This year in the NCAA, the freshman class has caught the eye of fans and, especially, experts, due to their starring roles for their respective teams, players who have great potential for the NBA Draft because of their production and potential.
On his f***ing head! Cooper Flagg’s mom loses his mind after son makes huge dunk
The player who draws the most attention is clearly Cooper Flagg. At 18 years old, he has simply been spectacular. However, the Duke player this season has been joined by others who seem to have bright futures in the NBA.
Here’s a ranking of 5 prospects who will have all the attention from the NBA, and they all have something in common: they are first-year players.
Cooper Flagg, Duke
Age: 18 | 2.06 m, 93 kg | Power Forward | Draft Range: 1
Cooper Flagg is the big star of the NCAA, and according to experts, his current ankle sprain doesn’t jeopardize his hopes of being the first overall pick in the Draft.
Even if he doesn’t play again, he would still be the first player chosen in the NBA Draft this year. Flagg has led Duke to the ACC title. He is the Blue Devils’ leader in all stats and is the heavy favorite to win Player of the Year.
On May 12, Flagg will be an NBA player, and whoever gets the first pick in the lottery will undoubtedly select Cooper Flagg.
VJ Edgecombe, Baylor
Age: 19 | 6-5, 185 pounds | Guard | Draft range: 3-5
He is undoubtedly the leader of Baylor’s freshman class. Edgecombe started with some inconsistencies but gradually raised his level.
Offensively, he averages 17.1 points per game since January 7. He stands out for his defensive ability as a quick and athletic ball thief.
Kasparas Jakuionis, Illinois
Age: 18 | 6-6, 200 pounds | Guard | Draft range: 4-8
Kasparas Jakuionis is one of the most promising European basketball prospects for the 2025 NBA Draft. Traditionally, elite European players like Jakuionis would stay in Europe until they were ready to enter the NBA.
At just 18 years old, Jakuionis already has significant international experience. He debuted with Barcelona at 16 and played in the EuroLeague at 17, preparing for an immediate impact in the NCAA.
Kon Knueppel, Duke
Age: 19 | 6-7, 217 pounds | Wing | Draft range: 5-12
The magnitude of Knueppel’s skills was fully displayed in the ACC quarterfinals after Flagg injured his ankle. Knueppel exploded for 22 points in the second half. That performance showed that Knueppel could be a major asset in the NBA, and although his speed is a concern, he is competitive enough to be a solid perimeter defender.
Derik Queen, Maryland
Age: 20 | 6-10, 246 pounds | Center | Draft range: 6-14
Derik Queen has been the driving force behind Maryland’s success this season, leading the team with averages of 15.7 points and 9.2 rebounds per game. His combination of footwork, passing, and soft touch around the basket makes him an offensive powerhouse.
Maryland coach Kevin Willard has openly expressed his support for Queen, recognizing his immense talent despite concerns about his size and athleticism for the NBA.
