North Carolina received major news on Wednesday, as freshman Drake Powell officially declared for the NBA Draft.
Tar Heel fans reacted with a wide range of emotions following the announcement. Some expected the former top-15 high school recruit to be a one-and-done from the start and weren’t surprised. Others believed Powell was poised for a breakout sophomore season in Chapel Hill. Regardless of where they stand, most fans are now asking the same big question: what’s next?
According to reports, Powell is maintaining his college eligibility while going through the NBA Draft process. However, based on his word choice and the reactions of his teammates on social media, it appears UNC may need to look to the transfer portal to fill the wing spot.
Powell averaged 7.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game during his freshman season. While those numbers aren’t typical of a one-and-done player, Powell’s frame, athleticism, and potential certainly are. His 37.9% shooting from three-point range in 2024–25 is a strong mark for a freshman wing, and scouts are sure to take notice, especially paired with his physical tools.
But the biggest question remains: where will Powell be selected?
That’s what his camp and NBA teams will be working to figure out over the next month as he participates in the pre-draft process.
In the meantime, let’s take a look at where Powell is currently projected in the 2025 NBA Draft, scheduled for June 25, 2025.
Early mock drafts from last season had Powell flirting with the top-15. However, after a season where he didn’t quite cement himself as a first-round lock, many projections dropped him off their boards. Since Powell’s announcement, though, outlets have started weighing in again.
According to ESPN’s latest mock, Powell is projected as the first pick of the second round to the Minnesota Timberwolves. Other mock drafts see him landing with the Orlando Magic in the middle of the second round, where some view him as a natural fit for head coach Jamahl Mosley’s system. Sports Illustrated recently slotted Powell at No. 46 to the Sacramento Kings. Meanwhile, several big boards — still adjusting to the news — currently list him in the 50–60 range.
The next few weeks will be critical for Powell’s stock.
Performances during team workouts and interviews often reshape draft outlooks dramatically. Given Powell’s athletic upside, it’s hard to imagine him slipping much further. Based on his strong statement about being “100%” committed to his professional journey, it’s clear that Powell expects to hear his name called — and possibly earlier than many anticipate.
Did Powell make the right call? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Congratulations, Drake!
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