The 2025 NBA Draft is set to be one of the best in a while, with Cooper Flagg, a 6’9″ star from Duke, at the top. Many think he’ll be taken first by the Dallas Mavericks.
Though Flagg gets a lot of talk, the whole draft class is full of deep and various talents, from top college players to big names from other lands. Here’s a closer look at the leaders in this pack, using info from CBS Sports and The Athletic.
Top 8 ranking
1. Cooper Flagg (Duke, SF/PF)
- Height/Weight: 6’9″, 205 lbs
- Stats: 19.2 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 4.2 APG, 1.4 BPG
- Honors: ACC Player of the Year, Naismith National Player of the Year
- Future: First pick to Dallas Mavericks
Flagg is seen as the best all-round player since Victor Wembanyama. He led Duke to a 35-win season and a trip to the Final Four. He shows great defense, top attack skills, and smart play. Scouts praise his guarding, deep shots (38.5% from three), and how he lifts his team’s game.
2. Dylan Harper (Rutgers, PG/SG)
- Height/Weight: 6’5″, 210 lbs
- Stats: 19.4 PPG, 4.0 APG
- Past: Son of five-time NBA winner Ron Harper
Harper, with sharp moves and strong build, is a real scorer and leader on the floor. He is seen as a sure pick outside of Flagg, much like Cade Cunningham for his calm and many skills.
3. Tre Johnson (Texas, SG)
- Height/Weight: 6’6″, 190 lbs
- Good at: Scoring from all levels, smooth shots
- Rise: Moved to No. 3 in CBS’s last top list
Johnson is a high-end attack tool who can get his own points and rack up scores. He’s compared to Bradley Beal for his scoring ways and big-game moments.
4. Ace Bailey (Rutgers, SF)
- Height/Weight: 6’9″, 200 lbs
- Stats: 17.6 PPG, 7.2 RPG
- Good at: Big jumps, top shot-making
- Worries: Even play, picking shots
Bailey stirs mixed views among scouts. His attack game is huge, but his all-round skills are not sure. Yet, his young age (19 soon) and scoring touch may place him high.
5. VJ Edgecombe (Baylor, SG/SF)
- Height/Weight: 6’6″, 210 lbs
- Good at: Strong drive, both attack and defense, jumping
Edgecombe is turning heads with his pep and skill both ways. He’s set to go mid to late in the lot and could be a strong find.
6. Khaman Maluach (NBA Academy Africa, C)
- Height/Weight: 7’1″, 230 lbs
- Good at: Guarding the rim, moving, global play
Maluach tops the global faces in this class. His big size and quick moves suit today’s NBA center mold. He’s linked to Clint Capela but seen as better on offense.
7. Kon Kneuppel (Duke, SF)
- Height/Weight: 6’7″, 215 lbs
- Good at: Great shooting, smart play
Kneuppel shines as a shooter. Playing by Flagg at Duke, he did well as a key shooter and helper. He’s seen going in the late lot mix.
8. Carter Bryant (Arizona, SF/PF)
- Height/Weight: 6’8″, 210 lbs
- Good at: Many skills forward, getting better at making shots
Bryant’s value has grown this year. He is smooth, getting better on attack, and can guard many spots.
Draft Points and thoughts
Many top players can take many spots, showing how the NBA likes players who fit anywhere.
While Cooper Flagg might break the trend of foreign top picks, others like Maluach and Noa Essengue from France keep the wide reach strong.
Experts see this class as deep. Many could turn out as stars later, making this draft one to keep eyes on.
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