With men`s college basketball concluding with the Florida Gators as champions and the NBA regular season nearing its end, the NBA draft is becoming the primary focus for prospects and teams looking to the future.
The NCAA tournament provided a significant stage for players like Florida`s Walter Clayton Jr., Duke`s Kon Knueppel, Maryland`s Derik Queen, and Colorado State`s Nique Clifford to impress NBA scouts.
Internationally, Joan Beringer (Cedevita/Slovenia) and Noa Essengue (Ratiopharm Ulm/Germany) have also strengthened their positions among top-20 prospects.
ESPN draft experts Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo have compiled their latest mock draft based on their scouting and insights from league executives. The draft order is determined by ESPN`s BPI forecast, predicting team performance for the remainder of the season.
Notes: Draft order updated through April 7, reflecting trades. True shooting percentage (TS%) combines field goal, free throw, and 3-point percentages.
- First Round
- 1. Utah Jazz
- 2. Washington Wizards
- 3. Charlotte Hornets
- 4. New Orleans Pelicans
- 5. Philadelphia 76ers
- 6. Brooklyn Nets
- 7. Toronto Raptors
- 8. San Antonio Spurs
- 9. Portland Trail Blazers
- 10. Houston Rockets (via Phoenix)
- 11. Miami Heat
- 12. Chicago Bulls
- 13. Dallas Mavericks
- 14. Atlanta Hawks (via Sacramento)
- 15. San Antonio Spurs (via Atlanta)
- 16. Orlando Magic
- 17. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Detroit)
- 18. Brooklyn Nets (via Milwaukee)
- 19. Washington Wizards (via Memphis)
- 20. Oklahoma City Thunder (via LA Clippers)
- 21. Orlando Magic (via Denver)
- 22. Utah Jazz (via Minnesota)
- 23. Miami Heat (via Golden State)
- 24. Indiana Pacers
- 25. Atlanta Hawks (via Los Angeles Lakers)
- 26. Brooklyn Nets (via New York)
- 27. Brooklyn Nets (via Houston)
- 28. Boston Celtics
- 29. Phoenix Suns (via Cleveland)
- 30. LA Clippers (via Oklahoma City)
- Second Round
First Round
1. Utah Jazz
Cooper Flagg, SF/PF, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 60.0%
Flagg`s impressive freshman season ended in a controversial loss for Duke in the national championship game. Despite the setback, he showcased his talent on both ends of the court, solidifying his status as a top college player. He recorded 27 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 blocks, and 2 steals in the game.
It`s anticipated Flagg will declare for the draft, with the Jazz likely eager to add his versatility and potential alongside Lauri Markkanen and Walker Kessler.
2. Washington Wizards
Dylan Harper, SG/PG, Rutgers
Freshman | TS%: 59.3%
Despite Rutgers missing the NCAA tournament, Harper has positioned himself as a likely No. 2 pick. His playmaking guard profile is highly sought after, with teams valuing his pick-and-roll skills, scoring ability, and physicality.
Shooting questions remain (75% FT, 33% 3P), but he is expected to be a strong fit for the Wizards as a potential playmaker.
3. Charlotte Hornets
Airious `Ace` Bailey, SG/SF, Rutgers
Freshman | TS%: 54.0%
Bailey`s season had highs and lows, but his unique skill set keeps him high on draft boards. His size (6-foot-10) and ability to create difficult shots are rare. While needing development, his upside is tempting for patient teams.
Potential overlap with Brandon Miller in Charlotte, but Bailey`s potential could be too good to pass up.
4. New Orleans Pelicans
VJ Edgecombe, SG, Baylor
Freshman | TS%: 56.1%
The Big 12 Freshman of the Year, Edgecombe displayed explosive athleticism and improving skills as a ball handler and shooter.
Pelicans could use star talent and pairing Edgecombe with Zion Williamson could create an exciting duo.
5. Philadelphia 76ers
Tre Johnson, SG, Texas
Freshman | TS%: 56.1%
Johnson fits the mold of a modern NBA wing with size (6-6), shot-making, and versatility. He averaged around 20 PPG and shot 40% from 3 in 2024-25.
The Sixers, potentially rebuilding, would value a young, high-scoring wing.
6. Brooklyn Nets
Jeremiah Fears, PG, Oklahoma
Freshman | TS%: 57.0%
Fears emerged as a top freshman despite his young age. His size, speed, and shot creation ability provide long-term potential. He can create for himself and teammates.
Nets need backcourt help, and Fears` youth and talent make him a prospect to watch.
7. Toronto Raptors
Khaman Maluach, C, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 74.7%
Maluach had a strong NCAA tournament, showcasing his defensive and rebounding abilities. He needs to add strength but had a fantastic freshman season overall.
His defensive anchor potential and transition play are valuable, fitting a Raptors` need for a center with long-term upside.
8. San Antonio Spurs
Kon Knueppel, SG/SF, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 64.8%
Knueppel was a reliable and efficient player for Duke, exceeding expectations as a playmaker and defender. While not overly athletic, he enhanced his draft stock.
His perimeter shooting is in demand, and the Spurs could use a wing like him to complement their young core.
9. Portland Trail Blazers
Kasparas Jakucionis, PG, Illinois
Freshman | TS%: 59.8%
Jakucionis successfully transitioned from European basketball, displaying playmaking and handling a significant role at Illinois. He faced challenges with efficiency at times.
His intangibles and versatility at guard keep him in lottery consideration. The Trail Blazers could use his decision-making in their backcourt.
10. Houston Rockets (via Phoenix)
Collin Murray-Boyles, PF/C, South Carolina
Sophomore | TS%: 64.0%
Despite South Carolina`s struggles, Murray-Boyles showed consistent effort and production, maintaining a mid-first-round projection. Undersized for his position (6-foot-8), his offensive feel and defensive playmaking are valued.
Pre-draft process will be crucial for showing jump-shooting improvement. His versatility could fit with the Rockets.
11. Miami Heat
Derik Queen, C, Maryland
Freshman | TS%: 60.0%
Queen exceeded expectations at Maryland, showcasing offensive talent as a handler and passer with shooting potential. Defensive motor and rebounding are concerns.
Effort is controllable, making him a lottery candidate. The Heat could maximize his talent.
12. Chicago Bulls
Egor Demin, PG/SG, BYU
Freshman | TS%: 51.3%
Demin finished his college season strongly, helping BYU to the Sweet 16. He is a polarizing prospect as a sized passer who struggles with one-on-one offense and shooting consistency.
Bulls may not need his mold with Josh Giddey, but Demin`s upside at this pick could be considered.
13. Dallas Mavericks
Liam McNeeley, SG/SF, UConn
Freshman | TS%: 53.6%
McNeeley earned Big East Freshman of the Year, playing a significant role at UConn. His skill and feel were evident, maintaining his first-round status.
Shooting consistency questions remain, but his maturity and versatility could appeal to the Mavericks as they reshape their roster post-Luka Doncic trade.
14. Atlanta Hawks (via Sacramento)
Jase Richardson, PG/SG, Michigan State
Freshman | TS%: 63.2%
Richardson improved significantly in the second half of the season, showing aggressiveness and efficiency. His pace, skill, and shot-making are promising at 19.
Hawks could be interested in his winning attributes and potential.
15. San Antonio Spurs (via Atlanta)
Joan Beringer, C, Cedevita Olimpija
France | TS%: 60.4%
Beringer is attracting NBA attention with his impact for Cedevita, leading the Adriatic League in blocks. His physical tools and perimeter defense at 18 are significant, especially considering his short basketball experience.
Spurs might be intrigued by another French, shot-blocking big man. Adriatic League playoffs will be crucial for his evaluation.
16. Orlando Magic
Will Riley, SG/SF, Illinois
Freshman | TS%: 53.8%
Riley had a solid season after reclassifying, improving through the year. He needs strength and scoring efficiency, but his feel and shooting potential are attractive.
Defensive and physicality concerns exist, but his offensive upside could entice the Magic needing perimeter shooting.
17. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Detroit)
Noa Essengue, PF, Ratiopharm Ulm
Germany | TS%: 61.3%
Essengue has increased his production, averaging 12.5 points and 5.1 rebounds in his last 10 German BBL games with efficiency. He`s improved his 3-point shooting (35%).
Timberwolves, with limited future picks, might target Essengue`s long-term potential and can afford patience.
18. Brooklyn Nets (via Milwaukee)
Nolan Traore, PG, Saint Quentin
France | TS%: 49.2%
Traore has been inconsistent, needing to improve efficiency. His speed, shot creation, and passing are intriguing.
Nets may take another point guard after Fears, focusing on upside with Traore.
19. Washington Wizards (via Memphis)
Danny Wolf, PF, Michigan
Junior | TS%: 56.6%
Wolf was an impactful transfer, leading Michigan to the Big Ten tournament title and Sweet 16. His perimeter versatility at 7-foot is unique, but athleticism and shooting are questions.
Wizards with draft capital could take a chance on Wolf`s unique profile.
20. Oklahoma City Thunder (via LA Clippers)
Carter Bryant, SF/PF, Arizona
Freshman | TS%: 59.9%
Bryant played a key role for Arizona. His frame, defensive versatility, passing, and 3-point shooting (37.6%) are appealing despite limited ball-handling.
Thunder could add him to their deep roster as a developmental player.
21. Orlando Magic (via Denver)
Asa Newell, PF/C, Georgia
Freshman | TS%: 62.0%
Newell solidified his first-round case at Georgia with his effort and rebounding. He needs shooting and defensive consistency.
His production and motor are still appealing.
22. Utah Jazz (via Minnesota)
Hugo Gonzalez, SG/SF, Real Madrid
Spain | TS%: 51.1%
Gonzalez has inconsistent playing time at Real Madrid. He`s struggled with shooting (27% from 3) and turnovers.
Jazz, with multiple first-round picks, could take a chance on Gonzalez`s defensive intensity and potential.
23. Miami Heat (via Golden State)
Ben Saraf, PG/SG, Ratiopharm Ulm
Germany | TS%: 52.1%
Saraf is recovering from a rough patch, showing recent improvement for Ulm. Playoff games will be important for his evaluation.
Heat, needing shot creation, could be interested in Saraf`s size, creativity, and toughness.
24. Indiana Pacers
Thomas Sorber, C, Georgetown
Freshman | TS%: 58.7%
Sorber impressed in his freshman season before injury. He showed defensive production and role understanding despite average athleticism.
Pacers have a long-term need at center, and Sorber could fit.
25. Atlanta Hawks (via Los Angeles Lakers)
Nique Clifford, SG, Colorado State
Super senior | TS%: 60.9%
Clifford`s super-senior season elevated him into first-round consideration. His all-around game and shooting are valuable.
Hawks, aiming to compete, would value his versatility and experience.
26. Brooklyn Nets (via New York)
Adou Thiero, PF, Arkansas
Junior | TS%: 61.8%
Thiero missed time due to injury. He is a top athlete and competitor but needs skill development.
Nets, with multiple first-round picks, can develop him as a high-energy role player.
27. Brooklyn Nets (via Houston)
Yaxel Lendeborg, PF/C, UAB
Senior | TS%: 60.1%
Lendeborg is testing the draft. His two-way versatility is coveted. Nets could secure him with a promise to draft.
He has more upside than typical 22-year-old due to limited basketball experience.
28. Boston Celtics
Walter Clayton Jr., PG, Florida
Senior | TS%: 61.1%
Clayton significantly improved his stock in the NCAA tournament with his scoring. Questions remain about defense and playmaking.
Scouts compare his tournament performance to Shabazz Napier`s, potentially earning him a late first-round spot.
29. Phoenix Suns (via Cleveland)
Alex Condon, C, Florida
Sophomore | TS%: 56.1%
Condon had a less impactful NCAA tournament due to injury but still showed his feel for the game and intensity.
Suns, needing frontcourt depth and defense, could be interested. Draft standing is uncertain.
30. LA Clippers (via Oklahoma City)
Rasheer Fleming, PF, Saint Joseph`s
Junior | TS%: 64.4%
Fleming was efficient and productive, a stretch big with finishing ability and a 7-foot-5 wingspan. Feel for the game and defense need development.
Clippers lack frontcourt depth and could add Fleming as a potential 3-and-D player.
Second Round
31. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Utah)
Drake Powell, SG/SF, North Carolina, freshman
32. Boston Celtics (via Washington)
Noah Penda, SF/PF, Le Mans (France)
33. Charlotte Hornets
Ryan Kalkbrenner, C, Creighton, super senior
34. Charlotte Hornets (via New Orleans)
Alex Karaban, PF, Connecticut, junior
35. Philadelphia 76ers
Maxime Raynaud, C, Stanford, senior
36. Brooklyn Nets
Bennett Stirtz, PG/SG, Drake, junior
37. Detroit Pistons (via Toronto)
Sergio De Larrea, PG/SG, Valencia ACB (Spain)
38. San Antonio Spurs
Johni Broome, C, Auburn, super senior
39. Toronto Raptors (via Portland)
Tahaad Pettiford, PG, Auburn, freshman
40. Washington Wizards (via Phoenix)
Alex Toohey, SF/PF, Sydney (Australia)
41. Golden State Warriors (via Miami)
Chaz Lanier, SG, Tennessee, super senior
42. Sacramento Kings (via Chicago)
Milos Uzan, PG, Houston, junior
43. Utah Jazz (via Dallas)
Isaiah Evans, SG/SF, Duke, freshman
44. Chicago Bulls (via Sacramento)
Darrion Williams, SF/PF, Texas Tech, junior
45. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Atlanta)
JT Toppin, PF, Texas Tech, sophomore
46. Orlando Magic
Kam Jones, PG/SG, Marquette, senior
47. Milwaukee Bucks (via Detroit)
John Tonje, SF, Wisconsin, super senior
48. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Milwaukee)
Michael Ruzic, PF, Joventut (Spain)
49. New York Knicks (via Memphis)
Eric Dixon, C, Villanova, super senior
50. Utah Jazz (via LA Clippers)
Miles Byrd, SG, San Diego State, sophomore
51. Phoenix Suns (via Denver)
Bogoljub Markovic, PF/C, Mega MIS Adriatic (Serbia)
52. LA Clippers (via Minnesota)
Tyrese Proctor, PG, Duke, junior
53. Memphis Grizzlies (via Golden State)
Sion James, SF, Duke, super senior
54. Indiana Pacers
Koby Brea, SG/SF, Kentucky, super senior
55. Los Angeles Lakers
Cedric Coward, SF, Washington State, senior
56. Memphis Grizzlies
Tyler Nickel, SG/SF, Virginia Tech, sophomore
