NBA Draft Guide: What You Need to Know Before the 2025 Picks

If you’ve ever wondered why the NBA draft matters, you’re in the right spot. It’s the night teams pick fresh talent that could change their fortunes for years. Think of it like a huge talent show where college stars and international players step onto the biggest stage. Below we break down the basics, spotlight the hottest prospects for 2025, and tell you exactly how to catch every moment live.

How the NBA Draft Works

The draft happens over two rounds. Teams take turns picking players based on a lottery that decides the top three slots. After that, the order follows the previous season’s record – worst team picks next, best team picks last. Each pick is a contract: rookie‑scale deals that lock a player in for a few years. Trades can shuffle the order, so keep an eye on rumors; a team might trade up to snag a favorite prospect.

Eligibility is simple: you must be at least 19 years old and one year removed from high school. Most players come from NCAA programs, but overseas stars are getting more attention. The draft combines scouting reports, combine workouts, and interview impressions – all of which shape a player’s stock on the night.

2025 Draft Preview: Top Prospects to Watch

Right now the buzz centers around three names: point guard Ethan Torres from Duke, power forward Mikael Andersson out of Sweden’s Basketligaen, and swingman Lamar “Flash” Johnson who just finished a breakout season at Kansas. Torres is praised for his court vision and clutch shooting; scouts say he could be a franchise‑building guard. Andersson brings elite length and a soft touch around the rim – a modern big man with perimeter skills. Johnson’s athleticism and defensive versatility make him a high‑upside wing.

Mock drafts from ESPN, The Athletic, and NBA.com all have Torres slipping between picks 4‑7, while Andersson is projected in the late first round or early second. If you’re betting on lottery odds, keep tabs on the combine scores – a strong showing can vault a player into the top three.

International prospects are also heating up. Nigeria’s Kabir Okonkwo and Australia’s Sophie Nguyen (yes, she’s eligible for the women’s draft but generating talk in the men’s circle for her size‑10 dunk) have sparked conversations about cross‑league talent pipelines.

Don’t forget the “steal” factor. Late‑second‑round picks like Jared Lee, a defensive specialist from Texas, often become role players that outshine their draft slot. Keep an eye on team needs; a club lacking depth at center might grab a sleeper in the 45th pick.

Ready to watch? The NBA streams the entire event on its official website and through the NBA App for free with a basic account. Cable fans can tune into ESPN or TNT, which also provide behind‑the‑scenes interviews and analysis. If you’re outside the U.S., look for local broadcasters that carry ESPN’s feed or use a reliable VPN to access the NBA stream.

In short, the 2025 NBA draft offers fresh faces, global talent, and plenty of drama. Whether you’re a casual fan or a die‑hard follower, knowing how the lottery works, who the top prospects are, and where to watch will make the night far more exciting. Grab some snacks, set your reminder, and enjoy the next generation of basketball stars taking their first step onto the big stage.