BROOKLYN, NY – June 25-26, 2025 – The 2025 NBA Draft, held over two nights at the Barclays Center, saw a new crop of talented prospects join the league, highlighted by the Dallas Mavericks securing the consensus No. 1 overall pick, Cooper Flagg, and the San Antonio Spurs adding dynamic guard Dylan Harper at No. 2.
The first round, held on Wednesday, June 25th, delivered both predictable selections at the top and a fair share of surprises and trades that will undoubtedly reshape the landscape of several franchises.
Mavericks Win Flagg Sweepstakes:
Despite having less than a 2% chance in the draft lottery, the Dallas Mavericks defied the odds and landed Duke phenom Cooper Flagg with the first pick. Flagg, a versatile 6-foot-8 forward, is widely considered a generational talent due to his elite two-way play, defensive prowess, and improved offensive game. His ability to impact the game on both ends, with high steal and block rates, coupled with his development as a shooter and passer, makes him an instant contributor for the Mavericks. This pick is seen as a home run for Dallas, especially after their recent trade of Luka Doncic, marking a new era focused on defense and a long-term rebuild around Flagg.
Spurs Bolster Backcourt with Harper:
The San Antonio Spurs continued to build their young core, selecting Rutgers guard Dylan Harper with the second overall pick. The son of former NBA guard Ron Harper, Dylan brings size and playmaking ability to the point guard position. His scoring, rebounding, and assist numbers from his freshman year at Rutgers indicate he’ll be an excellent complement to star Victor Wembanyama, providing a much-needed perimeter threat and maximizing Wembanyama’s offensive potential.
Top 10 Selections and Notable Picks:
- 1. Dallas Mavericks: Cooper Flagg (SF, Duke) – The highly anticipated top pick, a two-way star ready to make an immediate impact.
- 2. San Antonio Spurs: Dylan Harper (G, Rutgers) – A big, natural lead guard with strong playmaking instincts to pair with Wembanyama.
- 3. Philadelphia 76ers: VJ Edgecombe (G, Baylor) – An athletic two-way player with high defensive potential and rim-attacking ability.
- 4. Charlotte Hornets: Kon Knueppel (G/F, Duke) – Regarded as the best shooter in the class with a high basketball IQ.
- 5. Utah Jazz: Ace Bailey (G/F, Rutgers) – A versatile three-level scorer and solid rebounder/defender, though his draft slide was a talking point.
- 6. Washington Wizards: Tre Johnson (SG, Texas) – A natural scorer with good length and a 6-10 wingspan.
- 7. New Orleans Pelicans: Jeremiah Fears (G, Oklahoma) – A combo guard capable of scoring at all three levels.
- 8. Brooklyn Nets: Egor Demin (G/F, BYU) – A Russian wing with passing, defense, and high IQ.
- 9. Toronto Raptors: Collin Murray-Boyles (F/C, South Carolina)
- Phoenix Suns (via Houston): Khaman Maluach (C, Duke) – A significant trade moved this pick, with Maluach expected to develop into a strong center.
Round 1 Surprises and Trade Activity:
The draft was not without its unexpected moments. Ace Bailey, widely projected as a top-three pick, fell to No. 5, raising questions about his pre-draft process and fit with his new team. Trade activity, a hallmark of NBA drafts, also added to the drama. The New Orleans Pelicans made a questionable move by trading up for a prospect many considered a reach, while the Portland Trail Blazers and Memphis Grizzlies swapped picks in a deal that saw the Blazers take an unexpected name.
Second Round Underway:
The 2025 NBA Draft continues on Thursday, June 26th, with the second round, where teams will look to uncover hidden gems and solidify their rosters. With a total of 59 picks (the New York Knicks forfeited one due to a 2022 tampering investigation), there are still plenty of opportunities for teams to find valuable contributors.
Basketball analysts and fans alike will be dissecting these picks and trades for years to come, eager to see which prospects will rise to stardom and which teams made the savviest moves in the 2025 NBA Draft.
- Phoenix Suns (via Houston): Khaman Maluach (C, Duke) – A significant trade moved this pick, with Maluach expected to develop into a strong center.