Sports Illustrated is providing real-time evaluations and grades for each first-round selection in the 2025 NBA draft. Stay updated as we provide immediate feedback on each pick as it’s announced.
1. Dallas Mavericks: Cooper Flagg, Duke Blue Devils
Grade: A
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Flagg consistently held the top position in his class, showcasing his dominance at Duke as one of the youngest but most impactful players. His acquisition is a significant gain for the Mavericks, especially after trading away Luka Doncic earlier in the year, as Flagg becomes the new cornerstone of the franchise. His defensive prowess and adaptability are key assets that will aid Dallas in contending immediately, while also providing Flagg the opportunity to grow into a leading offensive player once veterans like Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis depart.
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2. San Antonio Spurs: Dylan Harper, Rutgers Scarlet Knights
Grade: A
Harper has firmly established himself as the second-best prospect after Flagg, occasionally shining as a potentially dominant offensive force during his tenure at Rutgers. Although the fit in San Antonio might not be perfect due to the presence of De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle in the backcourt, Harper has the potential to surpass them both, possibly becoming a key player for pick-and-roll plays with Victor Wembanyama. At the very least, Harper represents a valuable asset that the Spurs could use in pursuit of a more established star.
3. Philadelphia 76ers: VJ Edgecombe, Baylor Bears
Grade: B+
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While Edgecombe might not be the highest-ceiling player available, he’s likely the best fit for a 76ers team that remains focused on immediate success with stars like Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. Edgecombe’s remarkable athleticism and defensive skills should be enhanced by the NBA’s spacing, making him a valuable addition who can contribute right away and also has the potential to develop into a primary option over time.
4. Charlotte Hornets: Kon Knueppel, Duke Blue Devils
Grade: B
Despite rumors of a potential trade, Charlotte decided to retain the pick and select Knueppel, a key contributor to Duke’s Final Four appearance. This selection aims to propel the team towards playoff contention, complementing high-usage players like LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller with an elite shooter who has a keen understanding of the game. Despite some athletic shortcomings, many within the NBA believe Knueppel has more potential than just being a role-player shooter as he continues to develop his scoring and playmaking skills.
5. Utah Jazz: Ace Bailey, Rutgers Scarlet Knights
Grade: A
Bailey’s unique pre-draft process made headlines, and despite attempts to steer him towards teams like Washington or Brooklyn, the Jazz opted to select him with the fifth pick. Choosing Bailey, undoubtedly a top-three talent in this draft, represents a significant win for Utah, especially considering they did not have the opportunity to work him out before the draft. Although Bailey has had some decision-making issues, the potential reward outweighs the risks, making this a necessary gamble for the Jazz.
6. Washington Wizards: Tre Johnson, Texas Longhorns
Grade: B-
Bailey not falling to No. 6 left the Wizards forced to pivot to Johnson, a dynamic scorer in his own right who tallied nearly 20 points per game in his lone season at Texas. He may not add the star power Washington hoped to acquire after a miserable season, but after falling to No. 6 during the lottery, landing an elite shooter with some on-ball juice is a solid consolation prize.
7. New Orleans Pelicans: Jeremiah Fears, Oklahoma Sooners
Grade: A
The Pelicans secure their future point guard in Fears, who excelled as an 18-year-old freshman at Oklahoma. While it’s unclear what direction New Orleans’ new front office leadership will take, Fears is an explosive ball handler who thrives in penetrating defenses, drawing fouls, and creating opportunities for teammates. This pick is a significant victory for the Pelicans.
8. Brooklyn Nets: Egor Demin, BYU Cougars
Grade: C+
Brooklyn starts its series of five first-round picks with a surprising choice in Demin, who was selected at the higher end of his projected range. Demin, a divisive player, boasts notable size and passing skills but lacks physicality and struggled with his shooting during his college stint. It remains to be seen whether he will evolve into an effective wing connector or develop into a more dominant on-ball presence. This pick appears to be a bit of a stretch.
9. Toronto Raptors: Collin Murray-Boyles, South Carolina Gamecocks
Grade: C
The Raptors took a somewhat unexpected route with their pick, opting for Murray-Boyles, a player favored by analytics but not widely predicted. Known for his defensive prowess and game sense, he doesn’t require heavy ball handling but needs to improve his long-range shooting to maximize his potential. Despite some concerns, this pick makes sense for Toronto, which was looking to bolster its frontcourt.
10. Phoenix Suns (via Houston Rockets): Khaman Maluach, Duke Blue Devils
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