As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, all eyes are on a deep pool of talent that promises to shake up the league for years to come. With the NCAA tournament fresh in everyone’s minds, the focus is on rising stars who have the potential to make an immediate impact. Among them is Cooper Flagg, the consensus No. 1 pick who, after a heartbreaking close in the Final Four, is poised to step onto the NBA stage and become the face of a new franchise.
Cooper Flagg: The No. 1 Pick in the 2025 NBA Draft
The lasting image of Cooper Flagg from the 2025 NCAA tournament will likely be that missed shot in the Final Four semifinals. As he sat in a golf cart, staring off into the distance, his mind must have been replaying that final attempt. But in the grand scheme of things, that moment will soon be overshadowed by a new image: Flagg smiling as he walks onto the stage to accept the No. 1 overall pick in the NBA draft.
Flagg is locked in as the top pick by a wide margin. Scouts across the league rave about his defensive prowess—particularly his weakside shot-blocking ability and his versatility to guard multiple positions. Offensively, Flagg’s development will be a key factor in his transition to the NBA. His three-point shooting was inconsistent during the regular season, but he hit 50% of his deep shots during the NCAA tournament, fueling belief that his shooting will translate to the next level.
2. Washington Wizards: Dylan Harper (G, Rutgers)
For the Washington Wizards, a team in dire need of a guard with star potential, Dylan Harper represents the future. At 6’6″, Harper brings a blend of strength, athleticism, and a unique scoring ability that sets him apart. The son of former NBA guard Ron Harper, Dylan has the makings of a player capable of making a significant impact at the next level.
Although his three-point shooting was inconsistent (33.3% during the season), Harper’s ability to attack the rim and his exceptional ball-handling skills have drawn comparisons to James Harden. For the Wizards, who lack an elite scoring guard, Harper could be the answer to their backcourt woes.
3. Charlotte Hornets: Ace Bailey (F, Rutgers)
Ace Bailey, the 6’9″ forward from Rutgers, is poised to be a game-changer in Charlotte. With his ability to score from all three levels and explosive athleticism, Bailey is a tantalizing prospect. While comparisons to Michael Porter Jr. are common, some scouts see flashes of Kevin Durant in his game. As the Hornets look to build around LaMelo Ball, Bailey could form a dynamic scoring trio alongside Ball and Brandon Miller.
4. New Orleans Pelicans: Kasparas Jakucionis (G, Illinois)
Kasparas Jakucionis, a 6’6″ point guard from Illinois, is a crafty playmaker with excellent court vision. His style of play is reminiscent of Ricky Rubio, though he’ll need to cut down on turnovers (he averaged 3.7 per game during the season) to succeed in the NBA. However, his upside as a floor general makes him an ideal pick for the New Orleans Pelicans, who are looking to solidify their backcourt with a pass-first guard.
5. Philadelphia 76ers: VJ Edgecombe (G, Baylor)
VJ Edgecombe is a well-rounded guard with an explosive athletic profile. His ability to score off the dribble and finish through traffic will make him a valuable asset for any NBA team. While his three-point shooting was inconsistent, his potential to develop into an effective scorer at the next level has many scouts excited. The 76ers, who could be on the brink of a championship run, may look to add Edgecombe to their roster as they prepare for another deep playoff push.
6. Brooklyn Nets: Collin Murray-Boyles (F, South Carolina)
At 6’7″ with a 7-foot wingspan, Collin Murray-Boyles has the physical tools to excel as a defender in the NBA. His quickness and versatility make him a potential nightmare on the defensive end, and his ability to contribute offensively, especially in the post, will make him a valuable asset. While his shooting remains a work in progress, his ability to impact the game in multiple ways has the Brooklyn Nets intrigued.
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