The 2025 NCAA Tournament is not just about the excitement of college basketball—it’s also a showcase for the next generation of NBA talent. This year’s tournament features several standout players who are projected to make significant impacts at the professional level.
Here’s a look at the top NBA draft prospects playing in March Madness and what makes them special.
1. Cooper Flagg (Duke)
- Position: Forward
- Height: 6’8″
- Draft Projection: Potential No. 1 Overall Pick
Cooper Flagg has been a dominant force for the Blue Devils, showcasing elite versatility on both ends of the floor. His scoring ability, defensive instincts, and leadership make him a top contender for the No. 1 overall pick.
2. VJ Edgecombe (Baylor)
- Position: Guard
- Height: 6’5″
- Draft Projection: Top 5 Pick
An explosive athlete with a relentless motor, Edgecombe has shined for Baylor. His ability to attack the rim, defend at a high level, and contribute as a playmaker has boosted his draft stock significantly.
3. Kasparas Jakučionis (Illinois)
- Position: Guard
- Height: 6’6″
- Draft Projection: Top 10 Pick
Jakučionis has displayed elite basketball IQ, playmaking ability, and scoring efficiency. The Lithuanian-born guard has quickly adapted to the college game and is drawing comparisons to top European guards who have thrived in the NBA.
4. Kon Knueppel (Duke)
- Position: Wing
- Height: 6’7″
- Draft Projection: Lottery Pick
A sharpshooter with defensive upside, Knueppel is a prototypical modern NBA wing. His ability to stretch the floor and defend multiple positions makes him a highly coveted prospect.
5. Derik Queen (Maryland)
- Position: Center
- Height: 6’10”
- Draft Projection: Mid to Late First-Round Pick
Queen’s soft touch around the rim, strong rebounding, and footwork make him an intriguing prospect. While questions remain about his defensive mobility, his offensive skillset is undeniable.
6. Liam McNeeley (UConn)
- Position: Forward
- Height: 6’7″
- Draft Projection: Late Lottery Pick
McNeeley is one of the best perimeter shooters in the draft class. His high basketball IQ and ability to space the floor make him a valuable asset for any NBA team looking for a wing with size and shooting ability.
7. Asa Newell (Georgia)
- Position: Forward
- Height: 6’9″
- Draft Projection: First-Round Pick
Newell’s length, athleticism, and defensive versatility have been key for Georgia. His upside as a two-way player makes him one of the more intriguing prospects in the tournament.
8. Boogie Fland (Arkansas)
- Position: Guard
- Height: 6’3″
- Draft Projection: Mid to Late First-Round Pick
Fland’s ability to score off the dribble and make plays for his teammates has been a highlight of Arkansas’ season. A strong tournament performance could boost his stock further.
9. Tre Johnson (Texas)
- Position: Guard
- Height: 6’6″
- Draft Projection: Late First to Early Second-Round Pick
Johnson’s smooth shooting stroke and perimeter defense make him a solid NBA prospect. He could rise into the first round with a strong showing in March Madness.
10. Danny Wolf (Michigan)
- Position: Forward
- Height: 7’0″
- Draft Projection: Second-Round Pick
A unique big man with shooting range, Wolf’s ability to stretch the floor at 7-feet tall makes him an intriguing late-round pick for NBA teams looking for frontcourt depth.
Final Thoughts
As the NCAA Tournament unfolds, these prospects have the opportunity to elevate their draft stock and impress scouts on a national stage.
Whether through dominant performances or clutch moments, their March Madness journey could shape their NBA future. Keep an eye on these rising stars as they look to make their mark on college basketball’s biggest stage.
Note: Draft projections are based on current analyses and are subject to change as the tournament and pre-draft processes unfold.
