2025 NBA Draft: Comprehensive Live Updates and Round-by-Round Picks

On June 25 and 26, 2025, the basketball community turned its attention to the Barclays Center in New York City for the highly anticipated 2025 NBA Draft. The event showcased the future of professional basketball, with teams selecting emerging talents that could reshape rosters and influence the league's competitive landscape. The first round commenced on June 25 at 8 p.m. ET, followed by the second round on June 26 at the same time.

The 2025 draft has garnered significant attention not only for its promise of talented rookies but also for the strategic decisions made by franchises aiming to enhance their rosters. Notably, the Dallas Mavericks made headlines by selecting Duke University forward Cooper Flagg as the first overall pick. This choice was praised by experts, with Kurt Helin, a renowned NBA analyst, stating, "The Mavericks have drafted a 'special player' in Flagg, whose skills and potential are highly regarded among scouts and analysts alike" (NBC Sports, June 25, 2025).

The second pick was secured by the San Antonio Spurs, who opted for Rutgers guard Dylan Harper, while the Philadelphia 76ers selected Baylor guard VJ Edgecombe third. The draft was characterized by a mix of positional needs and best-player-available strategies, demonstrating the varied approaches teams are taking in preparation for the upcoming season.

According to Nick Johnson, a sports analyst at ESPN, "The 2025 draft class is considered one of the strongest in recent years, with several players expected to make an immediate impact" (ESPN, June 25, 2025). This sentiment aligns with the projections made by the NBA Scouting Association, which ranked this year's prospects highly based on their collegiate performances and potential for development in the professional arena.

The first round of the 2025 NBA Draft unfolded as follows: 1. **Dallas Mavericks** - Cooper Flagg (Duke, Forward) 2. **San Antonio Spurs** - Dylan Harper (Rutgers, Guard) 3. **Philadelphia 76ers** - VJ Edgecombe (Baylor, Guard) 4. **Charlotte Hornets** - Kon Knueppel (Duke, Guard/Forward) 5. **Utah Jazz** - Ace Bailey (Rutgers, Guard/Forward) 6. **Washington Wizards** - Tre Johnson (Texas, Guard) 7. **New Orleans Pelicans** - Jeremiah Fears (Oklahoma, Guard) 8. **Brooklyn Nets** - TBD 9. **Toronto Raptors** - TBD 10. **Phoenix Suns** (from HOU) - TBD 11. **Portland Trail Blazers** - TBD 12. **Chicago Bulls** - TBD 13. **Atlanta Hawks** (from SAC) - TBD 14. **San Antonio Spurs** (from ATL) - TBD 15. **Oklahoma City Thunder** (from MIA) - TBD 16. **Memphis Grizzlies** (from ORL) - TBD 17. **Minnesota Timberwolves** (from DET) - TBD 18. **Washington Wizards** (from MEM) - TBD 19. **Brooklyn Nets** (from MIL) - TBD 20. **Miami Heat** (from GSW) - TBD 21. **Utah Jazz** (from MIN) - TBD 22. **Brooklyn Nets** (from ATL) - TBD 23. **New Orleans Pelicans** (from IND) - TBD 24. **Oklahoma City Thunder** (from LAC) - TBD 25. **Orlando Magic** (from DEN) - TBD 26. **Brooklyn Nets** (from NYK) - TBD 27. **Brooklyn Nets** (from HOU) - TBD 28. **Boston Celtics** - TBD 29. **Phoenix Suns** (from CLE) - TBD 30. **Los Angeles Clippers** (from OKC) - TBD

As the draft continued into the second round on June 26, teams sought to fill remaining gaps and secure potential hidden gems. The Minnesota Timberwolves kicked off the second round by selecting from their acquired position.

This year’s draft is not only crucial for team strategies but also for the future of the players involved. The decisions made during these two nights will resonate throughout the upcoming NBA season and beyond, impacting team dynamics and player careers. The excitement surrounding the 2025 NBA Draft reflects the ongoing evolution of the league and its players, promising a thrilling season ahead for fans and franchises alike.

In conclusion, the 2025 NBA Draft signifies a pivotal event in the sports calendar, marking the transition of young talent into the professional realm. As teams finalize their selections, the basketball community eagerly anticipates the impact these new players will have on the league’s future.