The question of how many rounds in NBA draft draws attention every June—and in 2025, the answer remains clear and concise: just two rounds. This year’s draft, held June 25–26 at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, featured 59 picks across its two rounds (30 picks in the first round and 29 in the second) after the New York Knicks forfeited a pick due to prior violations. Here’s why this streamlined structure matters more than ever.
Two Rounds, 59 Picks: What You Need to Know
- Round 1 kicks off Wednesday, June 25, with 30 picks aired live on ABC and ESPN.
- Round 2 concludes Thursday, June 26, featuring 29 picks (one fewer than typical) streamed exclusively on ESPN.
- The first round runs deep, spotlighting top talents like Duke’s Cooper Flagg (No. 1 to the Mavericks) and Rutgers’ Dylan Harper (No. 2 to the Spurs).
- Round 2 remains fiercely competitive; last year, the Knicks’ second-round pick was forfeited, leaving a total of 59 selections in 2025.
This two-round format has defined the modern NBA draft since 1989, when the league settled on its current version. Whereas drafts in the 1960s had up to 21 rounds, today’s format delivers a focused burst of selection and opportunity.
The Impact of Just Two Rounds
1. Every Pick Carries Weight
With only 60 (or less) spots available, teams treat each pick as critical. First-rounders usually receive guaranteed contracts; second-rounders fend for partially guaranteed deals or aim to impress in Summer League.
2. Undrafted Talent Finds Alternate Routes
Players not chosen within the two rounds have options:
- Signing Exhibit 10 or two-way contracts
- Competing in Summer League and training camp
Beyond draft night, these paths can still lead to NBA careers.
3. Knifes Edge for Fringe Prospects
A reduced 59-pick field in 2025 made the margin even tighter—prospects hovering around picks 40–60 felt extra pressure. Teams like the Rockets, who traded out of the draft entirely, shifted tactics toward trades and scouting rather than picks.
Why Stick with Two Rounds?
- Roster alignment: With only 15 active spots and two two-way slots per team, more rounds would dilute quality and opportunity.
- Historical precedent: NBA drafts steadily shrank—from 21 rounds (1960s) to 10 (1970s), 7 (1985), then 3 (1988), and finally 2 in 1989.
- TV appeal: A concise two-night event with two rounds fuels audience interest and prime-time visibility.
Key Point Summary
- How many rounds in NBA draft? Two.
- Total picks in 2025? 59 (due to Knicks’ forfeited pick).
- Draft timeline? First round on June 25, second round on June 26.
- Alternatives for undrafted players? Summer League and Exhibit 10/two-way deals.
- Why two rounds? Balances quality, roster limits, and fan engagement.
What 2025’s Format Means for the Future
- More international and G League prospects: Teams will look for talent in global pro pathways, where experience counts.
- Contract creativity: Mix of draft picks and undrafted signings will shape depth charts.
- Potential tweaks down the line? Ultra unlikely—this format has worked well since 1989, providing structure and excitement without overextension.
Bottom Line for Fans & Prospects
Knowing how many rounds in NBA draft isn’t just trivia—it reveals the high stakes behind pick No. 60 (or 59) and explains why the competition is fierce, even for those going undrafted. Each June, the NBA distills hopes, dreams, and strategy into two dramatic nights. This year’s 59-pick setup only heightened the drama.
Feeling inspired? Track next year’s draft with our newsletter, or browse our in-depth prospect profiles to explore potential picks and dark-horse candidates. Dive deeper now—draft night awaits.