2025 NBA Draft Combine Kicks Off in Chicago, Headlined by Cooper Flagg and a Deep Duke Contingent
The 2025 NBA Draft Combine is underway in Chicago, where 75 of the top draft hopefuls are showcasing their skills in workouts, drills, and interviews ahead of the June draft. All eyes are on Cooper Flagg, the standout freshman from Duke, who is widely expected to be the No. 1 overall pick—regardless of how the week plays out.
Flagg leads a deep group of Duke invitees, with multiple Blue Devils projected as lottery picks. He’s joined by fellow high-upside prospects like Kon Knueppel and Khaman Maluach, along with Sion James and Tyrese Proctor. Isaiah Evans was also invited but withdrew on Day 1, announcing he’ll return to Duke next season after averaging 6.8 points in a reserve role.
Duke isn’t the only college program well-represented. Reigning national champion Florida boasts several intriguing names, headlined by March Madness breakout star Walter Clayton Jr., whose explosive postseason performance has vaulted him into first-round discussions. SEC rivals Alabama and Arkansas also have multiple invitees with strong draft potential.
While not every combine participant will hear their name called on draft night, schools with multiple prospects in Chicago are likely to produce at least one or two NBA players.
Programs with the Most 2025 NBA Draft Combine Invitees
Six Players – Duke
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Participants: Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel, Khaman Maluach, Sion James, Tyrese Proctor
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Note: Isaiah Evans withdrew and will return to school.
Flagg, the presumed top pick, leads a talented Duke group. Kon Knueppel and Khaman Maluach are also viewed as lottery-level talents, while James and Proctor bring valuable experience. Evans’ decision to return strengthens Duke’s 2025-26 outlook, where he’s expected to step into a starting role.
Three Players – Alabama, Arkansas, Florida
Florida’s Walter Clayton Jr. stole the spotlight in March, delivering clutch performances that pushed the Gators to a national title. His stock has skyrocketed, and he’s now the top draft prospect among this group. Alabama’s Labaron Philon, a top-10 recruit, impressed as a freshman and continues the program’s recent trend of producing one-and-done talent. Arkansas’ duo of Adou Thiero and Boogie Fland, both developed under John Calipari, battled injuries but showed flashes of first-round potential during their Sweet 16 run.
Two Players – Auburn, Georgetown, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, Oklahoma, Rutgers
Rutgers might make history with Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey, projected to go No. 2 and No. 3 overall. The star freshmen were the highest-rated recruits in program history and remain closely linked entering the draft. Illinois’ Kasparas Jakucionis and Oklahoma’s Jeremiah Fears could also sneak into the lottery after stellar rookie seasons. Fears averaged 17.1 points and had multiple 30-point games, while Jakucionis tied the Illinois freshman scoring record.
One Player – Representing 30+ Schools
More than two dozen schools sent a single player to the combine. Among them, Baylor’s VJ Edgecombe stands out as a well-established prospect. Michigan State’s Jase Richardson is gaining momentum after earning a starting role late in the season and nearly doubling his scoring average.
Some players are still weighing their draft decisions, and their choices could significantly reshape the college basketball landscape. For instance, Yaxel Lendeborg—this year’s top-ranked transfer—could suit up for Michigan if he returns. Washington State’s Cedric Coward may join Duke, depending on how things shake out.
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