The 2025 NBA Draft is almost here, and the excitement is off the charts. This year’s class is stacked with a blend of college standouts, international sensations, and promising young talents ready to take the next step in their basketball careers. From high-flying scorers to defensive juggernauts, these prospects bring a unique mix of skills that could shape the future of the league. Teams are eagerly strategizing to grab the next superstar, while fans are already dreaming about how these players might fit their favorite squads. Whether it’s Cooper Flagg’s defensive brilliance, Ace Bailey’s scoring touch, or VJ Edgecombe’s explosive athleticism, there’s a lot to look forward to. These are the players who could quickly transform franchises and elevate the NBA game.

1. Cooper Flagg (Position: Forward | Duke)

Cooper Flagg has been on everyone’s radar for years, and now he’s finally ready to make the leap to the NBA. Standing at 6’9” with an impressive 7’0” wingspan, Flagg is a dynamic forward who can impact the game on both ends of the court. At Duke this season, he dominated opponents with his versatility, averaging nearly 20 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 blocks per game.

What makes Flagg truly special is his defensive prowess. His timing as a shot blocker is elite, and his ability to guard multiple positions makes him a future Defensive Player of the Year candidate. On offense, Flagg is no slouch either. His scoring touch extends out to the three-point line, and he has a unique knack for making the right play, whether it’s an assist, a clutch shot, or an effort play. Flagg is widely projected as the number one pick in the draft, and any team would be thrilled to build around him.

2. Ace Bailey (Position: Forward | Rutgers)

Ace Bailey is another big-time forward who has been making waves. At 6’9”, Bailey is the prototypical modern NBA forward, combining athleticism, scoring ability, and defensive versatility. He put up 18 points and 8 rebounds per game during his freshman year at Rutgers, showcasing his wide array of offensive moves.

Bailey’s smooth game on offense is what has scouts excited. He’s a three-level scorer, meaning he’s comfortable scoring near the rim, hitting mid-range jumpers, or stepping out behind the arc. Pair that with his natural instincts on the defensive end, and you’ve got a player ready to thrive in today’s fast-paced NBA. Scouts have compared him to Pascal Siakam because of his mix of size, athleticism, and skill, and that’s a comparison Bailey seems poised to live up to.

3. VJ Edgecombe (Position: Guard | Baylor)

VJ Edgecombe has seen his stock soar over the past year, and it’s not hard to see why. The 6’5” guard from Baylor is the definition of an explosive athlete. Edgecombe turned heads by not only leading his team in scoring but also showcasing an incredible leap in his playmaking and defensive ability. He averaged 22 points, 5 assists, and 2 steals per game, making an undeniable case as one of the most complete guards in this year’s draft.

Edgecombe’s speed and agility make him a nightmare in transition, and his jump shot has become a reliable weapon. On defense, he uses his impressive wingspan and quickness to disrupt passing lanes and lock down opponents. NBA teams love players who can do it all, and Edgecombe’s upside has scouts dreaming of a future All-Star.

4. Hugo Gonzalez (Position: Wing | Real Madrid)

International prospects always add an intriguing element to the draft, and Hugo Gonzalez from Spain does not disappoint. The 6’7” swingman has been shining with Real Madrid in the EuroLeague, one of the most competitive leagues in the world outside of the NBA. Gonzalez averaged 12 points and 6 rebounds per game, but it’s his demeanor and polished game that have NBA front offices excited.

Gonzalez excels as a slasher, with the ability to get to the basket seemingly at will. His motor never stops, and he’s shown the ability to be the go-to scorer when his team needs a bucket. On top of that, his defensive skill set is well-developed for his age. Many scouts draw comparisons to Andrei Kirilenko, given his high IQ, versatility, and effort on both ends of the court.

5. Flory Bidunga (Position: Center | Kansas)

Flory Bidunga is everything you want in a big man. At 6’10” and 225 pounds, Bidunga is a force in the paint with his incredible athleticism and physicality. Playing for Kansas this past season, he averaged an overwhelming 15 points, 12 rebounds, and over 3 blocks per game, solidifying himself as one of the best centers in college basketball.

Bidunga’s shot-blocking and rebounding ability are second to none. He’s a dominant presence on defense and can protect the rim like few others. Offensively, he’s efficient in the post and has shown flashes of developing a mid-range game. Scouts see him as a player who can anchor a team’s defense immediately, and the comparisons to Clint Capela seem apt.

6. Dylan Harper (Position: Guard | Rutgers)

The youngest son of NBA veteran Ron Harper, Dylan Harper is making a name for himself with his stellar play at Rutgers. The 6’5” combo guard has a smooth game that blends scoring, playmaking, and a basketball IQ beyond his years. Harper averaged 18 points and 6 assists this season, proving he can lead a team and make the players around him better.

One of Harper’s strengths is his court vision. He’s always a step ahead of the defense, and his passing is both crisp and creative. He’s also a reliable scorer, with a jump shot that has range and consistency while being dangerous in the paint. His basketball pedigree along with his versatile skill set makes him a sought-after prospect, often compared to Tyrese Haliburton for his well-rounded game.

7. Isaiah Evans (Position: Wing | Duke)

Last but not least, Duke’s Isaiah Evans is a prospect whose stock has been steadily rising as the draft approaches. At 6’7” with a lean frame, Evans is the prototype for a modern NBA wing. He averaged 17 points and 5 rebounds this season while showing impressive efficiency from the floor.

What stands out about Evans is his smooth scoring ability. Whether it’s a pull-up jumper or a contested shot at the rim, Evans makes it all look effortless. He also brings energy on defense, often taking on the opposition’s best scorer. NBA teams are always hunting for wings with two-way potential, and Evans fits the bill perfectly, with some scouts comparing him to Brandon Ingram.

For fans, the beauty of the draft is not just seeing who their favorite team selects, but imagining how these talented young players will develop and shape the future of the league. Whether you’re cheering for a specific franchise or just love the game, this draft promises plenty of excitement, surprises, and players who will define the next generation of basketball.