Key NBA scouting opportunities continue to pop up and result in takeaways that affect assessments for the 2025 draft.

On Wednesday night alone, there was plenty to learn from individual matchups between Duke and Auburn, Alabama and North Carolina, Kansas and Creighton, and Connecticut and Baylor.

But we're also coming off the Battle 4 Atlantis, Maui Invitational and a number of other tournaments that offered scouts important and rare non-conference evaluation chances.

The No. 1 overall discussion has changed slightly in terms of what level of favorite Cooper Flagg is. The biggest developments involve other freshmen who have entered the chat by looking far more ready and impactful than most expected out of high school.

We've also dropped some freshmen names from the mock due to limited playing time.

As always, there have been breakout upperclassmen who appear to have made specific improvements that have increased their chances of drawing NBA interest.

1. Washington Wizards: Cooper Flagg

Washington Wizards record: 2-17

Team: Duke

Position: PF

Size: 6'9", 205 lbs

Age: 17

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Andrei Kirilenko (defensive), Jalen Johnson (Offensive)

The start to Duke's season should remind us that the primary draw to Cooper Flagg is versatility, not go-to scoring.

And yet, he's still flashed quick ball-handling moves into jumpers or drives and footwork to separate around the key. He's getting his own buckets using his size, body control and finishing improvisation in traffic through the lane.

The execution just hasn't been consistent yet at 17 years old (he turns 18 on December 21). Age should be taken into consideration before nitpicking at Flagg's lowlights, especially the turnovers he's had late in tight games, operating as Duke's primary creator.

Regardless of the weaker ball security when pressured or inconsistent shotmaking, he's still averaging 15.9 points while providing valuable playmaking and impact defensive activity. In the short team, he's going to continuing improving his team with athleticism and motor for earning easy baskets, high passing IQ, defensive stops and miscellaneous mid-range buckets.

But there's clearly another level of upside for Flagg to reach based on the potential that he'll execute the pull-ups, fallaways and threes more consistently over time.

2. New Orleans Pelicans: Dylan Harper

New Orleans Pelicans record: 4-18

Team: Rutgers

Position: PG/SG

Size: 6'6", 215 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: USA

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

Dylan Harper has taken over this year's draft discussion, which suddenly now revolves around the question of whether the 6'6" scoring guard deserves No. 1 overall consideration.

At 18 years old against Notre Dame (36 points) and Alabama (37 points), he showcased what tanking NBA teams will be seeking: the ability to generate offense on demand, carry a lineup and takeover games with creation, shotmaking and improvisation.

Everything we saw at Don Bosco Prep, or for Team USA, or at the McDonalds Game and Jordan Brand Classic, has carried over to Rutgers and college basketball. He's getting to his spots off change of speed and direction. He's using his 6'6" size to play through defenders. He's hitting tough finishes and pull-ups.

Unsurprisingly, Harper remains wired to shoot before pass, although Rutgers needs him to look for his own offense. And he's only 8-of-29 from three. But between how effective he's been inside the arc, his advantageous frame for an NBA ball-handler, how dangerous he is off the dribble and all the intangibles and basketball genes he possesses, it's nitpicking if you're harping on the weaknesses this early.

He's at least put pressure on Cooper Flagg in the No. 1 overall discussion.

3. Utah Jazz: Ace Bailey

Utah Jazz record: 4-17

Team: Rutgers

Position: SF

Size: 6'10", 200 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparisons: Brandon Miller

The scouting report on Ace Bailey doesn't appear to have changed since high school. He continues to put up points off high-level shotmaking. His 6'10" size and release point create consistent advantages around the perimeter, where he's a threat to connect from NBA range on pull-ups or fallaways.

It's also no surprise he's taken 62 jump shots to just 14 field-goal attempts at the rim. His confidence can seemingly work for and against him, but he's still efficient converting from outside and at the rim using his size and athleticism for finishing.

Bailey is still bound to turn some teams off with the catch-and-hold iso play and lack of interest in playmaking (four assists in 204 minutes). But he's also too talented of a scorer to nitpick too hard at 18 years old.

4. Philadephia 76ers: VJ Edgecombe

Philadelphia 76ers record: 5-15

Team: Baylor

Position: SG

Size: 6'5", 180 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: Bahamas

Pro Comparisons: Andrew Wiggins, Shaedon Sharpe, Victor Oladipo

VJ Edgecombe had a strong game against Tennessee, finishing with 20 points off his explosive drives and a pair of catch-and-shoot threes. He'd struggled from the floor prior, looking somewhat uncomfortable from behind the arc and relatively basic with his ball-handling.

He then left Baylor's last game with a hamstring injury, though there haven't been any reports of anything serious or long-term.

Edgecombe may be the most dangerous freshman or draft prospect in space with some outrageous quickness, burst and bounce. That athleticism has also translated to wild defensive playmaking rates: 4.5 steal percentage and 7.5 block percentage.

And that athleticism should buy him time with scouts when it comes to skill development. Even without a pull-up game or advanced creation, he's averaging 11.0 points and 3.0 assists just by capitalizing in transition, attacking in straight lines, hitting spot-up threes, making the extra passing and finding open shooters.

But the early and numbers do show issues with Edgecombe's creation and half-court scoring. He's converting 43.5 percent of his twos and 41.4 percent of his layups with just one made jump shot off the dribble.

5. Charlotte Hornets: Tre Johnson

Charlotte Hornets record: 6-15

Team: Texas

Position: SG

Size: 6'6", 190 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparisons: Cam Thomas

Through seven games, Tre Johnson ranks as the second leading freshman scorer at 21.1 points per game.

Advanced shotmaking has been and continues to be the 6'6" guard's signature skill and projected moneymaker. But he's been off from deep the last three games (4-of-21 3PT), yet he's still finding ways to score inside the arc with mid-range moves and touch shots.

Encouraging flashes of passing and on-ball defense have also helped paint Johnson as a more well-rounded prospect.

A lot of his one-on-one or ball-screen work does result in some tough jump-shot attempts, but he clearly looks competent enough to have continued offensive success, even with a difficult shot diet.

6. Toronto Raptors: Kasparas Jakucionis

Toronto Raptors record: 7-15

Team: Illinois

Position: PG

Size: 6'6", 200 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: Lithuania

Pro comparison: Chauncey Billups

The eye test on Kasparas Jakucionis' playmaking backs up the numbers. He shows outstanding command in pick-and-roll situations, knowing what speeds to operate at and how to free up and hit the big. His vision is obvious on drives, and he knows where his shooters are before he make his move into the paint.

And he's also ben efficient as a scorer, using touch shots and impressive shotmaking improvisation off the dribble. Though he's not a shot-hunter who'll threaten for 20 points every night, he's done an admirable job picking his spots and capitalizing on what the defense gives up.

Right now, Jakucionis has a 67.4 true shooting percentage and 32.7 assist percentage. UCLA's Lonzo Ball and Long Island's Jason Brickman have been the only other NCAA freshmen to notch those numbers.

The competition will strengthen during conference play, but Jakucionis looked comfortable against Illinois and Arkansas early.

7. Portland Trail Blazers: Nolan Traore

Portland Trail Blazers record: 8-14

Team: Saint-Quentin

Position: PG

Size: 6'4", 184 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: France

Pro Comparisons: Lonzo Ball

NBA teams have an interesting challenge of weighing Nolan Traore's pre-2024 Saint-Quentin tape with his current struggles and age-18 production in Pro A.

Passing IQ still sets him apart. While he's struggled from the floor, he continues to dish out assists and showcase a knack for getting teammates the ball in high-percentage scoring spots. A 41.9 assist percentage ranks higher than any other point guard's in the first-round discussion.

Right now, he's just not making shots. Some are touch shots we're used to seeing him convert. But he's a combined 28.4 percent on 4.8 three-point attempts. And a lack of vertical pop has held him back around the basket, where he's making just 52.3 percent of his layups.

Despite the percentages, Traore's range has looked improved at times, and he remains capable of using craft and finesse to finish plays at the rim.

He clearly possesses strengths and attributes for a point guard who can't be taught, and given his age, teams figure to remain patient with his execution as a scorer.

8. Detroit Pistons: Khaman Maluach

Detroit Pistons record: 9-15

Team: Duke

Position: C

Size: 7'2", 250 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: South Sudan

Pro Comparison: Alex Sarr

NBA teams won't put stock into Khaman Maluach's stats or production. It's clear his role is limited based on Duke's roster construction and an offense built around Cooper Flagg and a number of ball-handlers and wings.

He is simply playing to his strengths as a finisher and disruptive defender. And at 7'2" with his movement, he's going to have NBA fans, regardless of whether he's able to flash any bonus offense away from the basket.

However, there is enough pre-Duke evidence of Maluach possessing perimeter shotmaking skill. Teams just may have to wait until predraft workouts to assess it.

9. Indiana Pacers: Kon Knueppel

Indiana Pacers record: 9-14

Team: Duke

Position: SF

Size: 6'6", 217 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: American

Pro Comparison: Dalton Knecht

An 0-of-8 three-point showing from Kon Knueppel made it difficult for Duke to knock off Kansas, but it did allow scouts to get a look at how the freshman could still impact games without making jumpers.

He finished with eight assists operating as a primary playmaker, showing impressive passing instincts and vision in transition and ball-screen situations.

He also made four two-point buckets with his mid-range shot-creation and use of size and body control on drives.

Knueppel unsurprisingly bounced back the next game to make three of four from deep. Regardless of what the final percentages say, scouts will see an elite shotmaker, though it's the flashes of driving, scoring improvisation and ball moving that will paint him as a more complete, versatile prospect.

10. Chicago Bulls: Egor Demin

Chicago Bulls record: 9-13

Team: BYU

Position: SG/SF

Size: 6'9"

Age: 18

Nationality: Russia

Pro Comparisons: Jalen Rose

NBA teams are always drawn to big playmakers, and Egor Demin has looked comfortable early handling the ball, creating advantages and live-dribble passing.

Questions about his burst and explosion are still there, but he's compensated well early (against a weak strength of schedule) using height and angles for finishing (61.1 percent 2PT). Demin is also shooting with encouraging confidence and fluidity early, though he's had less success pulling up off the dribble.

The microscope will intensify when he starts seeing tougher opponents regularly, particularly given the trouble he's previously had overseas converting inside the arc. He also just 0-of-10 against Providence and struggled to get easy looks for himself.

But maintaining a similar level of production for an 18-year-old old would remain meaningful, and at the least, NBA teams should see translatable playmaking tied to his 6'9" size and point guard feel.

11. Sacramento Kings: Boogie Fland

Sacramento Kings record: 10-12

Team: Arkansas

Position: PG

Size: 6'2", 175 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Kemba Walker

Arkansas added sophomore DJ Wagner and senior Johnell Davis, and John Calipari has still gone to Boogie Fland more for offense. He's delivered early, most recently hitting back-to-back clutch jumpers to propel the Razorbacks past Miami late in the second half.

Fland handles, moves and creates with convincing speed and decisiveness. He's consistently getting to the spot he wants to. Even during an off game last time out against Illinois, when he finished 2-of-12, his misses looked good. He's still made 13-of-30 threes and showed clear touch on his runners, mid-range attempts and free throws.

And despite sharing the ball with Wagner and Davis, he's averaging 4.9 assists, consistently making quality reads in ball-screen, drive-and-kick, transition and entry-pass situations.

There are sure to be skeptics who question his 175-pound frame and underwhelming percentages finishing at the rim. But Fland looks too quick, sharp, skilled and willing/smart as a playmaker for 6'2" size to negate the scoring fluidity and passing production when projecting to the next level.

12. Utah Jazz (via Timberwolves): Ben Saraf

Minnesota Timberwolves record: 10-10

Team: Ratiopharm Ulm

Position: PG/SG

Size: 6'5", 201 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: Israel

Pro Comparison: Manu Ginobili

Ben Saraf had an up-and-down November alternating efficient scoring games with ones where his shot and finishes wouldn't drop.

He should remain firmly in the first-round discussion after this summer's MVP showing at the U18 European Championships, and then showing he could continue getting to spots, hitting jumpers and setting up teammates in Germany's top league.

Saraf is shifty with the ball and improvises well. Even through off games, he's looked consistently threatening with shooting off the catch and dribble. And despite limited explosion showing at the rim, he's still shown he can convert with adjustments and tough finishes.

Teams may question his athleticism and shooting mechanics for NBA three-point range, but he can still be effective against pros at 18 years old, and his crafty playmaking (35.0 assist percentage) can act as a nice cushion in case the scoring doesn't fully translate.

13. San Antonio Spurs: Liam McNeeley

San Antonio Spurs record: 11-10

Team: Connecticut

Position: SF

Size: 6'7", 210 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparisons: Keegan Murray

It wasn't a good week in Maui for Connecticut or Liam McNeeley, despite some stretches of shooting.

NBA teams will always be drawn to his three-point touch, IQ and ability to pick up easy buckets from off the ball. The question is whether he offers any on-ball creation/scoring or defensive upside.

The spot-up wing, non-creator archetype feels easily replicable or maybe undeserving of lottery consideration. Still, McNeeley does have a clear fit at the next level with 6'7" size, a projectable three-ball, plus passing and a good feel for filling lanes, cutting and attacking space in straight lines.

14. Atlanta Hawks (via Lakers): Asa Newell

Los Angeles Lakers record: 12-10

Team: Georgia

Position: PF/C

Size: 6'11", 220 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparisons: Jalen Smith

Asa Newell has managed 15.4 points per game, mostly by using his 6'11" size, athleticism and motor to finish plays off cuts, offensive rebounds and transition.

Even without much ball-handling skill for creation, he's still generating scoring chances by sneaking behind the defense, high-pointing offensive boards and covering ground quickly in the open floor.

His touch has been a little disappointing early, as he's struggled from the post, free-throw line and behind the arc. NBA teams will primarily be drawn to his ability to pick up easy baskets and make plays defensively, both at the rim and in passing lanes.

However, Newell shot 41.5 percent on threes at Montverde Academy, and he seems to have coaches' trust based on the 17 three-point attempts early in the season. It shouldn't be surprising if his shooting gradually improves throughout the season.

15. Brooklyn Nets: Noa Essengue

Brooklyn Nets record: 10-13

Team: Ratiopharm Ulm

Position: SF/PF

Size: 6'9", 198 lbs

Age: 17

Nationality: France

Pro Comparison: Jabari Walker, Precious Achiuwa

Even at 17 years old without a singular polished skill, Noa Essengue has been able to give Ulm some type of contribution and production on a regular basis.

He uses every inch of his size and length to finish off plays around the basket. He frequently puts himself in position to get an easy bucket by timing his cuts or grabbing offensive boards.

In spite of underwhelming three-point and free-throw percentages, his shot looks relatively fluid for a big his age. He made three threes in an important, well-scouted exhibition game against the Portland Trail Blazers.

Essengue hasn't converted a post-up or pull-up jump shot this season. It does feel safe to assume he won't ever be a player who initiates offense, but he does have the potential to interest a lot of teams that still value the two-way versatility archetype, which his physical profile and complementary skill set create.

16. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Bulls): Drake Powell

Miami Heat record: 10-10

Team: North Carolina

Position: SG

Size: 6'6", 195 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparisons: Keon Johnson, Will Barton

After a slow start, Drake Powell put together some encouraging plays and stretches of shotmaking at the Maui Invitational. Still, another quiet offensive game against Alabama served as a reminder of his limitations and role.

He's out there to disrupt defensively, pick up easy finishes in the open floor and make the open or rhythm threes that come his way. That foundation alone, with Powell's physical tools, will be attractive to teams that buy the archetype and have patience.

There is some passing and mid-range shotmaking skill to unlock in the long term, but he only looks ready to execute them in flashes.

17. San Antonio Spurs (via Hawks): Jeremiah Fears

Atlanta Hawks record: 12-11

Team: Oklahoma

Position: PG

Size: 6'4", 182 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: American

Pro Comparison: Jaden Ivey

Any updated 2025 draft talk should now include Jeremiah Fears after an eye-catching start continued throughout Oklahoma's Battle 4 Atlantis championship run.

Now up to 17.0 points and 4.4 assists, he's generating offense and standing out with ultra-quick dribble moves and burst for getting to his spots and creating opportunities. Along with the rim pressure and 6.8 free-throw attempts per game, his aggression and speed have also translated to defensive playmaking and 2.5 steals per game.

The offensive decision-making and shot-making execution do need work, but he's one of the country's youngest players (turned 18 in October), and he's still delivered promising flashes of pull-up shooting, touch and passing reads.

Scouts are bound to start taking Fears very seriously if this current level of creation and production carry over to conference play.

18. Brooklyn Nets (via Bucks): Thomas Sorber

Milwaukee Bucks record: 11-10

Team: Georgetown

Position: C

Size: 6'10", 255lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Onyeka Okongwu

Thomas Sorber should be jumping straight to the top of watch lists with West Virginia, Syracuse, Creighton and conference opponents up soon on Georgetown's schedule.

Through eight games against mostly inferior opponents, he ranks No. 1 among freshmen in BPM by consistently scoring from post position, finishing cuts and rolls, owning the offensive glass and disrupting offenses with his size and length.

He's even averaging 2.8 assists, demonstrating impressive processing inside the arc and passing accuracy throwing entry passes and darts from behind the arc.

He isn't viewed as a modern center, but he's been highly effective playing back to the basket with quick spins, deep drop steps and a reach that can extend right to the rim.

With 10 three-point attempts, confidence in his mid-range touch and accurate free-throw shooting so far, Sorber has become one of the more interesting freshmen with his 19th birthday coming up on Christmas.

19. Orlando Magic (via Nuggets): Collin Murray-Boyles

Denver Nuggets record: 11-8

Team: South Carolina

Position: PF

Size: 6'7", 245 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparisons: Julius Randle

It's too early to have any new takeaway on Collin Murray-Boyles based on South Carolina's early schedule. He also fouled out against Xavier and in only 19 minutes versus Indiana.

Execution-wise, he's been very effective using his strength, slippery back-to-the-basket moves and face-up quickness inside the arc. He also made of his three-point attempts against Mercer two weeks ago, and his continuing to shoot from outside would obviously intrigue scouts.

Defensively, he uses his reach and disrupts shots, particularly around the paint.

There are sure to be skeptics who question a 6'7" "big" who's not a shooter yet. But Murray-Boyles should have a case to succeed out of the box with how tough a cover he is from the post, short corners and block, and how he's able to slide his move and play bigger defensively.

20. Golden State Warriors: Miles Byrd

Golden State Warriors record: 12-8

Team: San Diego State

Position: SF

Size: 6'7", 190lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparisons: Devin Vassell, Patrick McCaw

Intriguing per-40-minute numbers last year should have earned Miles Byrd a spot on watch lists for 2024-25. Now in a full-time role, he's validating those standout passing and defensive rates (against a tough strength of schedule) while making 2.0 threes per game.

At 6'7", he's looked like a confident shotmaker early who can also make plays in ball-screen situations with his pull-up, runner court vision to shooters/cutters. He isn't explosive attacking the rim, but he's flashed glimpses of crafty maneuvering and adjustment finishes to help compensate for a lack of burst.

Bird also shows an unteachable knack for anticipating defensively and making timely plays on the ball. He's more of a disruptor than lockdown defender with wild steal (4.4 percent) and block (6.2 percent) rates.

There is an appealing archetype forming here. Scouts should be drawn to a 6'7" wing with shooting upside, secondary playmaking ability and instincts for creating events on defense.

21. Houston Rockets (via Suns): Hugo Gonzalez

Phoenix Suns record: 12-8

Team: Real Madrid

Position: SF

Size: 6'7", weight unlisted

Age: 18

Nationality: Spain

Pro Comparison: Jonathan Kuminga

Hugo Gonzalez has played fewer than nine minutes in seven consecutive games. Things can and will likely change during Real Madrid's long season, but at this stage, scouts will only get to see him play an off-ball line-driver and finisher role.

Over the years, he's built a strong reputation over his athletic scoring plays and defensive competitiveness. Last season and summer, he started to deliver more flashes of self-creation and shotmaking.

His stock will likely be all over the place, depending on teams' willingness to put more stock into the FIBA, junior-level and ANGT tape.

22. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Clippers): Will Riley

Los Angeles Clippers record: 14-9

Team: Illinois

Position: SG/SF

Size: 6'8", 180 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: Canada

Pro Comparison: Kelly Oubre Jr., Kyshawn George

A good way to draw NBA attention is by debuting with 31 points in 25 minutes off the bench.

Will Riley came in on watch lists after blowing up on the EYBL circuit. He's raised the level of intrigue early with how smooth he looks around the perimeter drilling threes off deep spot-ups, movement and transition.

He's shown some touch in the lane on drives as well. He'll need it, as he lacks the explosiveness to get all the way to the rim or finish over rim protection.

Riley will ultimately be reliant on tough shotmaking, but the early effortlessness and fluidity suggests he's capable of being consistent.

23. Brooklyn Nets (via Knicks): Labaron Philon

New York Knicks record: 13-8

Team: Alabama

Position: PG

Size: 6'4", 177lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparisons: Ayo Dosunmu, De'Anthony Melton

Though athleticism or quickness don't jump off the screen, Lebaron Philon is producing early off footwork, feel, touch and good use of his 6'4" frame. And now with senior Latrell Wrightsell Jr. lost for the season, Alabama's freshman guard should be in line for more on-ball responsibility.

Philon checks that "knows how to play" box, which can be deemed more important for a point guard. He's not a high-volume shooter, but he continues to use his floater and vision inside the arc. It's still a small sample size of games, but he was similarly effective at Link Academy.

24. Memphis Grizzlies: Nique Clifford

Memphis Grizzlies record: 14-8

Team: Colorado State

Position: SF/PF

Size: 6'6", 200 lbs

Age: 22

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Landry Fields

Though NBA teams will eye Nique Clifford for a glue-guy role that values versatility, he continues to excel as Colorado State's lead option.

He carried the Rams to an overtime win over TCU last Friday, wowing with self-created drives and tough shotmaking while padding his 25 points with 12 boards, six assists and three blocks.

Clifford's most realistic NBA case revolves around improved shooting, consistent rebound, passing IQ and defensive playmaking. But he's clearly taken another step forward with his handle and one-on-one skills.

25. Dallas Mavericks: Adou Thiero

Dallas Mavericks record: 14-8

Team: Arkansas

Position: SF/PF

Size: 6'8", 220 lbs

Age: 20

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Keldon Johnson

Adou Thiero has been one the nation's breakout prospects with his bigger role at Arkansas.

He's always been useful and intriguing for his athletic plays at both ends and his energy. But this year, his shot looks more confident and fluid, he's shown controlled touch in the lane, and he's making more plays and decisions off the dribble.

The finishing, defense and off-ball activity hint at a high floor for a potential energizer role. However, the early flashes of improved perimeter skill have looked convincing and capable of helping scouts picture a more functional offensive wing.

26. Orlando Magic: Rocco Zikarsky

Orlando Magic record: 16-8

Team: Brisbane

Position: C

Size: 7'2", 227 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: Australia

Pro Comparisons: Walker Kessler, Donovan Clingan

Rocco Zikarsky's finishing tools came alive over the past two games. He combined for 12 made field goals, mostly by rolling to the basket and quickly elevating over defenders for easy baskets.

He also showed some short-range touch and coordination maneuvering around his man to convert at tougher angles.

Zikarsky needs to really excel in the paint, given his limitations as a post scorer and shooter.

Defensively, he's made some impressive plays chasing ball-handlers to the rim in pick-and-roll situations. He's been less effective getting out on shooters.

Zikarsky did just record season highs in minutes and points in consecutive showings, and more consistent playing time moving forward could help the 18-year-old build IQ at both ends.

27. Brooklyn Nets (via Rockets): Noah Penda

Houston Rockets record: 15-7

Team: Le Mans Sarthe Basket

Position: SF/PF

Size: 6'8", 225lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: France

Pro Comparison: Nicolas Batum

Coming off gold with France's U20 team over the summer, Noah Penda has been productive in Pro A with his consistent shooting and live-dribble passing.

He's at 40.0 percent from three for the year, giving his lineup a shotmaker and floor spacer who passes/moves the ball, finishes plays and makes them defensively.

Only four NCAA freshmen or sophomores can currently match Penda's 15.0+ assist rate, 3.0+ steal rate and 5.0+ block rate, and three are in our projected first round.

The interest in Penda will gradually rise if he continues to hit threes at a consistent rate after he made 9-of-16 at the European Championships. He has a connector-type skill set that could sway scouts to buy role-player potential.

28. Los Angeles Clippers (via Thunder): Derik Queen

Oklahoma City Thunder record: 16-5

Team: Maryland

Position: C

Size: 6'10", 246 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Jared Sullinger, Wendell Carter Jr.

Derik Queen continues to produce. He had a pair of 20-point games last week, though he may have opened more eyes with the way he scored 18 against Ohio State on Tuesday.

He made jumpers, counter moves and touch shots that showed an ultra-high skill level for a player who can be considered outdated.

There will continue to be debate over a productive, 6'10", 246-pound center who has great hands and instincts around the rim and doesn't offer much perimeter skill or defensive upside.

Queen does pass extremely well, and though he's 0-of-9 from three, he's shown confidence in his shooting.

29. Boston Celtics: Ian Jackson

Boston Celtics record: 18-4

Team: North Carolina

Position: SG

Size: 6'4", 190 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Lonnie Walker IV

Ian Jackson has been productive in his bench role, averaging 21.0 points per 40 minutes.

His opportunities have been limited by Elliot Cadea, RJ Davis and Seth Trimble, but the freshman has been very aggressive looking for transition, slashing and three-point looks.

His margin for error will remain small, particularly considering he's a 6'4" guard who offers minimal playmaking/passing.

However, he's executed at an admirable level so far with his driving and shotmaking. It just may take an injury or bad slump from one of the starters for Jackson to be able to play more and fully sell himself to scouts as an NBA scorer.

30. Utah Jazz (via Cavs): Rasheer Fleming

Cleveland Cavaliers record: 19-3

Team: Saint Joseph's

Position: PF

Size: 6'9", 240 lbs

Age: 20

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Chris Boucher

Coming off a career-high 25 points against Princeton, Rasheer Fleming is now up to 40.6 percent from three while continuing to use his 240-pound frame for finishing, offensive rebounding, low-post scoring and defensive playmaking.

Scouts have caught on, and if the shooting continues—he does look confident and fluid spotting up from the corners and popping out to the wings—interest is bound to build in a 6'9" power forward who spaces the floor and wins around the basket.

31. Boston Celtics (via Wizards): Joson Sanon

Team: Arizona State

Position: PG/SG

Size: 6'5

Age: 18

Nationality: USA

Pro comparison: Cole Anthony

Joson Sanon is averaging 19.8 points over Arizona State's last five games, almost exclusively with his signature jump shot. He gets into his pull-up with rhythm and elevation. He's making 61.9 percent of his catch-and-shoot threes.

An outstanding scorer on the Adidas circuit and at Eurocamp in June, he has looked equally comfortable around the perimeter with the Sun Devils.

Sanon hasn't shown much as a playmaker, and when he has gotten two feet in the paint, we haven't seen a floater or much explosion.

There just isn't an enormous NBA success rate of 6'5" and smaller 2-guards who don't create for teammates or put pressure on the rim. But Sanon's perimeter game and shooting look advanced enough for teams to focus or buy strictly what he does well.

32. Charlotte Hornets (via Pelicans): Ryan Kalkbrenner

Golden State Warriors record: 10-2

Team: Creighton

Position: C

Size: 7'1", 220lbs

Age: 22

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Colin Castleton

Ryan Kalkbrenner wasn't as dominant against ranked opponents, but between his 17 points and 10 boards in Creighton's win over Kansas, and his 10 combined blocks against Texas A&M and San Diego State, he still showed the offensive skill and defensive tools that could translate to NBA backup role.

He hasn't made a three since Creighton's second game, though, after there were some signs he'd improved his range in the offseason.

33. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Jazz): Kanon Catchings

Boston Celtics record: 3-4

Team: BYU

Position: SF

Size: 6'9"

Age: 19, weight unlisted

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Ziaire Williams

Kanon Catchings' role and versatility have looked limited, with the freshman's scoring chances mostly coming on catch-and-shoot chances, quick pull-ups or transition.

Percentages aside, he's making 2.3 threes per game with a high release and projectable stroke. And at 6'9", 19 years old, that combination alone could draw NBA attention.

Keeping it may call for Catchings to start showing and converting more off the bounce. He's just 6-of-25 on dribble jumpers with only 2 successful drives to the basket.

34. Dallas Mavericks (via 76ers): Alex Karaban

Phoenix Suns record: 9-5

Team: Connecticut

Position: SF/PF

Size: 6'8", 225 lbs

Age: 21

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Georges Niang

Aside from one off game against Colorado, Alex Karaban has been productive and efficient with his shooting and cutting.

His role hasn't changed despite the departures of Donovan Clingan, Tristen Newton, Cam Spencer and Stephon Castle. And it shouldn't—he isn't a ball-handler or creator, but the career 39.8 three-point percentage, movement shooting and strong finishing point to an easy fit, off-ball scorer.

35. Charlotte Hornets: Tucker DeVries

Team: West Virginia

Position: SF

Size: 6'7", 210 lbs

Age: 21

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Baylor Scheierman

Tucker DeVries put up a ridiculous shooting show with eight threes to knock off Arizona in the Bahamas. Half were from beyond NBA range.

It almost looks like he's selling himself strictly for a three-point specialist role, with 23 of his 30 made buckets this year coming from behind the arc.

Over the years, he's shown more to his game in terms of creating for himself and two-point shotmaking. But no burst makes it difficult to buy the other methods for scoring at the next level.

His accuracy, range, movement shooting and pull-up game should give him a chance with the right NBA fit and opportunity.

36. Detroit Pistons (via Raptors): Michael Ruzic

Team: Joventut

Position: C

Size: 6'10", 220 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: Croatia

Pro Comparison: Moritz Wagner

Michael Ruzic remains out with a thumb injury, a tough blow for the 18-year-old who wasn't getting any more minutes than he got last year with Joventut.

He did have a pair of double-digit scoring efforts midway through October. He earned a spot on preseason watch lists, particularly after an outstanding Adidas Eurocamp performance that illuminated his growing perimeter skill set.

37. Toronto Raptors (via Blazers): Kam Jones

Team: Marquette

Position: SG

Size: 6'5", 205 lbs

Age: 22

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Malik Monk

Kam Jones' playmaking development has been one of the draft discussion's more interesting storylines, considering one of the class' top shotmakers has raised his assist rate to 41.5 percent from 16.6 percent last year.

He's put a clear emphasis on trying to show off point guard passing reads. In the meantime, he's at 45.5 percent from three and 79.2 percent at the rim, numbers that align with his strengths over the past few seasons.

Even if he'll be 23 years old by the draft, it's getting tougher to nitpick a 6'5", proven shooter and elite rim finisher who's suddenly setting up teammates at same rate as the nation's top playmakers.

38. Washington Wizards (via Pistons): Maxime Raynaud

Team: Stanford

Position: C

Size: 7'1", 250 lbs

Age: 21

Nationality: France

Pro Comparison: Alex Len

Averaging 23.4 points and 1.8 threes at 7'1", Maxime Raynaud has taken another step forward offensively. His footwork, counters, command and touch with both hands from the post have looked professional. He's consistently getting himself high-percentage, controlled looks.

And now that he's shooting 40.0 percent on real volume (4.4 attempts), his fluidity scoring inside and out has made it easier to look past the athletic and defensive questions for a projected second-rounder.

39. San Antonio Spurs (via Bulls): Alex Toohey

Team: Sydney Kings

Position: SF

Size: 6'7", 223 lbs

Age: 20

Nationality: Australia

Pro Comparison: Saddiq Bey, Gradey Dick

While Alex Toohey has cooled off from three, the eye test still detects projectable shooting. And he's finding other ways to score, using his size and body control on drives/transition and moving without the ball to earn catch-and-finish buckets.

He doesn't offer too much versatility outside of off-ball scoring, but scouts should picture a fit and plug-and-play wing, assuming his clean stroke eventually yields more consistent results from outside.

40. Indiana Pacers: Dink Pate

Phoenix Suns Record: 6-1

Team: Mexico City Capitanes

Position: PG/SG

Size: 6'8", 210 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Dalen Terry

Dink Pate is having an encouraging two weeks with Mexico City, as he's getting more minutes and starting to show signs of improved shooting confidence (6-of-15 3PT over the last five games).

He's always enticed with 6'8" size, ball-handling and wiggle. But even at 18 years old in the G League, he still has some convincing to do with his finishing, playmaking and range.

41. Brooklyn Nets: Jamir Watkins

Team: Florida State

Position: SF

Size: 6'7", 210 lbs

Age: 23 years old

Pro Comparison: Caris LeVert

Jamir Watkins looks similar to last year, producing off an appealing mix of physical drives, ball-screen play, secondary playmaking and some capable shotmaking.

It earned him an invite to the 2024 NBA Combine, but without the consistent shooting, scouts still had their reservations.

Through nine games, Watkins' jumper looks similar, but even without the range, his 6'7" frame, ball-handling and defense still create an appealing archetype that should draw NBA looks.

42. Chicago Bulls (via Kings): Milan Momcilovic

Team: Iowa State

Position: SF

Size: 6'8", 225 lbs

Age: 20

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Rodney Hood

Milan Momcilovic has quickly shown off the high-level shotmaking skill that earned him looks last season. Some of the off-balance jumpers he's able to make rank high on the difficulty scale.

He does show some self-creation and improvisation inside the arc, though NBA teams will be mostly focused on his shooting versatility and accuracy.

43. 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

Rolling/popping off screens and feasting in the post, JT Toppin has been one of the nation's most productive players early with a more featured role at Texas Tech.

He doesn't have the flashiest game, but it's highly effective with the type of size that could allow him to continue converting jump hooks and earning second-chance points at the next level.

He's going to have to make threes to flip scouts who just don't see enough upside in a back-to-the-basket big who doesn't pass. Toppin has made two triples early, though, after opening some eyes with his range at the NBA combine last May.

44. Atlanta Hawks (via Wolves): Walter Clayton Jr.

Team: Florida

Position: PG

Size: 6'3", 195 lbs

Age: 21

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Fred VanFleet

Limited size, athleticism and playmaking have kept scouts from buying into Walter Clayton Jr., despite his consistent scoring production and consistent shooting.

Shotmaking will always be his moneymaker, though through eight games, he's at 63.4 percent inside the arc, and continuing to finish plays at a more efficient clip could help scouts put more stock into his craftiness/skill over the lack of explosion.

45. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Hawks): Mackenzie Mgbako

Team: Indiana

Position: SF

Size: 6'9", 222 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: Nigeria

Pro Comparisons: Saddiq Bey

The shotmaking and rim-finishing execution have been much sharper early for Mackenzie Mgbako this season.

He's started off 17-of-35 from three and 70.0 percent around the basket. But he may also be in better shape, as he is getting out for way more easy transition buckets compared to last year.

Low assist, steal and block rates highlight questions about his versatility and athleticism, but a 6'8", three-level scorer should still earn NBA looks.

46. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Bucks): Xaivian Lee

Team: Princeton

Position: PG

Size: 6'4", 180 lbs

Age: 20

Nationality: Canada

Pro Comparison: Scottie Pippen Jr.

Princeton notched an impressive road win at Saint Joseph's on Tuesday behind Xaivian Lee's triple double.

Shooting 41.0 percent from the year and averaging a career-best 5.5 assists, he's showing improvement in the key areas needed to give him a better chance at the next level.

47. San Antonio Spurs: Danny Wolf

Team: Michigan

Position: PF/C

Size: 7'0", 250 lbs

Age: 20

Nationality: USA/Israel

Pro Comparison: Kelly Olynyk

Danny Wolf aced his first real tests this season against Wisconsin and Xavier, combining for 40 points, 21 boards, eight assists, six blocks and five steals.

The ability to handle and pass at 7'0" have stood out most lately, though NBA teams will need to buy the shooting for him to generate legitimate interest in the draft.

He'd only made two threes on the season before making six over Michigan's last two games, both against ranked opponents.

48. Los Angeles Lakers: Zvonimir Ivisic

Team: Arkansas

Position: C

Size: 7'2", 245 lbs

Age: 21

Nationality: Croatia

Pro Comparison: Andrea Bargnani

A rare, valued mix of 7'2" size, shooting potential and defensive length should help scouts look past Zvonimir Ivisic's lack of quickness and explosion.

He may only be useful for a specialty role at the next level, but 19-of-33 from deep with a 15.0 block percentage, he'll continue to be worth thinking about as a possible second-round stretch 5.

49. Charlotte Hornets (via Nuggets): Tyrese Proctor

Team: Duke

Position: PG/SG

Size: 6'6", 183 lbs

Age: 20

Nationality: Australian

Pro Comparison: Killian Hayes

Tyrese Proctor entered Wednesday night with 23 of his 28 made shots coming from behind the arc. He's been a very accurate shooter, something we've seen at different points through his first two seasons.

The idea of a 6'5" ball-handler who can pass, shoot and play on or off the ball remains appealing. He still needs to show consistency over a bigger sample size based on his track record and the fact that he hasn't shown anything new as a creator or playmaker.

50. Washington Wizards (via Suns): Johni Broome

Team: Auburn

Position: C

Size: 6'10", 240 lbs

Age: 22

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Markieff Morris

NBA-fit questions have kept Johni Broome out of the last few draft discussions, but the consistent impact will move the needle at some point.

He ranked third in the nation last year in BPM behind lottery picks Zach Edey and Donovan Clingan, and he's No. 1 through the first month of this season.

Between his post touch, constantly improving three-point range, clear passing skill and defensive presence inside, there is too much going for Broome to nitpick his height or movement in the second round.

51. Washington Wizards (via Warriors): KJ Lewis

Team: Arizona

Position: SG/SF

Size: 6'4", 205 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Jae'Sean Tate, Luguentz Dort

The scouting report on KJ Lewis doesn't look like it's changed much since last year.

He's going to use athleticism and physicality to score downhill offensively. His strength, length and quick leaping apply pressure and disrupt defensively. He can pass and deliver ball-assists.

And his off-the-dribble game and shooting still need work for him to become a bigger scoring threat in the half court.

52. Los Angeles Lakers (via Clippers): Yaxel Lendeborg

Team: UAB

Position: PF

Size: 6'9", 240lbs

Age: 20

Nationality: USA

Pro comparison: Jalen Slawson

Yaxel Lendeborg has popped early, driving, passing, hitting threes, eating up rebounds and making plays defensively.

Though not the most creative scorer, at 6'9", he possesses ball-handling fluidity to attack like a wing, big-man finishing ability and shooting potential that looks further along so far.

But it's still assists and defensive versatility that could help scouts better picture a more well-rounded, role player prospect.

53. Dallas Mavericks: Kobe Brea

Team: Kentucky

Position: SG/SF

Size: 6'7", 215 lbs

Age: 21

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Duncan Robinson, Landry Shamet

The nation's most efficient three-point shooter last year, Koby Brea has started off 26-of-43. He's reaching levels of accuracy that can allow scouts to look past his other limitations as a ball-handler or defender.

Regardless of his non-existent versatility, NBA teams will give thought to a 6'7" wing with his elite track record converting jumpers off movement and pull-ups.

54. New York Knicks (via Grizzlies): Bogoljub Markovic

Team: Mega

Position: PF

Size: 6'11", 195 lbs

Age: 19

Nationality: Serbia

Pro Comparison:

After a standout showing at Adidas Eurocamp in June, Bogoljub Markovic is off to a strong start with Mega, shooting 53.4 percent, 42.9 percent from three and 89.2 percent from the free-throw line.

Though not an overwhelming athlete or physical big, his skill level creates interesting scoring versatility, with the 6'11" forward averaging 13.6 points off spot-up shooting, post touch, coast-to-coast takes and offensive boards.

55. Orlando Magic: Darrion Williams

Team: Texas Tech

Position: SG

Size: 6'6", 225 lbs

Age: 21

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Seth Lundy

Darrion Williams is averaging 4.7 assists through seven games, making it easier to digest a slower start from three. His shooting figures to come around, while the impressive passing remains encouraging.

He can score from the post, but his path to an NBA role is offering the combination of shotmaking, smart ball-moving and wing defense.

56. Memphis Grizzlies (via Rockets): Mark Sears

Team: Alabama

Position: PG/SG

Size: 6'1", 190 lbs

Age: 22

Nationality: American

Pro Comparison:

Mark Sears has been up and down to start, with Alabama having already played four ranked opponents. There shouldn't be concern over his shot, which has been uncharacteristically off.

NBA teams will question his score-first attack for a 6'1", 22-year-old guard. But some could see a role for a ball-handler who can put pressure on the defense with his handle, penetration, pull-up game and shooting.

57. Oklahoma City Thunder: Hunter Sallis

Team: Wake Forest

Position: SG

Size: 6'5", 185 lbs

Age: 21

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Malaki Branham

Hunter Sallis earned our patience through his slow start after last year's efficient three-level scoring breakout.

Still, at 185 pounds, scouts want to see more combo guard play and playmaking.

58. Orlando Magic (via Celtics): Ben Humrichous

Team: Illinois

Position: PF

Size: 6'9", 220 lbs

Age: 22

Nationality: American

Pro Comparison: Mike Muscala

Ben Humrichous made a name for himself last year at Evansville with 41.4 percent three-point shooting and face-up scoring highlights as a 6'9" forward.

So far with Illinois, he's been mostly a spot-up weapon, but his size, three-ball (42.9 percent) and IQ (two turnovers all season) may be enough for a potential specialist role at the next level.

59. Cleveland Cavaliers: Gabe Madsen

Team: Utah

Position: SG

Size: 6'6", 202 lbs

Age: 23

Nationality: USA

Pro Comparison: Chris Duarte

Whether it's the in the second round or after the draft, teams could target Gabe Madsen's shooting.

He's been above 37.0 percent every season since arriving at Utah in 2021-22, and he's drilled 31 threes in just seven games to start. At 6'6", he also brings a bonus dimension of driving and tough finishing.