Ryan Kalkbrenner Projects as Top Pick in 2025 NBA Draft

ST. LOUIS, MO — Ryan Kalkbrenner, a prominent player from Creighton University, is projected to be a top choice in the 2025 NBA Draft. With a remarkable college career culminating in impressive statistics, he has garnered significant attention as a potential first-round pick.

Throughout his five seasons at Creighton, the 7-foot-1 center made a name for himself as a defensive powerhouse, winning the Big East Defensive Player of the Year award for four consecutive years. Kalkbrenner excelled this past season, averaging 19.2 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game.

Kalkbrenner’s basketball journey began at Trinity Catholic High School in St. Louis, where he earned accolades such as the AAA Player of the Year and Class 3 All-State honors during his junior year. His commitment to the game was evident as he competed with Mac Irvin Fire in the Amateur Athletic Union circuit, and later, he was named the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League Defensive Player of the Year in 2019.

In his freshman year at Creighton, he was honored with an Honorable Mention All-Big East status and quickly established himself as a formidable defensive presence. Currently, he is revered for his shot-blocking abilities and paint defense, making him a prototypical big man on offense.

In a standout performance, Kalkbrenner scored a career-high 49 points in a game against UT Rio Grande Valley in November 2024. This season solidified his reputation, as he was named the 2024-25 Big East Conference Preseason Player of the Year.

As the draft approaches, projections suggest Kalkbrenner may land safely in the late first round or early second round, appealing to teams looking for a strong defensive addition to their roster.