2025 NBA Draft: Complete Coverage
As we dive into Day 2 of the 2025 NBA Draft, anticipation fills the air as fans and teams alike hope for a Taco Bell miracle reminiscent of the Denver Nuggets' legendary selection of Nikola Jokić at No. 41 during a commercial break in 2014. The draft has a history of unexpected gems, such as Draymond Green, who was picked at No. 35 in 2012 and played a crucial role in leading the Golden State Warriors to four championships, and Manu Ginobili, selected at No. 57 in 1999, who secured four titles for the San Antonio Spurs.
However, not every selection turns out to be a slam dunk. The Dallas Mavericks, for example, drafted Jalen Brunson at No. 33, who later blossomed into an All-Star and earned the title of 2024-25 Kia Clutch Player of the Year after joining the New York Knicks in 2022. This disparity highlights the unpredictable nature of the NBA Draft, where teams aspire to secure future stars. Will any of the final 29 selections yield multiple starters, an All-Star, or even a future MVP?
With the average NBA career lasting around 4.5 seasons, many of Thursday's picks will spend their summer attempting to translate any level of Summer League success into a guaranteed contract. At Barclays Center, some teams were focused on acquiring their intended targets, while others seized the opportunity to build assets for the future.
Even before the second round began, the buzz of trade talks permeated the atmosphere. The Phoenix Suns, eager to revamp their roster, reportedly struck a deal with the Brooklyn Nets to acquire the No. 36 pick, which they subsequently flipped to the Minnesota Timberwolves in exchange for the No. 31 pick. The Suns wasted no time and selected St. Joseph’s standout Rasheer Fleming, who was highly regarded by ESPN analyst Jay Bilas. “I heard it a little bit before I walked out there,” Fleming shared. “So at least I had a little idea of what was going on. It’s crazy. Nothing is guaranteed, so I was hearing it and taking heed of everything.”
As the draft progressed, the Boston Celtics selected Noah Penda from France at No. 32, who was later traded to Orlando along with Nos. 46 and 57, plus future second-round picks in 2026 and 2027. The Charlotte Hornets stayed true to their strategy by selecting Sion James from Duke and Ryan Kalkbrenner from Creighton with their picks at Nos. 33 and 34. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia 76ers added depth by drafting Johni Broome out of Auburn, enhancing their options behind star center Joel Embiid.
In a notable twist, the Nets, who originally owned the No. 36 pick, chose Arkansas forward Adou Thiero, who expressed his excitement about joining the Lakers. “Feels good, you know?” Thiero said. “Dream come true, and I’m just happy to be here. Playing for the Lakers, too? That’s a blessing.” He remained focused despite the swirling trade rumors, emphasizing the importance of the final confirmation.
The night featured eight reported trades, with the Suns playing a pivotal role in maintaining a dynamic draft board. They later added Kentucky wing Koby Brea at No. 41 through a deal with Golden State. Brea reflected on the experience, saying, “I started to get a little idea about it yesterday... It was just unbelievable to know that such a great organization wanted me. I’m excited to get over there and get to work.”
In conclusion, the 2025 NBA Draft continues to unfold with excitement and unpredictability as teams strategize to build their future. Fans eagerly await the potential of these young athletes, hoping their franchises make the right decisions that could lead to championship success.
— Ben Couch, Director of Editorial Content for NBA Digital at TNT Sports. The opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect those of the NBA, its teams, or Warner Bros. Discovery.
