The 2024-2025 NBA season is still unfolding, brimming with exciting young talent and established stars. But even as the current season plays out, basketball analysts and scouts are already looking ahead, projecting the potential stars of the 2025 NBA Draft. This mock draft attempts to predict the top picks, based on current scouting reports and projected collegiate and international performances. It’s important to remember that this is a projection, and many factors can influence a player’s development and draft position between now and then.
Disclaimer: This mock draft is purely speculative and based on currently available information. Player rankings and team needs can change dramatically over the next two years.
Top 5 Picks
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San Antonio Spurs: Ausar Thompson (G/F, Overtime Elite): Thompson's athleticism and two-way potential make him a strong candidate for the number one overall pick. His development over the next two years will be crucial, but his raw talent is undeniable.
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Charlotte Hornets: Dariq Whitehead (G/F, Duke): Whitehead is another potential top-five pick who, despite injury setbacks, has shown flashes of immense talent. His scoring ability and three-point shooting could make him a valuable asset for a team looking to build around young talent.
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Detroit Pistons: Amari Bailey (G, UCLA): Bailey's impressive scoring prowess and playmaking ability could land him in the top three. His consistency and overall game development will be key factors in his draft stock.
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Orlando Magic: Jaden Bradley (G, Alabama): Bradley's exceptional court vision and passing skills make him an intriguing prospect. His defensive intensity complements his offensive capabilities, making him a well-rounded guard.
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Houston Rockets: Omaha Biliew (F, Iowa State): Biliew is a high-upside prospect with a unique combination of size, athleticism, and defensive potential. His offensive game needs refinement, but his defensive prowess is already evident.
The Lottery Picks (6-14)
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Washington Wizards: Mikey Williams (G, Vertical Academy): Williams is a high-scoring guard with excellent ball-handling skills. His consistency and efficiency will need to improve to solidify his lottery status.
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Utah Jazz: Matas Buzelis (F, G League Ignite): Buzelis possesses a high offensive ceiling with his size and shooting ability. His defensive potential could make him even more valuable.
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Toronto Raptors: Justin Edwards (F, Kentucky): Edwards is a talented forward with great potential. His ability to score inside and outside, combined with his defensive instincts, makes him a desirable prospect.
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Los Angeles Lakers: Kyle Filipowski (C, Duke): Filipowski's size and scoring ability make him an interesting center prospect. His rebounding and overall defensive contribution will determine his place in the draft.
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New Orleans Pelicans: Leonard Miller (F, G League Ignite): Miller’s athleticism and adaptability have impressed scouts. Continued development of his shooting consistency will be vital.
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Phoenix Suns: GG Jackson II (F, South Carolina): Jackson's scoring talent is apparent but refining other aspects of his game is critical.
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Oklahoma City Thunder: Isaiah Elohim (G, IMG Academy): Elohim's all-around skills make him a promising prospect, though consistency and overall efficiency will be key in his development.
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Indiana Pacers: AJ Johnson (C, Florida State): Johnson's defensive abilities and potential as a rim protector make him a valuable prospect, but he needs to improve on the offensive end.
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Golden State Warriors: Cameron Boozer (F, Ohio State): Boozer's size and athleticism make him a potentially dominant forward, but his consistency is something to monitor.
Beyond the Lottery
This is just a glimpse into the potential of the 2025 NBA draft class. The players mentioned above are just a few of the many talented prospects who will be vying for a spot in the NBA. The next two years will be crucial in determining their development and final draft positions. Many other promising players from high schools, colleges, and international leagues could emerge as well, making this a draft class with exciting potential.
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