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2025 NBA Draft Thread
- Thread in 'Sports & Training' Thread starter Started by addict4sneakers,
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Nah man Sarr is the one
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Gonna be a void in the draft video scouting reports again with Spinella gone.
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Personally would prefer to see more diverse backgrounds vs former players kids.
Former players kids already have the generational wealth
Former players kids already have the generational wealth
elpablo21
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HOU$TON
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My 11 year old son’s favorite player
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My 11 year old son’s favorite player
Interesting. The hype on him sort of died down a bit
His unnecessary dribbling and step backs are going to be a thing to follow if it can have substance lol
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Y'all said I was tripping
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Duren seems to be a rare exception cuz we seen many cases of the opposite recently
If lively can be duren then I’ll retract my take on him going that high too
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2024 NBA draft rankings: Jonathan Givony's top 25 prospects
Monday is the first day of the 2023-24 college basketball season, kicking off an increased visibility for the 2024 NBA draft cycle.
Unlike the 2023 NBA draft -- with its suspense surrounding which team would end up with the No. 1 pick (San Antonio Spurs) and not who was the clear No. 1 prospect (Victor Wembanyama) -- there is guaranteed to be significant movement at the top of draft boards until June.
At the moment, G League Ignite forward Ron Holland is at No. 1 thanks to his impressive preseason start. Perth big man Alex Sarr, who has been rapidly rising NBA draft boards in recent months with his play for the Australian team, is right behind Holland. And don't count out USC freshman guard Isaiah Collier with the Trojans' season commencing this week.
Below are ESPN NBA draft insider Jonathan Givony's top 25 NBA prospects.
We are still months away from the 2024 NBA draft on June 27, so these rankings will change -- likely dramatically -- as we learn quite a bit more about these prospects and others who weren't under consideration previously.
Check back all season as we inform you of the risers and fallers of this unpredictable draft class.
Ranking last updated: Monday, Nov. 6. Write-ups last updated: Monday, Nov. 6.
1. Ron Holland | SF | G League Ignite
6-foot-8 | Age: 18.3 | Previously ranked: 1
Holland did nothing to dissuade his standing at No. 1 with his preseason performances versus Perth and in the FIBA Intercontinental Cup, averaging 20 points, 6.4 rebounds and 2.4 steals in 26 minutes in five games. He's an aggressive, intense two-way competitor who pushes the ball in the open court relentlessly and wreaks havoc with his terrific basketball instincts. Holland has shown improvement early on with his perimeter shooting (35% from 3, 85% from the free throw line), demonstrating real confidence in his shot-making ability, which bodes well for his development in this area. That's an important part of his game since he is not blessed with elite physical tools and has wild moments at times as a shot-creator and a decision-maker. G League Ignite should give him the confidence to push the boundaries of his skill set and show he's more than an elite role player like some NBA scouts suspect. As much as teams love his energy and toughness, they want to see Holland keep his emotions in check and be more even-keeled from possession to possession as the season progresses.
2. Alex Sarr | PF/C | Perth
7-1 | Age: 18.5 | Previously ranked: 4
Sarr rocketed up NBA draft boards with his two-game September showing against G League Ignite, posting 43 points, 18 rebounds, 12 blocks and 4 assists in Las Vegas. Very few 7-footers bring the combination of mobility, length, skill and defensive versatility Sarr offers. He has been a little more up and down in the NBL since -- not a surprise considering the significant rise in the level of competition and the fact that his team is off to a 3-5 start. Sarr nonetheless drops outstanding glimpses of talent in every area with his impressive footwork, finishing creativity, ground coverage and rim protection. Continuing to play with intensity defensively should solidify him as a top-three pick as the season moves on.
3. Isaiah Collier | PG | USC
6-5 | Age: 19.0 | Previously ranked: 2
Collier and USC play in the most intriguing game of the opening day of college basketball, a neutral-court Las Vegas matchup with another top-25 caliber team in Kansas State. The 6-foot-5 point guard is an elite ball handler and passer who lives at the rim creating out of pick-and-rolls and transition, using his strong, 210-pound frame to finish through contact and getting to the free throw line prolifically. His feel for the game and flair in changing speeds and passing off a live dribble have obvious appeal combined with the competitive mindset he brings defensively and all-around basketball instincts. Collier's perimeter shooting is the biggest question NBA scouts have about his game, something we'll learn more about this season. He should have the keys to USC's offense and a huge platform to show he's worthy of consideration as the No. 1 pick.
4. Justin Edwards | SG/SF | Kentucky
6-7 | Age: 19.8 | Previously ranked: 5
Edwards fits a clear mold NBA teams are actively seeking as a big wing with shot-making prowess, straight-line driving ability, defensive versatility and intensity, giving him a relatively high floor in this draft class. Edwards, who will turn 20 in December, is older than several sophomores and will need to be productive to maintain his lofty standing, hopefully by showing a more diverse floor game as a ball handler, passer and pull-up shooter. Kentucky will be tested when it travels to Chicago for a difficult matchup with No. 1-ranked Kansas in the Champions Classic on Nov. 14.
5. Zaccharie Risacher | SF | Bourg
6-10 | Age: 18.5 | Previously ranked: 11
Risacher moved from EuroLeague squad ASVEL to Bourg in the EuroCup this offseason, which has allowed him to become a full-time rotation player for one of the best teams in France. He is off to a strong start, showing his unique versatility as a 6-foot-10 wing who can guard multiple positions, stretch the floor, attack in a straight line and pass unselfishly while still having considerable upside at just 18 years old. Playing a position of significant need across the NBA, it's been encouraging to see the confidence and aggressiveness he is bringing, erasing some of the concerns that arose following a poor showing at the FIBA U19 World Cup.
6. Matas Buzelis | SF | G League Ignite
6-10 | Age: 19.0 | Previously ranked: 3
Buzelis' appeal lies in his versatility at 6-foot-10, showing the ability to do a little bit of everything in terms of ballhandling, perimeter shooting, passing and defensive playmaking. He did not have a great showing in G League Ignite's opening preseason games against Perth, struggling with the physicality of the pro game on both ends of the floor before sitting out the team's trip to Singapore because of an ankle injury. Having added significant weight to his frame -- up from 185 pounds in January to 210 now as listed by Ignite -- Buzelis will have a huge runway with Ignite's 48-game G League season to show what he can hang his hat on as an elite-level prospect.
7. Donovan Clingan | C | UConn
7-2 | Age: 19.6 | Previously ranked: 6
Clingan played small but important minutes during UConn's national championship run, and he will now step into a significantly bigger role with the departure of Final Four Most Outstanding Player Adama Sanogo. At 7-foot-2 with a plus wingspan, Clingan towers over opponents and has outstanding hands, footwork and touch, making him a dangerous option as a pick-and-roll operator, rim runner and offensive rebounder after ranking as one of the best per-minute shot-blockers and rebounders in college basketball last season. NBA scouts will now want to see how his productivity scales to more playing time, with a much different roster surrounding him.
8. Stephon Castle | PG/SG | UConn
6-6 | Age: 18.9 | Previously ranked: 7
Castle's talent is readily apparent at first glance: He has an elite physical profile at 6-foot-6 with long arms and a chiseled 215-pound frame. He is a big guard who plays with unique pace while operating at different speeds and shows intriguing vision and creativity passing off a live dribble. A late bloomer who took a different path than most in emerging as a top-10 prospect, Castle's decision-making and consistency as a defender and a perimeter shooter could lead to some up-and-down moments on a deep and talented UConn squad, but his long-term upside should keep scouts interested regardless.
9. Izan Almansa | PF/C | G League Ignite
6-10 | Age: 18.3 | Previously ranked: 8
Almansa's productivity and contribution to winning was unmatched at the FIBA level, helping him win MVP at the U17 and U19 World Cups as well as the U18 European Championship. He was still finding his place on G League Ignite in preseason action, however, while showing off his elite passing and overall basketball instincts on both ends of the floor but struggling to score prolifically or efficiently. His lack of explosiveness and occasional struggles guarding in space might make him a niche fit for some NBA teams, but the versatility and outstanding feel for the game he brings should keep him in lottery conversations.
10. Nikola Topic | PG | Mega MIS
6-7 | Age: 18.2 | Previously ranked: 26
The 6-foot-7 Serbian point guard has been one of the big risers of the 2024 draft cycle, putting up outstanding averages in the Adriatic League (20.7 points, 8.2 assists) for a competitive Mega MIS squad that has shown it can hang with high-level European teams. Topic brings tremendous size, pace, feel and creativity as an elite pick-and-roll operator, making every pass you want to see from a point guard while bullying older players in the lane for strong-frame finishes. His defense and perimeter shooting will be scrutinized closely in the coming months, but he already is drawing huge audiences of NBA scouts to every game he plays due to his unique strengths.
11. Kyle Filipowski | PF/C | Duke
7-0 | Age: 19.9 | Previously ranked: 9
The ACC Rookie of the Year, Filipowski was a lottery candidate who elected to return for his sophomore season, partially due to his decision to have double hip surgery. Filipowski said the procedure has helped his flexibility while allowing him to get in a deeper stance, which could help him defensively and to become a more explosive finisher, as he is expected to spend more time at center. A 7-footer who can create off the dribble, shoot 3-pointers, pass and rebound at a high level, Filipowski exhibits a skill level and versatility that are tailor-made for the NBA. We'll learn quite a bit about how he looks the first week of the season, as Duke faces Arizona on Friday and Michigan State on Nov. 14.
12. Aday Mara | C | UCLA
7-3 | Age: 18.5 | Previously ranked: 13
At 7-foot-3, Mara brings an exceptionally high skill level as a low-post and pick-and-roll scorer with impressive court vision and passing ability. NBA scouts still want to learn more about his toughness and physicality on both ends of the floor and especially his ability to guard in space to project exactly where he stacks up in this draft class. Mara was cleared for competition by the NCAA on Friday after his controversial departure from Spanish team Zaragoza.
13. Tyrese Proctor | PG | Duke
6-5 | Age: 19.5 | Previously ranked: 14
Proctor's strong finish to his freshman campaign portends good things to come as a sophomore, as he is expected to emerge as a leader for Duke. The 6-foot-5 Australian guard brings diverse shot-making ability with an outstanding feel for the game. He combines a mature, unselfish style and competitiveness with defensive astuteness. Scouts will want to see more assertiveness in attacking the rim and drawing contact to make up for his average explosiveness as well as whether his improved frame helps him play with better physicality defensively. The 19-year-old is among the younger players in the sophomore class and on a team expected to compete for a national championship.
14. D.J. Wagner | PG/SG | Kentucky
6-3 | Age: 18.4 | Previously ranked: 10
Wagner is somewhat of a divisive prospect among scouts and has some things to prove as Kentucky's starting point guard. Wagner's ballhandling, ability to play at different speeds and overall scoring instincts are outstanding, helping establish himself as a consensus top-10 high school recruit. Scouts want to learn more about his decision-making, perimeter shooting and defense, which have been inconsistent throughout his career. He will be under an intense microscope at Kentucky and face quite a bit of pressure with a fan base itching for the first Sweet 16 appearance in five years.
15. Kel'el Ware | C | Indiana
7-0 | Age: 19.5 | Previously ranked: 12
A top-10 recruit who fell out of favor at Oregon over the second half of his freshman season, Ware made a wise decision to transfer to Indiana rather than take his chances in the 2023 NBA draft. No one will question the talent level of the skilled and explosive 7-footer who makes 3-pointers with ease, is a terrific lob-finisher and blocks shots with his outstanding mobility and length. Ware's motor, competitiveness and feel for the game represent significant question marks that scouts will want to learn more about before being able to recommend drafting him in the lottery.
16. Ja'Kobe Walter | SG/SF | Baylor
6-5 | Age: 19.1 | Previously ranked: 15
Walter brings an impressive frame, wingspan and budding two-way versatility as a 3-and-D-style wing. He competes with good energy defensively, has shown flashes of shot-making prowess and has plenty of upside to grow into with his youthful appearance. Although he isn't a prolific ball handler or shot-creator, Walter's productivity and consistency on both ends of the floor will play a significant role in how he is ultimately viewed as a prospect.
17. Jared McCain | PG | Duke
6-3 | Age: 19.6 | Previously ranked: 16
McCain has been on a steady incline for the past few years thanks to his elite work ethic, drawing strong reviews from Duke's coaching staff in the preseason and from NBA scouts who watched him over the summer. While not blessed with elite physical tools, his feel for the game, pace, toughness and shot-making prowess give him a high floor as a prospect. McCain appears to have carved out a starting role for himself at Duke, thus ensuring a significant platform along with a major challenge defensively due to his lack of size and length on the wing.
18. Tidjane Salaun | PF | Cholet
6-10 | Age: 18.2 | Previously ranked: 18
Salaun carried the momentum from an impressive showing at August's FIBA U18 European Championship to a strong role for Cholet in the French and Champions leagues. The 18-year-old power forward has an outstanding physical profile, the ability to make 3-pointers in a variety of ways and strong intensity and versatility on the defensive end of the floor. He has been up and down from a productivity and consistency standpoint this season, which is to be expected to an extent, considering his youth and lack of experience relative to the level of competition he is playing at. He has significant upside to grow into long term.
19. Baba Miller | SF/PF | Florida St.
6-11 | Age: 19.7 | Previously ranked: 22
Miller's freshman season was derailed by a 16-game suspension, and he looked raw when he stepped on the court for Florida State. He took a major step forward at the FIBA U19 World Cup in July, playing with better confidence and intensity than we had previously seen. Miller displayed considerable upside as an impressively built 6-foot-11 wing who can knock down 3-pointers, create for himself and others, rebound and make defensive plays all over the floor. He is still a work in progress from a consistency standpoint in all facets, as his decision-making can be questionable and there are some theoretical qualities to his game that scouts will want to see him make progress in. Nevertheless, he has a rare and coveted NBA profile. He is young and inexperienced enough to warrant patience considering his late-blooming trajectory, making his sophomore season intriguing to monitor.
20. Cody Williams | SG/SF | Colorado
6-8 | Age: 18.9 | Previously ranked: 19
Williams, the brother of Oklahoma City Thunder standout Jalen Williams, lost some steam with a poor showing at the FIBA U19 World Cup. However, he will have every opportunity to show NBA scouts he's worthy of being invested in due to the scarcity of players in his mold. At 6-foot-8 with a 7-foot-1 wingspan and significant defensive versatility, Williams can slow down smaller players and make plays off the ball. While he shows some vision and creativity as a passer, Williams has questions to answer regarding his ballhandling, finishing and perimeter shooting to better decipher his long-term projection.
21. Bobi Klintman | SF/PF | Cairns
6-10 | Age: 20.6 | Previously ranked: 23
Klintman surprised some by leaving the cozy confines of the ACC to sign in Australia with the NBL's Next Stars program, but the move appears to be paying off for him. He has a significant platform, freedom and responsibility while playing major minutes for an up-tempo team, and he is showing significant versatility in producing against high-level competition. At 6-foot-10, Klintman contributes as a spot shooter, cutter, rebounder and straight-line driver while using his aggressiveness, size and length to create events defensively. Scouts want to see him continue to improve his ballhandling ability and decision-making and amend his defensive lapses, but it's hard not to be impressed with his productivity and the improvement he has shown from last season at Wake Forest.
22. Ryan Dunn | SF/PF | Virginia
6-8 | Age: 20.8 | Previously ranked: 21
Dunn played only 13 minutes per game as a freshman, as Virginia initially planned on having him walk on and redshirt. He has an outstanding physical profile, a tremendous frame and a 7-foot-1 wingspan to go with impressive explosiveness. Dunn's defensive versatility is his best attribute, as he is capable of guarding smaller and bigger players alike, sliding his feet fluidly on the perimeter, rotating for blocks and showing excellent technique and effectiveness both on and off the ball. NBA scouts will be following Dunn closely to see what kind of jump he can make offensively as a sophomore, as he got most of his production as a cutter, rim runner and offensive rebounder and didn't look comfortable taking open 3-pointers or attacking off the dribble. A late bloomer who grew seven inches in high school, Dunn is at a different stage of development than most 20-year-old sophomores but still will need to produce and take the next step with his aggressiveness to back up his lofty standing here.
23. Elmarko Jackson | SG | Kansas
6-3 | Age: 19.5 | Previously ranked: 17
The No. 1-ranked Jayhawks will likely need Jackson to play an important role with their depleted backcourt depth. From a physical standpoint, Jackson looks the part with his chiseled frame, long arms and ability to finish powerfully and draw fouls in the lane. He brings strong intensity defensively by pressuring opposing ball handlers and generating turnovers. Scouts want to learn more about Jackson's shot-creation, playmaking and decision-making as well as his consistency as a perimeter shooter. Jackson has shown flashes of ability in many different areas, but he was somewhat up and down from a productivity standpoint in the preseason.
24. Juan Nunez | PG | Ulm
6-4 | Age: 19.4 | Previously ranked: 25
Nunez had an outstanding summer as Spain's starting point guard at the FIBA World Cup, averaging 5.2 assists in 19 minutes per game. He has carried that momentum to his second season in Germany for defending champions Ratiopharm Ulm, scoring prolifically and efficiently while significantly cutting back on turnovers. He's an elite pick-and-roll player with outstanding ballhandling, vision, creativity and overall basketball instincts at 6-foot-4. Nunez's streaky jumper and at times porous defense remain concerns from an NBA standpoint, but the way he's producing against top-notch European competition in the EuroCup and German BBL is extremely impressive for a 19-year-old.
25. Trevon Brazile | PF | Arkansas
6-10 | Age: 20.8 | Previously ranked: 57
Brazile played only nine games as a sophomore after tearing his ACL in December, but he looked ready to take a major step forward during Arkansas' Oct. 28 exhibition win over Purdue. The 6-foot-10 big man displays explosiveness and length, the ability to step out and make 3-pointers with terrific mechanics, and outstanding defensive mobility, giving him ideal versatility for the NBA game. Scouts will want to learn more about his feel for the game and ability to handle physicality, areas he struggled with in the past along with his lack of strength. The junior has been named a first-team All-SEC preseason selection, and a healthy, productive season as a leader for the Razorbacks would do wonders for his draft stock heading into June.
Monday is the first day of the 2023-24 college basketball season, kicking off an increased visibility for the 2024 NBA draft cycle.
Unlike the 2023 NBA draft -- with its suspense surrounding which team would end up with the No. 1 pick (San Antonio Spurs) and not who was the clear No. 1 prospect (Victor Wembanyama) -- there is guaranteed to be significant movement at the top of draft boards until June.
At the moment, G League Ignite forward Ron Holland is at No. 1 thanks to his impressive preseason start. Perth big man Alex Sarr, who has been rapidly rising NBA draft boards in recent months with his play for the Australian team, is right behind Holland. And don't count out USC freshman guard Isaiah Collier with the Trojans' season commencing this week.
Below are ESPN NBA draft insider Jonathan Givony's top 25 NBA prospects.
We are still months away from the 2024 NBA draft on June 27, so these rankings will change -- likely dramatically -- as we learn quite a bit more about these prospects and others who weren't under consideration previously.
Check back all season as we inform you of the risers and fallers of this unpredictable draft class.
Ranking last updated: Monday, Nov. 6. Write-ups last updated: Monday, Nov. 6.
1. Ron Holland | SF | G League Ignite
6-foot-8 | Age: 18.3 | Previously ranked: 1
Holland did nothing to dissuade his standing at No. 1 with his preseason performances versus Perth and in the FIBA Intercontinental Cup, averaging 20 points, 6.4 rebounds and 2.4 steals in 26 minutes in five games. He's an aggressive, intense two-way competitor who pushes the ball in the open court relentlessly and wreaks havoc with his terrific basketball instincts. Holland has shown improvement early on with his perimeter shooting (35% from 3, 85% from the free throw line), demonstrating real confidence in his shot-making ability, which bodes well for his development in this area. That's an important part of his game since he is not blessed with elite physical tools and has wild moments at times as a shot-creator and a decision-maker. G League Ignite should give him the confidence to push the boundaries of his skill set and show he's more than an elite role player like some NBA scouts suspect. As much as teams love his energy and toughness, they want to see Holland keep his emotions in check and be more even-keeled from possession to possession as the season progresses.
2. Alex Sarr | PF/C | Perth
7-1 | Age: 18.5 | Previously ranked: 4
Sarr rocketed up NBA draft boards with his two-game September showing against G League Ignite, posting 43 points, 18 rebounds, 12 blocks and 4 assists in Las Vegas. Very few 7-footers bring the combination of mobility, length, skill and defensive versatility Sarr offers. He has been a little more up and down in the NBL since -- not a surprise considering the significant rise in the level of competition and the fact that his team is off to a 3-5 start. Sarr nonetheless drops outstanding glimpses of talent in every area with his impressive footwork, finishing creativity, ground coverage and rim protection. Continuing to play with intensity defensively should solidify him as a top-three pick as the season moves on.
3. Isaiah Collier | PG | USC
6-5 | Age: 19.0 | Previously ranked: 2
Collier and USC play in the most intriguing game of the opening day of college basketball, a neutral-court Las Vegas matchup with another top-25 caliber team in Kansas State. The 6-foot-5 point guard is an elite ball handler and passer who lives at the rim creating out of pick-and-rolls and transition, using his strong, 210-pound frame to finish through contact and getting to the free throw line prolifically. His feel for the game and flair in changing speeds and passing off a live dribble have obvious appeal combined with the competitive mindset he brings defensively and all-around basketball instincts. Collier's perimeter shooting is the biggest question NBA scouts have about his game, something we'll learn more about this season. He should have the keys to USC's offense and a huge platform to show he's worthy of consideration as the No. 1 pick.
4. Justin Edwards | SG/SF | Kentucky
6-7 | Age: 19.8 | Previously ranked: 5
Edwards fits a clear mold NBA teams are actively seeking as a big wing with shot-making prowess, straight-line driving ability, defensive versatility and intensity, giving him a relatively high floor in this draft class. Edwards, who will turn 20 in December, is older than several sophomores and will need to be productive to maintain his lofty standing, hopefully by showing a more diverse floor game as a ball handler, passer and pull-up shooter. Kentucky will be tested when it travels to Chicago for a difficult matchup with No. 1-ranked Kansas in the Champions Classic on Nov. 14.
5. Zaccharie Risacher | SF | Bourg
6-10 | Age: 18.5 | Previously ranked: 11
Risacher moved from EuroLeague squad ASVEL to Bourg in the EuroCup this offseason, which has allowed him to become a full-time rotation player for one of the best teams in France. He is off to a strong start, showing his unique versatility as a 6-foot-10 wing who can guard multiple positions, stretch the floor, attack in a straight line and pass unselfishly while still having considerable upside at just 18 years old. Playing a position of significant need across the NBA, it's been encouraging to see the confidence and aggressiveness he is bringing, erasing some of the concerns that arose following a poor showing at the FIBA U19 World Cup.
6. Matas Buzelis | SF | G League Ignite
6-10 | Age: 19.0 | Previously ranked: 3
Buzelis' appeal lies in his versatility at 6-foot-10, showing the ability to do a little bit of everything in terms of ballhandling, perimeter shooting, passing and defensive playmaking. He did not have a great showing in G League Ignite's opening preseason games against Perth, struggling with the physicality of the pro game on both ends of the floor before sitting out the team's trip to Singapore because of an ankle injury. Having added significant weight to his frame -- up from 185 pounds in January to 210 now as listed by Ignite -- Buzelis will have a huge runway with Ignite's 48-game G League season to show what he can hang his hat on as an elite-level prospect.
7. Donovan Clingan | C | UConn
7-2 | Age: 19.6 | Previously ranked: 6
Clingan played small but important minutes during UConn's national championship run, and he will now step into a significantly bigger role with the departure of Final Four Most Outstanding Player Adama Sanogo. At 7-foot-2 with a plus wingspan, Clingan towers over opponents and has outstanding hands, footwork and touch, making him a dangerous option as a pick-and-roll operator, rim runner and offensive rebounder after ranking as one of the best per-minute shot-blockers and rebounders in college basketball last season. NBA scouts will now want to see how his productivity scales to more playing time, with a much different roster surrounding him.
8. Stephon Castle | PG/SG | UConn
6-6 | Age: 18.9 | Previously ranked: 7
Castle's talent is readily apparent at first glance: He has an elite physical profile at 6-foot-6 with long arms and a chiseled 215-pound frame. He is a big guard who plays with unique pace while operating at different speeds and shows intriguing vision and creativity passing off a live dribble. A late bloomer who took a different path than most in emerging as a top-10 prospect, Castle's decision-making and consistency as a defender and a perimeter shooter could lead to some up-and-down moments on a deep and talented UConn squad, but his long-term upside should keep scouts interested regardless.
9. Izan Almansa | PF/C | G League Ignite
6-10 | Age: 18.3 | Previously ranked: 8
Almansa's productivity and contribution to winning was unmatched at the FIBA level, helping him win MVP at the U17 and U19 World Cups as well as the U18 European Championship. He was still finding his place on G League Ignite in preseason action, however, while showing off his elite passing and overall basketball instincts on both ends of the floor but struggling to score prolifically or efficiently. His lack of explosiveness and occasional struggles guarding in space might make him a niche fit for some NBA teams, but the versatility and outstanding feel for the game he brings should keep him in lottery conversations.
10. Nikola Topic | PG | Mega MIS
6-7 | Age: 18.2 | Previously ranked: 26
The 6-foot-7 Serbian point guard has been one of the big risers of the 2024 draft cycle, putting up outstanding averages in the Adriatic League (20.7 points, 8.2 assists) for a competitive Mega MIS squad that has shown it can hang with high-level European teams. Topic brings tremendous size, pace, feel and creativity as an elite pick-and-roll operator, making every pass you want to see from a point guard while bullying older players in the lane for strong-frame finishes. His defense and perimeter shooting will be scrutinized closely in the coming months, but he already is drawing huge audiences of NBA scouts to every game he plays due to his unique strengths.
11. Kyle Filipowski | PF/C | Duke
7-0 | Age: 19.9 | Previously ranked: 9
The ACC Rookie of the Year, Filipowski was a lottery candidate who elected to return for his sophomore season, partially due to his decision to have double hip surgery. Filipowski said the procedure has helped his flexibility while allowing him to get in a deeper stance, which could help him defensively and to become a more explosive finisher, as he is expected to spend more time at center. A 7-footer who can create off the dribble, shoot 3-pointers, pass and rebound at a high level, Filipowski exhibits a skill level and versatility that are tailor-made for the NBA. We'll learn quite a bit about how he looks the first week of the season, as Duke faces Arizona on Friday and Michigan State on Nov. 14.
12. Aday Mara | C | UCLA
7-3 | Age: 18.5 | Previously ranked: 13
At 7-foot-3, Mara brings an exceptionally high skill level as a low-post and pick-and-roll scorer with impressive court vision and passing ability. NBA scouts still want to learn more about his toughness and physicality on both ends of the floor and especially his ability to guard in space to project exactly where he stacks up in this draft class. Mara was cleared for competition by the NCAA on Friday after his controversial departure from Spanish team Zaragoza.
13. Tyrese Proctor | PG | Duke
6-5 | Age: 19.5 | Previously ranked: 14
Proctor's strong finish to his freshman campaign portends good things to come as a sophomore, as he is expected to emerge as a leader for Duke. The 6-foot-5 Australian guard brings diverse shot-making ability with an outstanding feel for the game. He combines a mature, unselfish style and competitiveness with defensive astuteness. Scouts will want to see more assertiveness in attacking the rim and drawing contact to make up for his average explosiveness as well as whether his improved frame helps him play with better physicality defensively. The 19-year-old is among the younger players in the sophomore class and on a team expected to compete for a national championship.
14. D.J. Wagner | PG/SG | Kentucky
6-3 | Age: 18.4 | Previously ranked: 10
Wagner is somewhat of a divisive prospect among scouts and has some things to prove as Kentucky's starting point guard. Wagner's ballhandling, ability to play at different speeds and overall scoring instincts are outstanding, helping establish himself as a consensus top-10 high school recruit. Scouts want to learn more about his decision-making, perimeter shooting and defense, which have been inconsistent throughout his career. He will be under an intense microscope at Kentucky and face quite a bit of pressure with a fan base itching for the first Sweet 16 appearance in five years.
15. Kel'el Ware | C | Indiana
7-0 | Age: 19.5 | Previously ranked: 12
A top-10 recruit who fell out of favor at Oregon over the second half of his freshman season, Ware made a wise decision to transfer to Indiana rather than take his chances in the 2023 NBA draft. No one will question the talent level of the skilled and explosive 7-footer who makes 3-pointers with ease, is a terrific lob-finisher and blocks shots with his outstanding mobility and length. Ware's motor, competitiveness and feel for the game represent significant question marks that scouts will want to learn more about before being able to recommend drafting him in the lottery.
16. Ja'Kobe Walter | SG/SF | Baylor
6-5 | Age: 19.1 | Previously ranked: 15
Walter brings an impressive frame, wingspan and budding two-way versatility as a 3-and-D-style wing. He competes with good energy defensively, has shown flashes of shot-making prowess and has plenty of upside to grow into with his youthful appearance. Although he isn't a prolific ball handler or shot-creator, Walter's productivity and consistency on both ends of the floor will play a significant role in how he is ultimately viewed as a prospect.
17. Jared McCain | PG | Duke
6-3 | Age: 19.6 | Previously ranked: 16
McCain has been on a steady incline for the past few years thanks to his elite work ethic, drawing strong reviews from Duke's coaching staff in the preseason and from NBA scouts who watched him over the summer. While not blessed with elite physical tools, his feel for the game, pace, toughness and shot-making prowess give him a high floor as a prospect. McCain appears to have carved out a starting role for himself at Duke, thus ensuring a significant platform along with a major challenge defensively due to his lack of size and length on the wing.
18. Tidjane Salaun | PF | Cholet
6-10 | Age: 18.2 | Previously ranked: 18
Salaun carried the momentum from an impressive showing at August's FIBA U18 European Championship to a strong role for Cholet in the French and Champions leagues. The 18-year-old power forward has an outstanding physical profile, the ability to make 3-pointers in a variety of ways and strong intensity and versatility on the defensive end of the floor. He has been up and down from a productivity and consistency standpoint this season, which is to be expected to an extent, considering his youth and lack of experience relative to the level of competition he is playing at. He has significant upside to grow into long term.
19. Baba Miller | SF/PF | Florida St.
6-11 | Age: 19.7 | Previously ranked: 22
Miller's freshman season was derailed by a 16-game suspension, and he looked raw when he stepped on the court for Florida State. He took a major step forward at the FIBA U19 World Cup in July, playing with better confidence and intensity than we had previously seen. Miller displayed considerable upside as an impressively built 6-foot-11 wing who can knock down 3-pointers, create for himself and others, rebound and make defensive plays all over the floor. He is still a work in progress from a consistency standpoint in all facets, as his decision-making can be questionable and there are some theoretical qualities to his game that scouts will want to see him make progress in. Nevertheless, he has a rare and coveted NBA profile. He is young and inexperienced enough to warrant patience considering his late-blooming trajectory, making his sophomore season intriguing to monitor.
20. Cody Williams | SG/SF | Colorado
6-8 | Age: 18.9 | Previously ranked: 19
Williams, the brother of Oklahoma City Thunder standout Jalen Williams, lost some steam with a poor showing at the FIBA U19 World Cup. However, he will have every opportunity to show NBA scouts he's worthy of being invested in due to the scarcity of players in his mold. At 6-foot-8 with a 7-foot-1 wingspan and significant defensive versatility, Williams can slow down smaller players and make plays off the ball. While he shows some vision and creativity as a passer, Williams has questions to answer regarding his ballhandling, finishing and perimeter shooting to better decipher his long-term projection.
21. Bobi Klintman | SF/PF | Cairns
6-10 | Age: 20.6 | Previously ranked: 23
Klintman surprised some by leaving the cozy confines of the ACC to sign in Australia with the NBL's Next Stars program, but the move appears to be paying off for him. He has a significant platform, freedom and responsibility while playing major minutes for an up-tempo team, and he is showing significant versatility in producing against high-level competition. At 6-foot-10, Klintman contributes as a spot shooter, cutter, rebounder and straight-line driver while using his aggressiveness, size and length to create events defensively. Scouts want to see him continue to improve his ballhandling ability and decision-making and amend his defensive lapses, but it's hard not to be impressed with his productivity and the improvement he has shown from last season at Wake Forest.
22. Ryan Dunn | SF/PF | Virginia
6-8 | Age: 20.8 | Previously ranked: 21
Dunn played only 13 minutes per game as a freshman, as Virginia initially planned on having him walk on and redshirt. He has an outstanding physical profile, a tremendous frame and a 7-foot-1 wingspan to go with impressive explosiveness. Dunn's defensive versatility is his best attribute, as he is capable of guarding smaller and bigger players alike, sliding his feet fluidly on the perimeter, rotating for blocks and showing excellent technique and effectiveness both on and off the ball. NBA scouts will be following Dunn closely to see what kind of jump he can make offensively as a sophomore, as he got most of his production as a cutter, rim runner and offensive rebounder and didn't look comfortable taking open 3-pointers or attacking off the dribble. A late bloomer who grew seven inches in high school, Dunn is at a different stage of development than most 20-year-old sophomores but still will need to produce and take the next step with his aggressiveness to back up his lofty standing here.
23. Elmarko Jackson | SG | Kansas
6-3 | Age: 19.5 | Previously ranked: 17
The No. 1-ranked Jayhawks will likely need Jackson to play an important role with their depleted backcourt depth. From a physical standpoint, Jackson looks the part with his chiseled frame, long arms and ability to finish powerfully and draw fouls in the lane. He brings strong intensity defensively by pressuring opposing ball handlers and generating turnovers. Scouts want to learn more about Jackson's shot-creation, playmaking and decision-making as well as his consistency as a perimeter shooter. Jackson has shown flashes of ability in many different areas, but he was somewhat up and down from a productivity standpoint in the preseason.
24. Juan Nunez | PG | Ulm
6-4 | Age: 19.4 | Previously ranked: 25
Nunez had an outstanding summer as Spain's starting point guard at the FIBA World Cup, averaging 5.2 assists in 19 minutes per game. He has carried that momentum to his second season in Germany for defending champions Ratiopharm Ulm, scoring prolifically and efficiently while significantly cutting back on turnovers. He's an elite pick-and-roll player with outstanding ballhandling, vision, creativity and overall basketball instincts at 6-foot-4. Nunez's streaky jumper and at times porous defense remain concerns from an NBA standpoint, but the way he's producing against top-notch European competition in the EuroCup and German BBL is extremely impressive for a 19-year-old.
25. Trevon Brazile | PF | Arkansas
6-10 | Age: 20.8 | Previously ranked: 57
Brazile played only nine games as a sophomore after tearing his ACL in December, but he looked ready to take a major step forward during Arkansas' Oct. 28 exhibition win over Purdue. The 6-foot-10 big man displays explosiveness and length, the ability to step out and make 3-pointers with terrific mechanics, and outstanding defensive mobility, giving him ideal versatility for the NBA game. Scouts will want to learn more about his feel for the game and ability to handle physicality, areas he struggled with in the past along with his lack of strength. The junior has been named a first-team All-SEC preseason selection, and a healthy, productive season as a leader for the Razorbacks would do wonders for his draft stock heading into June.
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We are going to talk about him today. Probably gets uploaded in the AM. I mess with him. I think he’s a top 5 pick but it’s November.
