As men`s college basketball concluded with the Florida Gators becoming champions and the NBA regular season enters its final week, the NBA draft is gaining focus for prospects and teams alike.
The NCAA tournament provided a significant platform for players such as Florida`s Walter Clayton Jr., Duke`s Kon Knueppel, Maryland`s Derik Queen, and Colorado State`s Nique Clifford to demonstrate their abilities to NBA scouts.
Internationally, Joan Beringer (Cedevita/Slovenia) and Noa Essengue (Ratiopharm Ulm/Germany) have also impressed scouts, solidifying their positions within the top 20 prospects.
ESPN draft experts Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo utilize their scouting insights and information from league executives to create their latest mock draft, assigning prospects to teams. The draft order for the first and second rounds is based on ESPN`s BPI forecast, which predicts team performance for the remainder of the season.
Notes: The draft order is updated through April 7 and reflects traded picks. True shooting percentage (TS%) combines field goal, free throw, and 3-point percentages into a single efficiency metric.
First Round
1. Utah Jazz
Cooper Flagg, SF/PF, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 60.0%
Flagg`s impressive freshman season ended in a controversial loss to Houston in the national championship game. Despite the defeat, Flagg showcased his talent on both ends of the court, reinforcing his status as a top college player. He recorded 27 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 blocks, and 2 steals in the game.
It is anticipated that Flagg will declare for the draft, and the Jazz would likely welcome his versatility and potential to form a strong frontcourt with Lauri Markkanen and Walker Kessler. — Givony
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 appealing to NBA teams, who are drawn to his pick-and-roll skills, scoring ability, and physicality.
Questions remain about his shooting consistency (75% FT, 33% 3P), which predraft workouts may address. He is expected to be a strong fit for the Wizards, who need a playmaker. — Woo
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 near the top of draft boards. His size (6-foot-10, 200 pounds) and ability to create difficult shots are rare, offering significant potential for development in the NBA.
While not immediately ready to contribute to winning, a patient team like Charlotte could provide the development time he needs. Despite some overlap with Brandon Miller, Bailey`s upside is attractive. — Woo
4. New Orleans Pelicans
VJ Edgecombe, SG, Baylor
Freshman | TS%: 56.1%
As the Big 12 Freshman of the Year, Edgecombe showcased explosive athleticism, intensity, and improved ball-handling and shooting skills.
The Pelicans, seeking star talent, could pair Edgecombe with Zion Williamson, creating an exciting team dynamic. — Givony
5. Philadelphia 76ers
Tre Johnson, SG, Texas
Freshman | TS%: 56.1%
Johnson fits the NBA wing prototype with his size (6-6, 6-10 wingspan), shot-making, and versatility. His scoring ability, averaging around 20 points per game with 40% 3-point shooting, should translate well to the NBA.
The Sixers, needing to rebuild, would be pleased to add a young, high-scoring wing. — Givony
6. Brooklyn Nets
Jeremiah Fears, PG, Oklahoma
Freshman | TS%: 57.0%
Fears emerged as a top freshman despite his young age (turns 19 in October). His combination of size, speed, and shot creation provides significant long-term potential. He excels at creating for himself and teammates.
The Nets, lacking backcourt depth, could consider Fears` youth and talent. — Givony
7. Toronto Raptors
Khaman Maluach, C, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 74.7%
Maluach had a strong NCAA tournament, showcasing his potential until facing a physical Houston team. The 18-year-old center needs to develop strength and experience.
His defensive anchoring ability (7-foot-6 wingspan) and offensive skills are valuable, fitting a need for the Raptors. — Givony
8. San Antonio Spurs
Kon Knueppel, SG/SF, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 64.8%
Knueppel was a reliable and efficient player for Duke, exceeding preseason expectations as a playmaker and defender. While not exceptionally athletic, he improved his draft stock.
His consistent perimeter shooting is highly valued, and the Spurs could use a wing like him to support their young roster. — Woo
9. Portland Trail Blazers
Kasparas Jakucionis, PG, Illinois
Freshman | TS%: 59.8%
Jakucionis transitioned successfully from Europe to Division I, enhancing his NBA prospect status. The Lithuanian guard displayed playmaking skills at Illinois. Despite some efficiency and turnover issues, his long-term potential is promising.
His decision-making and unselfish play could benefit the Trail Blazers` backcourt. — Woo
10. Houston Rockets (via Phoenix)
Collin Murray-Boyles, PF/C, South Carolina
Sophomore | TS%: 64.0%
Despite South Carolina`s struggles, Murray-Boyles maintained consistent performance. His draft stock remains in the mid-first round. Though undersized (6-foot-8, 245 pounds), his offensive feel, defensive playmaking, and toughness are attractive to NBA teams.
Predraft evaluations will assess his jump shooting development, crucial for maximizing his NBA role. His versatility could be a good fit for the Rockets. — Woo
11. Miami Heat
Derik Queen, C, Maryland
Freshman | TS%: 60.0%
Queen exceeded expectations at Maryland, leading them to a 27-9 record and the Sweet 16. He established himself as the most offensively skilled big in the draft, with handling, passing, and shooting potential. His defensive effort and rebounding are areas for improvement.
With improved effort, Queen is a lottery candidate, and the Heat, known for developing talent, could be a good fit. — Woo
12. Chicago Bulls
Egor Demin, PG/SG, BYU
Freshman | TS%: 51.3%
Demin finished his college season strongly, helping BYU reach the Sweet 16. He is viewed as a polarizing prospect, an excellent passer with size but inconsistent shooting and one-on-one ability. Predraft evaluations will focus on his shooting potential.
While the Bulls have Josh Giddey, Demin`s upside might be worth considering at this draft position. — Woo
13. Dallas Mavericks
Liam McNeeley, SG/SF, UConn
Freshman | TS%: 53.6%
McNeeley earned Big East Freshman of the Year honors at UConn, playing a significant offensive role. His skill and feel for the game have kept him as a first-round prospect.
His streaky shooting needs to be addressed, but his maturity and versatility could appeal to the Mavericks as they reshape their roster post-Luka Doncic trade. — Woo
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, increasing his aggressiveness and productivity as a starter. His pace, skill, game feel, and shooting are impressive for a 19-year-old, especially with his defensive intensity.
The Hawks could be interested in Richardson`s winning qualities and potential. — Givony
15. San Antonio Spurs (via Atlanta)
Joan Beringer, C, Cedevita Olimpija
France | TS%: 60.4%
Beringer consistently draws NBA executive attention. His impact for Cedevita is notable, leading the Adriatic League in block percentage. His physical attributes and ability to defend multiple positions at 18 are significant, especially considering he started playing basketball only three years ago.
The Spurs might be interested in adding another French, shot-blocking big man. Beringer`s performance in the Adriatic League playoffs will be closely watched. — Givony
16. Orlando Magic
Will Riley, SG/SF, Illinois
Freshman | TS%: 53.8%
Riley had a strong season after reclassifying and joining Illinois early. Despite midseason struggles, he played his best in February and March. While needing to add strength and improve efficiency, his feel and shooting potential are attractive.
His defense and physicality are concerns, but his offensive potential could entice NBA teams like the Magic, who need shooting alongside Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. — Woo
17. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Detroit)
Noa Essengue, PF, Ratiopharm Ulm
Germany | TS%: 61.3%
Essengue`s productivity has increased recently, averaging 12.5 points and 5.1 rebounds in his last 10 German BBL games with good efficiency. He`s also improved his 3-point shooting (35%). His team is performing well in the BBL, providing playoff exposure.
The Timberwolves, with limited future draft picks, might be interested in Essengue`s long-term potential, given their depth and patience. He is one of the youngest players in the draft. — Givony
18. Brooklyn Nets (via Milwaukee)
Nolan Traore, PG, Saint Quentin
France | TS%: 49.2%
Traore`s performance has varied this season. He needs to improve his productivity and efficiency as NBA scouts focus on international prospects. His team is competing for a playoff spot in Pro A France.
His speed, shot creation, and passing are intriguing, but he has faced challenges with shooting, decision-making, and physicality. The season`s end will better indicate his NBA readiness.
Despite potentially drafting Fears earlier, the Nets might take another point guard, considering Traore`s upside at this stage. — Givony
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. He offers perimeter versatility at 7-foot, but questions exist about his athleticism, shooting, and defensive NBA translation.
This season was positive for Wolf, proving his ability to lead a winning team. His unique profile makes him a situational fit for teams like the Wizards, who have draft flexibility. — Woo
20. Oklahoma City Thunder (via LA Clippers)
Carter Bryant, SF/PF, Arizona
Freshman | TS%: 59.9%
Bryant played a key bench role for Arizona. His frame, defensive versatility, passing, and 3-point shooting (37.6%) are appealing despite limited ball-handling skills. Predraft workouts offer a chance to improve his stock.
While not NBA-ready now, his profile could rise. He would be a good addition to Oklahoma City`s deep roster. — Woo
21. Orlando Magic (via Denver)
Asa Newell, PF/C, Georgia
Freshman | TS%: 62.0%
Newell solidified his first-round talent status at Georgia with his effort, rebounding, and finishing ability.
He is still developing, needing more shooting consistency (29% 3P) and defensive refinement for an NBA role. His production and motor remain attractive. — Woo
22. Utah Jazz (via Minnesota)
Hugo Gonzalez, SG/SF, Real Madrid
Spain | TS%: 51.1%
Gonzalez has inconsistent playing time with Real Madrid. NBA teams are still assessing him due to inconsistent shooting (27% 3P) and turnover-to-assist ratio, despite team success.
He has shown defensive intensity, explosiveness, and versatility, with glimpses of playmaking. For a team like Utah with multiple first-round picks, Gonzalez`s potential is worth a gamble. — Givony
23. Miami Heat (via Golden State)
Ben Saraf, PG/SG, Ratiopharm Ulm
Germany | TS%: 52.1%
Saraf had a rough patch in February and March but has recently improved, showing his shooting and playmaking again. With playoffs approaching, NBA teams will be watching him closely.
Miami, seeking shot creation, could be interested in Saraf`s size, youth, creativity, and toughness. — Givony
24. Indiana Pacers
Thomas Sorber, C, Georgetown
Freshman | TS%: 58.7%
Sorber impressed in his limited college games before injury. He turned NBA heads with defensive production and role understanding, despite average athleticism and some turnovers. His draft decision is uncertain, but predraft workouts could influence his stock.
Teams with first-round interest might encourage him to stay in the draft. The Pacers need frontcourt help, and Sorber could fit. — Woo
25. Atlanta Hawks (via Los Angeles Lakers)
Nique Clifford, SG, Colorado State
Super senior | TS%: 60.9%
After testing the draft last year, Clifford`s super-senior season elevated him into first-round consideration. His all-around production and shooting are positives for early NBA minutes.
The Hawks, aiming to compete, would value his versatility, rebounding, defense, and shooting. His age (23) might be a factor, but the lack of experienced college wings makes him a target. — Woo
26. Brooklyn Nets (via New York)
Adou Thiero, PF, Arkansas
Junior | TS%: 61.8%
Thiero missed games due to injury, impacting Arkansas` postseason. He is expected to be ready for predraft evaluations to improve his standing.
Thiero is a top athlete and competitor, but a project. He needs to refine ball skills, shooting, and defense. The Nets, with multiple first-round picks, could develop him as a high-energy player. — Woo
27. Brooklyn Nets (via Houston)
Yaxel Lendeborg, PF/C, UAB
Senior | TS%: 60.1%
Lendeborg is considering the draft, weighing a move to Michigan or securing a draft guarantee. His ability to handle, pass, shoot, and rebound makes him a versatile two-way prospect.
Brooklyn, with four first-round picks, could promise to draft Lendeborg to ensure he enters the draft. Despite his age (22), his upside is significant due to his relatively short basketball experience. — Givony
28. Boston Celtics
Walter Clayton Jr., PG, Florida
Senior | TS%: 61.1%
Clayton significantly improved his draft stock in the NCAA tournament with high-scoring performances. The All-American guard is known for shot-making and creating offensive chaos with his speed.
NBA teams have questions about his defense, passing, and decision-making. His tournament performance is compared to Shabazz Napier`s, who also rose into the late first round. — Givony
29. Phoenix Suns (via Cleveland)
Alex Condon, C, Florida
Sophomore | TS%: 56.1%
Condon`s NCAA tournament was hampered by injury, and he showed some offensive limitations. However, his game feel, passing, defensive awareness, and intensity are evident. He contributed to Florida`s championship.
He is considering returning for his junior year or entering the draft in the late first or early second round. The Suns, needing frontcourt and defensive help, could be interested. — Givony
30. LA Clippers (via Oklahoma City)
Rasheer Fleming, PF, Saint Joseph`s
Junior | TS%: 64.4%
Fleming was efficient and productive this season, shooting well from both 2-point and 3-point range. He is a stretch big with finishing ability and a large wingspan, though his game feel and defense are still developing.
The Clippers, lacking frontcourt depth, could add Fleming for 3-and-D potential. — Givony
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, North Carolina, sophomore
