Since the NBA draft's inception in 1947, countless players have pursued their dreams of playing professional basketball. However, few have taken a path as unlikely as Cedric Coward, who is poised to hear his name called in the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft. Each year, a few standout stories emerge, showcasing the perseverance and extraordinary journeys of hopefuls. Coward’s story, however, transcends these narratives, resembling a seemingly impossible feat—like threading a needle from 50 feet away. When NBA Commissioner Adam Silver announces, “Cedric Coward, Washington State University,” it will mark a moment of historical significance.
Coward's path to the NBA has not just been about his time at Washington State; it has spanned 17 years living in Fresno, California, one year in Salem, Oregon, two years in Cheney, Washington, and a brief stint in Durham, North Carolina. In today’s basketball landscape, players are typically recognized as prospects long before their 21st birthday. Coward’s ascent defies these norms, highlighting the flaws in the American Basketball Industrial Complex, which often overlooks talent like his. Despite the challenges, Coward has managed to rise from anonymity to a projected top-20 pick in the upcoming draft.
At just 21 years old, Coward's rise is nothing short of astonishing. He did not make the varsity basketball team at his public high school until his junior year, and yet, here he is—on the brink of a significant milestone. His Wikipedia page remains sparse, lacking a photo and containing fewer than 250 words. However, the remarkable progress he has made in the past few months could transform him into one of the greatest rags-to-riches stories in basketball history. Coward possesses the intelligence, athleticism, body type, and leadership qualities that give him a real chance at success in the NBA.
Cedric Coward grew up in northeast Fresno, raised primarily by his mother, Shanel Moore, and stepfather, Ray, whom he considers a father figure. Despite the teasing he endured for his last name, which he inherited from his biological father, he embraced it as a symbol of perseverance. “The only one that truly understands the meaning of my last name is me,” Coward stated. His grandfather, Francis Coward, plays a significant role in his life, with Coward honoring him by keeping the family name.
Coward's competitive edge mirrors that of his idol, Kobe Bryant. Influenced by his grandfather's athletic legacy—Maxie Parks, a gold medalist in the 1976 Olympics—Coward developed a fierce determination to succeed. He describes his on-court mentality as one of aggression, stating, “If I’m going against you on the court, I’m trying to kill you.” This fierce drive has been essential in his journey from a zero-star recruit to a potential NBA player.
Despite his late start in organized basketball, Coward's commitment to the sport solidified during a transformative summer. After stepping away from the AAU circuit, he spent time volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, which reignited his passion for basketball. Upon returning to the sport, he faced challenges, including limited exposure during the pandemic, but his persistence paid off when he transferred to Willamette University in Oregon.
His pivotal moment occurred in November 2021 during a game against Portland, where he showcased his talent with a game-high 24 points. This performance caught the attention of Eastern Washington University's coaching staff, leading to his recruitment. Coward’s transition to Division I basketball proved to be a critical turning point in his career, allowing him to develop his skills further and gain recognition.
After a promising start at Eastern Washington, Coward faced a significant setback with a serious shoulder injury that sidelined him. However, he turned adversity into opportunity, becoming a mentor to his teammates while recovering and maintaining his physical conditioning. His resilience and dedication impressed NBA scouts, who took notice of his leadership abilities and work ethic.
As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, Coward has continued to rise on draft boards, participating in workouts and impressing teams with his skills. He is now regarded as a serious contender for a first-round pick. Coward’s journey from a small-town player to a potential NBA star is both inspiring and a testament to his determination. With his sights set on not just making the league but excelling in it, he embodies the spirit of hard work and perseverance.
Cedric Coward's path to the NBA is unprecedented, showcasing the possibility of achieving dreams against all odds. His story serves as a reminder that with hard work, dedication, and the right mindset, anything is possible. As he prepares for the draft, the basketball world eagerly awaits to see how he will manifest his incredible journey into a successful professional career.
