Top 5 Picks & Scouting Notes
1. Cooper Flagg – Dallas Mavericks
- Position: Forward College: Duke
- Scouting Report: A generational two-way talent, Flagg combines elite athleticism, shot-blocking, and playmaking. He’s the second-youngest No. 1 pick ever, behind LeBron James.
- Fit: Joins a Mavericks team with Anthony Davis and Klay Thompson, offering immediate impact and long-term upside.
2. Dylan Harper – San Antonio Spurs
- Position: Guard College: Rutgers
- Scouting Report: A dynamic combo guard with elite court vision and scoring instincts. Averaged 19.4 PPG, 4.6 RPG, and 4 APG.
- Fit: Pairs with Victor Wembanyama to form a lethal inside-out duo.
3. Ace Bailey – Utah Jazz
- Position: Wing College: Rutgers
- Scouting Report: Explosive athlete with a 7’0″ wingspan and elite rebounding for his position. Averaged 17.6 PPG and 7.2 RPG.
- Fit: Adds length and scoring to a rebuilding Jazz roster.
4. Khaman Maluach – Charlotte Hornets
- Position: Center College: Duke
- Scouting Report: A 7’2″ rim protector with surprising mobility and touch. High ceiling as a modern big.
5. Kon Knueppel – Philadelphia 76ers
- Position: Guard/Forward College: Duke
- Scouting Report: Elite shooter and high-IQ playmaker. Shot 42% from three and brings versatility on both ends.
International & G League Standouts
- Alex Toohey (Australia): Versatile forward with strong defensive instincts and improving shooting stroke.
- Rocco Zikarsky (Australia): 7-footer with raw tools and upside as a rim-running big.
- VJ Edgecombe (Baylor): Explosive scorer with NBA-ready frame and transition prowess.
Draft Trends & Storylines
- Duke Dominance: Three Blue Devils went in the top 10, showcasing the program’s developmental strength.
- Brooklyn Nets History: Became the first team to select five first-rounders in a single draft.
- Emotional Night: The first round was one of the most emotional in recent memory, with players and families visibly moved by their selections.
Teams That Won the Draft
- Dallas Mavericks: Landed a franchise cornerstone in Flagg.
- Brooklyn Nets: Stockpiled young talent with five first-round picks.
- San Antonio Spurs: Added a dynamic backcourt partner for Wembanyama.
