Unexpected Gems in the NBA Draft Landscape
In the NBA landscape, franchises are constantly on the hunt for standout players, desperately seeking superstars or promising starters through the draft process. Typically, these athletes are sought out as lottery picks or found later in the first round, yet some gems emerge from unexpected places, showcasing remarkable talent that wasn’t evident during their high school years. While names like Cooper Flagg and Dylan Harper dominate discussions around prized prospects, a select few players, often overlooked, are now making headlines as they eye potential selections in the upcoming 2025 NBA Draft, taking place on June 25-26, at 8 p.m. ET, aired on ABC and ESPN.
Profiles of Rising Stars
These five athletes didn’t enter college basketball as household names. Instead, many were late bloomers who may have faced adversity, transferred schools for better opportunities, or simply matured through rigorous training to become formidable prospects. With their journeys highlighted, these players demonstrate that resilience, determination, and a willingness to learn can elevate an average player into an NBA-ready talent. Let’s take a closer look at these rising stars and their paths to potential draft prominence.
Cedric Coward – Washington State (Projected: Mid First Round)
Coward’s career has been as unique as it is inspiring, starting at Division III Willamette, where he averaged 19.5 points. His impressive performance caught the eye of Eastern Washington coach David Riley, leading to his transfer. At Eastern, Coward flourished, averaging 15.4 points and 6.7 rebounds. His move to Washington State was strategic; Coward’s sights were set firmly on the NBA and not short-term gains, as noted by his agent. His brief yet impactful stint at Washington State included several explosive games but was cut short by injury. Despite this, his standout performance at the NBA draft combine has positioned him as a contender for a first-round selection. Coward’s shooting prowess, evidenced by his high rankings in various drills at the combine, combined with his strong team-first mentality, has turned heads among scouts.
Danny Wolf – Michigan (Projected: Mid First Round)
Wolf’s basketball journey began at Lake Forest Academy and later at Northfield Mount Hermon. Known for his exceptional skills, he initially faced a setback when he was recruited by Michigan only for a walk-on position, leading to a commitment to Yale. After a challenging freshman season, Wolf broke out, promoting him as the Ivy League’s leading NBA prospect. A subsequent transfer to Michigan allowed him to shine, where his unique playmaking ability solidified his reputation as a potential late first-round pick. Scouts admire his remarkable passing skills for a player of his size, with hopes for further development in his defensive play.
Ryan Kalkbrenner – Creighton (Projected: Late First Round)
Kalkbrenner came into the spotlight with a solid reputation as a high school player, boasting four-star status but chose Creighton over several top programs. His college career was marred by injury but highlighted by consistent growth, ultimately earning the title of Big East Defensive Player of the Year multiple times. His excellent fundamentals, coupled with a substantial wingspan and effective scoring ability, have scouts buzzing with potential as he aims for first-round status.
Walter Clayton Jr. – Florida (Projected: Late First Round)
Clayton’s rise in basketball began in high school, where he led his team to state championships despite limited exposure due to COVID-19 disruptions. Evaluated as a three-star player initially, he earned a scholarship from Iona before moving to Florida, where he quickly established himself as a scoring threat. His pivotal role in leading the Gators to a national title and impressive tournament performances have drawn comparisons to successful NBA guards, positioning him well for a solid draft pick.
Chaz Lanier – Tennessee (Projected: Second Round)
Lanier’s transformation into a promising prospect is a testament to hard work and resilience. Starting from modest beginnings, he significantly improved his scoring capabilities during his college career, culminating in standout performances at Tennessee, where he set records for three-pointers made. His quick shooting release and deep range have placed him on the radar as a potential late first-round pick, showcasing how dedication and skill enhancement can elevate an athlete’s drafting potential.
Conclusion
These players exemplify the idea that success in the NBA often comes from hard work, determination, and the unwavering belief in one’s abilities, even when the odds seem stacked against them.
