In a stunning twist of fate, the Dallas Mavericks have secured the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, despite entering the lottery with just a 1.8% chance, marking one of the most improbable (or suspicious) jumps in the event's history. This unexpected selection comes on the heels of a very frustrating season that saw the Mavericks trade away franchise cornerstone Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis.
Obviously, this was a move that has gone down very poorly with Mavericks fans, and Nico Harrison has hardly been able to appear at any games without receiving widespread vitriol. However, with the top pick in hand, Dallas is poised to select Duke University's standout freshman, Cooper Flagg.
The 6-foot-9 forward has been lauded as a generational talent, averaging 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game while leading the Blue Devils to the Final Four. Flagg's versatility, defensive prowess, and high basketball IQ make him a perfect fit for a Mavericks team looking to rebuild and rebrand in the post-Doncic era.
Besides the Mavericks receiving the No. 1 overall pick, there were some other winners in the draft lottery as well, including the San Antonio Spurs and Philadelphia 76ers, who will each have a chance to select some top-tier talent as well.
Meanwhile, a playoff contender, the Houston Rockets, also received a top-10 pick, while others, such as the Utah Jazz, will be fortunate to have a chance for a young prospect as well. Let's go through what the 2025 Draft could look like in our final Mock selection.
1. Dallas Mavericks – Cooper Flagg, F, Duke
Duke Blue Devils forward Cooper Flagg (2) reacts as he heads to the bench during the second half against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at Cameron Indoor Stadium. The Blue Devils won 93-60.
Duke Blue Devils forward Cooper Flagg (2) reacts as he heads to the bench during the second half against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at Cameron Indoor Stadium. The Blue Devils won 93-60.
Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-Imagn Images
The Dallas Mavericks, defying 1.8% odds, secured the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and are poised to select Duke's Cooper Flagg. Flagg, a 6'9" forward, showcased his versatility during his freshman year, averaging 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, leading Duke to the Final Four.
His exceptional basketball IQ, defensive prowess, and leadership qualities have drawn comparisons to generational talents like Kevin Garnett. Flagg's selection is anticipated to be transformative for the Mavericks, especially in the wake of trading Luka Doncic.
His presence is expected to rejuvenate the franchise, both on and off the court, with projections suggesting he could add between $500 million to $1 billion to the team's value. With Flagg, Dallas aims to usher in a new era of competitiveness in the Western Conference.
2. San Antonio Spurs – Dylan Harper, G, Rutgers
Nov 6, 2024; Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; Rutgers Scarlet Knights guard Dylan Harper (2) reacts after making a three point basket during the first half against the Wagner Seahawks at Jersey Mike's Arena.
Nov 6, 2024; Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; Rutgers Scarlet Knights guard Dylan Harper (2) reacts after making a three point basket during the first half against the Wagner Seahawks at Jersey Mike's Arena.
Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
The Spurs, selecting second, are projected to pick Rutgers' Dylan Harper, a dynamic 6'6" guard known for his scoring and playmaking abilities. Harper averaged 19.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game, demonstrating efficiency on 48.4% field goal attempts and 33.3% from deep.
Harper's versatility allows him to contribute both as a scorer and facilitator, fitting seamlessly into the Spurs' system. His ability to create shots and navigate defenses complements San Antonio's existing roster, which features De'Aaron Fox already in the backcourt, potentially forming a formidable duo offensively. Of course, Harper will also be a perfect scorer around Victor Wembanyama as well.
3. Philadelphia 76ers – Ace Bailey, F, Rutgers
Mar 12, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Rutgers Scarlet Knights guard Ace Bailey (4) shoots the ball in the second half against the USC Trojans at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
Mar 12, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Rutgers Scarlet Knights guard Ace Bailey (4) shoots the ball in the second half against the USC Trojans at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
The 76ers are expected to select Airious (Ace) Bailey, a 6'10" forward from Rutgers at No. 3 overall. Bailey's agility and ability to play multiple positions make him a valuable asset, and he proved it by posting 17.6 PPG with Rutgers. His skill set includes a high motor, defensive versatility, and an emerging perimeter game.
Bailey's addition addresses Philadelphia's need for a dynamic wing player who can contribute on both ends of the floor. His potential to stretch the floor and guard multiple positions aligns with the modern NBA's demands and could be the long-term replacement for Paul George, who probably should be moved elsewhere this summer.
4. Charlotte Hornets – VJ Edgecombe, G/F, Baylor
Mar 21, 2025; Raleigh, NC, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs forward RJ Melendez (22) defends against Baylor Bears guard VJ Edgecombe (7) during the second half in the first round of the NCAA Tournament at Lenovo Center. Mandatory Credit: Zachary Taft-Imagn Images
Mar 21, 2025; Raleigh, NC, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs forward RJ Melendez (22) defends against Baylor Bears guard VJ Edgecombe (7) during the second half in the first round of the NCAA Tournament at Lenovo Center. Mandatory Credit: Zachary Taft-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Zachary Taft-Imagn Images
The Hornets, at fourth, are projected to draft VJ Edgecombe, a 6'5" wing from Baylor known for his defensive tenacity and offensive versatility. Edgecombe averaged 15.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game, on 43.6% from the field and 34.0% from three-point range.
His two-way capabilities make him an ideal fit for Charlotte's roster. Edgecombe's high motor and defensive instincts provide the Hornets with a perimeter defender capable of guarding multiple positions, perfect for a team that ranked 24th in defensive rating and only won 19 games.
5. Utah Jazz – Tre Johnson, G, Texas
Mar 19, 2025; Dayton, OH, USA; Texas Longhorns guard Tre Johnson (20) high fives Xavier Musketeers head coach Sean Miller after making a three point basket in the second half at UD Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Mar 19, 2025; Dayton, OH, USA; Texas Longhorns guard Tre Johnson (20) high fives Xavier Musketeers head coach Sean Miller after making a three point basket in the second half at UD Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Selecting fifth, the Jazz are anticipated to pick Tre Johnson, a 6'6" guard from Texas who led the SEC in scoring with 19.9 points per game. Johnson showcased impressive shooting splits: .427 FG%, .397 3P%, and .871 FT%. His scoring ability and length make him a valuable addition to Utah's backcourt, which isn't solidified by any means.
Johnson's proficiency in creating shots and his defensive potential due to a 6'10" wingspan align with the Jazz's strategic needs. His presence could bolster Utah's perimeter offense and might make Jazz management rethink their current selection of guards, which includes Isaiah Collier, Keyonte George, and Collin Sexton.
6. Washington Wizards – Jeremiah Fears, G, Oklahoma
Mar 21, 2025; Raleigh, NC, USA; Oklahoma Sooners guard Jeremiah Fears (0) reacts after scoring against Connecticut Huskies during the second half at Lenovo Center. Mandatory Credit: Zachary Taft-Imagn Images
Mar 21, 2025; Raleigh, NC, USA; Oklahoma Sooners guard Jeremiah Fears (0) reacts after scoring against Connecticut Huskies during the second half at Lenovo Center. Mandatory Credit: Zachary Taft-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Zachary Taft-Imagn Images
The Wizards, at sixth, are projected to select Jeremiah Fears, a guard out of Oklahoma known for his scoring instincts. While Fears averaged 4.1 assists to 3.4 turnovers per game, indicating areas for growth in decision-making, his scoring prowess remains evident.
Fears' ability to create shots and his potential as a floor spacer address Washington's need for offensive dynamism. With development, he could evolve into a reliable scoring option and secondary playmaker for the Wizards, both things they desperately need. However, Washington would have probably preferred to finish in the top three had they had their wish.
7. New Orleans Pelicans – Khaman Maluach, C, Duke
Apr 5, 2025; San Antonio, TX, USA; Duke Blue Devils center Khaman Maluach (9) reacts after their loss to the Houston Cougars in the semifinals of the men's Final Four of the 2025 NCAA Tournament at the Alamodome. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
Apr 5, 2025; San Antonio, TX, USA; Duke Blue Devils center Khaman Maluach (9) reacts after their loss to the Houston Cougars in the semifinals of the men's Final Four of the 2025 NCAA Tournament at the Alamodome. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
At seventh, the Pelicans are expected to draft Khaman Maluach, a 7'2" center from Duke, renowned for his defensive presence. Maluach averaged 8.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game, with an impressive 71.2% field goal percentage.
Maluach's rim protection and rebounding capabilities provide New Orleans with a defensive anchor. His size and athleticism complement the Pelicans' frontcourt, which might feature Zion Williamson going forward. A duo of Williamson and Maluach could be very intriguing for the upcoming season.
8. Brooklyn Nets – Kon Knueppel, G/F, Duke
Apr 5, 2025; San Antonio, TX, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Kon Knueppel (7) walks off the court after losing to the Houston Cougars in the semifinals of the men's Final Four of the 2025 NCAA Tournament at the Alamodome. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images
Apr 5, 2025; San Antonio, TX, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Kon Knueppel (7) walks off the court after losing to the Houston Cougars in the semifinals of the men's Final Four of the 2025 NCAA Tournament at the Alamodome. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images
The Nets, selecting eighth, are projected to pick Kon Knueppel, a 6'6" wing from Duke known for his elite shooting. Knueppel posted shooting splits of .479 FG%, .406 3P%, and .914 FT% while posting 14.4 PPG, highlighting his efficiency, and had similar winning intangibles as his teammate Cooper Flagg.
Knueppel's shooting prowess and high basketball IQ make him a valuable asset for Brooklyn's offense. His ability to space the floor and make smart plays aligns with the Nets' need for perimeter scoring and ball movement, and he will easily slide into one of the franchise's most important rebuilding pieces.
9. Toronto Raptors – Derik Queen, F/C, Maryland
Mar 27, 2025; San Francisco, CA, USA; Maryland Terrapins center Derik Queen (25) dribbles down court past Florida Gators center Rueben Chinyelu (9) during the second half during a West Regional semifinal of the 2025 NCAA tournament at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
Mar 27, 2025; San Francisco, CA, USA; Maryland Terrapins center Derik Queen (25) dribbles down court past Florida Gators center Rueben Chinyelu (9) during the second half during a West Regional semifinal of the 2025 NCAA tournament at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
At ninth, the Raptors are anticipated to draft Derik Queen, a 6'10" forward/center from Maryland known for his low-post scoring (16.5 PG, 9.0 RPG). Queen's advanced footwork and ability to draw fouls make him a formidable presence in the paint.
Queen's interior scoring and physicality address Toronto's need for frontcourt depth. His presence could enhance the Raptors' inside game and provide a reliable scoring option near the basket, especially with the likes of Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram demanding defensive attention.
10. Houston Rockets – Kasparas Jakucionis, G, Illinois
Xavier guard Dailyn Swain (3) guards Illinois guard Kasparas Jakucionis (32) during the second half of their first round NCAA men’ s basketball tournament game on Friday March 21, 2025 at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wis.
Xavier guard Dailyn Swain (3) guards Illinois guard Kasparas Jakucionis (32) during the second half of their first round NCAA men’ s basketball tournament game on Friday March 21, 2025 at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wis.
Source: Jovanny Hernandez / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The Rockets, at tenth, are projected to select Kasparas Jakucionis, a guard originally from Lithuania known for his playmaking abilities. Jakucionis averaged 15.0 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game, with a 44.0% field goal clip, and could possibly be a perfect challenger for Reed Sheppard in terms of who will be the long-term replacement for Fred VanVleet.
Jakucionis' versatility and court vision provide Houston with a dynamic backcourt presence. His ability to facilitate and score complements the Rockets' young core, and the franchise could do a lot worse than taking a young point guard because that is their depth chart weakness.
11. Portland Trail Blazers – Collin Murray-Boyles, F, South Carolina
Mar 12, 2025; Nashville, TN, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks forward Collin Murray-Boyles (30) passes the ball under the arms of Arkansas Razorbacks forward Zvonimir Ivisic (44) during the second half at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
Mar 12, 2025; Nashville, TN, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks forward Collin Murray-Boyles (30) passes the ball under the arms of Arkansas Razorbacks forward Zvonimir Ivisic (44) during the second half at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
Selecting eleventh, the Trail Blazers are expected to draft Collin Murray-Boyles, a forward from South Carolina known for his efficiency. Murray-Boyles averaged 16.8 points and 8.3 rebounds per game, with a 58.6% split from the field.
Murray-Boyles' inside scoring and rebounding address Portland's need for frontcourt production. His physicality and efficiency could bolster the Trail Blazers' interior presence on both ends of the floor, and it could make it clear to the front office who should be moved from Deandre Ayton to Jerami Grant.
12. Chicago Bulls – Jase Richardson, G, Michigan State
Mar 30, 2025; Atlanta, GA, USA; Michigan State Spartans guard Jase Richardson (11) shoots against Auburn Tigers center Dylan Cardwell (44) during the second half in the South Regional final of the 2025 NCAA tournament at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Mar 30, 2025; Atlanta, GA, USA; Michigan State Spartans guard Jase Richardson (11) shoots against Auburn Tigers center Dylan Cardwell (44) during the second half in the South Regional final of the 2025 NCAA tournament at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
The Bulls, at twelfth, are projected to select Jase Richardson, a guard from Michigan State known for his shooting efficiency. Richardson averaged 12.1 points per game, with shooting splits of .493 FG%, .412 3P%, and .836 FT%.
Richardson's shooting and low turnover rate make him a valuable addition to Chicago's backcourt. His ability to space the floor and make smart decisions aligns with the Bulls' offensive strategies, which include spacing from players such as Coby White and Josh Giddey.
13. Atlanta Hawks – Egor Demin, G, Brigham Young
Mar 27, 2025; Newark, NJ, USA; Brigham Young Cougars guard Egor Demin (3) drives to the basket against Alabama Crimson Tide guard Mark Sears (1) during the second half during an East Regional semifinal of the 2025 NCAA tournament at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images
Mar 27, 2025; Newark, NJ, USA; Brigham Young Cougars guard Egor Demin (3) drives to the basket against Alabama Crimson Tide guard Mark Sears (1) during the second half during an East Regional semifinal of the 2025 NCAA tournament at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images
At thirteenth, the Hawks are anticipated to draft Egor Demin, a guard from Russia known for his playmaking ability that he showed with the BYU Cougars. Demin averaged 10.6 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game, showcasing his ability to facilitate.
Demin's court vision and passing skills provide Atlanta with a versatile backcourt option, and he could be the man to replace Trae Young - a player whose future with the Hawks has been up in the air for a few seasons now.
14. San Antonio Spurs – Carter Bryant, F, Arizona
Mar 23, 2025; Seattle, WA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Carter Bryant (9) reacts against the Oregon Ducks in the first half at Climate Pledge Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images
Mar 23, 2025; Seattle, WA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Carter Bryant (9) reacts against the Oregon Ducks in the first half at Climate Pledge Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images
Despite modest freshman stats, 6.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game, Carter Bryant demonstrated significant potential, shooting 46.0% from the field and 37.1% from three-point range. At 19 years of age, the sky is also the limit for him.
His defensive capabilities are notable; he averaged 1.0 blocks and 0.9 steals per game, and opponents shot just 29.5% on jump shots when guarded by him, highlighting his perimeter defense prowess. No doubt, the Spurs would love to take Bryant as a perfect backup to Wemby or even as a frontcourt partner.
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