2025 NBA Draft: Rising Stars and Key Questions for Cooper Flagg and Top Freshmen
Insights into the 2025 NBA Draft class, focusing on Cooper Flagg and other top freshmen. Explore their strengths, weaknesses, and potential impact.
The 2025 NBA Draft is poised to be one of the youngest in recent history, with an average age of just 19.6 among the top prospects. Leading the pack is Cooper Flagg, the Duke star who has dominated college basketball this season. However, as the draft approaches, several questions linger about Flagg and the other top freshmen.
Cooper Flagg, Duke
Top 100 Ranking: No. 1 | Age: 18.1 | Height: 6-9 Key Question: How high is his offensive ceiling? Flagg has exceeded expectations with his scoring and playmaking, but his ballhandling and perimeter shooting remain areas of focus. Can he evolve into a consistent offensive threat at the next level?
Dylan Harper, Rutgers
Top 100 Ranking: No. 2 | Age: 18.9 | Height: 6-6 Key Question: Can he improve his shooting efficiency? Harper is a dynamic playmaker but struggles with his jumper. Improving his shooting could elevate him from a solid starter to a star-level player.
Ace Bailey, Rutgers
Top 100 Ranking: No. 3 | Age: 18.5 | Height: 6-10 Key Question: Can he find consistency in the NBA? Bailey has shown flashes of brilliance but needs to refine his shot selection and decision-making to succeed at the next level.
VJ Edgecombe, Baylor
Top 100 Ranking: No. 4 | Age: 19.5 | Height: 6-5 Key Question: What’s clicking for him now? After a slow start, Edgecombe has emerged as Baylor’s go-to scorer. His explosiveness and shot creation could make him a valuable NBA asset.
Kasparas Jakucionis, Illinois
Top 100 Ranking: No. 5 | Age: 18.7 | Height: 6-6 Key Question: Will his athleticism limit him as a starting point guard? Jakucionis is a skilled playmaker, but scouts question whether his lack of elite athleticism will hinder his ability to create separation in the NBA.
Other Notable Freshmen
- Kon Knueppel, Duke | Khaman Maluach, Duke | Egor Demin, BYU
Final Thoughts
The 2025 draft class is defined by its youth and potential. While some players, like Flagg, are already projected as top picks, others have questions to answer in the coming months. As the NCAA season winds down, these freshmen have a final opportunity to solidify their draft stock and prove they’re ready for the NBA stage.
What to Read Next
