Top NBA Draft Prospects Shine as Conference Play Heats Up

As college basketball enters the heart of conference play, NBA scouts are closely monitoring the top prospects for the 2025 NBA Draft. Duke‘s Cooper Flagg and Rutgers‘ Dylan Harper have emerged as the leading contenders for the No. 1 pick, showcasing their elite skills and versatility on the court.

Flagg, a 17-year-old freshman, has been a two-way force for Duke, averaging 17 points, eight rebounds, and four assists per game. His defensive prowess and improving offensive game have solidified his status as a top prospect. Meanwhile, Harper has been equally impressive, averaging 22.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.8 assists while shooting 52.5% from the field. His well-rounded game and ability to create shots have made him a favorite among scouts.

Other notable prospects include Baylor‘s V.J. Edgecombe, who has shown flashes of elite athleticism, and Rutgers’ Ace Bailey, a polarizing player with incredible shot-making ability. Bailey, despite concerns about his playmaking and efficiency, remains a top-five prospect due to his scoring potential.

Illinois‘ Kasparas Jakucionis has also turned heads, averaging 16.3 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.4 assists while shooting 49.2% from the field. His creativity and efficiency have made him one of the most intriguing guards in the draft class.

With the NBA Draft still months away, the competition for the top spots remains fierce. Scouts are particularly focused on how these prospects perform against tougher conference opponents, as it provides a clearer picture of their readiness for the NBA.

As the season progresses, the race for the No. 1 pick will likely come down to Flagg and Harper, both of whom have the potential to be franchise-changing players. Their performances in the coming weeks will be critical in determining their draft stock and future in the NBA.