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3 hours ago
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Lakers Fans Excited After Chris Paul News
Lakers Fans Excited After Chris Paul News originally appeared on Athlon Sports. The Los Angeles Lakers became a guard-driven team after flipping Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks for Luka Doncic in February, and it could stay that way for years to come. The latter star averaged a team-high 28.2 points per game in the regular season and 30.2 in the playoffs, while fellow guard Austin Reaves was third with 16.2 points in the postseason. Advertisement Meanwhile, future Hall of Famer Chris Paul was at home during the playoffs for the second straight season. The 40-year-old has made the postseason 15 times, but missed out with the Golden State Warriors in 2024 and the San Antonio Spurs this year. However, a new report suggests that Paul could attempt one more run at his first championship out west, via NBA insider Marc Stein. San Antonio Spurs guard Chris Paul (3)© Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images 'Chris Paul would be another [Dallas] Mavericks target at $5.7 million, but there is a growing belief that Paul — after starting all 82 games last season in San Antonio as a 39-year-old newcomer to the Spurs — is determined to play closer to his home base in Los Angeles if he indeed comes back for a 21st season,' he wrote on Friday. Advertisement The Wake Forest alum is an unrestricted free agent this offseason. Lakers fans on social media want to see him play for their team. "Luka, Reaves, DFS, Bron, Clax, CP3, NAW, Wiggins, Capela, Omggggggggggg," one said. "CP3 finally end up in LA? I think he will help more than hurt, so why not?" another asked. "Takes some more ball handling pressure from Bron and Luka. Especially if it's on a cheap deal." "Lakers Backup PG bye Gabe," another said. "I will love to see him playing alongside LeBron. That will be nice to watch," another said. "We bouta finally see Lebron & CP3 play together," another said. Advertisement Related: Lakers Turn Heads With Move Immediately After NBA Draft Related: NBA Fans React to Lakers-Timberwolves Trade This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 28, 2025, where it first appeared.
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14 hours ago
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Dylan Harper's mom goes viral at 2025 NBA Draft after Spurs selection
The post Dylan Harper's mom goes viral at 2025 NBA Draft after Spurs selection appeared first on ClutchPoints. New San Antonio Spurs guard Dylan Harper had a night to remember at the 2025 NBA Draft, but it was his mom, Maria Harper, who unexpectedly became the star of the show. As the 19-year-old shooting guard made his way across the stage after being picked second overall by the San Antonio Spurs, the cameras zoomed in on his family—and social media exploded with excitement. Advertisement Fans took to platforms like X to express their admiration for Maria's grace and elegance during her son's big moment. The reactions were a wonderful blend of awe and appreciation, with many people declaring her the true star of the evening. Her appearance alongside Dylan and his brother, Ron Jr., during a live interview with ESPN's Monica McNutt only fueled the viral excitement. But beyond the fleeting fame, Maria Harper has been a cornerstone in Dylan's basketball journey. A former Division I player at the University of New Orleans, she shifted gears to coaching nearly thirty years ago. Maria wasn't just a coach; she was a constant source of support for Dylan, guiding him from first grade all the way through his senior year in high school. Advertisement Their strong connection was clear when she talked about his 'determination, hard work, and humility' during the ESPN interview. Dylan, who shone at Rutgers and followed in the footsteps of his father, five-time NBA champion Ron Harper, has made it clear in past interviews that his mom was his first and most significant coach. Interestingly, Ron Harper Sr. remained seated in the crowd while Maria took the spotlight with Dylan during the broadcast. This choice highlighted the family dynamic, with Dylan crediting his mom for pushing him to excel and keeping him grounded. Maria supported Dylan's development as a student-athlete and as a person in her role as a former athlete, coach, and mentor. Advertisement Now that Dylan is beginning a new journey with the NBA, he will always remember his draft night—not only because he was drafted by the Spurs, but because this was a truly special moment demonstrating the power of a parent's support. Related: Why Spurs strike NBA Draft gold again with Carter Bryant Related: Victor Wembanyama calls Dylan Harper after Spurs' No. 2 pick
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14 hours ago
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Carter Bryant reveals unpopular legend he modeled his game after
The post Carter Bryant reveals unpopular legend he modeled his game after appeared first on ClutchPoints. Most San Antonio Spurs fans were ecstatic when the team picked Carter Bryant with the 14th overall pick of the NBA Draft. Perhaps it's a bit ironic then that the potential steal of the first round invoked Kawhi Leonard when asked which former Spurs his game might most compare to. Advertisement Leonard is undoubtedly the most unpopular former Spur among the proud franchise's fan base. Because it's now been seven years since the six-time All-Star asked out of San Antonio – a summer in which Bryant would've been 12 years old – he may not be aware of the bad blood that still exists. 'Immediately, the first guy I think of is Kawhi,' the former Arizona Wildcat answered. 'Just his defensive versatility, being able to guard multiple positions early on in his career. And, just, as you saw his progression.' It's obvious Bryant has tracked Leonard's career since the current Los Angeles Clipper won the 2014 NBA Finals MVP in leading San Antonio to their fifth championship. Advertisement 'He became one of the best players in the world, arguably a top-three player to be playing basketball at a time where Kevin Durant, Steph Curry, and LeBron [James] were pretty much solidified to be the top three. But he was really making a statement that he was one of the best players in the world as well.' Carter Bryant talks fit with the Spurs While Bryant mentioned Leonard, it's his fellow Spurs first round draft pick who'll wear 'The Klaw's' old number. 'Dylan [Harper], for sure, is gonna have two if nobody has two,' Bryant said of the second overall pick. 'I don't know. I gotta look at who has what numbers on the team,' he continued about which jersey number he'll wear. 'That's a great question.' Advertisement Bryant then mentioned Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle, De'Aaron Fox, who's made an All-Star game, and generational superstar Victor Wembanyama in scrolling through what number he'd settle on. 'I know Steph's got five. That's my dog. I'm not getting that off of him. Does D. Fox wear four? Yep, I can't get four, Fox is four. Four plus five for nine,' Bryant continued with a reference that he can't have nine because it's Tony Parker's retired number. 'Wemby's got the one. I'm gonna have to figure something out. It's all good.' Reports have since indicated Bryant will wear the number 11. In any event, there's little debate that he could have an early impact for a team that's looking to turn the corner and make the playoffs for the first time since 2019. Top analysts see Bryant as a player who can effectively fit the good '3 and D' model so many teams covet. Advertisement 'I see myself being a guy that can bring energy, toughness, physicality. Somebody that's just gonna show up on a consistent basis and just work his a** off. I feel like that's what I bring in.' The Spurs were pleasantly surprised that Bryant was there at 14. Expectations now shift. Don't be surprised if the 19-year-old wing gets some meaningful minutes for a young Spurs team that continues to improve on paper, Related: Sixers, Spurs highlight biggest winners of 2025 NBA Draft Related: Spurs' Dylan Harper shares eye-opening Giannis Antetokounmpo workout story
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18 hours ago
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Live 2025 NBA Draft grades for every 1st-round pick, trade
The post Live 2025 NBA Draft grades for every 1st-round pick, trade appeared first on ClutchPoints. It is officially time for the 2025 NBA Draft. Cooper Flagg is going to be the first pick for the Dallas Mavericks and Dylan Harper will be going second, but what happens after that is a major unknown. Advertisement We finally have the answers to all of the draft questions in live time with the NBA Draft underway. As the draft continues, ClutchPoints will be updating these live trade grades to recap and reflect the results of all the picks made. Did Ace Bailey ultimately end up in the best spot? What do we make of all the trades happening? Do the San Antonio Spurs and Philadelphia 76ers stand with their top draft picks? Here are initial grades and instant analysis on each of the 30 first-round picks made in the 2025 NBA Draft, starting with the Mavericks' selection at the top of the draft after selecting Flagg. 1. Dallas Mavericks – SF/PF Cooper Flagg – Duke Bob Donnan-Imagn Images There was no question about who the Mavericks were taking with the first pick. Flagg immediately steps into a primary role next to Anthony Davis as Kyrie Irving continues to rehab behind the scenes from an ACL injury. Dallas is primed for a bounce-back year during the 2025-26 season with Flagg helping elevate their play on both ends of the floor. Advertisement What makes Flagg such a unique prospect entering the league is that he is essentially a playmaking and facilitating forward who can score from anywhere on the court and find open teammates off the dribble. His work ethic is extremely high, and his versatility will allow the Mavericks to roll out a lot of different rotations. Flagg undoubtedly enters the 2025-26 NBA season as the favorite to win the Rookie of the Year award, and it shouldn't be long until he is in the discussion to be an All-Star. After trading Luka Doncic in February, this is the best thing that could have ever happened to the Mavericks. GRADE: A+ 2. San Antonio Spurs – PG/SG Dylan Harper – Rutgers Many thought that the San Antonio Spurs would look to trade this pick due to already having De'Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle, but league sources say the organization is thrilled to add Dylan Harper and create a very unique and dynamic backcourt trio. Advertisement Harper resembles everything teams look for in a franchise point guard. Although this may not be the best fit because of the presence of Fox and Castle, Harper will immediately make an impact in pick-and-roll sets, as well as playing the role of main facilitator and playmaker in different rotations alongside his two backcourt teammates. This pick opens up a lot of flexibility for the Spurs to pursue future trade opportunities involving superstar talents who become available. GRADE: A- 3. Philadelphia 76ers – SG VJ Edgecombe – Baylor Chris Jones-Imagn Images VJ Edgecombe's explosiveness off the dribble and abilities to defend multiple positions on the wing will allow him to contribute right away for a 76ers team that has high playoff aspirations looking ahead to the 2025-26 season. Early on, it seemed as if the Ace Bailey was the favorite to go in this spot. Instead, the Sixers favored Edgecombe's unique blend of athleticism and stability in his two-way play. Advertisement As far as the pick itself goes, the 76ers are taking a big risk. Tre Johnson is the best shooter in the draft who could have provided immediate scoring upside off the ball, and Bailey has star-like potential. Edgecombe can reach that level as well, but his handle can be shaky at times. Can he create opportunities for himself or will Tyrese Maxey be tasked with consistently feeding Edgecombe opportunities on offense? GRADE: B 4. Charlotte Hornets – SG/SF Kon Knueppel – Duke The Charlotte Hornets were involved in multiple trade discussions with teams leading up to the first round of the draft. Instead of taking Ace Bailey or sending this pick elsewhere, the Hornets took Kon Knueppel, a versatile wing they believe can be the bridge between LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller to elevate their offense. Advertisement Knueppel brings a level of toughness with him to Charlotte, as he can do a little bit of everything on the court. The only problem with this pick is that the Hornets likely could have traded down and still landed Knueppel. At the end of the day, the Hornets weren't willing to risk that with Utah showing a level of interest in Knueppel, so they get their top guy with the fourth pick. Ace Bailey falling past the fourth pick was something nobody thought would happen before the NBA Draft Lottery in May. GRADE: B- 5. Utah Jazz – SG/SF Ace Bailey – Rutgers Tom Horak-Imagn Images When the Utah Jazz lost out on the chance of landing a top-4 pick in this year's draft, it seemed like they would once again miss out on getting a high-level talent. Well, the stars aligned for new executive Austin Ainge, as Ace Bailey is now one of the featured stars of the Jazz next to Lauri Markkanen. Advertisement Many have questioned Bailey's work ethic and character, but now he gets to go to a high-character organization in Salt Lake City where the focus of the media won't always be on him. This may be the best thing to happen to Bailey, as he will be able to mature quicker and immediately be a star-like player for a rebuilding team. Bailey is a star in the making. He is an elite finisher and shot-maker who could become the best player from this draft class next to Cooper Flagg. This is a fantastic pick and some amazing luck for the Jazz. GRADE: A+ 6. Washington Wizards – SG Tre Johnson – Texas Tre Johnson is the best perimeter shooter in the 2025 NBA Draft and he provides immediate upside on the wing for a rebuilding Washington Wizards team. Although Washington was hoping Bailey would fall their way, Johnson will fit into any rotation they throw him in because of his length and shot-making abilities. Advertisement There was a lot of debate between Johnson and Jeremiah Fears for this spot. After trading Jordan Poole, it seemed as if the Wizards would replace him with Fears, but instead, they improved offensively on the wing with the Texas product. After leading the SEC in scoring as a freshman, Johnson enters the NBA with elite shooting skills and the ability to become Washington's top-scoring option. GRADE: A- 7. New Orleans Pelicans – PG Jeremiah Fears – Oklahoma Jeremiah Fears is an 18-year-old point guard who checks off all the boxes to become a franchise-altering backcourt talent. What the New Orleans Pelicans really fell in love with Fears is his fearlessness, no pun intended! Advertisement This guy has a high motor despite being an undersized guard, and he isn't afraid of any challenge that comes his way. Fears can shoot, facilitate an offense, and he will immediately slide into a key role next to Jordan Poole while Dejounte Murray recovers from his Achilles injury. The Pelicans wanted to address their backcourt with new leadership in the front office, and now they have done so with the additions of Poole and Fears before free agency. New Orleans got the player with the highest potential left on the board in this spot. GRADE: A 8. Brooklyn Nets – PG/SG Egor Demin Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images Although they attempted to move up in the draft before Wednesday, the Brooklyn Nets ultimately kept their eighth pick and ended up with Egor Demin, a player they have been locked in on since the NBA Draft Combine in May. Advertisement Demin has size, he can create plays as a lead guard from anywhere on the floor, and scouts are very optimistic about his shooting abilities. If the Nets can build their roster around Demin and continue to add shooters and scorers on the wing, Demin will thrive. At 6-foot-9 with the ability to put the ball on the floor and make plays, the Nets have craved a path forward for themselves by adding Demin next to Cam Thomas. GRADE: A- 9. Toronto Raptors – PF Collin Murray-Boyles – South Carolina Throughout the pre-draft process, Collin Murray-Boyles constantly bounced around the draft board. Some thought he would be a top-10 pick, while others expected him to fall out of the lottery. Advertisement His intensity and athleticism on defense are what attracted a team like the Toronto Raptors, who always go for this mold of player in the draft. The concern surrounding Murray-Boyles is whether he can develop a consistent offensive game and jump shot. The Raptors have a growing roster with a lot more depth than people tend to give them credit for around Scottie Barnes. Murray-Boyles will immediately be a versatile forward who could even see some time at the center position in small-ball lineups when Jakob Poeltl isn't in the game. This isn't the best pick inside the top 10 for value, especially with Khaman Maluach on the board, but the fit makes sense. GRADE: B- 10. Phoenix Suns – C Khaman Maluach – Duke Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images When the Phoenix Suns traded Kevin Durant and acquired the 10th pick, the word around the league is that they would target frontcourt depth, with Murray-Boyles being on their shortlist of prospects. Phoenix never thought that Khaman Maluach would be on the board for them, yet here we are with the best pick of the draft outside of Flagg, Harper, and Bailey. Advertisement Maluach is the best big man in this draft class and he is the picture-perfect fit for this organization. At 7-foot-1 with a near 7-7 wingspan, Maluach can be a lob threat that has shown flashes of his potential to step out on the perimeter. Defensively, the Suns were one of the worst teams in the league last season. Now, they add Maluach as a prime shot-blocking center to anchor what they hope to be a new and improved roster. GRADE: A+ 11. *TRADE* Memphis Grizzlies – SG Cedric Coward – Washington State *This pick belonged to the Portland Trail Blazers and is being traded to the Memphis Grizzlies. A few years ago, Cedric Coward wasn't playing Division I basketball. Last season, he played only six games at Washington State before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury. Now, he has gone from a transfer to Duke to being a lottery pick. Advertisement What a story this is for Coward, who teams fell in love with throughout the pre-draft process because of his high IQ and character. Between his 7-foot-2 wingspan and his ability to light things up from the perimeter, Coward checks off all the boxes for being a potential star and steal in this draft. The Memphis Grizzlies are acquiring this pick from the Portland Trail Blazers, league sources told ClutchPoints. Coward can easily help fill the void left behind by Desmond Bane and will continue to provide the Grizzlies with athletic two-way players who can impact the game in different ways. GRADE: A+ 12. Chicago Bulls – PF Noa Essengue – France (Ratiopharm Ulm – BBL) Nikola Vucevic is entering the final year of his contract and the Chicago Bulls made it clear they were adding a frontcourt player with the 12th pick. Chicago needed to roll the dice with this pick, and they are taking a swing at French big man Noa Essengue, who is one of the better athletes at the power forward/center position in this draft class. Advertisement Essengue can run in transition and he possesses excellent skill in the paint. One season after taking Matas Buzelis, the Bulls continue to add versatility and length to their roster with this pick. While it could turn out to be a great pick in a few years, Essengue is still pretty raw and needs some work to be a factor. GRADE: B- 13. *TRADE* New Orleans Pelicans – C Derik Queen – Maryland *This pick belonged to the Atlanta Hawks and is being traded to the New Orleans Pelicans. Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images There was a lot of talk leading up to Wednesday's draft about if the New Orleans Pelicans would seriously consider taking Derik Queen with the 7th pick. After going with Jeremiah Fears, their point guard of the future, the Pelicans now add a prospect they fell in love with in the pre-draft process. Advertisement Some teams have concerns about Queen's shooting and athleticism as a starting center, but not the Pelicans. He will immediately provide scoring depth in the frontcourt and a big-body rebounder next to Zion Williamson. There is no denying that Queen's playmaking abilities at the center position and his feel for the game in the post stand out. The Pelicans gave up the 23rd pick and an unprotected first-round pick in 2026 for Queen. GRADE: B 14. San Antonio Spurs – SG/SF Carter Bryant – Arizona The Spurs, several picks after taking Dylan Harper, add more length and athleticism with the best player available in this spot: Carter Bryant. Advertisement San Antonio projects to be a very fast-paced team with Harper, Wembanyama, Fox, Castle, and now Bryant added to the mix. The Arizona wing will bring a quick burst, defensive versatility, and length to the Spurs. It may take some time for him to carve out a consistent role, but the Spurs continue to stockpile talent on their roster at every position. GRADE: A- 15. Oklahoma City Thunder – C Thomas Sorber Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images Before the NBA Draft, the Oklahoma City Thunder were heavily involved in trade talks linking them to teams inside the lottery. The Thunder were said to be offering their 15th and 24th picks to try and move up. Instead, they hold off on making a trade and land Thomas Sorber, a center that climbed draft boards in recent weeks. Advertisement While he is still recovering from foot surgery he had in February, Sorber proved to be an impactful center during his freshman year with the Hoyas. He averaged 14.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks while shooting 53.2 percent from the floor in 24 games. Sorber is a lob threat, a rim-runner, and a productive player from the perimeter as a passer and pick-and-roll player. Looking ahead, the Thunder are going to give massive contracts to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren. As a result, Isaiah Hartenstein is likely to be the odd man out in a few years, which is why Sorber will be a developmental project behind the scenes. Do not expect him to contribute right away, as the rich get richer here with a high-potential prospect they can mold however they would like. GRADE: A 16. *TRADE* Portland Trail Blazers – C Hansen Yang – China (Qingdao Double Star Eagles – CBA) *This pick belonged to the Memphis Grizzlies and is being traded to the Portland Trail Blazers. Advertisement What are the Portland Trail Blazers doing? Cedric Coward would have been a terrific addition for them. Plenty of high-level talents like Kasparas Jakucionis and Asa Newell, who Portland had interest in, were available here. But instead, the Trail Blazers selected Chinese big man Hansen Yang, who everyone viewed as a second-round prospect. This is the biggest reach we have seen in recent years, as the Blazers could have traded down to 30 and still drafted Yang. Why would the Blazers do this? Nobody has the answer to this. Regardless of how high Portland is on Yang, this roster already has Donovan Clingan, Robert Williams III, and Deandre Ayton. This is the shocker of all shockers. GRADE: F 17. Minnesota Timberwolves – C Joan Beringer – France (Cedevita Olimpija – ABA) With the uncertain futures of Julius Randle and Naz Reid heading into free agency, the Minnesota Timberwolves are adding Joan Beringer, a late bloomer in the pre-draft process who has a lot of potential to follow in the footsteps of fellow Frenchman Rudy Gobert in Minneapolis. Advertisement At 6-foot-11 with a near 7-5 wingspan, Beringer projects to be a lengthier version of what Jarrett Allen is for the Cleveland Cavaliers. His rim-running abilities and shot-blocking prowess will be utilized right away behind Gobert. The 18-year-old originally aspired to be a soccer player overseas, but when he hit a growth spurt in 2020 and 2021, Beringer became a basketball player. He is still very raw and has a lot of room for growth, but Beringer is immediately able to make an impact as a shot blocker who will eventually replace Gobert. GRADE: B+ 18. *TRADE* Washington Wizards – PG Walter Clayton Jr. – Florida Bob Donnan-Imagn Images *This pick belonged to the Washington Wizards and is being traded to the Utah Jazz. Advertisement Fresh off his national championship run at Florida, Walter Clayton Jr. now heads to Salt Lake City with Ace Bailey to become one of the featured names in the Jazz backcourt. Utah moved up three spots from Pick No. 21 to grab Clayton, as they are also sending the No. 43rd pick and two future second-round picks to the Wizards, sources said. Clayton is a score-first guard who was electric during his team's March Madness run. The 22-year-old guard isn't afraid of big moments, and he can create his own shot every possession unlike other guards available in this spot. In his first draft with the Jazz, Austin Ainge has now landed two of the premier college talents in Bailey and Clayton. GRADE: A+ 19. Brooklyn Nets – PG Nolan Traore – France (Saint-Quentin – LNB) Nolan Traore has been linked to the Brooklyn Nets for quite some time. Even after taking Egor Demin earlier, Traore can fit in with Brooklyn because he plays very fast in the open court and he is an exceptional ball-handler. Advertisement What makes Traore a special player is his size and creativity as a lead playmaker in transition. Traore possesses a 6-foot-8 wingspan and was once considered a top-10 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft before having an up-and-down season in France. The one area of improvement he displayed was from the perimeter, as Traore is a much better 3-point shooting threat than people give him credit for. Traroe and Demin now become a dynamic duo in the Nets' backcourt. GRADE: B+ 20. Miami Heat – PG Kasparas Jakucionis – Illinois It is a little surprising to see Kasparas Jakucionis, a projected lottery pick, fall to the 20th selection in the NBA Draft. With that said, this isn't the best fit for him. Jakucionis is a strong playmaker, but there are concerns about his overall scoring abilities and perimeter skills. Some view Jakucionis as the best-facilitating guard in this class, yet others are genuinely concerned about if he can hold his own against stronger, faster players in the NBA. If there is one thing we know about Erik Spoelstra and the Heat, it's that they will teach Jakucionis how to defend and be a versatile player on that end of the floor. At the end of the day, he is a 6-foot-6 guard who will take pressure off Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo to have to constantly create scoring opportunities for others. The Illinois product won't have to be the top option for the Heat to find success. GRADE: B- 21. *TRADE* Washington Wizards – SG/SF Will Riley – Illinois Ron Johnson-Imagn Images *This pick belonged to the Utah Jazz and is being traded to the Washington Wizards. Would you look at that? We got back-to-back Illinois Illini picks in the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft! Riley is going to the Washington Wizards as part of the previous trade where Utah moved up to No. 18 and selected Walter Clayton Jr. The Illinois freshman is a score-first wing who has a lot of potential to be one of the highest-upside picks from the back end of this year's draft. He displayed his strong attacking abilities at Illinois and has the potential to be a key shooting weapon on the bench for a rebuilding team like the Wizards. GRADE: B 22. Brooklyn Nets – SG Drake Powell – North Carolina Drake Powell is one of the biggest mysteries in the NBA Draft. After a limited role and one year at UNC, Powell maintained his position to remain in the draft after measuring and interviewing well at the combine in May. The Nets continue rebuilding with length, speed, and high-potential players — Powell being the latest to join the equation. Some say Powell has lottery potential due to the glimpses of two-way abilities he displayed at North Carolina, along with his 3-point shooting numbers. But the problem some have with the 19-year-old is that he hasn't played enough to enter the league and not be someone who has to earn his stripes through the G League. Brooklyn has time to wait and develop him into a real two-way threat. GRADE: B- 23. *TRADE* Atlanta Hawks – PF Asa Newell – Georgia Dale Zanine-Imagn Images *This pick belonged to the New Orleans Pelicans and is being traded to the Atlanta Hawks. Asa Newell was born in Atlanta, he played college ball at Georgia, and now he gets to be the hometown kid for the Atlanta Hawks. This is a fantastic, high-value pick for the Hawks, as Newell was mocked to Atlanta in the lottery region by many analysts around the country. Newell is a 6-foot-9 big man who can immediately be a strong defensive player due to his plug-and-play mindset. 'You can put me in different areas of the court and be confident in my production,' Newell said. 'Whether it's guarding the best player or being able to switch on any sort of screens, I hold myself to a high standard on standing out this way,' Newell told ClutchPoints in an exclusive interview. 'As I prepare to enter the NBA, I do so knowing that I play with fire and an energy that is contagious.' This is a high-value, low-risk pick for the Hawks. GRADE: A 24. *TRADE* Sacramento Kings – SG Nique Clifford – Colorado State *This pick belonged to the OKC Thunder and is being traded to the Sacramento Kings. Nique Clifford is the definition of a player who can come in and immediately contribute to a playoff-contending team, and that is because of his versatility. The senior guard offers a lot of unique traits from rebounding to scoring to passing to defending multiple positions. However, the Sacramento Kings aren't positioned to make the playoffs and are inching closer to a rebuild. This is an interesting pick for new GM Scott Perry, who made it clear that he wanted to add a point guard this offseason. By taking Clifford, it continues to look likely that Malik Monk's days are numbered. Clifford is a terrific player, but the draft grade resembles the fit with Sacramento, who don't seem to have a direction right now. GRADE: C+ 25. Orlando Magic – SG Jase Richardson – Michigan State Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images After once being labeled as one of the better guard prospects in the 2025 draft class, Jase Richardson slipped all the way to the 25th pick because of concerns surrounding his ability to make the right decision with the ball as a primary playmaker. Then again, Richardson is a sharpshooting guard, as he shot 41.2 percent from 3-point range at Michigan State this year. Jase, the son of former 13-year NBA veteran Jason Richardson, now has a new home in Orlando, and they will look to polish his ball-handling skills and defensive instincts. GRADE: B- 26. Brooklyn Nets – PG/SG Ben Saraf – Israel (Ratiopharm Ulm – BBL) Ben Saraf is one of the more NBA-ready guards in the 2025 NBA Draft, and he could immediately provide both depth and playmaking. At 6-foot-6 with a high IQ and knowledge of how to get others involved off the dribble, Saraf fits the mold of a Ricky Rubio-like player for Brooklyn. He is a solid scorer off the dribble and he is still only 19 years old with room to grow. This is the fourth selection that the Nets have made, and it's another guard. It has become clear that Sean Marks wants options in his backcourt moving forward. GRADE: B 27. Brooklyn Nets – PF/C Danny Wolf – Michigan Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images There was talk of Danny Wolf potentially going as high as 10th to the Suns. However, the general perception surrounding Wolf was that he would be available in the middle of the first round. The Nets get a lot of value with the 27th pick by taking Wolf; a 7-footer who plays like a guard trapped in a big man's body. It is rare to find a frontcourt talent like Wolf who can put the ball on the floor and score while also finding open shooters around him. Jordi Fernandez can utilize Wolf in a lot of different rotations given that he can be a primary facilitator on the court at the top of the arc. This year at Michigan, he shot 13.2 points and 9.7 rebounds per game while shooting 33.6 percent from 3-point range. On the opposite side of things, he did average 3.2 turnovers per game because he was essentially Michigan's point guard at the power forward position. GRADE: B 28. Boston Celtics – SG Hugo Gonzalez – Spain (Real Madrid – Liga AC) Hugo Gonzalez possesses the potential to be a two-way factor in time. While he has not had the most productive season with Real Madrid, he is a lengthy shooting guard who tends to find open space on offense as a cutter off the ball. This is a draft-and-stash pick for Boston, which is surprising given centers like Maxime Raynaud and Ryan Kalkbrenner on the board. The Boston Celtics just traded Kristaps Porzingis and do not have virtually any frontcourt depth on their roster right now. Many in Boston are going to question why management didn't opt to add one of the better centers available in this spot over Gonzalez, who isn't ready for the NBA. GRADE: C 29. *TRADE* Phoenix Suns – SG/SF Liam McNeeley – UConn Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images *This pick belonged to the Phoenix Suns and is being traded to the Charlotte Hornets. Liam McNeeley had one of the widest ranges out of any prospect in the first round, and he ended up barely escaping a fall into the second round of the draft. Injuries really limited McNeeley's freshman season at UConn, and they have caused some concerns about his overall outlook entering the NBA. McNeeley has shooting potential, though, and he can fill multiple roles on the wing as a spot-up shooter. Why the Hornets would select McNeeley after already taking Knueppel is interesting. Charlotte needed shooters, and now they get two of the better ones in this draft. GRADE: C+ 30. Los Angeles Clippers – Yanic Konan Niederhauser Yanic Konan Niederhauser consistently moved up NBA Draft boards over the last month to the point where he solidified his status as a first-round pick with the Los Angeles Clippers. He is a high-flying, acrobatic center who can instantly be a lob threat at the next level in pick-and-roll sets with James Harden. However, Niederhauser is far from a complete product and is still a very raw defender. It will be interesting to see how he fits in behind Ivica Zubac, as the Clippers desperately needed more big-man help. Niederhauser possesses a large frame with a 7-foot-3 wingspan and always plays well above the rim, which is why he can be a change-of-pace center who runs in transition for LA. This isn't a bad pick, despite Maxime Raynaud and Ryan Kalkbrenner still being on the board. Related: Pelicans, Hawks trade grades for 2025 NBA Draft deal Related: Maxime Raynaud headlines best 2025 NBA Draft prospects remaining after 1st round GRADE: B-
Time of India
18 hours ago
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- Time of India
Why Dylan Harper's workout with Giannis Antetokounmpo could change his NBA future
Why Dylan Harper's workout with Giannis could change his NBA future (Image Source: Getty Images) The pre-draft workout of Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo with San Antonio Spurs rookie Dylan Harper has become one of the most iconic moments in the career of the latter that can become a staple of how he is going to view professional basketball in the future. On the Carmelo Anthony podcast, 7 PM in Brooklyn, the no. 2 overall pick of the 2025 NBA Draft recently explained how he was able to be switched on after a single workout session and was able to be exposed to championship-level discipline. Giannis Antetokounmpo's masterclass in precision and patience The training session showed that Giannis Antetokounmpo has an amazing dedication to perfection, especially his mantra of remaining at particular shooting positions to twenty minutes of trying to perfect the shot. Harper had assumed that he would just be playing informally one-on-one; however, what he found was an NBA-level training session. The Milwaukee Bucks forward discussed the principle of the so-called kill spots on the court - places in which a special player can gain control even against the player of the Defensive Player of the Year level. The teaching style of Antetokounmpo was based on the idea that a person cannot be perfect, but he can be close to being perfect, and this is how championship mentality values the process, rather than the final outcome. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like The Most Beautiful Women In The World Undo This systematic training, compared with Harper's previous experiences of Harper, and the young guard had to re-examine his ideas of professional preparation quality. The meeting of Harper and the two-time NBA Most Valuable Player went down prior to his freshman year at Rutgers University, and his teammate, Ace Bailey, was later drafted fifth overall by the Utah Jazz. This early exposure made Harper privy to the process of preparation and the intensity of details, which has made Antetokounmpo one of the toughest forces in the league. San Antonio Spurs' development culture aligns perfectly with Harper's new mindset The development of Harper fits perfectly with the player development system in San Antonio Spurs, which has always brought out the best in rookies since the birth of the franchise. The history of the organisation is marked by turning high draft picks such as Tim Duncan, Kawhi Leonard, and Victor Wembanyama into championship-level players by adhering to the principles of disciplined and goal-oriented approaches to training. Already having secured back-to-back Rookie of the Year awards with other Spurs draft picks, Harper wants to add to this record while drawing on the experience of what he learned watching Antetokounmpo. The franchise's focus of fundamentals and step-by-step development reflects the Harper work ethic he experienced during his workout with the Greek Freak. The next time the San Antonio Spurs take the field will be in October of 2025, as the team starts its 2025-26 season, and fans will be able to see the progression of the rookie season of Dylan Harper as the complete schedule will be announced later this summer. Also Read: NBA draft news: Oklahoma City Thunder take Brooks Barnhizer at No. 44 despite season-ending foot injury Harper enters his professional career equipped not only with natural talent but also with championship-level wisdom gained from one of basketball's most respected competitors, positioning him for potential stardom in San Antonio. Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
