Jonathan Wasserman

Bleacher Report College basketball is officially underway, and NBA scouts have begun their travels for one of the decade's more anticipated draft cycles.
They'll be treated to some outstanding evaluation opportunities early with the nonconference tournaments.
Cooper Flagg sits No. 1 on watch lists, but the amount of quality, one-and-done talent this year is different from most. Duke has at least two other potential lottery picks, as does Rutgers and possibly BYU.
Meanwhile, international leagues have been up and running for weeks, and we're already seeing some standout 18- to 20-year-olds looking like clear first-round talents.

Grant Halverson/Utah Jazz record:
: Duke
: PF
: 6'9", 205 lbs
: 17
: USA
Pro Comparison: Andrei Kirilenko (defensive), Jalen Johnson
Scouts, coaches and fans can expect Cooper Flagg to consistently deliver easy transition offense, ball movement and extreme defensive intensity.
It wouldn't be surprising if his shooting comes and goes, or he doesn't always look like a polished one-on-one creator. But he's built to impact games regardless of whether his shot is falling.
Flagg's athleticism comes alive during every open-floor opportunity. His size, aggression and improving ball-handling can overwhelm defenders on drives in space. There's no personal agenda when it comes to shot-hunting—he'll make the extra pass to the corner or on a short roll. And he's always looking to apply defensive pressure and erase shots with his leaping and anticipation around the basket.
It's the flashes of crossovers into pull-ups, fallaways inside the arc and three-point shotmaking that could allow him to run away as the clear No. 1 overall favorite. He doubles as both a team's energizer and top scoring weapon with the versatility to generate offense on and off the ball in different ways.
Scouts from rebuilding teams will ultimately have some key evaluation opportunities early with Kentucky, Arizona, Kansas and Auburn on Duke's schedule over the first month.

Ed Mulholland/Milwaukee Bucks record:
: Rutgers
: PG/SG
: 6'6", 215 lbs
: 18
: USA
Pro Comparisons: Coby White, Jalen Brunson (bigger), James Harden
Rebuilding teams searching for a lead ball-handler will spend a lot of time at Rutgers, and Dylan Harper could be the top guard drafted next June thanks to his full-package positional skill set for creation, shotmaking and playmaking.
Rutgers also lists Harper at 6'6", 215 pounds (plus a 6'10" wingspan), eye-opening measurements that mirror those of NBA wings. At that size, he's going to generate tons of buzz and highlights considering how effectively he uses change of speed/direction, footwork and strength to get to his spots.
His shooting also continues to look more dangerous after combining to hit 9-of-17 threes between the McDonald's All-American Game, Nike Hoop Summit and Jordan Brand Classic.
Scouts will be focused on how well he creates separation and distributes, given his score-first wiring and limited explosiveness.

Ed Mulholland/Philadelphia 76ers record:
: Rutgers
: SF
: 6'10", 200 lbs
: 18
: USA
Pro Comparisons: Brandon Miller, Tracy McGrady
Whether Ace Bailey can realistically compete for the No. 1 spot on draft boards will come down to his efficiency.
The combination of 6'10" wing size, self-creation, special shotmaking and athletic finishing around the rim fuels wild scoring potential that's remained obvious and enticing. Only poor shot selection and questions about feel for a game's flow could turn scouts off.
Some of his jump-shot attempts are rushed or simply too difficult to justify, but he also has an incredible ability to hit separate into and drill contested looks, from deep pull-ups and tight-window step-backs to post fallaways.
His positional height, one-on-one game and shooting combine into one of the NBA's most coveted, sure-fire archetypes.

Nicholas Muller/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Portland Trail Blazers record:
: Baylor
: SG
: 6'5", 180 lbs
: 19
: Bahamas
Pro Comparisons: Victor Oladipo, Shaedon Sharpe
There usually aren't notable on-court storylines during the summer for incoming college freshmen, but VJ Edgecombe had a chance to compete with the Bahamas national team in the Olympic qualifiers, and he was one of the top performers in a tournament that featured accomplished NBA and international pros.
Playing alongside Buddy Hield, Deandre Ayton and Eric Gordon, the 18-year-old averaged 16.5 points, 5.5 rebounds and 3.8 assists per game while shooting 57.1 percent from the field.
He delivered some wild displays of athleticism that highlighted special bounce/hang time at the rim and burst turning the corner. He hit mid-range shots and floaters, and he shot 5-of-13 from deep. The biggest development seemed to be his ball-handling and live-dribble passing reads.
Edgecombe's creation, shotmaking and playmaking skill levels are starting to catch up to his signature explosiveness. Ultimately, he should offer even more on-ball offense and versatility than Baylor's 2024 first-round wing, Ja'Kobe Walter.

Lance King/Toronto Raptors record:
: Duke
: C
: 7'2", 250 lbs
: 18
: South Sudan
Pro Comparison: Alex Sarr
Khaman Maluach is going to earn NBA fans just with his 7'2" size, 9'8" reach and translatable disruptive defense. He'll play mostly to his physical strengths at Duke, running the floor, finishing plays, putting back misses and contesting shots.
He'll have the chance to separate himself from the classic vertical threat/rim protector archetype with flashes of shooting touch we saw more of at junior levels.
With measurements and mobility that hint at a high floor, and more upside potentially tied to some shotmaking skill, Maluach figures to remain locked into the lottery discussion throughout the season.

Lance King/Detroit Pistons record:
: Duke
: SF
: 6'6", 217 lbs
: 19
: American
Pro Comparison: Wally Szczerbiak
Even with Tyrese Proctor and Caleb Foster back, and Duke adding projected No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel is too polished of a scorer to take a back seat.
With a highly convincing shooting stroke, physical drives and mid-range shotmaking versatility, his game is built for off-ball, spot-up scoring that scouts should deem translatable.
Given how sharp he is around the perimeter, and how competitive he can look defensively, the athletic limitations shouldn't set off alarms.
Knueppel has scouts talking after Duke's exhibition games. The level of shotmaking skill, fundamentally sound shot prep and clear passing IQ have created obvious pro vibes early.
With strong, 6'7" size, highly convincing shooting and various other ways to drive or finish plays inside the arc, he looks ready to lead the Blue Devils in scoring at different points throughout the season.
Despite clear athletic limitations, he still has a chance to turn scouts into believers over his defense based on his strength, competitiveness and IQ.
Knueppel is going to look extremely adaptable to NBA teams, with a pro-ready jump shot and the ability to be used in different spots/actions off the ball.

Brian Spurlock/Icon Sportswire via Los Angeles Clippers record:
: Texas
: SG
: 6'6", 190 lbs
: 18
: USA
Pro Comparisons: Cam Thomas
Scouts have already seen plenty of Tre Johnson, who's participated in almost every NBA-sanction camp, USA Basketball, Chipotle Nationals and the three big high school All-Star events.
He's going to look like a pro scorer with advanced shotmaking and the footwork for self-creation that goes into it.
Johnson does rely on hitting tough jumpers, and it wouldn't be surprising if he entered the draft with low free-throw and assist rates for a guard. But he's still going to get plenty of NBA interest from teams that see translatable perimeter scoring and shooting.

David Grau/Euroleague Basketball via Charlotte Hornets record:
: Saint-Quentin
: PG
: 6'4", 184 lbs
: 18
: France
Pro Comparisons: Lonzo Ball
Ten games into Nolan Traore's season with Saint-Quentin, and mixed results continue to illuminate clear passing IQ, shotmaking touch, inconsistent shooting and athletic limitations.
His feel in ball-screen situations, which make up over 55.0 percent of his offense, is the main draw. He has excellent command, changing speeds, picking his spots to attack, manipulating the defense and finding teammates. He looks good pulling up and slowing down into floaters. He's looked less confident in effective finishing around the basket, where he doesn't get any explosion or power.
His point guard instincts, poise and clear competence running a Pro A offense will hold a lot of weight. And despite a jumper that's been on and off early, he's shown early improvement from last year.
Traore's game doesn't scream star power, which could keep him from jumping ahead of the top NCAA freshmen, but his history, current production and unteachable strengths paint the 18-year-old as a future NBA pro.

Cameron Browne/NBAE via Indiana Pacers record:
: Georgia
: PF/C
: 6'11", 220 lbs
: 19
: USA
Pro Comparisons: Jalen Smith
At 6'11" with a live motor, Asa Newell should deliver immediate activity around the rim, easy baskets and putbacks to Georgia. But his developing three-point stroke and post skill are what will help push him up draft boards in 2025.
He shot over 41.5 percent from three during 21 Montverde games logged by Synergy Sports . There should be plenty of NBA interest in an athletic 19-year-old energy big, who can stretch the floor this early in his career.

Wesley Hitt/Washington Wizards record:
: Arkansas
: PG
: 6'2", 175 lbs
: 18
: USA
Pro Comparison: Darius Garland
It quickly feels easier to buy the idea that scouts will look past Boogie Fland's physical flaws after the 6'2", 175-pound guard opened with 22 points, five assists and six steals in an exhibition against Kansas.
Quick and shifty, he got to his spots and made dribble jumpers with persuasive confidence and fluidity. He didn't showcase any flashy playmaking or passes, but he made basic reads in pick-and-rolls to get shooters rhythm looks.
Defensively, he was pesky pressuring the ball and getting his hands into lanes.
The presences of DJ Wagner and Johnell Davis shouldn't mask Fland's potential or keep the 18-year-old from providing creation, shotmaking and defensive activity.

Samuel Lewis/Icon Sportswire via New Orleans Pelicans record:
: Miami
: SF
: 6'5", 190 lbs
: 18
: USA
Pro Comparison: Anfernee Simons
The level of intrigue around Jalil Bethea peaked last year when he dropped 40 points at the Hoophall Classic with NBA scouts allowed in the building. He should have an opportunity to dance with the ball and create at Miami. He profiles as a classic scoring guard who can get his own shot, hit tough dribble jumpers and catch fire from three.
How high he climbs boards will come down to his efficiency and whether he can showcase enough playmaking for NBA teams to picture a combo over an exclusive 2-guard.
Miami listing Bethea at 190 pounds suggests he's added important weight to a previously thin frame.

Matthew Maxey/Icon Sportswire via Houston Rockets record:
: South Carolina
: PF
: 6'7", 245 lbs
: 19
: USA
Pro Comparisons: Julius Randle
Based on Collin Murray-Boyles' standout physical profile, interior skill/instincts and per-minute freshman scoring and assist numbers, he's poised to be one of the SEC's more productive players.
The question is whether he adds any more to his face-up game or shooting range, and if not, will scouts still buy in?
Murray-Boyles only took five three-pointers last year, but there are always outliers, and the 19-year-old sophomore just may be a good enough from the post, short corners, rolling off screens, crashing the glass and sliding his feet to continue scoring, finding teammates and defending in the NBA despite lacking a creative handle or jump shot.

Cameron Browne/NBAE via Sacramento Kings record:
: Ratiopharm Ulm
: PG/SG
: 6'5", 201 lbs
: 18
: Israel
Pro Comparison: Manu Ginobili
Ben Saraf isn't slowing down. He continues to score efficiently and give Ulm a dangerous playmaking weapon with his handle and passing IQ.
His creativity and tough shotmaking have stood out most, with Saraf now 9-of-21 out of isolation, mostly by separating into step-backs and abruptly pulling up in the mid-range.
His athletic limitation shows on drives, where he can be forced to attempt contested, low-percentage layups. But he does get to the rim at a good rate, and he's still crafty and competent enough to counter and convert difficult finishes.
Though he'll remind you each game of his age and overly ambitious decision-making, Saraf is looking like a more legitimate, first-round or lottery prospect as the sample size of production grows.

Justin Ford/Denver Nuggets record:
: North Carolina
: SG
: 6'6", 195 lbs
: 19
: USA
Pro Comparisons: Herbert Jones, Will Barton
Drake Powell's defense figures to pop first while RJ Davis, Elliot Cadeau, Seth Trimble and Ian Jackson's dominate ball-handling duties in UNC's offense.
Powell is quick and aggressive at 6'6", a combination that should result in highlight blocks/steals and create the versatility to guard ball-handlers, wings and forwards.
flashed three-level scoring with his improving pull-up and spot-up three-ball. But for this particular rotation, he may have more of a glue-guy type role that NBA teams can picture him filling for themselves.
Powell will earn fans by impacting games in different ways without needing to put up big scoring numbers.

David Grau/Euroleague Basketball via Orlando Magic record:
: BYU
: SG/SF
: 6'9"
: 18
: Russia
Pro Comparisons: Anthony Black, Josh Giddey
If the results from Wednesday's exhibition game reflect Egor Demin's regular usage during the season, he's going to be in a good spot to showcase a coveted combination of 6'9" size and playmaking.
An 11-assist line highlights his unique ball-handling and passing for such a big guard or wing. Questions about his burst and frame for generating and finishing two-point scoring chances may arise, and scouts will be eager to get eyes on his shooting.
Still, Demin has always shown confidence in his jumper and shotmaking, and he'll find ways to score off the ball with cutting and transition.

Cameron Browne/NBAE via Brooklyn Nets record:
: Illinois
: SG/SF
: 6'8", 180 lbs
: 18
: Canada
Pro Comparison: Kelly Oubre Jr., Kyshawn George
Coming off three impressive EYBL sessions with UPlay (21.9 points), Will Riley committed to Illinois and reclassified to play college basketball in 2024, making himself eligible for the 2025 draft.
At 6'8", he's a crafty shotmaker with the ability to improvise or counter into difficult jumpers and floaters. Despite an underwhelming frame, minimal length and limited explosion, he finds ways to get to his spots.
Riley should be on most NBA teams' radars after some impressive moments through Nike Hoop Summit week.

Atlanta Hawks record:
: BYU
: SF
: 6'9"
: 19, weight unlisted
: USA
Pro Comparison: Trey Murphy III
The preseason hype looked valid after Kanon Catchings made eight of 10 shots in BYU's first exhibition game. He's going to instantly pop with that coveted, easy-fit combination of big wing size, shotmaking and athleticism around the rim.
Whether he's able to really climb boards will come down to consistency and the ability to flash more off the dribble. But at 6'9" with perimeter skill and a shooting stroke that looks very believable, scouts should quickly see a sure-fire pro prospect and relevant name in 2024-25.

18. San Antonio Spurs (via Bulls): Hugo González Peña

Photo By Dennis Agyeman/Europa Press via Chicago Bulls record:
: Real Madrid
: SF
: 6'7", weight unlisted
: 18
: Spain
Pro Comparison: Jonathan Kuminga
While Hugo González hasn't gotten much burn in Euroleague, he's had some productive minutes so far in ACB play. His role is obviously much different with Real Madrid than it was for Spain's U18 team over the summer, when he averaged 20.7 points in the European Championships.
In this role, scouts get to see his impressive physical tools and motor at both ends. They'll want to see more accurate shooting, though.
In FIBA and ANGT, we've seen Gonzalez's improving creation and tough shotmaking with a high usage and green light. Still, at baseline, he currently adds the most value with his rim pressure, finishing and competitive defense.

John Jones/Icon Sportswire via Minnesota Timberwolves record:
: Syracuse
: C
: 6'9", 205 lbs
: 19
: USA
Pro Comparison: Jonathan Isaac
An expanding offensive skill set helped push Donnie Freeman up recruiting ranks and create scoring versatility that pops under the NBA scouting lens.
Syracuse's first exhibition game showed us the different ways he can get a bucket, with the 6'9" freshman able to hit from the post and mid-range, make a pick-and-pop three, convert a face-up drive and earn a dunk in transition.
With excellent defensive tools as well, Freeman should be a quick eye-catcher and project scouts should be willing to stay patient with.

Brian Spurlock/Icon Sportswire via San Antonio Spurs record:
: Connecticut
: SF
: 6'7", 210 lbs
: 19
: USA
Pro Comparisons: Keegan Murray
NBA teams should see an easy fit and appealing archetype with Liam McNeeley. He should look like one of the top freshmen shooters, and he'll sell scouts further by scoring out of different sets/actions and making IQ plays.
"Plug-and-play" figures to be a commonly used phrase to describe his game for Connecticut and eventually the NBA.
Finishing efficiently inside the arc and defending with toughness will be keys to maximizing his draft stock.

Brian Rothmuller/Icon Sportswire via Memphis Grizzlies record:
: Alabama
: SF/PF
: 6'8", 220 lbs
: 18
: USA
Pro Comparison: De'Andre Hunter, Aaron Gordon
Derrion Reid's frame, offensive versatility and defensive flashes should pop enough to move scouts while playing behind Grant Nelson and Jarin Stevenson in a lineup built around guard play.
There will surely be games where he's quiet, but the final-season highlight tape will show an athletic combo forward with mid-range scoring skill, capable three-point range, some ball-screen passing ability and the length and foot speed to guard wings or bigs.
Reid is going to look like an easy fit, particularly if he's able to make jump shots at a respectable rate.

John Jones/Icon Sportswire via Miami Heat record:
: Arizona
: SF/PF
: 6'8", 220 lbs
: 18
: USA
Pro Comparison: Marcus Morris
There are a lot of mouths to feed at Arizona, so Carter Bryant's production may fluctuate. However, he's going to create draft buzz with eye-test results on 6'8" size, smooth perimeter scoring and athletic finishing around the rim.
Consistency and decision-making will determine how big of a role he plays this season, but he has clear NBA tools with a body and skill set that fit an enticing big wing or combo-forward archetype.

James Worsfold/New York Knicks record:
: Brisbane
: C
: 7'2", 227 lbs
: 18
: Australia
Pro Comparisons: Walker Kessler, Donovan Clingan
Anticipation had been building for Rocco Zikarsky's NBA draft eligibility. There's been significant hype over his 7'2" size, defensive impact and flashes of skill at 16-17 years old.
Now 18, he's been stuck on the bench early on for Brisbane. He has a total of two points in the team's last four games.
There is no teaching Zikarsky's physical profile or movement, which should keep interest alive, even if he continues to remain quiet.
But if he's going to follow recent giants such as Donovan Clingan, Zach Edey and Dereck Lively II into the lottery, scouts will want to see an uptick in shot-blocking production, easy finishes and highlights from the post.

Beyza Comert/Anadolu via Los Angeles Lakers record:
: Ratiopharm Ulm
: SF/PF
: 6'9", 198 lbs
: 17
: France
Pro Comparison: Jabari Walker, Precious Achiuwa
At 17 years old, Noa Essengue was able to put up 20 points, eight boards, three assists and two steals in an exhibition against a near full-strength Portland Trail Blazers team.
Momentum from a strong FIBA U18s in August has carried over to Ulm. Even at his ground floor, he's been productive in his role, playing off skill players and providing finishing, defensive versatility and the occasional spot-up three.
Potential remains the selling point. He may be the youngest prospect in the draft, and it shows on some of his self-created attempts.
Between Essengue's shooting range, activity around the basket, driving flashes and defensive tools, there is enough for scouts to remain patient with and bet on for the long term.

David Grau/Euroleague Basketball via Boston Celtics record:
: Illinois
: SF
: 6'10", 200 lbs
: 18
: Lithuania
Pro Comparisons: Spencer Dinwiddie
Coming off 19.4 points and 5.3 assists at the U18 European Championships, Kasparas Jokucionis arrives at Illinois with a lot of NBA scouts' attention.
He should have a high-usage role handling the ball, which should allow him to fully showcase the impressive playmaking, change-of-speed dribble for attacking and promising shotmaking skill.
Any skepticism with Jakucionis will be due to questions about his burst and shiftiness for separating and potential to effectively defend both guard spots.

Matthew Visinsky/Icon Sportswire via Golden State Warriors record:
: Arkansas
: SF/PF
: 6'8", 220 lbs
: 20
: USA
Pro Comparison: KJ Martin
Any signs of shooting improvement could propel Adou Thiero into the first-round discussion. He currently impacts games from off the ball with his physical tools, athleticism and motor for play-finishing and defensive playmaking.
Just becoming a regular threat to make a spot-up three could help him draw interest. He did convert 44 of 55 free throws, show some floater touch and hit six of 13 open catch-and-shoot jumpers, suggesting he does have some shotmaking skill to work with.

Louis Grasse/NBAE via Phoenix Suns record:
: Mexico City Capitanes
: PG/SG
: 6'8", 210 lbs
: 18
: USA
Pro Comparison: Shaun Livingston
With the Ignite program done, Dink Pate will be scouts' biggest draw when the G League season kicks off next week.
The idea of a 6'8" guard and ball-handler remains enticing. The NBA loves the big playmaker archetype, and he has some real wiggle, shiftiness and sharp moves to create for himself at the rim and the perimeter.
Pate put together some impressive moments and stretches at 17 years old in the G League, getting to spots, finishing tough layups and demonstrated shotmaking capability. But scouts will be expecting improvement on 21.4 percent from three, a high turnover rate and difficulty converting against rim protection consistency.

Alberto Gardin/Eurasia Sport Images/Boston Celtics record:
: Joventut
: C
: 6'10", 220 lbs
: 18
: Croatia
Pro Comparison: Moritz Wagner
Michael Ruzic had a pair of double-digit scoring efforts midway through October. He just turned 18 last month, and without too much quickness or explosion, there will be games where he's held in check.
But his shooting stroke (at 6'10"), self-creation flashes and two-point shotmaking skill should have scouts' attention, regardless of the inconsistency. He's also coming off a season in which he combined for over 680 minutes of ACB and EuroCup play.

Justin K. Aller/NCAA Photos via Oklahoma City Thunder record:
: Oregon
: PF
: 6'9", 220 lbs
: 20
: USA
Pro Comparison: JT Thor
Raising that 26.7 three-point percentage remains the obvious priority for Kwame Evans Jr.
Better shooting should unlock an attractive archetype for NBA teams, as the 6'9", 19-year-old is coming off a freshman season as an efficient finisher and active defensive playmaker (3.2 steal percentage, 5.0 block percentage).
Evans did make 79.5 percent of his free throws, and he's been attempting threes regularly since high school. A greener light and more confidence should benefit his shot development.
There should be NBA interest in a big forward who wreaks havoc on defense, rolls and pops, scores from the post and executes from the dunker spot.

Cameron Browne/NBAE via Cleveland Cavaliers record:
: North Carolina
: SG
: 6'4", 190 lbs
: 19
: USA
Pro Comparison: Lonnie Walker IV
Ian Jackson has been one of the most visible and accessible prospects for scouts. He has played in three FIBA tournaments, the All-Star circuit last spring and a number of games against Overtime Elite.
He's a pure scorer who provides rim pressure, confident shotmaking and off-ball movement.
Jackson would have some adjustments to make in a starting lineup alongside Elliot Cadeau and RJ Davis. But with North Carolina bringing in sharpshooting wing Cade Tyson, he may benefit from playing an offensive-spark role off the bench.

Christian Petersen/: Connecticut
: SF/PF
: 6'8", 225 lbs
: 21
: USA
Pro Comparison: Georges Niang
Alex Karaban is going for three consecutive national titles and first-round interest after NBA combine feedback likely pushed him to return to UConn.
He didn't stand out at May's combine, and there will continue to be some skepticism over his athletic limitations and lack of physicality inside to play the 4.
However, Karaban's 147 made three-pointers through two seasons is his main selling point, but he also shows off-ball scoring feel and defensive IQ/toughness.

Matthew Visinsky/Icon Sportswire via : Arkansas
: SF/PF
: 6'6", 220 lbs
: 19
: USA
Pro Comparison: Tobias Harris
Karter Knox will have to adjust to Arkansas' deep roster that includes older forwards and wings ahead of him.
His positional size, self-creation and tough shotmaking from three levels should still pop to scouts, as long as inconsistent shooting or decision-making don't raise too many questions.
Knox has had success scoring in a variety of settings, including USA Basketball, EYBL, high school showcase events and Overtime Elite.

Jared C. Tilton/: Colorado State
: SF/PF
: 6'6", 200 lbs
: 22
: USA
Pro Comparison: Landry Fields
A breakout season and 17 points, 10 boards and six assists in Colorado State's opening NCAA tournament win earned Nique Clifford NBA fans and an invite to the combine.
There are a lot of role-player skills and traits detected when watching the 6'6" wing, who was one of the nation's most efficient spot-up players at Colorado State.
Aside from having shot 42.5 percent on catch-and-shoot chances, he excelled as a driver and finisher attacking closeouts. His passing and overall activity under the boards and defensively were also evident.
Given Clifford's projected glue-guy role for the next level, teams aren't likely to worry about age or upside.

Chris Hyde/: Sydney Kings
: SF
: 6'7", 223 lbs
: 20
: Australia
Pro Comparison: Saddiq Bey, Gradey Dick
While Alex Toohey has cooled off from three, the eye test still detects projectable shooting. And he's finding other ways to score, using his size and body control on drives/transition and moving without the ball to earn catch-and-finish buckets.
He doesn't offer too much versatility outside of off-ball scoring, but scouts should picture a fit and plug-and-play wing, assuming his clean stroke eventually yields more consistent results from outside.

David Becker/: Arizona
: SG/SF
: 6'4", 205 lbs
: 19
: USA
Pro Comparison: Jae'Sean Tate, Luguentz Dort
KJ Lewis wasn't a reliable enough shooter last year to generate serious one-and-done interest. But the eye test saw a capable spot-up threat who can improve with more minutes.
Complementing his outstanding defensive tools/quickness, passing flashes and athletic finishes with a capable three-ball would be noteworthy.
His role shouldn't change much from last year with Caleb Love back and Jaden Bradley coming in. The lack of creation shouldn't matter if he makes more shots—teams will view Lewis as more of a stopper, energizer and off-ball finishing weapon.

Mitchell Layton/: West Virginia
: SF
: 6'7", 220lbs
: 21
: USA
Pro Comparison: Joe Harris
After three seasons at Drake, Tucker DeVries brings his signature shotmaking to be tested in the Big 12.
He had a 16-game stretch last year from January to March where he averaged 24.6 points, sinking defenses with his ability to rise and fire over defenders from different spots off the dribble or catch.
There are skeptics who question his lack of quickness and explosion for a wing, but DeVries could turn some into believers with similar production in a power conference.

Jeff Haynes/NBAE via : Florida State
: SF
: 6'7", 210 lbs
Age:
Pro Comparison: Caris LeVert
There was NBA interest in Jamir Watkins last season, but he wasn't convincing enough at the combine to secure assuring feedback for the 2024 draft.
His physical tools and specific skill versatility create a coveted archetype for the next level. At 6'7", 210 pounds, he doubles as a ball-screen playmaker and scoring wing for Florida State who can also defend both backcourt and frontcourt players.
He'd be a 24-year-old rookie next year, so another season of low-volume, sub-35.0 three-percentage three-point shooting could turn scouts off.

Joe Murphy/NCAA Photos via : Texas Tech
: PF/C
: 6'9", 225 lbs
: 19
: USA
Pro Comparison: Precious Achiuwa
Despite lacking modern skills that typically hint at upside, JT Toppin earned an invite to last year's NBA combine.
NBA teams may see a potential role for a 6'9", 225-pound 19-year-old who averaged 12.4 points, 9.1 boards, 1.9 blocks and 1.1 steals per game by crashing the glass, using efficiency when finishing cuts and rolls, running the floor and disrupting on defense.
He did make 11 threes, and he showed more range at the combine in Chicago. His post-up offense was effective, but increasing his three-point volume/confidence represents Toppin's obvious ticket to the first-round discussion in 2025.

Brian Rothmuller/Icon Sportswire via : Gonzaga
: SF/PF
: 6'7", 228 lbs
: 21
: USA
Pro Comparison: Rui Hachimura
Despite returning to college, Michael Ajayi looked like he belonged at the NBA combine. He'll now have some key opportunities on Gonzaga's early schedule to make an impression against power-conference opponents such as Connecticut, Baylor, Arizona State, Kentucky and UCLA.
At 6'7", 228 pounds, his physical profile and three-level shotmaking stand out. He's an off-ball wing who shot 47.6 percent off the catch and showed a clear comfort level pulling up or falling away in the mid-range.
Poor explosion and quickness also made it difficult for Ajayi to finish in the half court or make any plays defensively.

Fred Kfoury III/Icon Sportswire via : Iowa State
: SF
: 6'8", 225 lbs
: 20
: USA
Pro Comparison: Rodney Hood
Milan Momcilovic earned a spot on preseason watch lists with his impressive shotmaking for a 6'8" freshman. He's highly skilled at getting shots off and hitting tough jumpers from the mid-range out to the arc, where he made 61 threes in 37 games.
He scored a combined 29 points through his first two NCAA tournament games before finishing without a bucket during Iowa State's loss to Illinois in the Sweet 16.
There are concerns over his ability to create against quicker, longer wings, and he didn't record a dunk or get to the basket often despite converting a handful of coordinated layups.

Jeff Moreland/Icon Sportswire via : Kentucky
: PF/C
: 6'10", 250 lbs
: 20
: USA
Pro Comparison: Xavier Tillman
Brandon Garrison was efficient at Oklahoma State, flashing an interesting mix of skills and strengths for a big with his disruptive defensive length, passing, finishing and capable touch.
He'll now look to stand out on a Kentucky roster full of transfers who haven't played together.
Garrison's game doesn't scream scoring potential, but scouts could see a useful role player for the next level with his effectiveness inside, vision on post-ups and short rolls and shot-contesting.

G Fiume/: Xavier
: SF
: 6'8", 220lbs
: 19
: USA
Pro Comparison:
Dailyn Swain enters his sophomore year on breakout watch after his athleticism created eye-opening highlights at both ends of the floor.
A 3.1 steal rate and 3.8 block rate jump off the stat sheets. We just saw Phoenix Suns rookie Ryan Dunn crack the first round despite showing no real improvement as a scorer and shooter.
Swain moves with the type of quickness, fluidity and bounce to keep scouts patient with his offensive development, though they will be expecting some level of improvement to his 15.4 percent three-point shooting.

Jeff Moreland/Icon Sportswire via : Kentucky
: SG/SF
: 6'6", 192 lbs
: 21
: USA
Pro Comparison: Julian Champagnie
Jaxson Robinson's breakout at BYU drew enough NBA interest to earn him a combine invite. He had some solid stretches in Chicago, too, mostly showing off his potential money-making shooting stroke.
At 6'6", he shot over 42.0 percent on both spot-up and off-screen threes while occasionally flashing self-creation skill into jumpers and drives.
He doesn't offer much playmaking, rim pressure or athletic pop, so he'll look more convincing to teams if he's closer to 40.0 percent from deep than last year's 35.4 percent.

Coral Scoles-Coburn/University of Montana via : Montana
: PG
: 6'4", 200 lbs
: 19
: USA
Pro Comparison: Cameron Payne
A foot injury cut Money Williams' freshman season too short for scouts to catch on or buy in.
The tape from his 12 games was impressive, and some of it came against Oregon, Houston and Nevada. Repeating/building on last year's flashes should generate some attention.
At 6'4", he's shifty off the bounce and dangerous in ball-screen situations with his pull-up game, change of speed and ambitious live-dribble passes. He is creative with his handle and counters, and he showed off an excellent floater game to help offset a lack of explosion.
Williams still needs to prove himself as a shooter and lead decision-maker, but the eye test on last year's brief showing was persuasive, and healthy, full-time minutes open the door for a breakout.

G Fiume/: Duke
: PG/SG
: 6'6", 183 lbs
: 20
: Australian
Pro Comparison: Killian Hayes
Slight improvements as a sophomore weren't enough for Tyrese Proctor to sway NBA scouts, but he still possesses an appealing mix of positional size and combo-guard skills for running point or shooting off the ball.
Jumping from 43.9 percent inside the arc to 52.1 percent was also an encouraging sign that he's making important strides scoring in traffic and finishing, which are concerns for a limited athlete.
His facilitating and passing IQ remains a coveted strength, and the flashes of creation and three-level shotmaking should keep scouts patient in the 20-year-old for another season.

Andy Hancock/NCAA Photos/NCAA Photos via : Marquette
: SG
: 6'5", 205 lbs
: 22
: USA
Pro Comparison: Malik Monk
Kam Jones was efficient in all facets last year, showing he can generate pick-and-roll offense or slide off the ball and convert catch-and-shoot threes and cuts.
Scouts wished he was bigger and more of a playmaking threat, but he continues to prove he's one of college basketball's best shotmakers and effective finishers.

Andrew Bershaw/Icon Sportswire via : Jacksonville
: PG/SG
: 6'4", 186 lbs
: Unlisted
: USA
Pro Comparison: Saben Lee
A Wake Forest transfer, Robert McCray went off in the Atlantic Sun last year, putting up 18.4 points on an impressive 59.4 percent true shooting with high usage.
It can be tough to get taken seriously by scouts with a losing record in a mid-major conference, so either Jacksonville will need to win more games or McCray will have to put up even bigger numbers in 2025.
However, he will have a chance to make a statement early with Florida, Virginia Tech and Georgia on the schedule.
The 6'4" combo hit 54 threes, converted 22 dunks, hit 46.3 percent of his floaters and registered a solid 23.1 assist rate. McCray should at least draw more scouts to Jacksonville games this year with his pull-up game, touch, explosion and flashy playmaking ability.

Jeff Moreland/Icon Sportswire via : Kentucky
: SG/SF
: 6'7", 215 lbs
: 21
: USA
Pro Comparison: Duncan Robinson, Landry Shamet
Koby Brea will suit up with Kentucky after putting together a shooting profile difficult to match at Dayton. He shot 56.6 percent on standstill threes, 42.9 percent on movement threes and 42.0 percent on pull-ups threes. He hit 100 threes on 201 attempts, which is historic-type accuracy.
A 6'7" wing with his shotmaking production, fluidity and height should have a chance to generate NBA conversation, particularly if he can approach last season's efficiency against tougher SEC competition.
There just won't be margin for error thanks to Brea's lack of rim pressure, creation, playmaking and defensive upside.

Justin Ford/: North Carolina
: PG
: 6'1", 180 lbs
: 20
: USA/Sweden
Pro Comparison: Jason Preston
Passing will always be Elliot Cadeau's potential moneymaker, but improved shooting is the key to his draft stock.
He struggled from three and did little off the ball, but his command, IQ and vision play-making for teammates will remain strong and valued by certain NBA teams.

G Fiume/: Wake Forest
: SG
: 6'5", 185 lbs
: 21
: USA
Pro Comparison: Malaki Branham
If scouts weren't high on Hunter Sallis, despite the 18.0 points per game of three-level scoring and 40.5 percent three-point shooting, then he'll need to show something different in 2024-25.
More playmaking likely represents his ticket into the first-round discussion. NBA teams will want to see a 185-guard show he can use creation and gravity to set the table for teammates.
The non-passing 2-guards don't have great margin for error in the NBA, though Sallis has demonstrated high-level scoring ability with his pull-up, drives and spot-up shooting.

C. Morgan Engel/NCAA Photos via : Arizona
: PG
: 6'3", 200 lbs
: 21
: USA
Pro Comparison: Devon Dotson
Jaden Bradley shot well and combined for 38 points in Arizona's three NCAA tournament appearances last season.
The Wildcats lost Pelle Larsson to the Miami Heat and Kylan Boswell to Illinois, opening a door for Bradley to become a primary ball-handler (with Caleb Love) and build on last year's stretches of scoring and shooting improvement.
Rim pressure, pesky defense and a good looking pull-up should have already earned Bradley a spot on preseason draft lists.

Mitchell Layton/: Alabama
: PF
: 6'11", 215 lbs
: 19
: USA
Pro Comparison: Noah Clowney
Jarin Stevenson only scored in double figures three times from December to March, but his shooting range fits into an archetype that should keep interest alive.
He buried five three-pointers in Alabama's win over Clemson in the Elite Eight. He earned an invite to G League Elite Camp and attended Jayson Tatum Elite Camp and Nike Skills Academy over the summer.
More minutes and confidence could lead to more consistency from the sophomore, who just turned 19 years old.

Grant Halverson/: Duke
: PG/SG
: 6'5", 202 lbs
: 20
: American
Pro Comparison: Jaden Springer
Accurate spot-up shooting helped Caleb Foster adapt to an off-ball role last year. He's in line for a big jump in ball screens and creation opportunities this season.
He has the ability to make plays, shake free with the dribble and get to spots for mid-range and lay-up chances. He'll just have to convert more of them this season after he struggled to consistently hit pull-ups and finishes.

: Illinois
: PF
: 6'9", 220lbs
: 22
: American
Pro Comparison: Mike Muscala
Ben Humrichous made a name for himself last year at Evansville with 41.4 percent three-point shooting and face-up scoring highlights as a 6'9" forward.
The Big 10 this year will test his athletic limitations, but he clearly brings an intriguing perimeter skill for a stretch, pick-and-pop 4 that can also make some plays in ball-screen situations.

Steph Chambers/: Auburn
: C
: 6'10", 240 lbs
: 22
: USA
Pro Comparison: Trayce Jackson-Davis
Johni Broome returns for his fifth season of college basketball after turning into a legitimate three-point threat in 2023-24. He scored an invite to G League Elite Camp in 2023, before he even showed off the range.
He also ranked third last year in box plus-minus behind lottery picks Zach Edey and Donovan Clingan.
Broome will continue to leave his fingerprints on games with interior defense, offensive rebounding and touch in the paint. Building on last year's 28 made threes, and selling himself as more of a stretch 5, could ultimately be his key into the 2025 draft.

Grant Halverson/: Duke
: SG/SF
: 6'6", 220 lbs
: 21
: USA
Pro Comparison: Cody Martin
Playing with NBA prospects in the ACC should help amplify Sion James' versatility and impact.
At 6'6", 220 pounds, he doubles as a pick-and-roll ball-handler and off-ball scorer who shot 45.5 percent on spot-up threes last year.
Skeptics will point to limited athleticism and creativity, but he checks an intriguing mix of boxes with his physical profile, driving, passing and improved shot.

Chris Leduc/Icon Sportswire via : St. John's
: SF
: 6'7", 200 lbs
: 21
: USA
Pro Comparison: Trevor Ariza
Aaron Scott will get to guard some higher-profile wings in the Big East. He has excellent defensive tools and shot 38.0 percent from three over the last two seasons.
There should be some level of interest in a three-and-D forward if he continues to show more confidence in his shooting.

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