The 2025 NBA Draft Combine concluded its week in Chicago on Thursday, featuring the second and final round of 5-on-5 scrimmages. This marked the beginning of a critical period for prospects deciding whether to remain in the draft or withdraw, with the NCAA deadline set for May 28.
While NBA front office staff continued attending pro days in Chicago, players are finalizing travel plans for private workouts in the coming days and weeks as the pre-draft process moves forward.
A major development from the week was the Dallas Mavericks winning the draft lottery, securing the top pick. Sources indicated the Mavericks intend to select projected No. 1 prospect Cooper Flagg during the draft on June 25-26 in Brooklyn.
ESPN basketball insiders provided insights from the combine, evaluating prospects who boosted (or potentially hurt) their stock and sharing league reactions and draft news.
Key Storylines from Thursday
Yang Makes His Mark on the NBA Stage
Hansen Yang, who had limited exposure to NBA decision-makers while playing in Qingdao, China, this season, seized a significant opportunity to introduce himself to executives in Chicago. Despite imperfections, Yang impressed with a generally positive showing, displaying a unique combination of size (over 7-foot-2 in shoes), build (252 pounds), length (9-3 standing reach), skill, and court awareness during two effective scrimmages.
Yang`s passing stood out, as he made sophisticated reads, finding teammates cutting with clever bounce passes or lobs, and often positioned himself well defensively to contest shots, even blocking a 3-pointer memorably. While his skill level is high, his lack of quickness and explosiveness were sometimes apparent, leading to missed close-range shots and struggles guarding perimeter players.
He still needs to prove his ability to defend in open space and improve his rebounding, having grabbed only three defensive rebounds in 37 minutes. At just 19, Yang might benefit from withdrawing and working on his perimeter shooting, conditioning, and defense for a year or two to enhance his chances of being a first-round pick in 2026. The Chinese CBA`s suitability for his development in these areas is debated, with some executives suggesting he could benefit from college basketball in the United States.
Regardless of his immediate path, Yang clearly raised his profile in Chicago and is now on NBA teams` radar, although his game still requires refinement.
Mgbako Re-Emerges on the NBA Radar
A highly-touted recruit in 2023, Mackenzie Mgbako`s NBA prospects diminished after two inconsistent seasons at Indiana, where questions arose about his defensive effort and passing. However, four games at the G League Elite Camp and the combine showcased a different Mgbako: a prolific scorer who averaged 72 points in 85 minutes and shot an impressive 13-for-23 (57%) from 3-point range in Chicago. He also demonstrated improved effort on defense and the boards and avoided poor shot selection.
In a league valuing size and shooting across all positions, Mgbako`s scoring ability at 6-9 is compelling, though he needs to improve his physique and overall athleticism. Expected to transfer to Texas A&M, it remains to be seen how the 20-year-old Mgbako performs in a new environment. He successfully boosted his standing among decision-makers, though perhaps not enough for a guaranteed NBA contract or significant NIL opportunities at A&M.
If Mgbako can replicate his combine performance consistently throughout a full SEC season, he could position himself as a top-40 pick next year.
Nembhard Likely Heading to an NBA Roster
Ryan Nembhard, the 22-year-old Gonzaga point guard, made the most of his week, progressing from the G League Elite Camp to the combine and distinguishing himself from other guards. While his relatively small size might limit interest from some teams, his instinctive playmaking, sound decision-making, and ability to organize the offense are valuable traits for backup guards.
Nembhard defended well against switches and bigger opponents. It seems highly probable he will secure a two-way contract with an NBA team, contributing whether or not he is drafted in June.
Niederhauser Faces an Interesting Decision
After impressing scouts at the G League Elite Camp, Yanic Konan Niederhauser returned to earth somewhat at the combine. He was productive Thursday but didn`t dominate in the higher-level scrimmages. His athleticism, large frame (7-0, 250 pounds), defensive potential, and ability to catch and finish were intriguing at the Elite Camp. However, he was less effective in the combine`s 5-on-5 games against stronger competition. Niederhauser`s physicality can be inconsistent, and he needs to utilize his size more effectively to establish himself in the NBA.
Niederhauser did not enter the transfer portal and could return to Penn State, where increased productivity next season could significantly boost his draft stock. He showed enough this week to raise his profile, moving into the top 40 rankings. The question now is whether this guarantees him a favorable draft position.
Watkins` Defense Shines, But Is It Enough?
Jamir Watkins, a Florida State wing who turns 24 in July, retains college eligibility and is a top target in the transfer portal. Watkins excelled defensively, particularly on Thursday, recording five steals and a block and disrupting opponents at the point of attack. He also led his game with 23 points and was effective offensively, including two 3-pointers. Watkins is a clear two-way prospect who could potentially contribute off the bench in the NBA. However, like many players in his situation, he could earn significantly more through NIL by returning to college.
Capitalizing on a strong combine performance is appealing, but these decisions are increasingly difficult for players like Watkins.
Byrd Displays Instincts and Feel for the Game
San Diego State`s Miles Byrd demonstrated the unique basketball instincts that made him a standout defensive playmaker in college. His rare combination of block and steal percentages mirrored players like Tari Eason and Matisse Thybulle, attracting significant attention from NBA analytic models. Byrd proved he could still generate blocks and steals against tougher combine competition, recording four blocks and five steals in 52 minutes. His impressive plays included rejecting jumpers, rotating for rim protection, anticipating passing lanes, breaking up handoffs, and picking pockets with quickness and his 6-10 wingspan.
Offensively, Byrd improved his stock by shooting 5-for-11 from 3-point range in scrimmages, better than his 30% collegiate average. His ball-handling is inconsistent, and his 182-pound frame raises questions about his ability to be a physical stopper in the NBA, despite his excellent playmaking numbers. Overall, the 20-year-old redshirt sophomore had a positive combine. A big decision looms before the May 28 deadline on whether to withdraw, as his position as a guaranteed first-round pick is not yet solidified.
Ruzic`s Combine Highlights Need for More Development Time
The youngest player in the combine scrimmages was 18-year-old Croatian big man Michael Ruzic, who was allowed to miss Spanish league games to attend. Ruzic`s youth, lack of strength (221 pounds), and unfamiliarity with U.S. camp settings were evident as he sometimes struggled with the physicality of older college players. He showed occasional skill, timing, and feel but isn`t yet the shooter he needs to be and is somewhat caught between big man roles after growing two inches to over 7-feet in shoes. His injury-plagued season in Spain also didn`t help.
However, he is younger than some high school seniors entering college, indicating time is on his side. It`s likely he will withdraw and try again next season, potentially with a better playing situation than his 11 minutes per game average in Spain.
Raynaud`s Opt-Out: A Hint of First-Round Status?
Maxime Raynaud entered the combine as a borderline first-round prospect but is likely to rise after arguably the best performance in Wednesday`s scrimmages. The 7-1 former Stanford big man posted 20 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 assists, showing energy and vocal leadership defensively. When Thursday`s scrimmage rosters were released without his name, it possibly signaled first-round optimism from his camp.
Prospect Decisions Before Withdrawal Deadline
Yaxel Lendeborg, PF, UAB/Michigan
Lendeborg is a key player to watch over the next two weeks. He transferred from UAB to Michigan but is projected as a first-round pick and performed well in Chicago. He measured 6-10 in shoes with a 7-4 wingspan and played effectively in scrimmages. Lendeborg indicated he wants to be drafted in the top-20; securing a guarantee in that range before May 28 is crucial for his decision.
Milos Uzan, PG, Houston
Uzan is open to returning to Houston, but prefers to stay in the draft. He was projected as a second-round pick entering the combine and had inconsistent scrimmage performances, shooting poorly on Wednesday and Thursday. Despite this, he finished the week with combined nine points and 10 assists. Houston signed new backcourt players, but Uzan`s return would make them a top preseason team.
Tahaad Pettiford, PG, Auburn
Pettiford was a standout in his Wednesday scrimmage with 23 points, eight assists, and strong 3-point shooting (4-for-8), following impressive athletic testing. However, he struggled on Thursday, shooting 4-for-15 with six turnovers. Pettiford came off the bench as a freshman at Auburn and measured just over 6-feet without shoes. He`s a likely second-round pick if he stays in the draft. He could leverage his combine showing for a strong sophomore college season and potentially enter the next season as a preseason All-American.
Alex Condon, PF, Florida
Condon opted not to participate in scrimmages, maintaining his borderline first-round status. Intel suggests he`s more likely to return to Florida, but his 6-11 size and skills could intrigue a first-round team. His return to the Gators, especially potentially alongside a high-profile transfer, could position the team for another deep tournament run.
Neoklis Avdalas, SG, Peristeri
As an international player, Avdalas isn`t subject to the NCAA deadline and can withdraw until June 15, but college coaches are monitoring him. He indicated he would `probably` attend college if he withdraws, having visited Baylor and Virginia Tech, with Kansas State also involved. Sources also note interest from Ole Miss. Avdalas grew more confident during the week, showing impressive shooting ability at 6-7.
Players in the NCAA Transfer Portal
Four combine attendees remain in the transfer portal: RJ Luis, PJ Haggerty, Darrion Williams, and Jamir Watkins. Only Williams was projected to be drafted. Luis and Haggerty had inconsistent performances. Williams struggled shooting. Watkins excelled on Thursday with 23 points and five steals. These players could earn significant money in college, but all expressed a preference to stay in the draft.
Draft Night Trade Chatter: Focus on the Back Half of the Lottery
Since the lottery, most trade discussion has centered on the top three picks (Dallas, San Antonio, Philadelphia). Rumors about trading for stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo have overshadowed more probable scenarios. Combine chatter suggests teams in the back half of the lottery, like Houston (10th pick), Portland (11th), and San Antonio (14th), are open to trading picks for veteran upgrades.
Houston, already a playoff team with many young players, may not need another rookie. Portland is keen to build on a promising season start and add a veteran contributor. Even if San Antonio keeps the No. 2 pick, they might trade No. 14 for immediate help for Victor Wembanyama. Expect trade activity throughout the lottery, not just at the very top, based on discussions in Chicago.
Biggest Takeaway from Wednesday
NBA teams expressed satisfaction with the competition level and play in the 5-on-5 scrimmages. The teams were well-coached, played with intensity and unselfishness, allowing players to showcase various aspects of their game. Unlike typical camps where players force action, the ball moved well, and players focused on enabling teammates while demonstrating their potential as role players.
It`s worth reiterating that more players should participate in the combine scrimmages. Many prospects stood out in Wednesday`s games without significantly harming their stock. Historically, teams value participation. While established first-rounders have little to gain, borderline prospects, including those considering college returns, missed a chance to impact their draft fate. The outcome of these decisions on draft night remains intriguing.
Although the NCAA deadline is May 28, several high-profile players confirmed they have no plans to return to college. Arizona`s Carter Bryant (projected No. 14) stated he is `completely in` on the NBA draft. Georgetown`s Thomas Sorber (No. 23) is also staying in. North Carolina`s Drake Powell (borderline first-round) said the `door`s closed` on a return, and Alabama`s Labaron Philon (No. 43) informed his coach he`s `all-in on the draft.`
The NBA combine lacks the spectacle of the NFL combine, with no top prospects in scrimmages and limited media/fan access. Nevertheless, prospects view it as valuable for development, training, learning from NBA staff, meeting team personnel, and getting a taste of the NBA spotlight. It serves as a crucial transition step to the professional ranks, and its value seems to be growing for both the league and the players.
Standouts from Wednesday`s Scrimmages
Maxime Raynaud, F, Stanford
Raynaud likely had the most significant performance for his draft stock, scoring 20 points with 9 rebounds and 3 assists in 25 minutes. He measured well (taller than 7-foot barefoot, 237 pounds, 9-2 standing reach), comparable to Jakob Poeltl. Raynaud showed diverse skills, hitting on-the-move 3s, handling the ball on the perimeter, finding teammates, and scoring in the post with good footwork. Crucially, he displayed newfound intensity and physicality defensively, anchoring the paint and challenging ball-screens, despite defense being a college concern. His size, reach, improved physicality, and offensive skills make him highly attractive to teams seeking versatile 7-footers, boosting interest from potential first-rounders.
Yaxel Lendeborg, PF, UAB/Michigan
Building on excellent measurements and drills, Lendeborg had a strong performance in the scrimmages. His dimensions (6-10 in shoes, 7-4 wingspan, 9-½ standing reach) suggest he can play center in the NBA, especially with added weight to his 235-pound frame. However, his skills are those of a power forward; he created his own shot, grabbed defensive rebounds and pushed the ball, finishing with good footwork and touch. He hit difficult midrange pull-ups, showed good decision-making with the ball, and played with pace and high feel despite limited high-level experience. Defensively, he competed hard, crashed the glass, and generated turnovers through hustle. Teams with first-round picks are likely evaluating aggressively whether they can secure him, as he reportedly needs a firm guarantee to stay in the draft.
Tahaad Pettiford, PG, Auburn
Pettiford led all scrimmage scorers with 23 points, adding 8 assists, 1 turnover, and 2 steals. He consistently got to his spots with great pace, finishing skillfully. His explosive athleticism was highlighted by a thunderous finish and his 42-inch vertical leap (second best). His diverse shot-making, including difficult pull-up 3s, was evident. Beyond scoring, Pettiford improved his standing by showing better defense and playmaking than previously credited, bothering opponents and moving the ball unselfishly. His size (6-0¼ barefoot, 169 pounds, 6-5½ wingspan) is a drawback, but he possesses sheer explosiveness not seen in comparable NBA players. At 19, he has high potential.
Miles Byrd, SG/SF, San Diego State
Byrd showed exactly what scouts needed to see, scoring 11 points with three 3-pointers, flashing good passing, and contributing defensively with a steal and a block. While handling the ball more in college, he displayed positive habits and instincts away from the ball. He reinforced his potential as a 3-and-D player with length to disrupt passing lanes and a perimeter shot that improved from 30.1% last season to looking comfortable from distance in the combine. His college productivity, especially defensively, was intriguing. Proving he belongs in this setting helps. At 20, he can return to school if unsure about a guaranteed contract.
Lachlan Olbrich, C, Illawarra Hawks (Australia)
Olbrich had a strong week, earning a call-up from the G League Elite camp. He scored 15 points on efficient shooting (7-of-8) with 10 rebounds. Coming off a productive NBL season, the 21-year-old showed competitiveness and physicality on defense, worked hard on the glass, and was one of the most vocal players. While not highly skilled offensively, he finished well around the rim. Although undersized for an NBA center and not a shooting threat, his intangibles, feel, and understanding of his role as an energy big are valuable. As an auto-eligible international player, Olbrich has boosted his draft chances and could be a two-way contract candidate.
Alex Toohey, SF, Sydney Kings (Australia)
Toohey had a positive week, strengthening his case for first-round consideration. He measured better than expected (6-9 in shoes, nearly 6-11 wingspan), offering size for the power forward position long-term as he fills out his 223-pound frame. He shot surprisingly well, hitting 61% of aggregate jumpers and 3-of-5 from 3, showing confidence despite a 28% career average in the NBL. Toohey also did his usual strong work, showing good feel, positioning defensively, guarding wings and forwards, and moving the ball unselfishly. He was a high scorer in his scrimmage win but contributed in other areas. Overall, Toohey significantly helped his standing.
Hunter Sallis, SG, Wake Forest
Sallis finished with a game-high +23, scoring 14 points on efficient shooting with no turnovers. He created his own shot and was active on the glass with 10 rebounds. He showed defensive flashes and made an overall impact. Sallis is a consistent midrange pull-up shooter but needs to demonstrate value beyond scoring in the NBA. His 3-point shooting consistency (27% last season vs. 40% as a junior) is a key swing skill, though he hit his lone attempt on Wednesday. Measuring with a 6-10 wingspan, similar to Caleb Martin, Sallis needs another strong effort on Thursday.
Micah Peavy, SG/SF, Georgetown
Peavy showcased his `glue-guy` potential with an impressive +20 performance in a losing effort. He was highly active, making chasedown blocks, fighting through screens, generating steals, closing out hard on shooters, locking down guards, and grabbing eight rebounds. While not the most skilled scorer (struggled in shooting drills), he played unselfishly, moving the ball in transition and finding open shooters, and aggressively attacked the offensive glass. Turning 24 in July with average length, Peavy faces a challenge reaching the NBA, but his Wednesday performance was a significant positive step.
Ryan Nembhard, PG, Gonzaga
Nembhard, called up after impressing at the G League Elite camp, was arguably the best playmaker in the scrimmages. He recorded 13 points, eight assists, three steals, and just one turnover. The younger brother of Pacers guard Andrew Nembhard, Ryan had a strong college career. His main limitation is size (5-11 barefoot), but comparable players have had solid NBA careers. Nembhard`s creativity, willingness to pass, quickness, skill, and vision make him an excellent ball-screen player. He is likely heading for a two-way contract, with his unselfishness and instincts boosting teammates` performance.
Injury Updates
Kam Jones, G, Marquette: Jones left his scrimmage holding his hamstring and will sit out Thursday`s games for an MRI. The injury is not expected to be serious. He had seven points and three assists in 19 minutes.
Izan Almansa, F, Perth Wildcats (Spain): Almansa missed scrimmages due to an ankle injury from a workout last Thursday. He participated in testing and shooting drills but wasn`t healthy enough to play.
Kobe Sanders, G, Nevada: Sanders did not play Wednesday due to an ankle injury. He was a standout at the Portsmouth Invitational and shot well in Tuesday`s drills.
Buzz from Chicago
Coward Receiving Positive Feedback
Cedric Coward, a Washington State transfer committed to Duke, confirmed strong positive feedback from NBA teams, potentially enough to convince him to stay in the draft. He stated he is `100% on the draft` and that Duke`s staff supports his focus. His decision depends on the information received, which currently leans towards staying in the draft, aiming for the best outcome for himself and his family.
Condon Undecided on Staying in Draft
Florida forward Alex Condon, a borderline first-round prospect, stated he is waiting for an NBA team guarantee but didn`t specify the range. He acknowledged his good situation at Florida with teammates he won a national championship with, emphasizing the NBA situation must be favorable. He noted positive feedback from teams and is ready to stay in if warranted.
Projected First-Round Pick Lendeborg Split on Withdrawal
Michigan commit Yaxel Lendeborg, the highest-ranked prospect in Wednesday`s scrimmages, indicated he is genuinely torn about staying in the draft versus returning to Michigan. He expressed love for Michigan and the idea of developing there but also the universal desire for the NBA. His goal is to crack the top 20, which would make his decision easier.
Uzan`s Future Decision Pending
Milos Uzan, a potential top-40 pick, could significantly impact Houston`s preseason ranking. He remains undecided but is currently focused `all-in on the draft` to show teams his confidence. Houston`s coach reportedly supports his pursuit of the draft but assures him of a place if he returns.
Looking Ahead to Thursday
The second day of scrimmages often sees players withdraw, particularly if they performed well on the first day to protect their stock. Teams will continue private workouts organized by agencies on Thursday night and Friday before leaving Chicago.
Biggest Takeaway from Tuesday
Cooper Flagg demonstrated he is every bit the franchise player and clear No. 1 pick. His energy, charisma, and spirit were evident in all activities. He dominated drills with vocal leadership and pushed himself and teammates. Flagg measured 6-7¾ and 221 pounds, an inch taller and 12 pounds heavier than a year ago, with dimensions similar to a young Scottie Pippen. He shot well in drills, showing significant improvement. Despite initial shock from the lottery results, sources say Flagg is thrilled to potentially land in Dallas, joining a playoff team with veterans and a need at small forward. This situation, requiring him to take on significant offensive responsibility, is seen as beneficial for his long-term development.
Beyond the on-court activities, team executives were focused on the significant shifts caused by the lottery results. The Mavericks, who traded Luka Doncic, were rewarded with a chance at Flagg. Meanwhile, Jayson Tatum`s potential Achilles injury introduced major uncertainty for the Celtics. One executive called the injury “seismic and league changing.” The Celtics, expected contenders, face elimination and possible significant changes due to the injury and projected large payroll. San Antonio`s jump to No. 2 puts them in a strong position, significantly changing their future outlook.