The NBA mock draft 2025 is generating intense buzz as the June 25-26 draft at Barclays Center in Brooklyn approaches. With the Dallas Mavericks securing the No. 1 pick against 1.8% odds, all eyes are on Duke’s Cooper Flagg, the consensus top prospect. Recent developments, including the draft combine and early entry withdrawal deadline, have reshaped projections. Fans and analysts are dissecting team needs, prospect performances, and potential trades, making this draft one of the most intriguing in years. Here’s a deep dive into the latest updates, standout players, and surprises shaping the NBA mock draft 2025.
Cooper Flagg Locks in as No. 1
The Dallas Mavericks’ stunning lottery win has cemented Cooper Flagg as the top pick. The 6’9” Duke freshman forward is celebrated for his two-way dominance, blending elite defense with high-IQ passing and improving offensive skills. His versatility fits perfectly with Dallas, especially as they navigate Kyrie Irving’s ACL recovery. Flagg’s combine performance in Chicago from May 11-18 showcased his athleticism and playmaking, solidifying his status. Scouts see him as a franchise cornerstone, with comparisons to Jayson Tatum for his potential to impact both ends of the floor.
Dylan Harper and the Spurs’ Big Decision
At No. 2, the San Antonio Spurs are poised to select Rutgers guard Dylan Harper. The 6’6” freshman combo guard dazzled with precise footwork and visionary playmaking. His combine measurements—6’4.5” barefoot with a 6’10.5” wingspan—highlight his NBA-ready frame. However, trade rumors swirl around San Antonio, with speculation about a blockbuster for Giannis Antetokounmpo. If the Spurs keep the pick, Harper’s ability to run an offense alongside Victor Wembanyama makes him a near-lock. His stock remains steady, with all 10 major mock drafts placing him second.
Key Point Summary
- Top Pick: Cooper Flagg is the unanimous No. 1 for Dallas.
- Spurs’ Choice: Dylan Harper is favored at No. 2, but trade talks persist.
- Draft Date: June 25-26, 2025, at Barclays Center, Brooklyn.
Shifts in the Lottery: Edgecombe and Bailey
The NBA mock draft 2025 sees significant movement in the lottery. Baylor’s VJ Edgecombe has surged to No. 3 for the Philadelphia 76ers, overtaking Rutgers’ Ace Bailey. Edgecombe’s explosive athleticism and strong private workout with Philly impressed decision-makers. His 6’5” frame and defensive upside pair well with Tyrese Maxey and Paul George. Meanwhile, Bailey’s stock has slipped, with some mocks projecting him as low as No. 9 due to concerns about his feel for the game and polish. This shift reflects the draft’s unpredictability beyond the top two.
The draft combine and withdrawal deadline on June 15 reshaped the NBA mock draft 2025. South Carolina’s Collin Murray-Boyles climbed into the top 10, with his 6’6.5” frame and 64.0% true shooting percentage drawing attention. His defensive versatility suits teams like Toronto. Conversely, Duke’s Kon Knueppel has fallen out of the top five in some projections, despite his elite shooting, due to questions about his athleticism. International prospects like Egor Demin and Noa Essengue are gaining traction, with Demin’s playmaking and Essengue’s 9’3” standing reach sparking interest in the late lottery.
Second-Round Gems to Watch
The second round of the NBA mock draft 2025 offers hidden talent. Creighton’s Ryan Kalkbrenner, a 7-footer with shot-blocking prowess, is a popular pick for teams needing rim protection. His improved three-point shooting adds intrigue. St. Joseph’s Hansen Yang also stands out after a strong combine, showcasing passing and post skills. Teams like the Houston Rockets and Utah Jazz are eyeing developmental bigs like Amari Williams and Asa Newell, who offer size and potential for long-term growth.
Team Needs and Trade Rumors
With the draft just days away, teams are finalizing strategies. The Charlotte Hornets (No. 4) and Utah Jazz (No. 5) seek wing scorers, making Texas’ Tre Johnson and Duke’s Khaman Maluach viable options. Trade talks are heating up, particularly around Washington’s No. 6 pick, with rumors of a move to secure Edgecombe. The Orlando Magic’s recent trade with Memphis has also shuffled the board, impacting mid-first-round projections. These dynamics add layers of intrigue to the NBA mock draft 2025.
What to Expect on Draft Night
As the draft nears, expect surprises. The withdrawal of 50 early entry candidates, including Alabama’s Labaron Philon, has thinned the talent pool, but role players like Milos Uzan and Jase Richardson remain valuable. Social media buzz on platforms like Instagram and YouTube highlights fan excitement, with Flagg and Harper dominating discussions. Teams are balancing immediate needs with long-term upside, setting the stage for a draft filled with bold moves and unexpected picks.
Stay tuned for the 2025 NBA Draft on June 25-26, live on ABC and ESPN. Follow the latest updates on social media and share your predictions for who will shine in Brooklyn!