Rookies are the lifeblood of the NBA’s future. Every year, a new wave of talent enters the league and alters its landscape.
Sometimes a No. 1 pick steps onto the court, proves the hype was warranted, and almost immediately becomes the face of his franchise (think of Victor Wembanyama in 2023 or Anthony Edwards in 2020). Other times, despite the incredible amount of time and resources spent on scouting for the draft, a superstar-to-be falls down draft boards to the middle of the first round (Tyrese Haliburton went 12th in 2020, Giannis Antetokounmpo 15th in 2013).
Some future stars even inexplicably slide all the way to the second round (see: Nikola Jokić, Draymond Green, Jalen Brunson). So, regardless of where you expect your team to pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, there’s a chance one of the rookies in this new fleet could shape your franchise’s future.
The 2025 class of prospects looks poised to deliver some real game-changers. This year’s crop is headlined by dynamic scorers, smooth shooters, versatile defenders, and unique international talent. Here are 10 players to watch closely as the 2025 NBA draft approaches.
1. Cooper Flagg (Duke, Freshman)
Pro Comparison: Kevin Garnett meets Andrei Kirilenko
You didn’t think we’d start this list with someone else, did you?
The buzz surrounding Flagg is real. The 6’9” forward from Duke (originally Newport, Maine) is as versatile as they come–polished on offense, elite on defense, and relentless in his effort. His shot-blocking, rebounding, and ability to guard every position have drawn comparisons to the Big Ticket, but his playmaking and court vision are more reminiscent of Andrei Kirilenko.
The Montverde Academy product has been a force for Duke, dominating games on both ends of the floor and leading them into title contention. He’s unselfish, hyper-competitive, and mature beyond his years, making Flagg the likeliest No. 1 pick among his peers.
2. Dylan Harper (Rutgers, Freshman)
Pro Comparison: Manu Ginóbili
At 6’6”, Harper is the ideal size for an NBA guard. He’s a smooth lefty who can score from anywhere, create for his teammates, and handle the ball in crunch-time situations.
He’s poised and creative–sound a little like Manu? However, Harper’s game is more tailored to the pace-and-space modern NBA, with an emphasis on 3-point shooting (he’s shooting over 36% from deep for Rutgers).
Harper is a leader on and off the court, and his combination of scoring and playmaking makes him an appealing offensive asset. He has already helped to elevate the Scarlet Knights into the national spotlight–with help from the next young man on this list.
3. Ace Bailey (Rutgers, Freshman)
Pro Comparison: Paul George
Yes, Rutgers has 2/3 of the top entries on our list. Talk about recruiting!
Bailey is another freshman standout who’s helped the program rise to prominence. A 6’9” forward with elite athleticism and a silky offensive game, Bailey thrives in transition and can score from all three levels. His defensive versatility and smooth shooting mechanics have drawn comparisons to Paul George.
Though Bailey’s game is still evolving (he only turned 18 in August), his talent and explosiveness are undeniable. He’s the kind of player who can step into an NBA lineup and make an immediate impact, particularly as a two-way threat.
4. Egor Demin (BYU, Freshman)
Pro Comparison: Danilo Gallinari meets Luka Dončić
A 6’9” guard with a velvety touch and the size to bully smaller defenders, Demin has been a revelation at BYU. His ability to create for himself and others while knocking down threes with ease (doesn’t that just roll off the tongue?) has drawn comparisons to Danilo Gallinari, though his playmaking shows hints of Luka Dončić.
The Russian 18-year-old spent 2023 playing for Real Madrid. Demin has thrived at BYU, where he was the program’s first-ever five-star recruit. His size and skill set make him one of the most intriguing international prospects in recent years.
5. Tre Johnson (Texas, Freshman)
Pro Comparison: Devin Booker
Johnson is, as the kids say, a bucket. At 6’6”, the Texas guard has been lighting up scoreboards this season, using his buttery shooting stroke and impressive footwork to create space against even the toughest defenders. Scouts are even comparing him to Devin Booker, one of the most effortless scorers in the NBA, and it’s easy to see why.
Johnson has shown flashes of brilliance as a playmaker, but scoring is the heart of his game. The Garland, Texas, native is averaging 20 points per game against college competition. If he continues to polish his game on both ends, he’ll be a top pick come draft night.
6. Kasparas Jakucionis (Illinois, Freshman)
Pro Comparison: Ricky Rubio
Jakucionis is the quintessential floor general. The 6’5” Lithuanian guard has a natural feel for the game, controlling the tempo and creating opportunities for teammates. Though his vision and basketball IQ draw frequent comparisons to Ricky Rubio, Jakucionis has shown more scoring upside than Rubio did at this stage (and Rubio had 13 productive years in the NBA!).
Jakucionis’ defense is a work in progress, but he has the leadership qualities and poise that NBA teams value in a lead guard. Though he might never be a superstar, Jakucionis is a safe bet to become a key piece for whichever team drafts him.
7. VJ Edgecombe (Baylor, Freshman)
Pro Comparison: Jimmy Butler
Edgecombe is a workhorse. At 6’4”, he brings a tenacious defensive mindset and a knack for getting to the basket. His ability to guard multiple positions and willingness to do the dirty work have earned him comparisons to Jimmy Butler, one of the most hard-nosed players in the league. You’ve got to be flattered by any comparison to Butler.
Edgecombe’s offensive game is still developing, but his athleticism and intensity make him a prospect worth watching. He’s the kind of player who thrives in high-stakes situations and the kind of player fans would love to have on their team.
8. Noa Essengue (International)
Pro Comparison: Pascal Siakam
A 6’10” forward from France, Essengue has the skill set to dominate at the next level. His combination of size, agility, and shooting touch is reminiscent of Pascal Siakam, but Essengue also brings a bit more finesse to his game.
Essengue is one of the younger and lesser-known prospects in the draft, but his upside is enticing. His ability to guard multiple positions and his knack for making tough shots in the paint have made him a rising star on draft boards.
9. Liam McNeeley (UConn, Freshman)
Pro Comparison: Joe Ingles
McNeeley isn’t the flashiest player, but he is one of the smartest. At 6’7”, he’s a versatile forward who can stretch the floor, make the extra pass, and guard multiple positions. His game mirrors Joe Ingles’ ability to make an impact without necessarily needing the ball in his hands. He’s the type of player who makes everyone around him better.
McNeeley played alongside Flagg at Montverde Academy. He originally committed to Indiana but, in the end, decided to go with Dan Hurley and UConn. McNeeley is a reliable pick for teams looking to bolster their depth.
10. Khaman Maluach (Duke, Freshman)
Pro Comparison: Rudy Gobert
At 7’2”, Maluach is a defensive force. His shot-blocking and rebounding abilities are elite, and his physical tools have scouts comparing him to Rudy Gobert. Though Maluach’s offensive game is still raw (as Gobert’s was early in his career), his defensive presence alone makes him a valuable asset.
The South Sudanese big man, discovered after attending a camp organized by Luol Deng, is still new to the game. His potential as a rim protector at the next level is immense.
This group of prospects is poised to make a lasting impact on the league–and, by highlighting 10 players, we’ve only scratched the surface. As the draft approaches, some players’ stock will rise and others’ will fall, but the depth of talent in the 2025 class is clear.
Take heart, NBA fans: the future is bright. Some might even say the ceiling is the roof.