Tony Reali has had dream jobs before.

As a student at Fordham University in the Bronx, New York, Reali grabbed a student-radio station (WFUV) microphone and covered his beloved Yankees. He became ‘Stat Boy’ on arguably the greatest sports television program ever, ‘Pardon The Interruption.’ Of course, Reali made his own mark on the industry host as host of ‘Around The Horn’ over the past two decades.

But with the ‘ATH’ closing for business May 23, Reali is searching for the next dream job. He hasn’t publicly announced anything yet. But he’s been on the search for a bit since ESPN decided to remove ‘Horn’ from its daily lineup.

People close to Reali, whose contract lasts until August, have asked him what he’s expecting May 24 to be like. He understands he’s given a lot to show – as in his entire heart, every day, for more than 20 years.

“I’m not worried in the least,” Reali told USA TODAY Sports. “I have lots of ideas.’

Reali recognizes he operates from a different playbook than the traditional sportscaster. He’s the type of person who wants to create, invent and ‘cook a little bit with the Reali sauce’ as he put it. He wants his content to be attached to doing the biggest games but also wants to enjoy the modern media landscape that opens up the possibility of ownership over that content.

Reali loves game shows and children and kids shows. That could be a potential avenue.

‘I have a lot of interests, and more energy than interests,’ he said. ‘And I’m happy and I’m hungry.’

As a host, Reali came across as somebody who didn’t interject much opinion and was responsible for keeping the show moving. He wants to show that he can be kind and also mix it up without being a doormat.

The Final Horn: Why sports TV will never be the same without ‘Around the Horn’

Reali had a system of trying to make panelists forget they were about to do live (to tape) TV. The method was inspired by Cesar Millan, of ‘Dog Whisperer’ fame. His other muses were Regis Philbin and Anthony Bourdain, and he combined some of their style with his ‘outer-borough charm.’

“You’ll find out the person who needed to be muted all along was the host,” Reali, 46, said.

Reali floated the idea of obtaining the technology to conduct ‘Around The Horn’ with fans of the show from his home and through a personal website – kind of like a ‘Cameo’ for sports debates.

“I’m so grateful, as I said,’ Reali said. ‘I think everyone needs to recognize things go away because they have to go away, because there’s more to grow. And I’m not going anywhere. My goal is to connect with viewers, as we always have, in an energetic and fun way. More smiles to come.” 

Anyone looking for the next Cam Ward might want to settle in for an extended wait.

To most, the No. 1 pick of the Tennessee Titans in this year’s NFL draft didn’t clear the threshold of a ‘generational’ talent that his future team first floated months before his selection. But his path to the point is a unique one unlikely to be followed anytime soon. Passed over by almost every college as a zero-star quarterback who operated in a Wing-T offense in high school, he climbed from Incarnate Word at the Football Championship Subdivision to Washington State before last year transferring to Miami (Fla.), where he would become arguably the most dynamic passer in college football. At a position where players tend to be known commodities from their early high school years, it’s unlikely that anyone will replicate this meteoric rise right away.

But that doesn’t mean that the outlook at quarterback in any given draft is static. In recent years, several quarterbacks have rocketed into the early first round, with the likes of Jayden Daniels, Michael Penix Jr. and Anthony Richardson among those who changed the conversation about their capabilities thanks to stellar final seasons.

With evaluation efforts now turning toward 2026, there are already several entities who have become fixtures of way-too-early mock drafts, including Penn State’s Drew Allar, LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier and, yes, even Texas’ Arch Manning. But keep an eye on these 10 quarterbacks who could enjoy a significant rise in next year’s draft with a strong showing this upcoming season:

LaNorris Sellers, South Carolina

Maybe it seems like a cheat to include Sellers on this list, as he’s squarely in the conversation of candidates to be the first quarterback taken next spring. To reach that point, however, he’ll need to raise his baseline when operating from the pocket. Nevertheless, his inherent electricity as a dual-threat playmaker makes tolerating his unevenness more than worthwhile. The 6-3, 242-pounder might be one of the most formidable rushing threats behind center from the moment he enters the NFL, and he stands out as perhaps college football’s pre-eminent creator thanks to his ability to deliver strikes to every level of the field. If Sellers can become a more decisive and anticipatory passer while also cleaning up the fumbling issues that dogged his debut starting campaign, he’ll have few peers capable of measuring up to him in the draft.

Fernando Mendoza, Indiana

With Carson Beck (Georgia to Miami) and John Mateer (Washington State to Oklahoma) each headed to new schools, Mendoza was hardly the headliner among quarterbacks in this winter’s transfer portal rush. But his move might be among the most consequential for next year’s draft. In leaving Cal for Indiana, Mendoza departs a program that was sapped of its top talent – the Golden Bears lost five running backs to the transfer portal as well as their No. 1 receiver and tight end, among others – for one infusing its roster with even more promising players. After helping develop another tall, strong-armed transfer in Kurtis Rourke last season, Indiana coach Curt Cignetti should be well-positioned to guide the progress of his new 6-5, 225-pound passer. Mendoza can operate far more quickly and with more precision (68.7% completion rate last season) than Rourke did, but he’ll need to better navigate pressure after taking 41 sacks last season – the most of any returning passer in the Football Bowl Subdivision.

Sawyer Robertson, Baylor

The Mississippi State transfer didn’t receive widespread recognition in 2024, as he only took over as starter three games into the year. Now, however, Robertson could be in line to receive his proper due. The 6-4, 220-pound signal-caller is one of the country’s most precise downfield passers, and his heady play helped propel the Bears to a 6-0 run to end the regular season before the team fell to LSU in the Texas Bowl. His prototypical build and arm strength are major pluses, but his ability to balance an attacking mentality while infrequently putting the ball in harm’s way reveals that he’s more than merely just a package of traits. And with enough athleticism to escape the pocket and extend plays, he looks like exactly the kind of quarterback who can raise his profile significantly with another impressive campaign.

Eli Holstein, Pitt

After leaving Alabama following just one season spent redshirting, the former four-star recruit acclimated nicely to his new setting, throwing for 15 touchdowns in his first five games. The Panthers’ up-tempo offense under new coordinator Kade Bell hit a midseason snag, however, with the team dropping its final six games after starting 7-0. Holstein’s health played a major factor in that unraveling; the 6-4, 225-pounder missed almost the entirety of Pitt’s final four contests due to leg and head injuries. With ample arm strength to push the ball downfield, the redshirt sophomore should have little trouble catching scouts’ eyes, whether for the 2026 draft or beyond. Holstein will need to stay healthy and prove he can hold up against top competition after feasting on the leaner part of last year’s schedule, but if he’s afforded better protection along with more playmaking support at the skill positions, he could resume his ascent.

Nico Iamaleava, UCLA

True scorched-earth scenarios are few and far between in the NFL draft – at least for players of a certain level of ability. That’s the silver lining for Iamaleava as he navigates the fallout from his unceremonious split with Tennessee following a practice no-show and widespread reports of a clash over name, image and likeness pay. The 6-6, 215-pound passer still has considerable work to do to deliver on the immense potential he teased as the former No. 2 overall recruit who built an immense buzz before even taking the field. But if he can elevate an offense that ranked in the bottom 10 in the FBS for scoring (18.4 points per game), Iamaleava can put the focus back on his physical tools and quiet – at least temporarily – the discussion about off-field matters.

Dante Moore, Oregon

Iamaleava isn’t the only former five-star quarterback from the 2023 recruiting class in need of a do-over. Moore joined the Ducks last year after an inauspicious freshman campaign at UCLA in which he completed just 53.5% of his passes and threw for 11 touchdowns with nine interceptions. After sitting for a season, he’ll take over an offense that boasted Heisman Trophy finalists in each of the last two years with Bo Nix and Dillon Gabriel – who were both fellow transfers as well. Moore will have to reaffirm the poise and precision that made him such a highly sought-after recruit, but Oregon should equip him with the proper schematic and personnel support to allow him to flourish.

Miller Moss, Louisville

Few players in the transfer portal era have exhibited the patience of Moss, who spent three years as a backup before getting his shot to become the starter at USC. After setting a Holiday Bowl record with six touchdown passes in place of Caleb Williams and then opening last season with a dazzling win over LSU, everything seemed to be falling into place for him to be Lincoln Riley’s next prized passer. But Moss was benched after nine games, and now he’s taking over for the team he torched in his first career start. No one will confuse the 6-1, 205-pounder with Tyler Shough, the 6-5, 219-pound signal-caller who became a second-round draft pick – and potential rookie starter for the New Orleans Saints – thanks to his career resurgence with the Cardinals in 2024. But in teaming up with one of college football’s most acclaimed offensive minds in coach Jeff Brohm, Moss could be poised to follow his predecessor’s path with a reset that allows him to get his development back on track.

Austin Simmons, Mississippi

Placement on this list might seem far-fetched given that Simmons has yet to make a single start in his career. But after skipping two grades in high school and graduating from Mississippi earlier this month at 19, the 6-4, 215-pound lefty – who also was a relief pitcher for the school last year before deciding to focus on football – is a clear outlier. Simmons gave a glimpse of his capabilities when he stepped in temporarily for injured starter Jaxson Dart to complete five of six passes for 64 yards in the Rebels’ upset win over Georgia last year. Now, he’ll be counted on to keep Lane Kiffin’s high-powered offense running strong after Dart’s handle on the system helped him become a first-round pick. Given his inexperience and age, Simmons might be a name to watch further down the line. But if he proves himself comfortable against top competition, he’s shown he has no problem operating ahead of schedule.

Taylen Green, Arkansas

It doesn’t require a deep dive to see the pro potential of a 6-6, 230-pound passer who ran for more than 600 yards last season. Still, despite starting two years at Boise State and making the jump to Arkansas last season, Green has yet to put everything together as a passer, with his ball placement, pocket awareness (32 sacks taken last season) and decision-making all requiring refinement. But between his superlative raw arm strength and rare running ability, he can tax defenses in a manner that few other signal-callers can. If Green overcomes an exceedingly difficult schedule and an overhauled receiving corps that lost go-to target Andrew Armstrong, he’ll pique plenty of teams’ interests, at least as a developmental prospect.

Aidan Chiles, Michigan State

In following coach Jonathan Smith from Oregon State to Michigan State in December 2023, Chiles gave the Spartans some much-needed hope as they looked to turn the page on the Mel Tucker era. Yet nothing came easily to a program stuck in transition, and the former four-star recruit threw for just 13 touchdowns with 11 interceptions as his team stumbled to a 5-7 mark. Tamping down on his turnover-prone ways will be a vital step in Chiles’ development this season. But with his often dazzling deep balls and abundant athleticism, the 6-3, 217-pounder will capture plenty of attention if he can boost his efficiency and consistency.

Pittsburgh Pirates general manager Ben Cherington shot down the notion that the team would consider trading reigning NL Rookie of the Year winner Paul Skenes.

“It’s not part of the conversation at all,” Cherington told reporters.

Skenes, the first overall pick in 2023, quickly became one of the most dominant starting pitchers in baseball and finished runner-up in Cy Young voting last season, striking out 170 batters with a 1.96 ERA in 23 starts.

For years, the Pittsburgh organization has drawn ire from around baseball for refusing to reinvest money on the field, ranking 26th of 30 teams with a $87,645,246 payroll this season. In recent weeks, there have been calls from fans and pundits for the Pirates to trade their best player – since there’s virtually no chance they’ll sign him when he’s eligible for free agency after the 2029 season.

The Pirates are in last place in the NL Central with a 17-34 record, already 13½ games behind the first-place Chicago Cubs and have not reached the postseason since 2015.

“We’ve just got to get better,” Cherington said. “Let’s play better baseball, and that’s going to lead to winning more games. Then, let’s wake up and see where that takes us when we get to July.”

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The MVP is rolling. The second star is producing. Role players are excelling, and the Oklahoma City Thunder are two victories from their first NBA Finals appearance since 2012.

The Thunder toppled the Minnesota Timberwolves 118-103 in Game 2 Thursday for a 2-0 series lead.

It’s just two games, and Minnesota has yet to play at home, but it’s a lopsided series with the Thunder’s strengths shining and the Timberwolves’ flaws exposed.

Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who won his first MVP Wednesday, had 38 points, eight assists, three rebounds and three steals, and All-Star Jalen Williams was one of three Thunder players with at least 20 points.

Here are the winners and losers from Game 2 of Timberwolves vs. Thunder in the Western Conference finals:

Timberwolves vs. Thunder Game 2 winners

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The MVP did something that no other player in franchise history has accomplished. Not Kevin Durant. Not Russell Westbrook. Not James Harden. He scored at least 30 points in five consecutive playoff games – and there was symmetry to his 38 points – 19 in the first half, 19 in the second half; eight points in the first quarter, eight points in the fourth quarter, 11 points in the second quarter, 11 points in the third quarter.

The Timberwolves had no answers for Gilgeous-Alexander, who scored 13 of his points at the free throw line. He had 22 points inside the 3-point line including 14 in the paint. His eight assists and three steals were part of the Thunder’s two-way dominance.

Everyone knows how Gilgeous-Alexander operates, and he remains difficult to stop. Minnesota’s Jaden McDaniels was so frustrated, he shoved Gilgeous-Alexander, resulting in a flagrant foul one in the fourth quarter.

Jalen Williams

You could see Williams’ start taking shape last season, and the third-year forward from Santa Clara became an All-Star for the first time this season. He’s another one of the Thunder’s two-way performers.

He had 26 points on 12-for-20 shooting, 10 rebounds, five assists and one steal. Through two games, he’s averaging 22.5 points, 9.0 rebounds, 5.0 assists and 3.0 steals.

Chet Holmgren

Holmgren sustained a hip fracture in the 10th game of the season and missed the next three months. The 7-footer returned in February and has found his spot in the starting lineup.

Holmgren scored 22 points in Game 2 and was 7-for-10 shooting in the paint.

Oklahoma City’s defense

Lu Dort might be easy to overlook, but he was fantastic in Game 2 with nine points, eight rebounds, four assists and two steals – and the Thunder outscored the Timberwolves by 29 points in Dort’s 35 minutes on the court.

Dort was named first-team All-Defense on Thursday (Jalen Williams made the second team) and is a major reason the Thunder had the top-ranked defense during the regular season.

Minnesota is shooting 38.2% from the field and averaging 95.5 points in the series. The Thunder are protecting the paint and forcing the Timberwolves to score from the perimeter.

Anthony Edwards

Edwards looked for his shot way more in Game 2 than he did in Game 1, and it resulted in a 32-point performance. He was just 1-for-9 on 3s but also had nine rebounds and six assists. That’s the Edwards the Timberwolves need – with a few more made 3s and more scoring help from his teammates.

Timberwolves vs. Thunder Game 2 losers

Anthony Edwards’ postgame media availability

A day after the NBA fined Edwards $50,000 for “using profane language during a media interview” in the Game 1 postgame news conference, he declined to speak to reporters after Minnesota’s Game 2 loss. He may have been bothered by the fine, but he also left his teammates to answer questions about another unsatisfactory performance. Not a great look for a team leader.

Julius Randle’s offense

Before Game 2, the Timberwolves forward had scored at least 24 points in five consecutive games, including a triple-double against Golden State in the West semifinals. The offense vanished in Game 2. Randle was 2-for-11 for six points and did not play in the fourth quarter.

Timberwolves’ 3-point shooting

Minnesota is shooting 28.9% on 3s in the series, and while it has missed open shots, Oklahoma City’s defense has played a role, too. The Timberwolves missed 28 3s in Game 2 and 36 in Game 1, and they’re not converting enough shots inside the 3-point line.

From 3 in the series:

Naz Reid is 0-for-12
Mike Conley 2-for-9
Donte DiVincenzo 5-for-18
Anthony Edwards 4-for-17

Minnesota’s ball security

The Timberwolves committed 14 turnovers that led to 22 Thunder points in Game 2 – which followed 19 turnovers that led to 31 points in Game 1.

Oklahoma City has outscored Minnesota 53-20 in points off turnovers in the two games. In series that are won in both big and small ways, the Timberwolves are throwing away the basketball and their chances to win the series.

Follow NBA reporter Jeff Zillgitt on social media @JeffZillgitt

Just days after being married, British Boxer Georgia O’Connor has died from a bout of rare aggressive cancer, according to multiple reports. She was 25.

‘We’re deeply saddened by the passing of Georgia O’Connor,” England Boxing wrote on X. “A gifted boxer and beloved member of the amateur boxing community, she won medals at the Commonwealth Youth Games, Youth Worlds & European Championships. Our thoughts are with her loved ones.”

In January, the decorated boxer publicly revealed she suffered from colitis and primary sclerosing cholangitis, separate diseases that ‘dramatically increase the chances’ of cancer.

In a Feb. 3 Instagram post, O’Connor revealed the diagnosis and praised her partner Adriano Cardinali.

“From the moment I was diagnosed with cancer, Adriano didn’t hesitate,’ O’Connor wrote. ‘He quit his job without a second thought and made it his mission to fight this battle alongside me. Not just by my side, but leading the charge, doing everything in his power to save me.’

‘Adriano, you are my superhero,’ the post continues. ‘My warrior, my protector, my soulmate. I have no words strong enough to explain what you mean to me; how much I love you, how much I thank you, how much I need you. You are my safe place.’

USA TODAY has reached out to O’Connor’s loved ones.

Tributes pour in for Georgia O’Connor

O’Connor’s early death sparked tributes across the global boxing community.

The World Boxing Association (WBA) expressed condolences for what it called ‘a gifted British boxer whose dedication and fighting spirit left an indelible mark on the sport.’

‘O’Connor, who rose to prominence with a standout performance at the Commonwealth Youth Games, showcased extraordinary talent every time she stepped between the ropes,’ WBA wrote.

BOXXER, a British professional boxing promotional company based in Manchester, England, wrote social media its employees were heartbroken at the loss.

‘A true warrior inside and outside the ring, the boxing community has lost a talented, courageous and determined young woman far too soon,’ the company posted on X. ‘Georgia was loved, respected and admired by her friends.’

‘It’s hard to make sense of this,’ BOXXER CEO Ben Shalom posted on X, calling O’Connor an inspirational human. My heart goes out to Georgia’s parents and partner, who I know did everything they could tirelessly and are going through so much right now.’

Sky Sports wrote on X, “The thoughts of everyone at Sky Sports Boxing are with Joe Gallagher and Georgia O’Connor.”

Gallagher, a British’s former amateur boxer turned boxing coach, was being treated for stage 4 bowl and liver cancer, The Guardian reported. His most recent social media posts took place last week.

Was Georgia O’Connor married?

O’Connor married Cardinali on May 9, according post on her Instagram page, showing a pair of hands with wedding bands.

“The day I married the love of my life,” O’Connor wrote in the caption, which appears be her last on the social media platform.

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at nalund@usatoday.com and follow her on X @nataliealund.

Boston Red Sox third baseman Alex Bregman was removed from Friday’s game at Fenway Park with a quad injury, taking an awkward turn around first base on a hit in the third inning against the Baltimore Orioles.

Bregman immediately called for a trainer was able to walk off the field and into the dugout tunnel on his own. The Red Sox announced that his departure from the first game of Friday’s doubleheader was due to right quad tightness.

Bregman signed a three-year, $120 million deal with the Red Sox in February after spending nine seasons with the Houston Astros. The 31-year-old has been a huge addition with 11 home runs and 35 RBIs for Boston, and his .935 OPS is the second-best mark of his career.

A two-time World Series champion and Gold Glove winner, Bregman’s arrival resulted in Red Sox star Rafael Devers being moved from third base to designated hitter – an ongoing storyline in Boston through the first two months of the season.

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FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Inter Miami stars Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez will travel with the club for Saturday’s MLS match against the Philadelphia Union, coach Javier Mascherano confirmed before Friday’s practice.

While Messi’s presence will be missed for Inter Miami’s Dreams Cup youth tournament – he spoke at the event last year after not traveling for a match in Vancouver – the club desperately needs their biggest star to help them avoid another defeat in the worse stretch of Messi’s time in MLS.

Inter Miami has won just once in their last seven matches, falling from fourth to sixth place in the MLS Eastern Conference. And Saturday’s match will be against the Union, who sit in first place in the East.

Inter Miami has three matches remaining in MLS play before they participate in the FIFA Club World Cup – they’ll play in the tournament opener against Egyptian side Al Alhy on June 14 in Miami.

“This comes at a time of the season when we need them with us, and yes, they will both be traveling,” Mascherano said of Messi and Suárez.

When is the Philadelphia Union vs. Inter Miami match?

The match is Saturday at 7:30 p.m. ET (8:30 p.m. in Argentina), and will be played at Subaru Park in Chester, Pa.

How to watch Philadelphia Union vs. Inter Miami match?

The match is available to live stream on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV.

Is Messi playing in Philadelphia?

Messi is expected to play, but his status will be confirmed when Inter Miami announces its starting lineup an hour before the match.

What to know about Inter Miami before Philadelphia match?

Inter Miami will return to action for their first match in six days – a much-needed layoff for their aging superstars like Messi, Suarez, midfielder Sergio Busquets and leftback Jordi Alba.

The former Barcelona stars spoke with the club following their last match, a 3-0 defeat at home last Sunday to in-state rival Orlando City, Inter Miami defender Ian Frey said Friday.

The club also used this week of practice to ramp up the intensity with hopes of overcoming their recent slump. They’ve lost five of their last seven matches, and been outscored 20-12 during the stretch.

“We’ve been caught at a point in the season where we’ve lost confidence and we clearly need to regain that urgently, because it’s clear to see – not only in the team’s performance but also in the individual performances,” Mascherano said.

Messi also spoke about Inter Miami’s recent slide with Apple TV after the Orlando loss.

“It’s a difficult time, but we’re going to come through this together,” Messi said. “Now we’ll really see if we’re a team in difficult times because when everything is going well, it’s very easy. But when difficult times come, like now, that’s when we have to be more united than ever, be a real team and get through it.”

Messi to join Argentina before Club World Cup

Messi has been called up by the defending World Cup champions for qualifying matches for the 2026 tournament. Argentina will visit Chile on June 5, and host Colombia on June 10.

Messi, Inter Miami upcoming schedule

May 24: Philadelphia Union vs. Inter Miami, 7:30 p.m. ET
May 28: Inter Miami vs. CF Montreal, 7:30 p.m. ET
May 31: Inter Miami vs. Columbus Crew, 7:30 p.m. ET

Messi, Inter Miami schedule for Club World Cup

June 14: Inter Miami vs. Al Alhy, 8 p.m. ET (Hard Rock Stadium in Miami)
June 19: Inter Miami vs FC Porto, 3 p.m. ET (Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta)
June 23: Inter Miami vs. Palmerias, 9 p.m. ET (Hard Rock Stadium in Miami)

With the NBA draft lottery (hello, Dallas Mavericks) and draft combine over, teams and prospects now turn their attention to pro days and mostly private workouts where even more impressions are made.

Those impressions lead to decisions at the June 25-26 NBA draft. Maybe it makes the difference between getting selected 16th or 13th.

Also, per NCAA rules, underclassmen have until Wednesday, May 28, to withdraw from the draft and retain NCAA eligibility. Among potential first-round picks who are weighing the decision to remain in the draft or return to college are Alex Condon, who won a title with Florida in April; Tahaad Pettiford, who helped Auburn reach the Final Four; and Yaxel Lendeborg, who played for UAB in 2024-25 but has pledged to play at Michigan next season if he returns to college.

Here’s a look at USA TODAY’s post-combine NBA mock draft:

(Age listed is age at time of the draft; for U.S. college players, height (without shoes) and weight taken at NBA draft combine)

2025 NBA mock draft

1. Dallas Mavericks: Cooper Flagg, Duke

Freshman, guard-forward, 6-7¾ , 221, 18 years old
2024-25 stats: 19.2 ppg, 7.5 rpg, 4.2 apg, 1.4 spg, 1.4 bpg, 48.1% FG, 38.5% 3PT, 84% FT

The do-it-all young star led the Blue Devils in scoring, rebounding, assists and steals. Flagg has outstanding footwork, especially in the low post. He can use either hand on shots in the paint, knows how to run plays, can hit catch-and-shoot 3s and is an active weakside defender. Flagg, who added more muscle since the start of the year, is a physical player who initiates contact, is confident and plays with force when necessary. He led Duke to an impressive season, which includes the ACC regular-season title, ACC tournament title and Final Four appearance. He had 30 points, seven assists and six rebounds in a regional semifinal victory against Arizona and 16 points and nine rebounds in a regional final against Alabama. Flagg had 27 points, seven rebounds, three blocks and two steals in a Final Four loss to Houston.

2. San Antonio Spurs: Dylan Harper, Rutgers

Freshman, guard, 6-4½ , 213, 19
2024-25 stats: 19.4 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 4.0 apg, 1.4 spg, 48.4% FG, 33.3% 3PT, 75% FT

The lefty stroke will remind some of Jalen Brunson, but Harper has far more size at 6-6 and tremendous length with a wingspan of 6-foot-10. Harper’s best asset at the next level might be his versatility to run point and play off the ball. In Rutgers’ lone Big Ten tournament game, Harper had 27 points (9-for-21 shooting), eight rebounds, eight assists, two steals and two blocks in a double-overtime loss to Southern California.

3. Philadelphia 76ers: Ace Bailey, Rutgers

Freshman, guard-forward, 6-7½ , 202, 18
2024-25 stats: 17.6 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 1.3 apg, 1.3 bpg, 46% FG, 34.6% 3PT, 69.2% FT

Bailey is a hyper-athletic wing with length and size coming into a league that prioritizes players built exactly the way he is with exactly the skill set he has: an effortless and reliable shot and an attack-first mentality with an ability to finish at the rim. Needs to improve as a playmaker on the pass and free throws. But even when offense isn’t easy, he remains active on defense. He had 17 points, seven rebounds, three steals and one block in season-ending loss to USC.

4. Charlotte Hornets: VJ Edgecombe, Baylor

Freshman, guard, 6-4, 193, 19
2024-25 stats: 15.0 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 3.2 apg, 2.1 spg, 43.6% FG, 34% 3PT, 78.2% FT

The Bahamian native has displayed his athleticism, has shown he can be explosive and has an elite knack for steals. He will be able to contribute at the NBA level and can be aggressive at the point of attack. The freshman is a high-level off-ball scorer but can improve when it comes to on-ball scoring. Edgecombe logged significant minutes at the end of the season. He had 16 points, six rebounds and one steal in a NCAA Tournament second-round loss to Duke.

5. Utah Jazz: Tre Johnson, Texas

Freshman, guard, 6-4¾, 190, 19
2024-25 stats: 19.9 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 2.7 apg, 42.7% FG, 39.7% 3PT, 87.1% FT

Johnson is a natural shooter and scorer. He does well when scoring on the move and is a decent playmaker for his size. He still needs to work on his ability to make plays for others. He must also work on his strength and his explosiveness in order to assert himself as a finisher at the rim. He had three 30-point games in the past two months, including 39 against Arkansas on Feb. 26. He had 23 points and six rebounds in an NCAA Tournament loss to Xavier.

6. Washington Wizards: Jeremiah Fears, Oklahoma

Freshman, guard, 6-2½, 180, 18
2024-25 stats: 17.1 ppg, 4.1 apg, 4.1 rpg, 1.6 spg, 43.4% FG, 28.4% 3PT, 85.1% FT

Solid start to his freshman season; quick on the dribble; has strength going to the rim and can finish; operates well in the pick-and-roll as a scorer and passer; needs to improve his 3-point shot but potential is there. Fears scored a season-high 31 points and added five assists and four rebounds in a win against ranked Missouri. Fears had a strong SEC tournament, producing 29 points, six rebounds and five steals plus five turnovers in a victory against Georgia and 28 points, five assists, four rebounds and three steals (just one turnover) in a loss to Kentucky. He generated 20 points, five rebounds and four assists in a NCAA Tournament first-round loss to UConn.

7. New Orleans Pelicans: Kon Knueppel, Duke

Freshman, guard-forward, 6-5, 219, 19
2024-25 stats: 14.4 ppg, 4.0 rpg, 2.7 apg, 47.9% FG, 40.6% 3PT, 91.4% FT

He can ignite an offense with his 3-point shot, thanks to an efficient motion, seemingly always ready to receive the ball in his shooting pocket. He can also lace shots from midrange, take care of the ball and is money on free throws. In the ACC tournament, Knueppel averaged 21 points (28 against Georgia Tech) and shot 48.6% from the field, stepping up with Flagg injured. He averaged 20.5 points and shot 11-for-22 from the field (4-for-6 on 3s) in two regional games. He had 21 points, five rebounds and five assists in an Elite Eight victory against Alabama, and 16 points and seven rebounds in a Final Four loss to Houston.

8. Brooklyn Nets: Khaman Maluach, Duke

Freshman, center, 7-0½, 253, 18
2024-25 stats: 8.6 ppg, 6.6 rpg, 1.3 bpg, 71.2% FG, 76.6% FT

Playing about 20 minutes per game, Maluach is a mobile big who excels in pick-and-rolls and has the hands to catch lobs for easy dunks; soft touch at the rim; shot-blocker/rim protector; active on the offensive glass; will get stronger and has a great aptitude for the game, learning concepts quickly. In four NCAA Tournament games, Maluach, who played for South Sudan at the 2024 Paris Olympics, averages 11.5 points, 4.2 rebounds, 2.0 blocks and shoots 86.9% from the field (20-for-23) and had 14 points and nine rebounds in Elite Eight victory against Alabama. He struggled to make an impact in the Final Four loss to Houston with just six points and no rebounds.

9. Toronto Raptors: Kasparas Jakucionis, Illinois

Freshman, guard, 6-4¾, 205, 19
2024-25 stats: 15.0 ppg, 5.7 rpg, 4.7 apg, 44% FG, 31.8% 3PT, 84.5% FT

Jakucionis is a playmaker – a scorer and passer. He has range with a nice 3-ball, can shoot off the dribble from deep, including on step-back 3s, and looks for an open teammate when he draws multiple defenders. Jakucionis sees the court well with savvy passes and likes to get to the rim for layups. But he can be turnover-prone. He struggled offensively at the end of the season, shooting 32.5% from the field and committing 24 turnovers in the final four games. He had 16 points, 10 assists and nine rebounds in a first-round NCAA Tournament victory against Xavier.

10. Houston Rockets: Collin Murray-Boyles, South Carolina

Sophomore, forward, 6-6½, 239, 20
2024-25 stats: 16.8 ppg, 8.3 rpg, 2.4 agp, 1.5 spg, 1.3 bpg, 58.6% FG, 26.5% 3PT, 70.7% FT

Although he’s a bit undersized for a power forward, Murray-Boyles plays with intense effort and determination, which will very quickly please his NBA coaches. He also has plenty of strength to finish at the rim and was the SEC’s No. 3 rebounder. Murray-Boyles had 35 points and seven rebounds against Arkansas late in the regular season and had 20 points and 12 rebounds in a loss to Arkansas in the SEC tournament.

11. Portland Trail Blazers: Derik Queen, Maryland

Freshman, center, 6-9¼, 248, 20
2024-25 stats: 16.5 ppg, 9.0 rpg, 1.9 apg, 1.1 spg, 1.1 bpg, 52.6% FG, 76.6% FT

An active, physical big man, Queen has a soft touch around the rim with either hand but has a power game, too. He can run the court and handle the basketball well for a power forward-center. He is another potential first-round pick with good hands and footwork and has the mechanics to become a shooter who can stretch the floor. Queen had 27 points, five rebounds and two steals in a Sweet 16 loss to eventual champion Florida.

12. Chicago Bulls: Noa Essengue, Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany)

Forward, 6-10, 198, 18
2024-25 stats: 10.8 ppg, 4.8 rpg, 1.1 apg, 51.6% FG, 27% 3PT, 70.5% FT

The next forward with elite finishing ability to come out of France, Essengue figures to be more of a developmental prospect, but his size, instincts at the rim and plus-defensive ability could make him a star if he bulks up.

13. Atlanta Hawks: Egor Demin, BYU

Freshman, forward, 6-8¼, 199, 19
2024-25 stats: 10.3 ppg, 5.4 apg, 3.8 rpg, 1.2 spg, 41% FG, 27.1% 3PT, 67.5% FT

The Russian is a playmaker who can make quick decisions and facilitate for others. Demin is the size of a wing player but has guard-like skills. On defense, he uses his length to his advantage while forcing turnovers and being active in passing lanes. His shooting efficiency is a concern. Demin had difficulty with his offense as the season progressed. He had just three points with four turnovers, three assists and three rebounds in a Big 12 conference tournament victory against Iowa State and six points on 2-for-9 shooting (1-for-7 on 3s) with four assists and five turnovers in a conference tournament loss to Houston. In three NCAA tournament games, he averaged 13.7 points, 5.7 assists and 4.7 rebounds and was 15-for-35 from the field.

14. San Antonio Spurs: Carter Bryant, Arizona

Freshman, forward, 6-6½, 215, 19
2024-25 stats: 6.5 ppg, 4.1 rpg, 1.0 apg, 1.0 bpg, 46% FG, 37.1% 3PT, 69.5% FT

The athletic forward provides a solid combination of strength and fluidity. He has lateral quickness to stay in front of the ball and the ability to block shots. He can still improve on his technique as a finisher and in scoring efficiency. He will get an increased opportunity to impress scouts and executives at the draft combine if he enters the draft. Bryant scored 12 points and collected five rebounds and three blocks in 20 minutes in a victory against Akron in the NCAA Tournament.

15. Oklahoma City Thunder: Asa Newell, Georgia

Freshman, forward, 6-9, 224, 19
2024-25 stats: 15.4 ppg, 6.9 rpg, 1.0 spg, 1.0 bpg, 54.3% FG, 29.2% 3PT, 74.8% FT

Based off of his size, Newell wouldn’t appear to be as quick and fluid as he is, which should make him an instant threat in pick-and-roll situations. He was one of the lone bright spots for the Bulldogs in a loss against No. 1 Auburn with a team-high 20 points. His scoring dipped at the end of the regular season, however, he had 20 points and eight rebounds in a first-round NCAA Tournament loss to Gonzaga.

16. Orlando Magic: Jase Richardson, Michigan State

Freshman, guard, 6-0½, 178, 19
2024-25 stats: 12.1 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 1.9 apg, 49.3% FG, 41.2% 3PT, 83.6% FT

Richardson improved as the season progressed and turned into the Spartans’ steady hand with the basketball as a shooter (inside and out) and facilitator. He is an active defender with surprising bouts of athleticism. He also has a knack for collecting rebounds, big plays and poise under pressure. He had an up-and-down NCAA Tournament in four games – 5-for-11 shooting and 15 points against Bryant, 1-for-10 shooting against New Mexico, 20 points on 6-for-8 shooting against Ole Miss, and 4-for-13 shooting against Auburn.

17. Minnesota Timberwolves: Danny Wolf, Michigan

Junior, forward-center, 6-10½, 252, 21
2024-25 stats: 13.2 ppg, 9.7 rpg, 3.6 apg, 1.4 bpg, 49.7% FG, 33.6% 3PT, 59.4% FT

The Yale transfer is shooting up draft boards thanks to his fluid scoring and play-making portfolio in the package of a 7-foot stretch big. Wolf played point guard at times this season for the Wolverines just like he played center. His handles make him a threat as the initiator in pick-and-roll actions and his range should translate to the NBA. Wolf had 21 points and 14 rebounds against Maryland in the Big Ten tournament semifinals and shot 52.9% from the field as the Wolverines won the conference tourney. He had 20 points and six rebounds in a NCAA regional semifinals loss to Auburn.

18. Washington Wizards: Liam McNeeley, UConn

Freshman, forward, 6-6¾, 215, 19
2024-25 stats: 14.5 ppg, 6.0 rpg, 2.3 apg, 38.1% FG, 31.7% 3PT, 86.6% FT

What McNeeley may lack in fluid athleticism, he more than makes up for with a smooth, natural shot and knack for drawing fouls and getting to the free throw line. He also has a quick release and plenty of range to suggest that he should get early minutes. He bounced back since suffering an ankle injury New Year’s Day that had sidelined him for a few weeks. McNeeley struggled with his shot at times down the stretch. In a Big East tournament loss to Creighton, McNeeley had 13 points on 6-for-20 shooting (0-for-5 on 3-pointers), and in his final eight games before the NCAA Tournament, he shot 34.1% from the field and 28.2% on 3s. In two NCAA Tournament games, he was 8-for-29 from the field, including 3-of-16 on 3s.

19. Brooklyn Nets: Nolan Traore, Saint-Quentin (France)

Guard, 6-4, 175, 19
2024-25 stats: 12 ppg, 4.8 apg, 1.9 rpg, 40.9% FG, 31.4% 3PT, 72.8% FT

Traore is a point guard who can score and pass and has court awareness but also a propensity for bad turnovers. He’s quick, can get to the rim and is comfortable taking his defender off the dribble. Needs to work on his shooting efficiency, especially on 3s. His brother, Armel, was on a two-way contract with the Los Angeles and South Bay Lakers before being waived in February.

20. Miami Heat: Thomas Sorber, Georgetown

Freshman, forward-center, 6-9¼, 263, 19
2024-25 stats: 14.5 ppg, 8.5 rpg, 2.4 apg, 2.0 spg, 53.2% FG, 72.4% FT

The standout freshman required surgery to repair a foot injury suffered Feb. 15 and missed the rest of the season. That could alter his plans for the draft, but Sorber is a stellar inside threat who’s just as comfortable cutting to the basket on pick-and-rolls as he is backing down opponents. His rebounding and rim protection will make him an asset, as he continues to grow into his frame.

21. Utah Jazz: Joan Beringer, KK Cedevita (Adriatic League)

Forward-center, 6-10, 230, 18
2024-25 stats: 5.0 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 1.4 bpg, 61.5% FG, 58.4% FT

Beringer has gained traction among NBA scouts and executives as a mobile big man who can run the pick-and-roll as a screener on offense and guard the pick-and-roll. He doesn’t have a lot of experience but his potential, especially as a rim protector, has made him a first-round prospect. Another player who has improved throughout the season.

22. Atlanta Hawks: Nique Clifford, Colorado State

Fifth-year graduate season, guard, 6-5¼, 202, 23
2024-25 stats: 18.9 ppg, 9.6 rpg, 4.4 apg, 1.2 spg, 49.6% FG, 37.7% 3PT, 77.7% FT

Clifford is a versatile wing who does a lot of things – scoring, rebounding, passing and defending. He has a quick burst on drives to the basket and can finish with force or finesse. He logged big minutes for Colorado State and was excellent in the Rams’ final six games before the NCAA tournament, posting 25.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, 5.2 assists and 1.5 steals and shooting 60% from the field, including 54.8% on 3s. He had 36 points against Boise State at the end of the regular season and recorded two double-doubles in the Mountain West tournament. Clifford had 21 points, seven rebounds, six assists and two blocks in an NCAA tournament second-round loss to Maryland.

23. Indiana Pacers: Will Riley, Illinois

Freshman, forward, 6-8¼, 186, 19

2024-25 stats: 12.6 ppg, 4.1 rpg, 2.2 apg, 43.2% FG, 32.6% 3PT, 72.4% FT

Great size for a shooting guard who can make 3s and find open teammates. Like many, looks for offensive rebounds. His shot is a work in progress but the mechanics are there and he improved as a shooter and scorer as the season progressed. He shot 37-for-72 (51.4%) from the field and averaged 16.3 points in the Illini’s final six games.

24. Oklahoma City Thunder: Rasheer Fleming, Saint Joseph’s

Junior, forward, 6-8¼, 232, 20
2024-25 stats: 14.75 ppg, 8.5 rpg, 1.5 bpg, 1.4 spg, 1.3 apg, 53.1% FG, 39% 3PT, 74.3% FT

Fleming is a mobile forward who plays a physical game and has strong footwork to finesse his way around defenders. He likes to get easy buckets in transition, his 3-point percentage in nearly five attempts per game is encouraging and he is valuable in pick-and-rolls as the screener. Defensively, he deflects passes and can protect the rim. Fleming averaged 18.8 points and 7.7 rebounds and shot 58.9% in the last six regular-season Atlantic 10 Conference contests.

25. Orlando Magic: Ben Saraf, Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany)

Guard, 6-6, 200, 19
2024-25 stats: 12.2 ppg, 4.3 apg, 2.6 rpg, 1.2 spg, 45.5% FG, 28.6% 3PT, 72.7% FT

He’s just as comfortable knocking down a step-back jumper, finding creases in the paint and dishing the ball with excellent vision. He may need some time to develop as he adjusts to NBA athletes, but his length and size at point guard will make him an intriguing prospect.

26. Brooklyn Nets: Yaxel Lendeborg, UAB

Senior, forward, 6-8½, 235, 22
2024-25 stats: 17.7 ppg, 11.4 rpg, 4.2 apg, 52.2% FG, 35.7% 3PT, 75.7% FT

Lendeborg is active defensively, likes to attack in transition, is active in the paint and cuts to the rim and looks for the ball. Possesses good size and strength for his position and initiates contact. His shooting percentage inside and outside the 3-point line (specifically as catch-and-shoot on 3s) are good signs for the forward from Puerto Rico. Depending on his draft evaluation, Lendeborg, the 2024-25 American Athletic Conference player of the year, could end up at Michigan for another season of college basketball.

27. Brooklyn Nets: Hugo Gonzalez, Real Madrid (Spain)

Guard-forward, 6-7, 207, 19
2024-25 stats: 3.2 ppg, 1.7 rpg, 41% FG, 28.1% 3PT, 73.9% FT

One of Europe’s top young NBA prospects, Gonzalez is a versatile wing with the ability to score inside and out. He can handle the basketball, pass and is a surprising shot-blocker. He’s still raw.

28. Boston Celtics: Walter Clayton Jr., Florida

Senior, guard, 6-2, 199, 22
2024-25 stats: 18.3 ppg, 4.2 apg, 3.7 rpg, 1.2 spg, 44.8% FG, 38.6% 3PT, 85.7% FT

Named the Most Outstanding Player of the Final Four, Clayton had 34 points in the national semifinals against Auburn and 11 points, seven assists and five rebounds in the championship victory against Houston. He also scored 30 points in a regional final against Texas Tech and was 21-for-42 from the field in the Gators’ final three games. Has range on 3-point shots and can shoot off the dribble or pass but needs to improve as a playmaker and defender.

29. Phoenix Suns: Noah Penda, Le Mans (France)

Forward, 6-8, 225, 20
2024-25 stats: 10.2 ppg, 5.1 rpg, 2.7 apg, 1.3 spg, 45.8% FG, 34.7% 3PT, 67.9% FT

A solidly-built wing, Penda may not be the most explosive athlete, but he has flashed excellent footwork in the low block, has steady enough ball-handling abilities and can knock down 3s with relative efficiency. Penda has also shown that he can move well without the ball, often slashing through a defense on cuts for easy buckets. Improved as a shooter and scorer as the season progressed.

30. Los Angeles Clippers: Drake Powell, North Carolina

Freshman, guard-forward, 6-5¼, 200, 19
2024-25 stats: 7.4 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 1.1 apg, 48.3% FG, 37.9% 3PT, 64.8% FT

Active on both ends of the court as a shot-blocker and physical and versatile defender, and as a player who likes to run the court, launch catch-and-shoot 3s and go one-on-one in the halfcourt. Playing on a deep team, especially on the perimeter, Powell doesn’t possess eye-popping offensive stats but his shooting stats reveal his potential. Was an efficient scorer in limited opportunities and can be a solid rebounder from the perimeter.