2025 NBA Mock Draft Explosive Predictions Post-NCAA Tournament!

The enduring memory of Cooper Flagg is poignant: he’s seen sitting blankly on a golf cart, likely replaying the missed jumper at the foul line during the final moments of the Final Four semifinals. However, this image is soon to be overshadowed by a more jubilant one: Flagg beaming as he steps onto the stage as the first overall selection in the 2025 NBA draft.

NBA team leaders unanimously recognize this as one of the most talent-rich drafts in recent memory. Flagg, a dynamic forward known for his boundless potential, is the undisputed top pick. Yet, he might not be the sole franchise-altering player available. Rutgers is contributing two highly praised prospects, highlighting an exceptionally strong American talent pool this year.

Significant changes are expected in the months ahead, including the draft combine in mid-May, personal workouts, and likely several trades. The draft order may also see major changes come lottery night. Until then, here’s Sports Illustrated’s initial prediction for the draft order in June, presenting mock draft version 1.0.

1. Utah Jazz

Cooper Flagg, F, Duke

The Jazz secure the foundational star they’ve been seeking. Flagg has long been cemented as the top pick. His defensive prowess impresses scouts—he’s an exceptional weakside blocker with agility to guard multiple positions—while his offensive game is expected to evolve swiftly playing with NBA-level creators. His three-point shooting was inconsistent during the regular season, but he hit 50% from beyond the arc during the NCAA tournament, fueling confidence in his long-range capabilities at the professional level. He’s almost a guaranteed success.

2. Washington Wizards

Dylan Harper, G, Rutgers

Harper, a tall (6’6″) left-handed guard who excels at penetrating defenses, has a playing style reminiscent of James Harden. Born to former NBA guard Ron Harper, Dylan possesses impressive ball handling skills, quick acceleration, and superior control near the basket. Though his three-point shooting is modest (33.3%), it’s not irreparable. While Flagg would be the first choice overall, Harper is more than just a consolation for the guard-needy Wizards.

3. Charlotte Hornets

Ace Bailey, F, Rutgers

While not quite the Thompson brothers, Rutgers’s duo securing top picks is notable. Bailey is renowned for his scoring ability. A little imagination might reveal shades of Michael Porter Jr., or with more effort, glimpses of Kevin Durant. He’s a prolific scorer from anywhere on the court, known for his quick shot release and explosiveness at the rim. A trio of LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, and Bailey could turn Charlotte into a high-scoring team.

4. New Orleans Pelicans

Kasparas Jakucionis, G, Illinois

Jakucionis, who stands at 6’6″, has been compared to Ricky Rubio due to his flashy playmaking and superb court vision. His high turnover rate is a concern, but his natural instincts are irreplaceable. With the Pelicans potentially moving on from CJ McCollum and missing Dejounte Murray for part of the next season, they require a primary guard. Jakucionis fits the bill perfectly.

5. Philadelphia 76ers

VJ Edgecombe, G, Baylor

Edgecombe is NBA-ready, capable of scoring through traffic or off the dribble. His three-point accuracy fluctuates—it started poorly, improved, then declined again during the NCAA tournament—but scouts remain optimistic about his efficiency at the professional level. The comparisons to Victor Oladipo, who was more refined coming out of Indiana, are apt given both players’ aggressive play and skill in intercepting passes. While Philadelphia might consider trading this pick, Edgecombe would be a sensible choice if they choose to keep it.

6. Brooklyn Nets

Collin Murray-Boyles, F, South Carolina

Perhaps I’m more optimistic about Murray-Boyles than most. He’s a formidable defender, a solid 6’7″ wing with over a 7-foot wingspan and the agility to guard on the perimeter. South Carolina heavily utilized Murray-Boyles last season, and he responded by increasing his scoring average by six points while maintaining a high shooting percentage. He’s a force in the post, reminiscent of Julius Randle with his diverse set of moves. The main question is whether he can develop a reliable jump shot, but he excels in nearly every other aspect.

7. Toronto Raptors

Derik Queen, F, Maryland

Here’s a somewhat bold claim: Queen presents more risk than any other projected top-10 pick. There’s plenty to admire about Queen—a mobile, soft-handed 6’10” big who can dribble and rebound amid congestion. However, his limited athleticism and poor shooting (53% from the field/20% from three) with a slow release are concerning. In the best scenario, his shooting improves and he evolves into an All-Star capable of playing both frontcourt positions. In the worst case, he becomes a defensive liability with an offense insufficient to justify his court time. The risk might be worth it for the Raptors, who are in need of size up front.

8. San Antonio Spurs

Tre Johnson, G, Texas

The Spurs are in desperate need of shooting. And even more shooting. Basically, they can’t get enough shooters around Victor Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox. Johnson fits the bill perfectly, shooting nearly 40% from three last season and demonstrating a proficiency for moving off screens like a seasoned NBA player. While there are some concerns about his defensive capabilities and a tendency to rely too much on jump shots, he remains arguably the draft’s top pure shooter.

9. Houston Rockets (via Phoenix)

Kon Knueppel, F, Duke

High-volume, 41% three-point shooters like Knueppel are always in demand. Thriving alongside Flagg at Duke, he capitalized on spot-up three-point opportunities. He

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