2025 NBA Mock Draft Shakeup: Older NCAA Stars Rising Fast in Rankings!

The composition of the 2025 NBA draft has significantly changed as a number of promising players have decided to stay in college for another year. With the advent of NIL agreements, the urgency to jump into professional basketball has lessened, leading to a smaller number of players exploring the draft—some even potential first-round picks chose to withdraw by the NCAA’s Wednesday deadline. This reduction in the draft pool has added an element of unpredictability, particularly in the second round. However, this hasn’t worried NBA teams much; they tend to prefer more seasoned, game-ready players. This shift has also opened doors for older players who remained in the draft to potentially rise into higher draft picks, especially in the latter part of the first round.

Here is Sports Illustrated‘s latest mock draft, incorporating all recent developments as the draft approaches this month.

1. Dallas Mavericks: Cooper Flagg, Duke Blue Devils

There’s no suspense expected at the top of the draft. Flagg is the clear favorite for the number one spot after the Mavericks won the draft lottery in May. Reports from ESPN indicate that Dallas has no intention of trading away this pick and will most likely select Flagg.

2. San Antonio Spurs: Dylan Harper, Rutgers Scarlet Knights

San Antonio is at the center of trade speculations but appears set to pick Harper, who has distinguished himself as the solid number two prospect. Should they keep their pick, Harper would be joining a promising young team that includes Victor Wembanyama, De’Aaron Fox, and Stephon Castle.

3. Philadelphia 76ers: Ace Bailey, Rutgers Scarlet Knights

The excitement begins with Philadelphia’s third pick, which presents a prime opportunity to grab a future star to complement Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. Bailey stands out as the top prospect at this spot, though the team could also consider other guards like VJ Edgecombe and Tre Johnson, or even explore trading for established players.

4. Charlotte Hornets: VJ Edgecombe, Baylor Bears

Edgecombe would fit well with Charlotte’s youthful roster that includes talents like LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, and Mark Williams. His exceptional athleticism and defensive potential make him a valuable addition, though his consistency as a shooter is still in question.

5. Utah Jazz: Tre Johnson, Texas Longhorns

Johnson, remaining as the top scorer on the board with elite shooting abilities, is an ideal choice for Utah, who had hoped for a higher pick. This selection helps them build on a foundational piece, setting their sights on a promising 2026 draft class.

6. Washington Wizards: Derik Queen, Maryland Terrapins

Speculation is rife about Washington opting to keep the local talent in Queen, who despite a less impressive combine showing, fits well into their plans alongside Alex Sarr in the frontcourt of the future.

7. New Orleans Pelicans: Jeremiah Fears, Oklahoma Sooners

The Pelicans are on the lookout for a future lead guard and Fears presents an exciting option after his impressive freshman year leading Oklahoma to the NCAA tournament. While his three-point shooting can be erratic, his dynamic playmaking ability stands out.

8. Brooklyn Nets: Kon Knueppel, Duke Blue Devils

Knueppel’s impressive shooting skills have caught the attention of scouts, but it’s his comprehensive game that makes him a top-10 pick. His ability to understand the game, along with his passing skills and winning mentality, compensate for his limited athletic capabilities.

9. Toronto Raptors: Khaman Maluach, Duke Blue Devils

Maluach is a high-risk, high-reward pick due to his exceptional physical attributes and his reliable rim protection, making him a sensible draft choice for a Toronto team aiming to compete in the playoffs. If he reaches his potential, he could be one of the top performers in this draft class.

10. Houston Rockets: Collin Murray-Boyles, South Carolina Gamecocks

The analytically driven Rockets management sees Murray-Boyles as an intriguing prospect. His unique skills as a smaller frontcourt player who excels defensively and has a high game IQ make him a likely top-10 pick, especially if his three-point shooting develops.

11. Portland Trail Blazers: Egor Demin, BYU Cougars

Portland might explore different directions given their young roster, but Demin’s fit as a large playmaker who can complement the Blazers’ scoring guards makes him a likely target. His excellent performance in Chicago and his superior passing skills solidify his draft prospects.