2025 NBA Mock Draft: Cooper Flagg Tops List Amid NCAA Tournament Buzz

WASHINGTON, D.C. — As the NCAA Tournament captivates basketball fans, NBA scouts are closely monitoring player performances in anticipation of the 2025 NBA Draft. Leading the current mock draft is Cooper Flagg, a freshman power forward from Duke, projected to be the first overall pick, especially if he showcases his potential in the upcoming games.

Flagg, who stands at 6 feet 9 inches and weighs 205 pounds, has caught the attention of many NBA executives with his all-around skill set. The Washington Wizards, holding the top pick, would see Flagg as a monumental asset, as he continues to demonstrate his versatility and offensive prowess. “He hasn’t just lived up to the hype; he’s exceeded it,” said an anonymous NBA analyst. “His shooting ability, coupled with his competitiveness, makes him a clear front-runner.”

Hot on Flagg’s heels is Dylan Harper of Rutgers, a 6-foot-6 freshman guard, projected as the second pick. Harper’s scoring ability and playmaking skills have garnered him significant attention, though questions about his durability linger after an injury-plagued season. His statistics of 19.4 points and 4.6 assists per game reflect his potential. “Harper’s performance is crucial, especially with his recent health concerns and inconsistency in shooting,” noted a prominent scout.

In the third position, Ace Bailey from Rutgers is similarly under scrutiny, who at 6 feet 10 inches has shown flashes of brilliance. Bailey averages 17.6 points per game, underscoring his scoring ability, but consistency remains a concern. “We need to see more of what makes him a top-rated prospect,” said another analyst. “His defensive consistency is just as crucial.”

As the draft order unfolds, other players such as V.J. Edgecombe from Baylor and Tre Johnson from Texas appear poised to make significant impacts as well. Edgecombe, a 6-foot-5 shooting guard, has exhibited offensive skill that could see him rise further in the selections, while Johnson’s scoring capability could anchor any NBA team’s lineup.

With the NCAA Tournament serving as an additional stage for showcasing talent, NBA clubs are keenly aware of the implications of each game played by prospective draftees. As of now, analysts predict a notably dynamic first round, reflective of the depth and potential talent this draft has to offer.

The NBA Draft is slated for June 25-26, 2025, and teams are keeping a close eye on how players perform as they progress through the postseason.