NBA scouts have already begun working a 2025 draft cycle that's expected to produce a class with multiple star prospects.

Duke's Cooper Flagg has been considered one of the bigger prizes of the decade. But Rutgers also has one of the better freshmen duos we've seen in a few years. And there are a handful of exciting international names capable of climbing the board, including a few who chose to play in the NCAA.

The Brooklyn Nets traded Mikal Bridges to sacrifice the short term and maximize their chances of winning this year's lottery. The Washington Wizards did little to improve their 2024-25 roster as well, potentially stalling before this highly anticipated draft.

We could see more teams like the Portland Trail Blazers or Chicago Bulls willing to make midseason moves to increase their chances of landing No. 1 overall.

The draft order was based on FanDuel's projected win totals for each team

1. Brooklyn Nets: Cooper Flagg

Team: Duke

Position: PF

Size: 6'9", 205 lbs

Age: 17

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Andrei Kirilenko (defensive), Jalen Johnson, Shawn Marion

Hype has been building around Cooper Flagg for years, and scouts' desire to see a franchise-changer is even greater coming off a draft that lacked a consensus No. 1 overall talent.

Flagg will be tested early with high-profile matchups against Kentucky, Arizona, Kansas and Auburn over a three-week stretch from November 12 to December 4.

While Flagg looks like a lock to produce and defend just off his athleticism and motor, it will be interesting to see his usage and creation level in a rotation with Tyrese Proctor, Caleb Foster and Sion James. If there is a question that scouts want answered with more certainty, it's about Flagg's ability to create at a sharp enough level to warrant ball-screen and isolation chances regularly.

The gradual improvement he's demonstrated remains encouraging, particularly for a player who already has special physical traits, IQ, and competitiveness for translatable play-finishing, passing, and defense.

Regardless of what percentage Flagg shoots from three or how many turnovers he commits while trying to make plays, he's poised to deliver an adequate amount of ball-handling skill and shotmaking diversity to satisfy scouts hoping for a top option that an offense can run through.

2. Washington Wizards: Dylan Harper

Team: Rutgers

Position: PG/SG

Size: 6'6", 215 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparisons: Coby White, Jalen Brunson (bigger), James Harden

Rebuilding teams searching for a lead ball-handler will spend a lot of time at Rutgers. Dylan Harper could be the top guard drafted next June thanks to his full-package positional skill set for creation, shotmaking and playmaking.

Rutgers also lists Harper at 6'6", 215 pounds (plus a 6'10" wingspan), eye-opening measurements that mirror those of NBA wings. At that size, he's going to generate tons of buzz and highlights with how effectively he uses change of speed/direction, footwork and strength to get to his spots.

His shooting also continues to look more dangerous after combined to hit 9-of-17 threes between the McDonald's All-American Game, Nike Hoop Summit and Jordan Brand Classic.

Scouts will be focused on how well he creates separation and distributes, given his score-first wiring and limited explosiveness.

3. Portland Trail Blazers: Ace Bailey

Team: Rutgers

Position: SF

Size: 6'10", 200 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparisons: Brandon Miller, Tracy McGrady

Whether Ace Bailey can realistically compete for the No. 1 spot on draft boards will come down to his efficiency.

The combination of 6'10" wing size, self-creation, special shotmaking and athletic finishing around the rim fuels wild scoring potential that's remained obvious and enticing. Only poor shot selection and questions about feel for a game's flow could turn scouts off.

Some of his jump-shot attempts are rushed or simply too difficult to justify. But Bailey also has an incredible ability to hit separate into and drill contested looks, from deep pull-ups and tight-window step-backs to post fallaways.

His positional height, one-on-one game and shooting combine into one of the NBA most coveted, surefire-hit archetypes.

4. Detroit Pistons: VJ Edgecombe

Team: Baylor

Position: SG

Size: 6'5", 180 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: Bahamas

Pro Comparisons: Victor Oladipo, Shaedon Sharpe

There usually aren't notable on-court storylines during the summer for incoming college freshmen. But VJ Edgecombe had a chance to compete with the Bahamas national team for the Olympic qualifiers, and the 18-year-old was one of the top performers in a tournament that featured accomplished NBA and international pros.

Playing alongside Buddy Hield, Deandre Ayton and Eric Gordon, Edgecombe averaged 16.5 points, 5.5 rebounds and 3.8 assists per game while shooting 57.1 percent from the field. He delivered some wild displays of athleticism that highlighted special bounce/hang time at the rim and burst turning the corner. He hit mid-range shots and floaters, and shot 5-of-13 from deep. The biggest development seemed to be his ball-handling and live-dribble passing reads.

Edgecombe's creation, shotmaking and playmaking skill levels are starting to catch up to his signature explosiveness. He should ultimately offer even more on-ball offense and versatility than Baylor's 2024 first-round wing, Ja'Kobe Walter.

5. Utah Jazz: Nolan Traore

Team: Saint-Quentin

Position: PG

Size: 6'4", 184 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: France

Pro Comparisons: Lonzo Ball

It's been a mixed start to the season for Nolan Traore, though the ups outweigh the downs for an 18-year-old starting point guard in Pro A. The ups included a 27-point game in the Basketball Champions League before putting up 20 points and 10 assists against Nancy Basket.

He has an excellent feel for changing speed to freeze defenses and knowing where teammates are in ball-screen situations. His passing skill and IQ are advanced. Depending on how he shoots the three this year, scouts may question his scoring ability for the NBA, but they'll likely all be sold on his setup ability.

After hitting 9-of-21 from deep this summer at the U18 European Championships, he's made at least three three-pointers in three of five games to start the year with Saint-Quentin. Considering he isn't the most explosive athlete or advanced one-on-one scorer, continuing to make jumpers will be key for Traore to build a top-five case in this draft.

6. Chicago Bulls: Drake Powell

Team: North Carolina

Position: SG

Size: 6'6", 195 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparisons: Herbert Jones, Will Barton

Drake Powell received some quality experience this summer at Jayson Tatum's Elite Camp and the Nike Skills Academy.

He's going to build a real case for starter minutes with more versatility at both ends than North Carolina wings Ian Jackson and Cade Tyson.

Head coach Hubert Davis will be able to slide Powell into multiple positions and roles. He's extremely well-rounded and is capable of making plays on and off the ball with his pull-up, passing, improved catch-and-shoot game and athleticism.

Powell will make his mark this season by impacting games in different ways.

7. Charlotte Hornets: Kon Knueppel

Team: Duke

Position: SF

Size: 6'6", 217 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: American

Pro Comparison: Wally Szczerbiak

Even with Tyrese Proctor and Caleb Foster back, and Duke adding projected No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel is too polished of a scorer to take a back seat.

With a highly convincing shooting stroke, physical drives and mid-range shotmaking versatility, his game is built for off-ball, spot-up scoring that scouts should deem translatable.

Given how sharp he is around the perimeter, and how competitive he can look defensively, the athletic limitations shouldn't set off alarms.

8. Toronto Raptors: Kasparas Jakucionis

Team: Illinois

Position: SF

Size: 6'10", 200 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: Lithuania

Pro Comparisons: Spencer Dinwiddie

Kasparas Jakucionis will play his first draft-eligible year at Illinois after building an impressive overseas resume that includes a Spanish ACB debut at 16 years old, MVP honors of ANGT Belgrade, All-Star honors at Basketball Without Borders, a Nike Hoop Summit invitation and averages of 19.4 points and 5.3 assists per game this past summer at the U18 European Championships.

At 6'6", 200 pounds, Jakucionis is going to operate on and off the ball at Illinois, serving as a textbook combo with wing size, ball-handling and IQ for playmaking and dangerous shotmaking skill. He should be able to sell himself to NBA teams as a primary ball-handler with how effective he can be changing speed, creating and shooting off the dribble.

9. San Antonio Spurs (via Hawks): Tre Johnson

Team: Texas

Position: SG

Size: 6'6", 190 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparisons: Cam Thomas

Scouts have already seen plenty of Tre Johnson, who's participated in almost every NBA-sanction camp, USA Basketball, Chipotle Nationals and the three big high school All-Star events.

He's going to look like a pro scorer with advanced shot-making and the self-creation that goes into it.

Johnson does rely on hitting tough jumpers, and it wouldn't be surprising if he entered the draft with low free-throw and assist rates for a guard. But he's still going to get plenty of NBA interest from teams coveting more offensive firepower and shooting.

10. San Antonio Spurs: Ben Saraf

Team: Ratiopharm Ulm

Position: PG/SG

Size: 6'5", 201 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: Israel

Pro Comparison: Manu Ginobili

Ben Saraf turned himself into a high scouting priority after he won MVP at the U18 European Championships by averaging 28.1 points, 5.0 boards and 5.3 assists per game for Israel. The fact that we're seeing the same flashes of creativity, shotmaking and passing translate to the German BBL has been extremely encouraging.

In seven games with Ratiopharm Ulm, the 18-year-old guard is averaging 13.4 points and 4.7 assists. He's having success getting to spots off the dribble with a tight handle and constant change of speed/direction.

Saraf hasn't shot it as well as he did over the summer with Israel, but he's clearly comfortable from deep and separating into mid-range pull-ups. He's a crafty playmaker as well, showing he can manipulate defenses and set up teammates in a point guard role.

Scouts aren't going to nitpick Saraf's shooting percentages or athletic limitations if he continues to generate offense and produce. He should be locked into the first-round discussion throughout the season.

11. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Clippers): Collin Murray-Boyles

Team: South Carolina

Position: PF

Size: 6'7", 245 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparisons: Julius Randle

Based on Collin Murray-Boyles' standout physical profile, interior skill/instincts and per-minute freshman scoring and assist numbers, he's poised to be one of the SEC's more productive players.

The question is whether he adds any more to his face-up game or shooting range, and if not, will scouts still buy in?

Murray-Boyles only took five three-pointers last year, but there are always outliers, and the 19-year-old sophomore just may be a good enough from the post, short corners, rolling off screens, crashing the glass and sliding his feet to continue scoring, finding teammates and defending in the NBA despite lacking a creative handle or jump shot.

12. Houston Rockets: Liam McNeeley

Team: Connecticut

Position: SF

Size: 6'7", 210 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparisons: Keegan Murray

NBA teams should see an easy fit and appealing archetype with Liam McNeeley. He should look like one of the top freshmen shooters, and he'll sell scouts further by scoring out of different sets/actions and making IQ plays.

"Plug-and-play" figures to be a commonly used phrase to describe McNeeley's game for Connecticut and eventually the NBA.

Finishing efficiently inside the arc and defending with toughness will be keys to maximizing his draft stock.

13. Atlanta Hawks (via Lakers): Khaman Maluach

Team: Duke

Position: C

Size: 7'2", 250 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: South Sudan

Pro Comparison: Alex Sarr

Athletic wow plays and flashes of shooting should help scouts look past Khaman Maluach's rawness and lengthier NBA-ready timetable.

Signs of three-point range and some mid-range touch will ignite scouts' imaginations and hint at long-term upside. But he'll likely play a simplified role at Duke and produce mostly off 7'2" size and mobility for explosive play-finishing and shot-blocking.

14. Golden State Warriors: Egor Demin

Team: BYU

Position: SG/SF

Size: 6'9", weight unlisted

Age: 18

Nationality: Russia

Pro Comparison: Jalen Rose, Anthony Black, Hedo Turkoglu

There is always a draw to big wings who can handle and pass. Egor Demin, 6'9", should instantly pop to college scouts who haven't seen him as much as the international ones.

The Russian creates advantages with his dribble and burst for slashing and transition scoring. He possesses a versatile skill set that includes ball-screen driving, playmaking and diverse shotmaking. Upside will show most when he's on the ball, though he's also effective at moving without it and cutting for easy baskets.

How he shoots and executes on creation possessions will determine how high he climbs on 2025 draft boards. Demin shot three of 21 from three at ANGT, though a high-volume three-point attempt rate over the years is still encouraging.

15. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Heat): Noa Essengue

Team: Ratiopharm Ulm

Position: SF/PF

Size: 6'9", 198 lbs

Age: 17

Nationality: France

Pro Comparison: Jabari Walker, Precious Achiuwa

At 17 years old, Noa Essengue was able to put up 20 points, eight boards, three assists and two steals in an exhibition against a near full-strength Portland Trail Blazers team. Momentum from a strong FIBA U18s in August has carried over to Ulm. Even at his ground floor, he's been productive in his role, playing off skill players and providing finishing, defensive versatility and the occasional spot-up three.

Potential remains the selling point. Essengue may be the youngest prospect in the draft, and it shows on some of his self-created attempts.

Between his shooting range, activity around the basket, driving flashes and defensive tools, there is enough for scouts to remain patient with and bet on long term.

16. New Orleans Pelicans: Boogie Fland

Team: Arkansas

Position: PG

Size: 6'2", 175 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Darius Garland

Transfers DJ Wagner and Johnell Davis may cut into Boogie Fland's usage, but his creativity, shotmaking and playmaking should look obvious the way Rob Dillingham's did off Kentucky's bench last year. It wouldn't be surprising if new coach John Calipari used Fland similarly to start the year.

He has the handle, shiftiness and pull-up game to push scouts to look past his 6'2", 175-pound frame and the concerns that body type presents.

17. Atlanta Hawks (via Kings): Rocco Zikarsky

Team: Brisbane

Position: C

Size: 7'2", 227 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: Australia

Pro Comparisons: Walker Kessler, Donovan Clingan

Hype has been building around Rocco Zikarsky's size, rim protection and touch. After appearing in 29 games for Brisbane last season, there was hope he'd have a bigger role in 2024-25. But he's only averaging 12.8 minutes to start the year, and aside from mostly easy-basket finishes, Zikarsky hasn't been able to show much.

The obvious draw to the 7'2" 18-year-old stems from his defensive projection. He registered a 12.2 block rate last season, though that number is down significantly through six games, and he's looked choppy trying to contest jump shots or close out on shooters.

Still, his unteachable size isn't changing, and his rim protection figures to come alive again.

Offensively, he has attempted two three-point attempts (made one), potentially an interesting development if it continues after he took two all of last year. Showing more range or even post offense will obviously help Zikarsky win more scouts over.

18. Indiana Pacers: Hugo González Peña

Team: Real Madrid

Position: SF

Size: 6'7", weight unlisted

Age: 18

Nationality: Spain

Pro Comparison: Jonathan Kuminga

Hugo González had a productive U18 European Championships this summer, when he scored 30-plus points against Israel and Finland to average 20.7 points for the tournament.

However, he's barely touched the floor through five games with Real Madrid. Meanwhile, most of the other top international prospects are either in better situations overseas or accepted big NIL deals and roles with college programs.

His physical profile, motor and mobility have always pointed to exciting defensive potential. And Gonzalez has shown growth with his off-the-dribble game, attacking defenses, getting into the paint and finishing off ball-handling moves, footwork and tough adjustments at the rim.

Scouts could still nitpick at his decision-making and shooting range. And now it will be interesting to monitor his situation, riding the bench for a high-profile club in ACB and Euroleague.

19. Memphis Grizzlies: Derrion Reid

Team: Alabama

Position: SF/PF

Size: 6'8", 220 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: De'Andre Hunter, Aaron Gordon

Alabama is loaded with guards and bigs, but Derrion Reid's physical profile and versatility will create obvious pro potential that should trump pedestrian stats and production.

In only 16.5 minutes for the U.S. at the FIBA Under-18 AmeriCup in June, the then-17-year-old averaged 10.3 points and 7.7 rebounds per game, scoring effortlessly against inferior international opponents using his length, touch, instincts and motor around the paint.

His passing and defensive tools are big pluses as well, and he's made some encouraging developments with his mid-range shot and range. However, improving his shooting remains an obvious priority.

20. Houston Rockets (via Suns): Donavan Freeman

Team: Syracuse

Position: C

Size: 6'9", 205 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Jonathan Isaac

Donnie Freeman has risen into the one-and-done discussion by flashing more and more perimeter skill and scoring versatility at 6'9".

He's likely to look skilled yet raw, with an ability to make threes, attack closeouts and score in the post—just without consistent execution.

The idea of a big wing and combo forward with Freeman's defensive tools should keep scouts patient through low three-point percentages and trouble against physicality.

21. Orlando Magic: Jalil Bethea

Team: Miami

Position: SF

Size: 6'5", 190 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Anfernee Simons

The level of intrigue around Jalil Bethea peaked last year when he dropped 40 points at the Hoophall Classic with NBA scouts allowed in the building. He should have an opportunity to dance with the ball and create at Miami. Bethea profiles as a classic scoring guard who can get his own shot, hit tough dribble jumpers and catch fire from three.

How high he climbs boards will come down to his efficiency and whether he can showcase enough playmaking for NBA teams to picture a combo over an exclusive 2-guard.

Miami listing him at 190 pounds suggests he's added important weight to a previously thin frame.

22. Utah Jazz (via Cavaliers): Carter Bryant

Team: Arizona

Position: SF/PF

Size: 6'8", 220 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Marcus Morris

Many executives were introduced to Carter Bryant last April when he scrimmaged with the Portland Generals against USA's Nike Hoop Summit team.

At 6'8", 220 pounds with a wing's perimeter shotmaking ability and athletic leaping around the rim, he may not need to produce or play like a starter at Arizona to draw first-round buzz.

Consistency and decision-making will determine how big of a role he plays this season, but Bryant has clear NBA tools with a body and skill set that fit an enticing combo-forward archetype.

23. Brooklyn Nets (via Bucks): Asa Newell

Team: Georgia

Position: PF/C

Size: 6'11", 220 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparisons: Marvin Bagley III, Jalen Smith

At 6'11" with a live motor, Asa Newell should deliver immediate activity around the rim, easy baskets and putbacks to Georgia. He covers a lot of ground and loves to crash the glass and sprint the floor in transition.

But his developing three-point stroke and post skill are what will help push him up draft boards in 2025.

Newell shot over 41.5 percent from three during 21 Montverde games logged by Synergy Sports. There should be plenty of NBA interest in an athletic 19-year-old energy big who can stretch the floor this early in his career.

24. Dallas Mavericks: Will Riley

Team: Illinois

Position: SG/SF

Size: 6'8", 180 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: Canada

Pro Comparison: Kelly Oubre, Kyshawn George

Coming off three impressive EYBL sessions with UPlay (21.9 points), Will Riley committed to Illinois and reclassified to play college basketball in 2024, making himself eligible for the 2025 draft.

At 6'8", he's a crafty shotmaker with the ability to improvise or counter into difficult jumpers and floaters. Despite an underwhelming frame, minimal length and limited explosion, he finds ways to get to his spots.

Riley should be on most NBA teams' radars after some impressive moments through Nike Hoop Summit week.

25. Orlando Magic (via Nuggets): Michael Ruzic

Team: Joventut

Position: C

Size: 6'10", 220 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: Croatia

Pro Comparison: Moritz Wagner

An efficient bench player at 17 years old in ACB and Eurocup, Michael Ruzic then stood out as one of the top prospects in Treviso at Eurocamp. He's been quiet early with a Joventut Badalona that has new additions and a different roster. But Ruzic should emerge at some point with an attractive combination of size and perimeter skill.

He put on a show at Eurocamp with nifty self-creation and tough shotmaking away from the basket. But until the draft, there will be questions about how his athletic and defensive limitations will restrict him on an NBA floor.

26. Utah Jazz (via Timberwolves): Alex Toohey

Team: Sydney Kings

Position: SF

Size: 6'7", 223 lbs

Age: 20

Nationality: Australia

Pro Comparison: Saddiq Bey, Gradey Dick

Early signs point to a breakout season for Alex Toohey, who's averaging 14.6 points per game on 14-of-30 from behind the arc.

Scouts are going to start picturing a plug-and-play wing based on his production against pros and easy-fit offense, assuming the shooting improvement continues. Though not ultra creative on the ball, he finds ways to score off it, thrives in transition and crashes the glass for second-chance points.

27. Oklahoma City Thunder (via 76ers): Dink Pate

Team: Mexico City Capitanes

Position: PG/SG

Size: 6'8", 210 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Shaun Livingston

Dink Pate's shooting will be high on scouts' priority list of skills to check back on.

The idea of a 6'8" guard and ball-handler remains enticing. The NBA loves the big playmaker archetype, and Pate has some real wiggle, shiftiness and sharp moves to create for himself at the rim and the perimeter.

He put together some impressive moments and stretches at 17 years old in the G League, getting to spots, finishing tough layups and demonstrated shotmaking capability. But scouts will be expecting improvement on 21.4 percent from three, a high turnover rate and difficulty converting against rim protection consistency.

28. Brooklyn Nets (via Knicks): Kanon Catchings

Team: BYU

Position: SF

Size: 6'9"

Age: 19, weight unlisted

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Trey Murphy III

BYU will be a hot destination for scouts this year. Egor Demin is the bigger name coming from Real Madrid, but Kanon Catchings offers the always enticing combo of big-wing size and shooting.

In 29 total games with Overtime Elite, he hit 53 threes and racked up 42 dunks, with most of his offense generated off athletic finishes and deep shotmaking.

In credible settings, the tape on Catchings' on-ball creation and decision-making remains limited. Still, assuming he plays to his strengths as a spot-up and transition weapon, the 6'9" 19-year-old should be able to generate buzz by burying jumpers and making plays above the rim.

29. Brooklyn Nets (via Thunder): Karter Knox

Team: Arkansas

Position: SF/PF

Size: 6'6", 220 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Tobias Harris

Karter Knox will have to adjust to Arkansas' deep roster that includes older forwards and wings ahead of him. His positional size, self-creation and tough shotmaking from three levels should still pop to scouts, as long as inconsistent shooting or decision-making don't raise too many questions.

Knox has had success scoring in a variety of settings, including USA Basketball, EYBL, high school showcase events and Overtime Elite.

30. Boston Celtics: Kwame Evans Jr.

Team: Oregon

Position: PF

Size: 6'9", 220 lbs

Age: 20

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: JT Thor

Raising that 26.7 three-point percentage remains the obvious priority for Kwame Evans Jr.

Better shooting should unlock an attractive archetype for NBA teams, as the 6'9", 19-year-old is coming off a freshman season as an efficient finisher and active defensive playmaker (3.2 steal percentage, 5.0 block percentage).

Evans did make 79.5 percent of his free throws, and he's been attempting threes regularly since high school. A greener light and more confidence should benefit his shot development.

There should be NBA interest in a big forward who wreaks havoc on defense, rolls and pops, scores from the post and executes from the dunker spot.

31. Brooklyn Nets: Joson Sanon

Team: Arizona State

Position: PG/SG

Size: 6'5", weight unlisted

Age: 18

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Cole Anthony

Joson Sanon gives Arizona State a scoring ball-handler whose physical drives and advanced shooting should catch scouts' attention. His shotmaking usually stands out first, with the 6'5" guard looking dangerous on both catch-and-shoot chances and pull-ups. His finishing and playmaking aren't as impressive, but Sanon has a strong frame and shows a willingness to move the ball and facilitate for teammates when needed.

32. Boston Celtics (via Wizards): Alex Karaban

Team: Connecticut

Position: SF/PF

Size: 6'8", 225 lbs

Age: 21

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Georges Niang

Alex Karaban is going for three consecutive national titles and first-round interest after NBA combine feedback likely pushed him to return to UConn.

He didn't stand out at May's combine, and there will continue to be some skepticism over his athletic limitations and lack of physicality inside to play the 4.

However, Karaban's 147 made three-pointers through two seasons is his main selling point, but he also shows off-ball scoring feel and defensive IQ/toughness.

33. Toronto Raptors (via Blazers): Nique Clifford

Team: Colorado State

Position: SF/PF

Size: 6'6", 200 lbs

Age: 22

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Landry Fields

A breakout season and 17 points, 10 boards and six assists in Colorado State's opening NCAA tournament win earned Nique Clifford NBA fans and an invite to the combine. There are a lot of role-player skills and traits detected when watching the 6'6" wing, who was one of the nation's most efficient spot-up players at Colorado State.

Aside from having shot 42.5 percent on catch-and-shoot chances, he excelled as a driver and finisher attacking closeouts. Clifford's passing and overall activity under the boards and defensively were also evident.

Given his projected glue-guy role for the next level, teams aren't likely to worry about age or upside.

34. Detroit Pistons: Rasheer Fleming

Team: Saint Joseph's

Position: PF

Size: 6'9", 240 lbs

Age: 20

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Chris Boucher

Rasheer Fleming put together some eye-opening tape last year with his three-point shooting flashes, coordinated, athletic play-finishing and incredible defensive length. Another jump in production should lead to NBA interest in 2025, given the obvious appeal to a 6'9" forward that can potentially stretch the floor, disrupt shots inside and out and consistently give guards an easy-bucket target.

With limited usage, Fleming racked up 34 threes, 35 dunks and 53 blocks playing 26.8 minutes per game. He's on breakout watch on a team returning exciting guards Erik Reynolds II and Xzayvier Brown.

35. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Jazz): Ian Jackson

Team: North Carolina

Position: SG

Size: 6'4", 190 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Lonnie Walker IV

Ian Jackson has been one of the most visible and accessible prospects for scouts. He played in three FIBA tournaments, the All-Star circuit last spring and a number of games against Overtime Elite.

He's a pure scorer who provides rim pressure, confident shotmaking and off-ball movement.

Jackson would have some adjustments to make in a starting lineup alongside Elliot Cadeau and RJ Davis. But with North Carolina bringing in sharpshooting wing Cade Tyson, Jackson may actually benefit from playing an offensive-spark role off the bench.

36. San Antonio Spurs (via Bulls): Jamir Watkins

Team: Florida State

Position: SF

Size: 6'7", 210 lbs

Age: 23 years old

Pro Comparison: Caris LeVert

There was NBA interest in Jamir Watkins last season, but he wasn't convincing enough at the combine to secure assuring feedback for the 2024 draft.

His physical tools and specific skill versatility create a coveted archetype for the next level. At 6'7", 220 pounds, he doubles as a ball-screen playmaker and scoring wing for Florida State who can also defend both backcourt and frontcourt players.

He'd be a 24-year-old rookie next year, so another season of low-volume, sub-35.0 three-percentage three-point shooting could turn scouts off.

37. Charlotte Hornets: Michael Ajayi

Team: Gonzaga

Position: SF/PF

Size: 6'7", 228 lbs

Age: 21

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Rui Hachimura

Despite returning to college, Michael Ajayi looked like he belonged at the NBA combine. He'll now have some key, early opportunities on Gonzaga's schedule to make an impression against power-conference opponents like Connecticut, Baylor, Arizona State, Kentucky and UCLA.

At 6'7", 228 pounds, his physical profile and three-level shotmaking stand out. He's an off-ball wing who shot 47.6 percent off the catch and showed a clear comfort level pulling up or falling away in the mid-range.

Poor explosion and quickness also made it difficult for Ajayi to finish in the half court or make any plays defensively.

38. Detroit Pistons (via Raptors): Milan Momcilovic

Team: Iowa State

Position: SF

Size: 6'8", 225 lbs

Age: 20

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Rodney Hood

Milan Momcilovic earned a spot on preseason watch lists with his impressive shotmaking for a 6'8" freshman. He's highly skilled at getting shots off and hitting tough jumpers from the mid-range out to the arc, where he made 61 threes in 37 games.

He scored a combined 29 points through his first two NCAA tournament games before finishing without a bucket during Iowa's loss to Illinois in the Sweet 16. There are concerns over his ability to create against quicker, longer wings, and he didn't record a dunk or get to the basket often despite converting a handful of coordinated layups.

39. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Hawks): Brandon Garrison

Team: Kentucky

Position: PF/C

Size: 6'10", 250 lbs

Age: 20

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Xavier Tillman

Brandon Garrison was efficient at Oklahoma State, flashing an interesting mix of skills and strengths for a big with his disruptive defensive length, passing, finishing and capable touch.

He'll now look to stand out on a Kentucky roster full of transfers who haven't played together. Garrison's game doesn't scream scoring potential, but scouts could see a useful role player for the next level with his effectiveness inside, vision on post-ups and short rolls and shot-contesting.

40. San Antonio Spurs: Darrion Williams

Team: Texas Tech

Position: SG

Size: 6'6", 225 lbs

Age: 21

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Seth Lundy

Darrion Williams' shooting stroke should earn him NBA looks. He shot 45.8 percent from deep and 53.3 percent from the mid-range, where he was very comfortable pulling up or falling away from the post.

Though Williams isn't a high-usage creator or explosive driver, scouts could start to detect appealing role-player potential tied to his shotmaking, smart passing and excellent rebounding.

41. Los Angeles Lakers (via Clippers): Motiejus Krivas

Team: Arizona

Position: C

Size: 7'2", 260 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: Lithuania

Pro Comparison: Ivica Zubac

Freshman flashes and a productive U20 European Championships point to a potential breakout for Motiejus Krivas. Despite doing most of his damage in the post, from the dunker's spot and on the offensive glass, the 7'2", 260-pound Lithuanian uses his size and hands effectively in those areas. And NBA teams continue to show a willingness to draft these enormous bigs early, even if they offer minimal perimeter skill or versatility.

42. Memphis Grizzlies (via Rockets): Tucker Devries

Team: West Virginia

Position: SF

Size: 6'7", 210 lbs

Age: 21

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Baylor Scheierman

NBA teams will be looking at Tucker DeVries for his shotmaking, but last year he received 171 ball-screen reps and was able to showcase more of a handle, mid-range scoring and playmaking skill.

He carried Drake to the NCAA tournament last year with 27 points and five assists in the MVC Tournament championship game over Indiana State. Repeating last year's offensive success with West Virginia in the Big 12 should help win over scouts who've been on the fence about his athletic limitations and defensive outlook.

43. Los Angeles Lakers: KJ Lewis

Team: Arizona

Position: SG/SF

Size: 6'4", 205 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Jae'Sean Tate, Luguentz Dort

KJ Lewis wasn't a reliable enough shooter last year to generate serious one-and-done interest. But the eye test saw a capable spot-up threat who can improve with more minutes. Complementing his outstanding defensive tools/quickness, passing flashes and athletic finishes with a capable three-ball would be noteworthy.

His role shouldn't change much from last year with Caleb Love back and Jaden Bradley coming in. The lack of creation shouldn't matter if he makes more shots—teams will view Lewis as more of a stopper, energizer and off-ball finishing weapon.

44. Golden State Warriors: Robert McCray V

Team: Jacksonville

Position: PG/SG

Size: 6'4", 186 lbs

Age: Unlisted

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Saben Lee

A Wake Forest transfer, Robert McCray went off in the Atlantic Sun last year, putting up 18.4 points on an impressive 59.4 percent true shooting with high usage.

It can be tough to get taken seriously by scouts with a losing record in a mid-major conference, so either Jacksonville will need to win more games, or McCray will have to put up even bigger numbers in 2025. But he will have a chance to make a statement early with Florida, Virginia Tech and Georgia on the schedule.

The 6'4" combo hit 54 threes, converted 22 dunks, hit 46.3 percent of his floaters and registered a solid 23.1 assist rate. McCray should at least draw more scouts to Jacksonville games this year with his pull-up game, touch, explosion and flashy playmaking ability.

45. Brooklyn Nets (via Heat): JT Toppin

Team: Texas Tech

Position: PF/C

Size: 6'9", 225 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Precious Achiuwa

Despite lacking modern skills that typically hint at upside, JT Toppin earned an invite to last year's NBA combine. NBA teams may see a potential role for a 6'9", 225-pound 19-year-old who averaged 12.4 points, 9.1 boards, 1.9 blocks and 1.1 steals per game by crashing the glass, using efficiency when finishing cuts and rolls, running the floor and disrupting on defense.

He did make 11 threes, and he showed more range at the combine in Chicago. His post-up offense was effective, but increasing his three-point volume/confidence represents Toppin's obvious ticket to the first-round discussion in 2025.

46. Charlotte Hornets (via Pelicans): Money Williams

Team: Montana

Position: PG

Size: 6'4", 200 lbs

Age: Unlisted

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Cameron Payne

A foot injury cut Money Williams' freshman season too short for scouts to catch on or buy in.

The tape from his 12 games was impressive, and some of it came against Oregon, Houston and Nevada. Repeating/building on last year's flashes should generate some attention. At 6'4", he's shifty off the bounce and dangerous in ball-screen situations with his pull-up game, change of speed and ambitious live-dribble passes. Williams is creative with his handle and counters, and he showed off an excellent floater game to help offset a lack of explosion.

Williams still needs to prove himself as a shooter and lead decision-maker, but the eye test on last year's brief showing was persuasive, and healthy, full-time minutes opens the door for a breakout.

47. Chicago Bulls (via Kings): Kam Jones

Team: Marquette

Position: SG

Size: 6'5", 205 lbs

Age: 22

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Malik Monk

Kam Jones was efficient in all facets last year, showing he can generate pick-and-roll offense or slide off the ball and convert catch-and-shoot threes and cuts. Scouts wished he was bigger and more of a playmaking threat, but Jones continues to prove he's one of college basketball's best shotmakers and effective finishers.

48. Indiana Pacers: Koby Brea

Team: Kentucky

Position: SG/SF

Size: 6'7", 215 lbs

Age: 21

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Duncan Robinson, Landry Shamet

Koby Brea will suit up with Kentucky after putting together a shooting profile difficult to match at Dayton. He shot 56.6 percent on standstill threes, 42.9 percent on movement threes and 42.0 percent on pull-ups threes. Brea hit 100 threes on 201 attempts—historic-type accuracy.

At 6'7" wing with Brea's shotmaking production, fluidity and height, he should have a chance to generate NBA conversation, particularly if he can approach last season's efficiency against tougher SEC competition.

There just won't be margin for error thanks to Brea's lack of rim pressure, creation, playmaking and defensive upside.

49. New York Knicks (via Grizzlies): Jaxson Robinson

Team: Kentucky

Position: SG/SF

Size: 6'6", 192 lbs

Age: 21

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Julian Champagnie

Jaxson Robinson's breakout at BYU drew enough NBA interest to earn him an NBA combine invite. He had some solid stretches in Chicago, too, mostly showing off his potential money-making shooting stroke.

At 6'6", he shot over 42.0 percent on both spot-up and off-screen threes while occasionally flashing self-creation skill into jumpers and drives.

He doesn't offer much playmaking, rim pressure or athletic pop, so he'll look more convincing to teams if he's closer to 40.0 percent from deep than last year's 35.4 percent.

50. Washington Wizards: Hunter Sallis

Team: Wake Forest

Position: SG

Size: 6'5", 185 lbs

Age: 21

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Malaki Branham

If scouts weren't high on Hunter Sallis despite the 18.0 points per game of three-level scoring and 40.5 percent three-point shooting, then he'll need to show something different in 2024-25.

More playmaking likely represents Sallis' ticket into the first-round discussion. NBA teams will want to see a 185-guard show that he can use creation and gravity to set the table for teammates. The non-passing 2-guards don't have great margin for error in the NBA, though Sallis has demonstrated high-level scoring ability with his pull-up, drives and spot-up shooting.

51. Orlando Magic: Tyrese Proctor

Team: Duke

Position: PG/SG

Size: 6'6", 183 lbs

Age: 20

Nationality: Australian

Pro Comparison: Killian Hayes

Slight improvements as a sophomore weren't enough for Tyrese Proctor to sway NBA scouts. He still possesses an appealing mix of positional size and combo-guard skills for running point or shooting off the ball. Jumping from 43.9 percent inside the arc to 52.1 percent was also an encouraging sign that he's making important strides scoring in traffic and finishing, concerns for a limited athlete.

His facilitating and passing IQ remains a coveted strength, and the flashes of creation and three-level shotmaking should keep scouts patient in the 20-year-old for another season.

52. Cleveland Cavaliers: Jarin Stevenson

Team: Alabama

Position: PF

Size: 6'11", 215 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Noah Clowney

Jarin Stevenson only scored in double figures three times from December to March, but his shooting range fits into an archetype that should keep interest alive. He buried five three-pointers in Alabama's win over Clemson in the Elite Eight. Stevenson earned an invite to G League Elite Camp and attended Jayson Tatum Elite Camp and Nike Skills Academy over the summer. More minutes and confidence could lead to more consistency from the sophomore who just turned 19 years old.

53. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Bucks): Sion James

Team: Duke

Position: SG/SF

Size: 6'6", 220 lbs

Age: 21

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Cody Martin

Playing with NBA prospects in the ACC should help amplify Sion James' versatility and impact. At 6'6", 220 pounds, he doubles as a pick-and-roll ball-handler and off-ball scorer who shot 45.5 percent on spot-up threes last year.

Skeptics will point to limited athleticism and creativity, but he checks an intriguing mix of boxes with his physical profile, driving, passing and improved shot.

54. Dallas Mavericks: Adou Thiero

Team: Arkansas

Position: SF/PF

Size: 6'8", 220 lbs

Age: 20

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: KJ Martin

Any signs of shooting improvement could propel Adou Thiero into the second-round discussion. He currently impacts games from off the ball with his physical tools, athleticism and motor for play-finishing and defensive playmaking.

Just becoming a regular threat to make a spot-up three could help Adou draw interest. Thiero did convert 44 of 55 free throws, show some floater touch and hit six of 13 open catch-and-shoot jumpers, suggesting he does have some shotmaking skill to work with.

55. Dallas Mavericks (via Nuggets): Kanaan Carlyle

Team: Indiana

Position: PG/SG

Size: 6'3", 182 lbs

Age: 20

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Jaden Hardy

NBA combo guard flashes earned Kanaan Carlyle a spot on watch lists early last year, but he hit a wall around February. Change of speed, self-creation and shooting versatility fuel scoring potential worth tracking. He gets to his spots, can separate and pull up and comfortably hit spot-up threes. Improving his finishing and decision-making with Indiana should help Carlyle look easier to trust or bet on.

56. Atlanta Hawks (via Timberwolves): Caleb Foster

Team: Duke

Position: PG/SG

Size: 6'5", 202 lbs

Age: 20

Nationality: American

Pro Comparison: Jaden Springer

Accurate spot-up shooting helped Caleb Foster adapt to an off-ball role last year. He's in line for a big jump in ball screens and creation opportunities this season. Foster has the ability to make plays, shake free with the dribble and get to spots for mid-range and lay-up chances. He'll just have to convert more of them this season after he struggled to consistently hit pull-ups and finishes.

57. Charlotte Hornets (via 76ers): Chaz Lanier

Team: Tennessee

Position: SG

Size: 6'4", 199 lbs

Age: 22

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Gary Trent Jr.

Chaz Lanier averaged 19.7 points on 66.7 percent true shooting with 106 threes in 32 games. He'll start to get taken more seriously if he's able replicate some degree of that success with Tennessee in the SEC. Lanier comes with a strong frame and jumper that he can get into and drill in different ways from on and off the ball.

Though not a big passer, his hesitation into drives, step-backs, shotmaking and impressive finishing create scoring potential that could open eyes under a brighter spotlight this season.

58. Houston Rockets (via Thunder): Saint Thomas

Team: USC

Position: SF

Size: 6'7", 235 lbs

Age: 21

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: TJ Warren

USC will be Saint Thomas' third school after he broke out to average 19.7 points, 9.8 boards and 4.2 assists per game with Northern Colorado. Questions about whether he's quick or athletic enough to separate and finish at the highest level will follow him to the draft, but he'll enter the second-round discussion if his scoring versatility and playmaking translate in the Pac-12. He loves to use strength inside the arc, where he's become an efficient mid-range shotmaker and finisher in the paint.

59. Orlando Magic (via Celtics): Aaron Scott

Team: St. John's

Position: SF

Size: 6'7", 200 lbs

Age: 21

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Trevor Ariza

Aaron Scott will get to guard some higher-profile wings in the Big East. He has excellent defensive tools and shot 38.0 percent from three over the last two seasons. There should be some level of interest in a three-and-D forward if Scott continues to show more confidence in his shooting.