With conference tournaments underway and March Madness right around the corner, there is no better time for a mock draft. As the 2025 NBA Draft inches ever closer, the various prospects of the class have risen and fallen since our last mock draft. Now is the time to discuss the placement of the class in the draft before adding their March Madness performances to their overall evaluations. Based on the draft order as of March 13th, let’s dig into a mock draft of the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft before March Madness begins.
2025 NBA Mock Draft 2.0: Pre-March Madness Edition
1. Washington Wizards: Cooper Flagg, Duke, SF/PF
Standing at 6-foot-9, Cooper Flagg has been the best prospect in his draft class. Unquestionably, Flagg is the surefire first-overall pick in the NBA Draft and someone who can change the fortunes of a franchise. He has the potential to be an elite two-way star in the league. In particular, Flagg possesses excellent defensive abilities that allow him to take on any role as a defender. Offensively, Flagg has shown improvement in his overall offensive game. Additionally, Flagg’s relentless spirit as a competitor will fuel him to keep getting better as a player. The Washington Wizards are fortunate enough to draft first in this mock draft and gain a true superstar with that pick. With Flagg, Washington will have a true piece to build around and lead them into a brighter future.
2. Utah Jazz: Dylan Harper, Rutgers, PG/SG
The son of five-time NBA champion Ron Harper, Dylan Harper remains second in this mock draft due to his shot-creation ability for himself and others. Standing at 6-foot-6, Harper has demonstrated impressive skill when attacking the basket, created by his skilled footwork and large frame as a guard. He possesses excellent passing vision and a crafty handle as well. Additionally, Harper can knock down shots in the mid-range and could potentially shoot threes consistently. While there are clear avenues for growth, Harper has the makings of being a true lead guard in the NBA. For the Utah Jazz, despite already having Isaiah Collier and Keyonte George, there is no passing up a player of Harper’s caliber. Harper has significantly fewer flaws than either of them and he can be a future star to build around.
3. Charlotte Hornets: VJ Edgecombe, Baylor, SG
Baylor guard VJ Edgecombe moves up to third in this mock as he has improved his offensive game while continuing to be an excellent defender. The 6-foot-5 guard possesses an elite level of athleticism that sets him apart from other guards in the class. He channels his athleticism into being a high-level defender who can smother perimeter players. Not only that, but he has the strength to be a versatile defensive piece who can guard multiple positions. Moreover, Edgecombe utilizes his vertical bounce well as a shot-blocker. Offensively, Edgecombe has improved as a shooter, which has opened up driving lanes for him. He loves getting into the lane and throwing down powerful dunks.
Unquestionably, Edgecombe is the type of player that the Hornets need to select in this year’s Draft. He has all the qualities the Hornets need to put around LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. In general, the Hornets need the defense, athleticism, and toughness that Edgecombe provides. While it remains to be seen how Edgecombe will perform during March Madness should his team make the tournament, he has shown a lot of positives throughout the season that earn him a top spot in this 2025 NBA mock draft.
4. New Orleans Pelicans: Kasparas Jakucionis, Illinois, PG/SG
The New Orleans Pelicans need someone like Illinois guard Kasparas Jakucionis to fill their long-term need at point guard. The 6-foot-6 guard can provide high-level playmaking for guys like Zion Williamson and Trey Murphy III. Additionally, he provides scoring juice, both on and off the ball. He can score on all three levels and help give spacing for Williamson on his drives to the basket. While he isn’t the most athletic or the best defender, Jakucionis and his offensive talent perfectly fit with the Pelicans on the offensive end.
5. Toronto Raptors: Ace Bailey, Rutgers, SF
Despite falling to fifth in this mock, Ace Bailey still possesses incredible potential and skills. Standing at 6-foot-10, Bailey utilizes his size and athleticism to be a deadly offensive threat. Specifically, he can use his size and shot-making talent to straight-up shoot over opponents. He can score on all three levels and is an extremely deadly shooter. His caliber of shooting is needed next to Scottie Barnes and Bailey will benefit from the playmaking Barnes provides. Defensively, Bailey has shown flashes of being a good weakside shot-blocker. Furthermore, Bailey has also shown flashes of being a versatile defender when he is locked in and, he is a pretty good rebounder.
However, the main problems with Bailey are his off-ball defense and his shot selection. While he has improved throughout the season, these are still major concerns. Nevertheless, Bailey is too talented to pass for the Raptors and he does have the skills they need. Bailey can be a special player with the Raptors if he develops correctly.
6. Philadelphia 76ers: Collin Murray-Boyles, South Carolina, PF
While he doesn’t fit perfectly in Philadelphia, Collin Murray-Boyles is still a tremendous prospect who can be a great two-way player in the league. Murray-Boyles utilizes his athleticism to be a power finisher at the rim and create mismatches on the post. Additionally, he is great at rebounding, especially on the offensive end. He also possesses playmaking abilities out of the post and along the perimeter. While he is not a shooter, Murray-Boyles is an elite defender who can guard multiple positions. It will be hard for the Sixers to pass up on a prospect with such talent. His skill set can fit well next to Philadelphia’s perimeter stars. Murray-Boyles can also serve as frontcourt insurance if Joel Embiid misses games due to injury. Overall his physicality, defense, and playmaking will benefit the Sixers.
7. Brooklyn Nets: Tre Johnson, Texas, 19 years old, SG
While there is great uncertainty about whether Tre Johnson will participate in the NCAA Tournament, he has shown his quality as a top prospect for this mock during the regular season. Johnson is an electric scorer through and through who can score on all three levels. Specifically, Johnson is a lethal shooter from any distance. Plus, he has shown flashes of playmaking skills in recent months. His offensive abilities are needed on a Brooklyn Nets team that needs long-term talent on the roster. Even with Cam Thomas having a similar skill set, Johnson has the long-term upside of developing a more well-rounded skill set. Regardless, Johnson is one of the most talented players in the draft and someone the Nets need to build around.
8. San Antonio Spurs: Kon Knueppel, Duke, SF
Standing at 6-foot-7, Kon Knueppel has the size and skills to be of help to a San Antonio team poised to make a playoff push in 2026. Knueppel possesses the three-point shooting that the Spurs desperately need on the court. He can knock down threes in various ways but he excels as a catch-and-shoot guy. Not only can Knueppel shoot threes, but he can score on all three levels. Knueppel can also handle the ball and be a secondary playmaker. His offensive skills will shine next to San Antonio’s stars and the attention they attract. Ultimately Knueppel’s ability to shoot the ball can be of immediate help for the Spurs and he still has the potential for more growth.
9. Chicago Bulls: Khaman Maluach, Duke, C
Duke center Khaman Maluach has acquitted himself well throughout his rookie season. He has demonstrated himself to be one of the better defensive centers in college basketball and someone teams will be interested in. Standing at 7-foot-2, Maluach has the size, athleticism, and length to be a truly impactful rim protector in the NBA. Furthermore, Maluach has shown flashes of being a switchable defender on the perimeter, which further increases his defensive versatility. Maluach and his defensive potential can be an important building block for the Bulls as they fully transition into a rebuild. Plus, Maluach can further develop his offensive game when Bulls trainers. Maluach’s high upside will be a big part of Chicago’s future.
10. Portland Trail Blazers: Asa Newell, Georgia, PF/C
The Portland Trail Blazers have had an impressive turn-around for their season, despite not being in the play-in. Nevertheless, they can still use more size, rebounding, and defense in the frontcourt. That’s where 6-foot-11 freshman forward Asa Newell comes into the picture. He has the size and athleticism to be impactful on the boards and defense. Speaking of defense, he has the versatility to guard multiple positions and play various defensive roles. He can serve as a weakside rim protector or as a switchable defender out on the perimeter. As for offense, he is an excellent finisher at the rim and has the potential to eventually be a three-point shooter. Regardless of which side of the floor he’s on, Newell will always play the game with excellent motor and energy. The Blazers should be very excited to see Newell still left on the board for this mock.
11. Miami Heat: Jeremiah Fears, Oklahoma, PG
Oklahoma Sooners guard Jeremiah Fears has had a bumpy season full of ups and downs. However, in recent weeks, Fears has picked up his level of play and has flashed the lottery potential he showed earlier in the season. Specifically, Fears put up two great performances against Georgia and Missouri, where he scored 29 and 31 respectively. Standing at 6-foot-4, his ability to get into the paint and score or draw a foul is one of the best aspects of his game. Fears is excellent at using his speed and handle to break down defenses. Additionally, Fears has shown the potential to score on all three levels. He can score in the mid-range but needs improvement from three. Fears has also flashed his passing abilities and he could be a real playmaker with more development.
Fears is exactly the type of upside swing the Miami Heat needs after trading away Jimmy Butler. Plus, the Heat do need a long-term solution at point guard and Fears can fill that need. The Heat has an impressive developmental system and if they can help Fears reach his potential, Miami might have a star on their hands.
12. Houston Rockets (via Phoenix Suns): Liam McNeeley, UConn, SF
UConn forward Liam McNeeley has one of the most transferable skill sets to the NBA among all prospects. Standing at 6-foot-7, his 3-and-D skill set can slot in on most teams. Furthermore, McNeeley has shown that he can score on all three levels and handle the ball to a certain extent. McNeeley can also knock down threes in a variety of ways, so he is not limited to just catch-and-shoot. While he isn’t the best defender, McNeeley’s size and basketball IQ can make him at least decent on defense. Given his skills, he makes a perfect fit for the Houston Rockets. They desperately need a 3-and-D wing like McNeeley to help space the floor for their stars like Amen Thompson and Alperen Sengun. His abilities as a 3-and-D wing can help McNeeley earn immediate minutes on an ascending Rockets team.
13. Dallas Mavericks: Jase Richardson, Michigan State, SG/PG
Michigan State guard Jase Richardson has been rising rapidly as a prospect over the course of the season. Standing at 6-foot-3, the son of former NBA player Jason Richardson has impressed many with his well-rounded skill set and smart decision-making. He rarely makes mistakes out on the court and always tries to make the right play. Richardson can score on all three levels and do so with and without the ball. He moves his feet well on defense and plays with energy on that end. Most importantly, Richardson has a great feel for the game and possesses a high basketball IQ.
Even with all these positives, Richardson has the potential to become even better. Given the uncertainty of the franchise after the Luka Doncic trade and the numerous injuries, taking Richardson at 13 can give fans something to look forward to. Not only that, but the team does need another guard behind Kyrie Irving, who can be on the roster long-term. Richardson has the skills and mentality to succeed with the Mavericks despite fears of their future.
14. Atlanta Hawks (via Sacramento Kings): Thomas Sorber, PF/C
Georgetown Hoyas big man Thomas Sorber had an impressive freshman season despite a season-ending foot injury. His abilities as a two-way center will fit perfectly on the Atlanta Hawks and next to Trae Young. The 6-foot-10 big can operate well on the offensive end as a short-roller and play finisher. Sorber possesses a good touch around the rim and has some shooting potential. Furthermore, his passing abilities will take the Hawks to the next level on offense. Defensively, his shot-blocking skill will allow Sorber to serve as a replacement for an aging Clint Capela. The Hawks can fully move away from Capela and Sorber can be a part of the future with Young, Dyson Daniels, and Jalen Johnson.
15. Orlando Magic: Ben Saraf, Ratiopharm Ulm, PG/SG
Standing at 6-foot-5, Ben Saraf has impressed as a guard who can pressure the rim using his crafty handle to get in the lane. Additionally, Saraf operates well in the pick-and-roll, where he can get teammates good looks. Saraf can also knock down mid-range shots but will need to effectively extend his range beyond the arc. Regardless of his three-point shot, Saraf’s ability to generate offense is much needed on a Magic team that struggles to put points on the board. Plus, the Magic has the defensive personnel in place to help cover Saraf’s weaknesses as a defender. Saraf does have some issues he must improve on, however, his skills are something that the Magic needs and can further develop.
16. San Antonio Spurs (via Atlanta Hawks): Rasheer Fleming, Saint Joseph’s, PF/SF
Saint Joseph’s forward Rasheer Fleming has had a breakout season, demonstrating his capabilities as a floor spacer and defender at 6-foot-9. Fleming has shown a big jump in his three-point percentage, shooting 41 percent from three this season. Such floor spacing will be a massive help to the Spurs, who need more spacing around their stars. Not only can he score from three, but Fleming also scores well in the paint. He utilizes his athleticism well when attacking the basket, which is most apparent in transition. Fleming is a strong rebounder, especially on the offensive end. Defensively, Fleming can be a versatile defender who can play many roles on defense. In addition to his athleticism, he knows how to use his length to bother shots at the rim or block them entirely.
His 3-and-D skill set, paired with his athletic gifts, is a perfect fit next to Victor Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox. He gives the size more size, athleticism, shooting, and defense that they need. He can be a valuable rotation player for them as they push to make the playoffs.
17. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Los Angeles Clippers): Derik Queen, Maryland, PF/C
Maryland big Derik Queen has impressed many this season due to his abilities as the offensive hub of his team. As an offensive player, Queen has shown the ability to be an effective paint scorer and passer. Queen can cut, roll, post up, and score in isolation. He possesses excellent touch around the rim and can knock down mid-range shots. Additionally, Queen has excellent court vision and can read defenses for weaknesses. He can find open teammates and set them up for easy shots. His offensive capabilities as a big fits within the Thunder’s offensive system and how they run their bigs. He can be a plus on offense and Oklahoma City’s perimeter defense can help cover up his defensive weaknesses. If Queen can improve as a shooter and defender, he can be a valuable player for a long time in Oklahoma City.
18. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Detroit Pistons): Noah Penda, Le Mans Sarthe, SF/PF
Standing at 6-foot-6, French wing Noah Penda is one of the better defensive prospects in the draft this year. He has the size and athleticism to be a versatile defender who can guard multiple positions and switch on defense. He uses his length well, providing some weakside shot-blocking and racking up steals. Furthermore, Penda plays with a high motor and always plays each possession with energy. Offensively, Penda must continue to develop his three-point shooting, but he does have the potential to shoot threes consistently. Penda thrives off of cuts and attacking closeouts.
Given his size and defense, he makes a lot of sense for the Timberwolves. Outside of Jaden McDaniels, Minnesota lacks wing defenders at Penda’s size. They can use the frontcourt depth Penda brings.
19. Indiana Pacers: Johni Broome, Auburn, PF/C
Auburn big Johni Broome has been one of the best players in college basketball. His skills as a finisher, rebounder, passer, and defender all earn him a spot in the first round. He can score as a roller, cutter, isolation, and post-up. Broome has a good touch around the rim and has shown flashes of shooting the three. Additionally, Broome can read defenses and make good passes to open teammates. Defensively, he has served well as a shot-blocker and overall rim protector.
His skills as a center will be a big help to a Pacers team that doesn’t have a consistent backup to Myles Turner. Broome brings a different skill set on offense compared to Turner while still being a rim protector. Broome can immediately contribute due to his age and experience compared to the rest of the class. Getting Broome can be the answer to Indiana’s need for another big.
20. Utah Jazz (via Minnesota Timberwolves): Carter Bryant, Arizona, SF
The 6-foot-8 wing Carter Bryant has shown out well for Arizona despite playing limited minutes. His skill set perfectly matches the description of a 3-and-D wing and that’s exactly what the Utah Jazz need. The Jazz has been dreadful on defense this season, ranking 29th out of the 30 teams. They need a player who can play a lick of perimeter defense, which is something Bryant can do. He has the size, athleticism, and length to be able to guard across various positions. Bryant is excellent at using his length to block shots and pickpockets.
Offensively, Bryant can knock down threes as a catch-and-shoot guy and slash to the rim. Additionally, Bryant is capable of handling the ball to a certain degree. It remains to be seen how Bryant will play during March Madness, but he has impressed enough already to be considered a first-round prospect in this 2025 NBA mock draft.
21. Miami Heat (via Golden State Warriors): Noa Essengue, Ratiopharm Ulm, SF/PF
While Ulm forward Noa Essengue isn’t going to be ready as a rotation player on day one, his potential can be something that the Heat can mold. Standing at 6-foot-10, Essengue’s best attributes as a prospect are his athleticism and defensive potential. He can make many extremely athletic plays, especially on the defensive end. He has shown that he can be a versatile defensive piece, both as a perimeter defender and weakside shot-blocker. However, he is incredibly raw on the offensive end, and he will need to figure out his role on that end. There are signs of a jump shot in his skill set, so Miami will need to work with him on that. Essengue is an impressive finisher at the rim, which is the most noticeable in transition. Regardless, the Heat makes an upside play on Essengue, who could be a valuable piece in the frontcourt if he develops well.
22. Brooklyn Nets (via Milwaukee Bucks): Nolan Traore, Saint Quentin, PG
Standing at 6-foot-4, French guard Nolan Traore rebuilt some of his draft stock after his pre-season hype faded. Traore’s best attributes as a prospect are his handle, speed, and playmaking abilities. He has the speed and burst to beat opponents off the dribble and get to the rim. Traor has shown potential as a three-level scorer and it is critical that he reaches that potential. He plays with great energy and effort on defense and is always active on that end of the floor. Traore has so much untapped potential and that is exactly what the Nets need to bank on. Their roster simply lacks the talent to become a competitive team in the future. With Traore, the Nets will have the chance to cultivate talent under their wing. If they succeed, then Brooklyn will have their starting point guard of the future.
23. Brooklyn Nets (via Houston Rockets): Hugo Gonzalez, Real Madrid, SF
Brooklyn makes back-to-back picks as they take Spanish wing Hugo Gonzalez with the 23rd pick. Standing at 6-foot-7, Gonzalez possesses the size, athleticism, and potential to be a 3-and-D wing in the future. He has the positional size to be a versatile defensive piece who can guard multiple positions. His athleticism allows him to make explosive plays on both ends, but it shows up the most when running in transition. Gonzalez thrives off of cuts and attacking closeouts, allowing him to attack the basket. He can handle the ball as a secondary ball-handler and possesses a high basketball IQ. While Gonzalez isn’t a consistent shooter right now, there are signs of a jump shot in his game. If Brooklyn can help Gonzalez develop his skills, particularly his shooting, they will have a 3-and-D wing on their hands.
24. Washington Wizards (via Memphis Grizzlies): Labaron Philon, Alabama, PG
After taking Flagg earlier in the draft, the Wizards shore up their point guard room as they take Alabama guard Labaron Philon. Standing at 6-foot-4, Philon is a shifty guard who can break down defenses with his handle and hound opposing guards on the other end. Despite being a limited athlete, Philon utilizes his high basketball IQ and craftiness to find gaps in defenses. He can create his own shot and playmake for others. Philon has excellent passing vision and can make impressive reads to get the ball to the right player.
He can be turnover-prone, and his three-point shot is still a work in progress. However, the skills he possesses will be incredibly useful for Washington. His defense will amplify Washington’s existing defensive core alongside Flagg. Philon’s playmaking can help the Wizards move the ball around and flow better offensively. If he develops as a shooter, he can be a two-way threat for the Wizards.
25. Brooklyn Nets (via New York Knicks): Egor Demin, BYU, PG/SF
Despite much of his early-season hype dissipating as the season went on, Egor Demin still has immense upside as a player. His size at 6-foot-9 paired with his passing ability makes him an intriguing upside for any team. He can laser passes to the right teammate with ease. Demin has amazing court vision and a feel for the game. His size and length allow him to bother passes and rack up steals. Given his upside, the Nets are the perfect team to take a swing at Demin. If they can unlock his scoring and improve his defense, the Nets will have a valuable player on their hands.
26. Atlanta Hawks (via Los Angeles Lakers): Nique Clifford, Colorado State, SG/SF
Colorado State wing Nique Clifford is an extremely athletic player who can impactful the game on both ends. Standing at 6-foot-5, he can score on all three levels and utilize his athleticism to be a force in transition. Clifford can also play both on and off the ball, as he has developed his on-ball skills in the past two seasons. His athleticism shows up when on the defensive end as well. Clifford has shown he knows how to use his length to block shots, grab rebounds, or disrupt passes. Also, Clifford moves his feet well and knows when to rotate on defense.
Clifford is the exact type of player that the Hawks like to surround Trae Young with. His versatile skill set on both ends of the floor is much needed off the bench for the Hawks. Plus, at 23 Clifford can contribute immediately.
27. Orlando Magic (via Denver Nuggets): Kam Jones, Marquette, PG/SG
Marquette guard Kam Jones offers the shooting and overall offense that the Magic need on their roster. Standing at 6-foot-4, Jones can play both on and off the ball and score on all three levels. Additionally, Jones has developed as a playmaker who can set up teammates with good shots. Most importantly, Jones provides the shooting the Magic needs on their bench. While Orlando did take an offensive player earlier in the draft, the Magic just need offense off the bench.
28. Boston Celtics: Miles Byrd, San Diego State, SG/SF
San Diego State wing Miles Byrd has been one of the better wings in the class, as he has demonstrated impressive defensive skill and shooting potential. Standing at 6-foot-7, Byrd has the size and athleticism to be a versatile defensive wing. Byrd is excellent at utilizing his length and athleticism to disrupt passes or block shots. He loves racking up steals and turning them into transition opportunities. Byrd has the basketball IQ to know when to rotate or anticipate passes. Offensively, he thrives in transition due to his steals. He can throw down powerful dunks and can score on all three levels. His three-point shooting can be inconsistent, however.
Boston gets a steal in Byrd at 28. He can develop in the background while learning from seasoned veterans on the team. Plus, Byrd is more experienced than other prospects given that he is a third-year player. He could provide spot minutes if the need arises. Overall, Boston could do worse than a talented defensive wing who can become a consistent three-point shooter.
29. Los Angeles Clippers (via Oklahoma City Thunder): Danny Wolf, Michigan, C
The Los Angeles Clippers are at a crossroads as a franchise, sitting as a play-in team without much hope for the future. They need to infuse the team with young talent, and that’s where Michigan big Danny Wolf comes into the picture. Alongside being a big that the Clippers can use to back up Ivica Zubac, Wolf brings a different dimension to the team as an offensively talented big. Wolf can score on all three levels, hitting impressive step-back threes while also scoring in the post. Furthermore, Wolf possesses excellent passing vision and playmaking ability. While turnover-prone, Wolf can make great reads and pick apart defenses with his passing. He can put the ball on the floor as a ball-handler as well.
Not only can Wolf be an offensive threat, but he can also serve as a rim protector and shot-blocker. He is great at using his length to bother shots at the rim. He does have issues when guarding in space as he doesn’t have the quickness to keep up with guards. Nevertheless, it will be hard for the Clippers to pass up on such a talented big. His skill set can inject new life into a stagnating Clippers team and he can be a building piece for the future.
30. Phoenix Suns (via Cleveland Cavaliers): Maxime Raynaud, Stanford, C
Regardless of the uncertain future of the Phoenix Suns, the team desperately needs a long-term solution in the middle. They can potentially find that in Stanford’s big Maxime Raynaud. He has impressed this as an offensively-minded big who can put up big rebounding numbers. He has the capability of scoring on all three levels. Raynaud can both operate out of the post and serve as a pick-and-pop threat. Moreover, Raynaud has shown the ability to pass the ball a little. He is an excellent rebounder on both ends and can serve as a decent shot-blocker. He does have questions regarding his strength and quickness, but he has impressed in many other aspects of his game. For Phoenix, Raynaud can be a big they can pair with Devin Booker as they reassess their future.
Photo credit: © Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
