2025 NBA Draft Preview

By: Joshua Martin

As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches tonight in Brooklyn, this year’s class is shaping up to be one of the most talented and unpredictable groups in recent memory. At the center of attention is Cooper  Flagg, the 6′9″ versatile forward from Duke and the consensus number one pick to the Mavericks. He’s widely regarded as a “generational talent.” A level of hype not seen since LeBron James. After averaging 19.2 points and 7.5 rebounds during his freshman campaign, James emphasized Flagg’s versatility. Adding his excitement to see Flagg on the veteran led Mavericks squad.

“He has the benefit, unlike myself, he gets to join a team that’s established with Hall of Fame guys… I think he’s going to be amazing.” - LeBron James via Mind the Game podcast  

“He has the benefit, unlike myself, he gets to join a team that’s established with Hall of Fame guys… I think he’s going to be amazing.”

— LeBron James via Mind the Game podcast  

Flagg has consistently shown a rare maturity for his age. Scouts rave about his two way game. Some draw comparisons to Jayson Tatum and early Kawhi Leonard, though a few feel he might fall just short of transcendent superstardom. Yet LeBron James and others believe he’s fully ready for NBA impact.

Dylan Harper & Ace Bailey

Photo cred: Dylan Harper & Ace Bailey Instagram

Ranking behind Flagg is Dylan Harper, the Rutgers guard viewed as the consensus No. 2 overall pick. His physical strength and court vision mark him as a future lead guard. Though his shaky perimeter game has some scouts cautious. 

Once considered a top three pick, Ace Bailey, has provided the necessary drama before the draft. The former Rutgers star guard has turned down pre draft workouts and has shown a reluctance to play for Philadelphia. Bailey would prefer a rebuilding team like Washington, New Orleans, or Brooklyn according to reports. That uncertainty has created a ripple effect, potentially shifting the top four picks.

Other notable prospects include V.J. Edgecombe, Baylor’s athletic guard forward from the Bahamas. Edgecombe averaged 15.0 points and 5.6 rebounds in his freshman year and is perfect for a team eyeing speed, athleticism and perimeter defense. 

Tre Johnson, a 6’6” guard from Texas, is renowned for his 40% 3 point accuracy and 87% free throw percentage. He is locked in between the 4th and 6th picks on many mocks, yet some analysts question his finishing around the rim.

Center Khaman Maluach and forward Kon Knueppel, both from Duke, continue to climb draft boards due to their combination of size and skill from the post. International prospects like Noa Essengue (Ulm, Germany) and Nolan Traoré (France) are considered top 25 talents, though they missed the Combine while competing overseas.

This draft blends generational upside, intrigue and strong depth across wings and bigs. With uncertainty swirling around Bailey and international standouts gaining traction, tonight could feature dramatic trades or surprises. Whether it’s Flagg rising to superstardom or Bailey’s audacious gambit unraveling, 2025 promises to be one of the most compelling and unpredictable drafts in years.

Where you can watch is listed below.

Draft Schedule & Broadcast

 •    Round 1

Wednesday, June 25

8 p.m. ET (7 p.m. CT)

ABC and ESPN, live stream on fubo or CBS Sports HQ   

    •    Round 2

Thursday, June 26

8 p.m. ET (7 p.m. CT)

ESPN, with streaming available

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