March Madness Mock Draft: Top Prospects Unveiled Ahead of Tournament

NEW YORK, March 19, 2025 — As March Madness approaches, the stakes for NBA draft prospects heighten. This year, the tournament offers a crucial platform for players, particularly those from mid-major conferences, to showcase their skills against elite competition. According to Jonathan Wasserman’s latest mock draft on Bleacher Report, the top five prospects have solidified their positions, with potential shifts expected as the tournament unfolds.

Leading the pack is Duke‘s Cooper Flagg, who remains the consensus No. 1 pick despite a recent ankle injury. With a towering height of 6 feet 9 inches and elite athleticism, Flagg’s playmaking and IQ have led scouts to liken him to modern-day greats. His performance in the NCAA tournament could further solidify his status, especially after posting a box plus-minus of 15.0 this season, ranking behind only Zion Williamson and Anthony Davis.

Following Flagg is Dylan Harper from Rutgers, now considered the definitive top guard in the draft. Averaging 27 points and nearly nine assists against USC, Harper’s downhill play and shooting skills have made him a coveted choice for teams like the Washington Wizards and Charlotte Hornets. Scouts believe his ability to create shots and contribute significantly justifies his standing as a potential top-two pick.

Next up is VJ Edgecombe from Baylor. Standing at 6 feet 5 inches, Edgecombe has showcased not only explosive scoring but also playmaking abilities, amassing 49 threes this season. His versatility at both ends of the court raises eyebrows, with NBA veterans drawing comparisons to players like Andrew Wiggins and Victor Oladipo.

Maryland‘s Derik Queen has also made headlines after a 31-point performance in the Big Ten tournament. His offensive polish makes him an attractive option, while questions remain about his fit on an NBA roster. At the same time, Tre Johnson from Texas has demonstrated a high ceiling as a scorer, averaging over 20 points per game. His polished footwork and ability to create his own shot position him as a solid choice for teams beyond the top two.

Other notable prospects include Ace Bailey from Rutgers and Khaman Maluach from Duke, each generating buzz with their unique skill sets and recent performances in high-stakes games. As scouting eyes focus on the ongoing tournament, potential trades and selections are likely to reshape the draft landscape. The NBA draft is set for April 14, one week after the NCAA champion is crowned in Tampa, Florida.