The 2025 NBA Draft tips off tonight at 8 PM ET, and this year’s class is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. From elite-level talent at the top of the board to mature, battle-tested college stars in the back half of the draft, this class is loaded with players who could make a real impact right away.
The top ten is headlined by generational-level prospects, guys who, in almost any other year, could’ve gone No. 1 overall. Cooper Flagg, the projected top pick, has the size, athleticism, defensive instincts, and competitive fire to be a franchise cornerstone from day one. But he’s not alone. Dylan Harper’s combination of power and pace makes him a matchup nightmare. VJ Edgecombe is as explosive as they come. Ace Bailey’s versatility at his size is special. Jeremiah Fears can control the pace of a game like a seasoned pro, and Kon Knueppel’s high-IQ scoring and toughness make him one of the most complete guards in the draft.
What makes this class so special is that these guys aren’t just raw upside picks , they’re already polished. Many of them have competed against elite competition for years, and they bring the kind of poise and readiness rarely seen in teenagers. We’re talking about multiple players in this draft who, in previous years, would have been potential No. 1 picks.
But it’s not just the lottery that’s worth watching. The back half of the first round, and even deep into the second, features guys who could absolutely become household names. Walter Clayton Jr. is already a fan favorite thanks to his combination of skill, scoring ability, and leadership. Kam Jones is a proven shot-maker. Ryan Kalkbrenner is one of the best rim protectors in the class and has anchored winning teams. Nique Clifford fought through adversity, stayed the course in college, and matured into a big-time contributor with pro potential.
These aren’t long-shot projects, they’re veterans of the college game who’ve grown into high-level prospects by doing the little things right and embracing tough roles. Don’t be shocked when a few of these guys are outplaying lottery picks a year from now.
Then there’s Brooklyn. The Nets have five picks tonight, and all eyes are on what they’re going to do. With that kind of draft capital, they could move up, trade down, or even pull off a major move. Don’t count them out when it comes to shaking up the board.
And let’s not forget the backdrop: this NBA offseason is already being rumored as one of the wildest in years. Big-name trades, front office shakeups, and unexpected free agency decisions are all on the table, and tonight might be the spark that lights it all up.
Strap in. The 2025 NBA Draft is more than just a talent showcase … it might be the start of a league-wide shakeup.