. His size, speed, shot-making, and creation skills offer significant potential. He excels at creating for himself and teammates, finishing at the rim, and drawing fouls.
The Nets, needing backcourt talent, could find Fears` youth and potential appealing. — Givony
7. Toronto Raptors
Khaman Maluach, C, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 74.7%
Khaman Maluach had a strong NCAA tournament, showcasing his potential until facing a physical Houston team in the Final Four. He needs to develop strength and experience, but his freshman season was promising.
His defensive anchoring ability with a 7-foot-6 wingspan, vertical spacing, and transition play are valuable, fitting a need for the Raptors. — Givony
8. San Antonio Spurs
Kon Knueppel, SG/SF, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 64.8%
Kon Knueppel was a reliable and efficient player for Duke, exceeding preseason expectations as a playmaker and defender. Though not highly athletic, he boosted his draft stock with his consistent performance.
His consistent perimeter shooting is valuable. The Spurs could use his wing skills to support their young core. — Woo
9. Portland Trail Blazers
Kasparas Jakucionis, PG, Illinois
Freshman | TS%: 59.8%
Kasparas Jakucionis successfully transitioned from European basketball to Division I, improving his NBA draft prospects. The Lithuanian guard demonstrated playmaking skills at Illinois, though faced some efficiency and turnover challenges.
His intangibles and versatility as a backcourt player keep him in lottery consideration. The Trail Blazers could benefit from his decision-making and team-oriented style. — Woo
10. Houston Rockets (via Phoenix)
Collin Murray-Boyles, PF/C, South Carolina
Sophomore | TS%: 64.0%
Despite South Carolina`s struggles, Collin Murray-Boyles maintained consistent effort and production. His draft stock remains mid-first round, potentially lottery depending on team priorities. Undersized at 6-foot-8, his offensive feel, defensive playmaking, and toughness appeal to NBA teams.
Predraft workouts will be crucial to demonstrate his shooting development. His versatility could be a good fit for the Rockets. — Woo
11. Miami Heat
Derik Queen, C, Maryland
Freshman | TS%: 60.0%
Derik Queen exceeded expectations at Maryland, leading them to a 27-9 record and Sweet 16. He established himself as the most offensively skilled big in the draft, with handling, passing, and mismatch creation abilities. Defensive effort and rebounding are areas for improvement.
With improved effort, he could be a lottery pick. The Heat might be a good fit to maximize his potential. — Woo
12. Chicago Bulls
Egor Demin, PG/SG, BYU
Freshman | TS%: 51.3%
Egor Demin finished his college season strongly, helping BYU to a Sweet 16. He`s a polarizing prospect due to his passing ability and size, contrasted by one-on-one struggles and inconsistent shooting. Predraft process will be important to assess his shooting potential.
The Bulls, despite having Josh Giddey, might consider Demin`s upside at this draft position. — Woo
13. Dallas Mavericks
Liam McNeeley, SG/SF, UConn
Freshman | TS%: 53.6%
Liam McNeeley earned Big East Freshman of the Year, handling a significant role at UConn. His skill and feel were evident, solidifying his first-round projection.
Questions about shooting consistency need addressing, but his versatility and maturity could appeal to the Mavericks. — Woo
14. Atlanta Hawks (via Sacramento)
Jase Richardson, PG/SG, Michigan State
Freshman | TS%: 63.2%
Jase Richardson improved significantly in the second half of the season, showing increased aggressiveness and efficiency. His pace, skill level, and shot-making ability are promising at 19, especially with his defensive intensity.
The Hawks could be interested in Richardson`s winning attributes and potential. — Givony
15. San Antonio Spurs (via Atlanta)
Joan Beringer, C, Cedevita Olimpija
France | TS%: 60.4%
Joan Beringer consistently draws NBA executive attention. He`s impactful for Cedevita, leading the Adriatic League in block percentage. His physical tools, perimeter mobility, and rim protection at 18 are significant, especially given his short basketball experience (three years).
The Spurs might be interested in adding another French, shot-blocking big man. Beringer will be closely watched in the Adriatic League playoffs. — Givony
16. Orlando Magic
Will Riley, SG/SF, Illinois
Freshman | TS%: 53.8%
Will Riley had a strong season after reclassifying and joining Illinois early. Despite some midseason struggles, he played well in February and March. While needing to add strength and improve scoring efficiency, his feel and shooting potential are appealing.
Defensive and physicality concerns exist, but his offensive potential is enticing. The Magic, needing shooting, could see Riley as a fit. — Woo
17. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Detroit)
Noa Essengue, PF, Ratiopharm Ulm
Germany | TS%: 61.3%
Noa Essengue has increased his production, averaging 12.5 points and 5.1 rebounds in his last 10 German BBL games with good efficiency. He`s also improved his 3-point shooting (35%).
The Timberwolves, with limited future draft picks, might be drawn to Essengue`s long-term potential, given their team depth and patience. — Givony
18. Brooklyn Nets (via Milwaukee)
Nolan Traore, PG, Saint Quentin
France | TS%: 49.2%
Nolan Traore has had an inconsistent season and needs to improve his production and efficiency. His Saint Quentin team is competing for a playoff spot in Pro A France.
His speed, shot creation, and passing are intriguing, but he`s faced challenges with shooting, decision-making, and physicality. His NBA readiness will be better assessed at season`s end.
Despite potentially drafting Fears earlier, the Nets might take another point guard swing on Traore`s potential. — Givony
19. Washington Wizards (via Memphis)
Danny Wolf, PF, Michigan
Junior | TS%: 56.6%
Danny Wolf was a successful transfer, leading Michigan to the Big Ten tournament title and Sweet 16. He`s unique with perimeter versatility at 7-foot, but questions exist about athleticism, shooting, and defensive NBA translation.
This season was positive for Wolf, but his profile is situational for NBA teams. The Wizards could take a chance on him. — Woo
20. Oklahoma City Thunder (via LA Clippers)
Carter Bryant, SF/PF, Arizona
Freshman | TS%: 59.9%
Carter Bryant played a key bench role for Arizona. His frame, defensive versatility, passing, and 3-point shooting (37.6%) make him a developmental prospect, despite limited ball-handling. Predraft workouts will be important to showcase his shooting and athleticism.
While not NBA-ready, his profile could rise. He`d be a solid addition to Oklahoma City`s roster. — Woo
21. Orlando Magic (via Denver)
Asa Newell, PF/C, Georgia
Freshman | TS%: 62.0%
Asa Newell solidified his first-round case at Georgia with his effort, rebounding, and finishing.
He needs to improve shooting consistency (29% from 3) and defense. His production and motor are appealing. — Woo
22. Utah Jazz (via Minnesota)
Hugo Gonzalez, SG/SF, Real Madrid
Spain | TS%: 51.1%
Hugo Gonzalez lacks consistent playing time with Real Madrid. NBA teams are evaluating him, despite inconsistent shooting (27% from 3) and more turnovers than assists.
He has shown defensive intensity, explosiveness, and versatility. For a team like Utah with multiple first-round picks, Gonzalez could be a worthwhile swing. — Givony
23. Miami Heat (via Golden State)
Ben Saraf, PG/SG, Ratiopharm Ulm
Germany | TS%: 52.1%
Ben Saraf is recovering from a February slump with improved play for Ulm. NBA teams will be watching him closely as the German league playoffs approach.
The Heat, looking for shot creation, might be interested in Saraf`s size, youth, creativity, and toughness. — Givony
24. Indiana Pacers
Thomas Sorber, C, Georgetown
Freshman | TS%: 58.7%
Thomas Sorber impressed in 24 games before a foot injury. He turned NBA heads with his defense and role understanding, despite average athleticism. Predraft process and on-court workouts will influence his draft position.
Pacers have a long-term need at center, and Sorber could fit. — Woo
25. Atlanta Hawks (via Los Angeles Lakers)
Nique Clifford, SG, Colorado State
Super senior | TS%: 60.9%
Nique Clifford`s super-senior season elevated him into first-round consideration. His all-around production and shooting bode well for rookie minutes.
The Hawks, aiming to compete, would value his versatility and effort. His age (23) might be a factor, but the lack of experienced wings makes him a target. — Woo
26. Brooklyn Nets (via New York)
Adou Thiero, PF, Arkansas
Junior | TS%: 61.8%
Adou Thiero missed games due to injury. He is expected to be ready for the predraft process.
Thiero is a top athlete and competitor but a project. Nets, with multiple first-round picks, could develop him as a role player. — Woo
27. Brooklyn Nets (via Houston)
Yaxel Lendeborg, PF/C, UAB
Senior | TS%: 60.1%
Yaxel Lendeborg is testing the draft, considering a move to Michigan or entering the draft. His versatility is attractive to NBA teams.
Brooklyn, with four first-round picks, could ensure Lendeborg stays in the draft. He has significant upside despite his age. — Givony
28. Boston Celtics
Walter Clayton Jr., PG, Florida
Senior | TS%: 61.1%
Walter Clayton Jr. improved his draft standing in the NCAA tournament, showcasing his scoring ability. He earned All-America honors with his shot-making and all-around scoring.
NBA teams have questions about his defense, passing, and decision-making. Scouts compare his tournament performance to Shabazz Napier`s. — Givony
29. Phoenix Suns (via Cleveland)
Alex Condon, C, Florida
Sophomore | TS%: 56.1%
Alex Condon had a mixed NCAA tournament, hampered by injury. His game feel is evident in his passing and defense, along with his intensity. He helped Florida win the championship.
His draft position might be late first or early second round. The Suns, needing frontcourt depth and defense, could be interested. — Givony
30. LA Clippers (via Oklahoma City)
Rasheer Fleming, PF, Saint Joseph`s
Junior | TS%: 64.4%
Rasheer Fleming was efficient and productive, shooting well from both 2-point and 3-point range. He is a stretch big with finishing ability and a large wingspan, though his feel and defense are still developing.
The Clippers, lacking frontcourt depth, could add Fleming as a potential 3-and-D player. — Givony
