NBA Draft: Top 10 prospects playing in NCAA Tournament

March 18, 2025

A look at the top-10 NBA prospects taking part in the NCAA Tournament, as ranked by ESPN. As an interesting aside, all 10 are first-year college players.

10. Jase Richardson, PG/SG, Michigan State
Height: 6-3 | Freshman | TS%: 64.9%
Richardson has emerged as one of the most promising players in the second half of the season. As a starter, he has increased his offensive output and continues to impress with his aggressive play and defensive intensity. Despite concerns over his size (6-foot-2 without shoes), Richardson’s well-rounded game and impact on both ends make him a potential NBA first-round pick.

9. Egor Demin, PG/SG, BYU
Height: 6-9 | Freshman | TS%: 50.8%
Demin’s unique combination of size and playmaking has drawn attention, though his inconsistency remains a concern. A strong finish to the tournament could elevate his stock. His passing ability, especially in pick-and-roll situations, is his standout skill, but his struggles as a shooter and occasional lapses on defense limit his upside.

8. Derik Queen, C, Maryland
Height: 6-10 | Freshman | TS%: 60.0%
Queen is the most offensively skilled big in this draft, with the ability to stretch the floor and attack off the dribble. However, concerns over his defensive effort have raised doubts among scouts. His performance in the NCAA Tournament could prove pivotal for his draft position.

7. Jeremiah Fears, PG, Oklahoma
Height: 6-4 | Freshman | TS%: 57.0%
Fears has shown impressive scoring and playmaking ability for his age. However, his perimeter shooting and defensive consistency need improvement. At just 19, his NBA potential remains high if he can refine his skills over the course of the tournament.

6. Kasparas Jakucionis, PG, Illinois
Height: 6-6 | Freshman | TS%: 60.5%
Jakucionis has impressed with his size, playmaking, and basketball IQ. Still, recent struggles with shooting consistency and decision-making have raised concerns. A strong performance in the tournament would go a long way in solidifying his draft stock.

5. Khaman Maluach, C, Duke
Height: 7-2 | Freshman | TS%: 72.6%
Maluach’s defensive presence and size have earned him a solid reputation as one of the top center prospects. If he can stay out of foul trouble and continue to perform at a high level, he could solidify his place as a first-round pick.

4. Kon Knueppel, SG/SF, Duke
Height: 6-7 | Freshman | TS%: 63.7%
Knueppel’s consistency and versatility make him a valuable asset. His ability to step up in big moments, as seen in the ACC Tournament, showcases his potential as a reliable scorer and role player at the next level.

3. Tre Johnson, SG, Texas
Height: 6-6 | Freshman | TS%: 56.0%
Johnson’s offensive versatility and ability to create his own shot make him one of the most dynamic players in the draft. His strong performance down the stretch of the season has helped Texas secure a spot in the tournament, and scouts will be watching closely for continued growth.

2. VJ Edgecombe, SG, Baylor
Height: 6-5 | Freshman | TS%: 55.8%
Edgecombe’s athleticism and defensive prowess make him one of the most explosive prospects in the draft. While his ballhandling needs improvement, his upside remains high, and a strong tournament showing could propel him into the top five.

1. Cooper Flagg, SF/PF, Duke
Height: 6-9 | Freshman | TS%: 60.4%
Flagg, projected as the No. 1 pick, has exceeded expectations this season with his all-around game. Despite an ankle injury in the ACC Tournament, he is expected to return for the NCAA Tournament, where his leadership and impact on both ends will be key to Duke’s championship hopes.