2025 NBA Draft Round 2: Live Updates, Trades, and Player Picks

The 2025 NBA Draft continues with its second round on Thursday night at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, where basketball teams will finalize their selections and make strategic trades. This round will witness the conclusion of the draft with the final 29 picks, offering a chance for teams to secure valuable talent that may have slipped through the cracks in the initial round. The focus on the second round often highlights the potential for unheralded players to emerge as significant contributors, as demonstrated in previous drafts.

Historically, the second round has yielded unexpected talent, such as Jaylen Wells, selected 39th overall by the Memphis Grizzlies last year, who subsequently made the NBA All-Rookie First Team. This year, teams will look to uncover similar gems among the remaining prospects. Notable players still available include Rasheer Fleming, a forward from Saint Joseph's, and Ryan Kalkbrenner, a center from Creighton, both of whom are expected to find their place in the professional ranks after successful college careers, particularly capitalizing on their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) earnings.

The live updates from the draft provide insights into the transactions and player selections, reflecting teams' strategies and needs. As teams prepare for the flurry of post-draft transactions, the second round presents an opportunity for franchises to bolster their rosters with cost-effective talent. Teams such as the Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks, and Memphis Grizzlies are among those eager to make impactful selections that could shape their future.

Among the highlights of the second round thus far include:

- **Golden State Warriors:** Alex Toohey, F, Australia - Selected at No. 52, Toohey has been a standout in the National Basketball League (NBL) and previously committed to Gonzaga before opting to play professionally in Australia.

- **New York Knicks:** Mohamed Diawara, F, France - Chosen at No. 51 after a strategic trade with the Los Angeles Clippers, Diawara brings international experience and scoring potential.

- **Cleveland Cavaliers:** Tyrese Proctor, G, Duke - Selected at No. 49, Proctor is recognized for his versatility and ability to contribute defensively.

- **Memphis Grizzlies:** Javon Small, G, West Virginia - At No. 48, Small's dynamic scoring ability adds depth to the Grizzlies' backcourt.

As the draft progresses, teams are expected to continue making strategic selections and trades, emphasizing the importance of the second round in shaping their rosters for the upcoming seasons. With several promising players still left on the board, the excitement surrounding this year's draft continues to build, and analysts predict that the second round could be equally, if not more, impactful than the first.

The implications of these selections extend beyond the draft night. Teams are not only looking for immediate contributors but also for players who can develop into key assets as they navigate the competitive landscape of the NBA. As history shows, the second round can be a treasure trove of talent that, with the right development, can lead to significant success in the league.