March Madness is here, and top college basketball players are in the NCAA tournament spotlight. NBA scouts are closely watching these 2025 draft prospects before the spring combines.
Cooper Flagg from Duke has been the projected No. 1 pick for the June draft throughout the season.
Besides Flagg, which tournament players are NBA scouts focusing on?
ESPN NBA draft experts Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo present their top 50 prospects to monitor over the next few weeks. This list features only players in the NCAA tournament and is different from ESPN’s Top 100 rankings. Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey from Rutgers were not included as their team didn’t qualify for the tournament.
Notes: All times are ET. True shooting percentage (TS%) combines field goal, free throw, and 3-point shooting into one ratio.
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- 50. Augustas Marciulionis, PG, Saint Mary’s
- 49. Tomislav Ivisic, C, Illinois
- 48. Jalon Moore, SF/PF, Oklahoma
- 47. Grant Nelson, PF, Alabama
- 46. Amari Williams, C, Kentucky
- 45. Dailyn Swain, SF, Xavier
- 44. Igor Milicic Jr., PF, Tennessee
- 43. PJ Haggerty, PG, Memphis
- 42. Walter Clayton Jr., PG, Florida
- 41. Koby Brea, SG/SF, Kentucky
- 40. RJ Luis Jr., SF/PF, St. John’s
- 39. Zvonimir Ivisic, PF/C, Arkansas
- 38. Braden Smith, PG, Purdue
- 37. John Tonje, SF, Wisconsin
- 36. Joseph Tugler, PF/C, Houston
- 35. Sion James, SF, Duke
- 34. Ian Jackson, SG, North Carolina
- 33. Tyrese Proctor, PG, Duke
- 32. Darrion Williams, SF/PF, Texas Tech
- 31. Miles Byrd, SG, San Diego State
- 30. Bennett Stirtz, PG/SG, Drake
- 29. Boogie Fland, PG, Arkansas
- 28. Isaiah Evans, SG/SF, Duke
50. Augustas Marciulionis, PG, Saint Mary’s
Height: 6-4 | Senior | TS%: 55.5%
First game: No. 7 Saint Mary’s vs. No. 10 Vanderbilt, Friday, 3:15 p.m. (truTV)
Augustas Marciulionis, son of Hall of Famer Sarunas Marciulionis, has become a standout player, earning back-to-back West Coast Conference Player of the Year awards. This 6-foot-4 point guard is a skilled ball handler with excellent pace and court awareness. He dictates the game’s tempo, effectively uses ball screens, and finds teammates with unselfish passes.
Marciulionis is a strong defender known for his intensity and basketball IQ, playing a crucial role in Saint Mary’s top-10 defense. While not exceptionally explosive or a dominant scorer, his perimeter shooting and finishing will be tested against Vanderbilt. — Givony
49. Tomislav Ivisic, C, Illinois
Height: 7-1 | Sophomore | TS%: 60.1%
First game: No. 6 Illinois vs. TBD, Friday, 9:45 p.m. (CBS)
Tomislav Ivisic emerged as a highly underrated big man this season after joining Illinois from the Adriatic League with his twin brother, Zvonimir (who plays for Arkansas). He provides valuable passing from the center position and plays a dependable style of basketball.
While his draft prospects are not guaranteed this year, NBA teams are attracted to his size and skill as a center. Another year in college could help him refine his game and showcase his offensive abilities further. If Illinois advances in the tournament, Ivisic could gain more attention. — Woo
48. Jalon Moore, SF/PF, Oklahoma
Height: 6-7 | Senior | TS%: 60.4%
First game: No. 9 Oklahoma vs. No. 8 UConn, Friday, 9:25 p.m. (TNT)
Jalon Moore significantly improved in his final college season, utilizing his physical attributes to score effectively for Oklahoma. He is powerful in transition, drives directly to the basket, and draws fouls with his strong physique. He shot 39% from 3-point range, although on limited attempts.
Despite his physical gifts, Moore’s defense and rebounding are not as impactful as expected. His defensive awareness and passing ability need improvement. He may be undersized for a power forward and needs to enhance his defensive consistency for a professional career. — Givony
47. Grant Nelson, PF, Alabama
Height: 6-11 | Super senior | TS%: 60.4%
First game: No. 2 Alabama vs. No. 15 Robert Morris, Friday, 12:40 p.m. (truTV)
Grant Nelson, after transferring from North Dakota State, has developed into a more versatile player at Alabama and could secure a roster spot in the NBA.
While not a consistent shooter (29% from 3 over five years), Nelson displays perimeter skills for his size and has improved his rebounding and defensive efforts. His combination of size and skills will attract interest from NBA teams. — Woo
46. Amari Williams, C, Kentucky
Height: 6-10 | Super senior | TS%: 61.9%
First game: No. 3 Kentucky vs. No. 14 Troy, Friday, 7:10 p.m. (CBS)
Amari Williams joined Kentucky after being named Coastal Athletic Association Defensive Player of the Year three times at Drexel. He has performed reliably with NBA-level size and reach. Though not a refined scorer, he has shown good passing ability for his position.
Williams has positioned himself as a potential two-way contract player, as NBA teams are always seeking center depth, especially in a draft class that may lack centers. His physical attributes, rebounding, and potential as a defender should help him secure a place on an NBA roster. — Woo
45. Dailyn Swain, SF, Xavier
Height: 6-8 | Sophomore | TS%: 60.8%
First game: No. 11 Xavier 86, No. 11 Texas 80
Dailyn Swain has the physical profile of a future NBA wing. His defensive skills are his greatest asset, contributing rebounds, steals, and blocks. He is versatile defensively in Xavier’s switching defense. Swain improved this season, particularly in transition and pick-and-roll situations, but his jump shot still needs work. He shot 4-for-22 from 3-point range this season, but 83% on free throws.
His matchup against Tre Johnson from Texas in the First Four game is a significant opportunity. While many scouts view Swain as a 2026 prospect, demonstrating his ability to defend a top scorer like Johnson would boost his draft profile. — Givony
44. Igor Milicic Jr., PF, Tennessee
Height: 6-10 | Senior | TS%: 58.4%
First game: No. 2 Tennessee 77, No. 15 Wofford 62
Igor Milicic Jr., after transferring from Charlotte, became a key player for Tennessee, offering a rare inside-out versatility at the college level. Though not a high-volume scorer, he effectively complements Tennessee’s guards and possesses good feel and skill for his size, occasionally hitting shots from beyond the arc (35% career 3-point shooter).
Milicic may not excel in one specific NBA skill, but his size and defensive potential make him a possible two-way contract option. — Woo
43. PJ Haggerty, PG, Memphis
Height: 6-3 | Sophomore | TS%: 60.1%
First game: No. 5 Memphis vs. No. 12 Colorado State, Friday, 2 p.m. (TBS)
PJ Haggerty, the American Athletic Conference player of the year, is a top scorer in college basketball. He pressures defenses with his dribbling and quickness. He excels in one-on-one situations and in transition, frequently drawing fouls. Despite his scoring talent, questions remain about how his game will translate to the NBA due to his slight build, low release on his jump shot, inconsistent decisions, and defensive focus.
However, there is demand for players with his scoring abilities and drive. His winning style of play is a positive sign for his future. His tournament performance will help scouts assess his NBA readiness or if returning for another college season, possibly as a top-earning guard, would be better. — Givony
PJ Haggerty gets the steal, then runs for the floor for an and-1 layup.
42. Walter Clayton Jr., PG, Florida
Height: 6-4 | Junior | TS%: 59.1%
First game: No 1 Florida vs. No. 16 Norfolk State, Friday, 6:50 p.m. (TNT)
Walter Clayton, Jr., an All-SEC and All-American player, led Florida’s offense as the top seed in the NCAA tournament and SEC champions. As a skilled shot creator, he disrupts defenses with his speed and unpredictability. Despite average size and strength, and inconsistent defense and passing, NBA teams will watch his decision-making in critical tournament moments.
While smaller combo guards are not highly sought after, Clayton’s scoring ability, productivity, and impact on winning should not be overlooked. — Givony
41. Koby Brea, SG/SF, Kentucky
Height: 6-7 | Super senior | TS%: 64.0%
First game: No. 3 Kentucky vs. No. 14 Troy, Friday, 7:10 p.m. (CBS)
Koby Brea’s primary skill over five college seasons has been 3-point shooting (43% career), which he maintained after transferring from Dayton to Kentucky. While it’s his main NBA-level skill, it’s valuable, and his size on the wing allows him to get his shot off and potentially be a shooting specialist.
This could be enough for a two-way contract as he aims for a spot on an NBA bench. — Woo
40. RJ Luis Jr., SF/PF, St. John’s
Height: 6-7 | Junior | TS%: 53.5%
First game: No. 2 St. John’s 83, No. 15 Omaha 53
RJ Luis Jr., the Big East Player of the Year, contributed in many ways to St. John’s success under coach Rick Pitino. He is a strong rebounder, steals and blocks shots, plays aggressively, and draws fouls. He has made key plays for St. John’s with his fearless approach, fitting the team’s physical style.
However, Luis’s shooting, with a 31% career 3-point percentage and unconventional mechanics, raises concerns about his game at higher levels. His decision-making inside the arc also needs improvement. At 22, with another year of eligibility, he faces a tough choice given his team’s season and his individual achievements. — Givony
Seth Greenberg, Jay Bilas and Jay Williams dive into the storyline of John Calipari’s Arkansas potentially facing Rick Pitino’s St. John’s in a highly anticipated second-round matchup.
39. Zvonimir Ivisic, PF/C, Arkansas
Height: 7-2 | Sophomore | TS%: 60.5%
First game: No. 10 Arkansas 79, No. 7 Kansas 72
Zvonimir Ivisic has been on NBA radars for years, entering and withdrawing from drafts before joining Kentucky and then Arkansas. Scouts are intrigued by his potential given his height, ability to shoot 3-pointers, block shots, and occasionally dominate games.
However, Ivisic has been inconsistent, with large performance swings, struggles with physical play, and lapses in awareness on both offense and defense. He is likely to return to college, but his talent as a stretch big man will continue to be watched closely. — Givony
38. Braden Smith, PG, Purdue
Height: 6-0 | Junior | TS%: 55.7%
First game: No. 4 Purdue 75, No. 13 High Point 63
Braden Smith, the Big Ten Player of the Year, has impressed NBA scouts despite his small size and lack of physicality. He excelled this season with Purdue playing a guard-focused style, shooting near 40% from 3 and leading the conference in assists.
As a tough and smart floor leader, Smith could earn more by returning to college, but he has made NBA scouts consider him as a potential depth player. — Woo
37. John Tonje, SF, Wisconsin
Height: 6-6 | Super senior | TS%: 65.0%
First game: No. 3 Wisconsin 85, No. 14 Montana 66
John Tonje, playing at his third college, had a breakout season at Wisconsin, enhancing his NBA prospects despite his age. Tonje’s size, strength, and scoring instincts are hard for college defenders to handle, particularly when he shoots well from outside. He is effective driving to the basket, attacking closeouts, and drawing fouls, leading to high scoring efficiency.
Tonje’s passing is average, and his off-ball defense needs improvement. There are questions about how his style will translate to the NBA, as older players with his profile have had mixed success. — Givony
36. Joseph Tugler, PF/C, Houston
Height: 6-8 | Sophomore | TS%: 55.3%
First game: No. 1 Houston 78, No. 16 SIU Edwardsville 40
Joseph Tugler, the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, offers exceptional length, mobility, and defensive versatility, leading draft prospects in block percentage. He is heavily relied on in Houston’s defense, showing aggressively on ball screens and recovering to block shots, requiring significant energy.
Tugler’s offensive game is developing; he is not a high scorer, struggles with free throws, and can be prone to mistakes due to his aggressive play. Another college year to refine his skills could be beneficial, but a strong NCAA tournament could improve his draft stock. — Givony
35. Sion James, SF, Duke
Height: 6-6 | Super senior | TS%: 65.8%
First game: No. 1 Duke vs. Mount Saint Mary’s, Friday, 2:50 p.m. (CBS)
Sion James, a transfer from Tulane, has become a vital role player for Duke, acting as a versatile ball handler, defender, and energy source. His skill set and strength make him an intriguing NBA prospect, particularly if he can consistently shoot 3-pointers (35.9% career) to space the floor.
He should be considered for a two-way contract, with his exposure at Duke helping his chances. — Woo
34. Ian Jackson, SG, North Carolina
Height: 6-4 | Freshman | TS%: 58.4%
First game: No. 11 North Carolina 95, No. 11 San Diego State 68
Ian Jackson’s role and playing time decreased from February, making him a borderline 2025 prospect who may need more college experience. He is a natural scorer but inconsistent due to shot selection and not a primary playmaker. With reduced minutes, his tournament impact for UNC is uncertain. — Woo
33. Tyrese Proctor, PG, Duke
Height: 6-6 | Junior | TS%: 56.6%
First game: No. 1 Duke vs. Mount Saint Mary’s, Friday, 2:50 p.m. (CBS)
Tyrese Proctor’s time at Duke has been longer than expected, but he has steadily improved as a three-year starter. He is a useful player for Duke, shooting 37% from 3 and limiting turnovers. NBA teams value his size and offensive potential, but he has somewhat plateaued, lacking the playmaking to be a full-time point guard and not fully living up to his early hype.
He is crucial to Duke’s tournament success and might benefit from another year of college before turning pro. — Woo
JT Toppin makes Baylor pay for leaving him open with a 3-pointer for Texas Tech.
32. Darrion Williams, SF/PF, Texas Tech
Height: 6-6 | Junior | TS%: 55.0%
First game: No. 3 Texas Tech 82, No. 14 UNC Wilmington 72
Darrion Williams is known for his versatility, playing both point guard and power forward. He facilitates well, moving the ball effectively in pick-and-roll, finding cutters, making skip passes, and attacking closeouts. He balances scoring and playmaking in clutch situations.
Williams shoots 39% from 3-point range and 85% on free throws, but his shooting mechanics are somewhat unorthodox. While intelligent and competitive, his defensive abilities are not top-tier, which is a concern for NBA teams. His health has been a recent issue, and his condition for the tournament is uncertain. — Givony
31. Miles Byrd, SG, San Diego State
Height: 6-7 | Sophomore | TS%: 52.6%
First game: No. 11 North Carolina 95, No. 11 San Diego State 68
Miles Byrd gained NBA scout attention at the Players Era tournament in November. He displays strong instincts on both ends of the court. His defensive stats are comparable to players like Tari Eason and Matisse Thybulle.
Byrd’s inconsistent 3-point shooting (31%), basic ball handling, and slight build are areas scouts want to examine further. His late-season performance for San Diego State was weak, and his matchup with Drake Powell, another defensive wing prospect, is noteworthy. — Givony
30. Bennett Stirtz, PG/SG, Drake
Height: 6-4 | Junior | TS%: 60.8%
First game: No. 11 Drake 67, No. 6 Missouri 57
Bennett Stirtz, the Missouri Valley Conference player of the year, plays over 40 minutes per game. His size, game feel, unselfishness, and competitiveness are appealing, along with his playmaking in pick-and-roll situations. Analytics models favor his statistical profile. His efficiency is notable, especially considering Drake’s slow pace, highlighting his points, assists, rebounds, steals, and free throw attempts per possession (shooting 39% from 3 and 79% on free throws).
Having faced few tournament-level teams, scouts are interested in seeing how Stirtz performs against tougher, more athletic opponents, as he can struggle to gain separation and finish in traffic, and his defense is tested due to his slight frame. — Givony
29. Boogie Fland, PG, Arkansas
Height: 6-2 | Freshman | TS%: 51.5%
First game: No. 10 Arkansas 79, No. 7 Kansas 72
Boogie Fland has been inactive since January due to a thumb injury. Arkansas improved significantly without him, earning a tournament bid. Fland has returned to practice and is expected to play, adding scoring to their backcourt. He offers shot creation, shooting, and passing skills but has been inefficient inside and defensively vulnerable.
Given his injury and team’s performance without him, returning to college seemed likely for Fland. It will be interesting to see his role as the team’s strategy has shifted towards veteran guard Johnell Davis. — Givony
28. Isaiah Evans, SG/SF, Duke
Height: 6-6 | Freshman | TS%: 65.1%
First game: No. 1 Duke vs. Mount Saint Mary’s, Friday, 2:50 p.m. (CBS)
Isaiah Evans’ role at Duke has varied, providing scoring when needed but lacking defensive consistency and decision-making to become a primary option. As a highly-rated recruit, his shooting ability will keep him on NBA radars.
