Podcast Summary: Eye On College Basketball Episode Release Date: May 13, 2025
Introduction
In this episode of Eye On College Basketball, hosted by CBS Sports’ Gary Parrish and Matt Norlander, the hosts delve into a comprehensive mock NBA Draft for the 2025 Lottery Picks. The discussion revolves around projecting top college basketball talents and their potential landing spots in the NBA, analyzing team needs, player strengths, and possible future impacts.
1. Dallas Mavericks Select Cooper Flagg (#1 Pick)
Timestamp: [02:04] - [19:02]
Summary: Gary Parrish opens the mock draft by selecting Cooper Flagg from Duke University as the number one pick for the Dallas Mavericks. Both hosts agree that Flagg is the undeniable top prospect with the highest ceiling and consistent performance metrics.
Key Points:
- Cooper Flagg is praised for his all-around game: "He has the highest ceiling, highest floor, most well-rounded player" ([17:05] Gary Parrish).
- Parrish highlights the historic nature of Dallas securing the #1 pick, comparing it to the 1993 Orlando Magic leap.
- Matt Norlander emphasizes Flagg’s readiness to impact the team without immediately becoming the star player: "He will truly thrive in a supporting role as needed" ([22:45] Matt Norlander).
- Flagg's impressive statistics at Duke include averaging 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.4 blocks.
Notable Quote: Gary Parrish remarks at [19:02], "Cooper Flag is the no-brainer number one pick. It does not mean he will be the best player from this class, but he's the clear cut number one prospect."
2. San Antonio Spurs Select Dylan Harper (#2 Pick)
Timestamp: [23:34] - [35:37]
Summary: With the second pick, the San Antonio Spurs choose Dylan Harper from Rutgers. Both hosts discuss Harper’s impressive freshman year and his potential to be the first Rutgers player in the top five of the modern draft era.
Key Points:
- Dylan Harper averaged 19.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, 4 assists with a 48% shooting last season.
- Harper is noted for overcoming illness, showcasing resilience and strong instincts.
- Parrish mentions Harper’s lineage, noting his father played for the Bulls’ title teams, adding to his basketball pedigree.
- Matt Norlander agrees on placing Harper in the second spot, emphasizing his fit with the Spurs' roster needs.
Notable Quote: Matt Norlander states at [26:09], "I think Dylan Harper should go number two. I would consider him tier two himself."
3. Philadelphia 76ers Select Trey Johnson (#3 Pick)
Timestamp: [35:40] - [43:48]
Summary: The Philadelphia 76ers opt for Trey Johnson from the University of Texas with the third pick. Johnson is highlighted for his shooting prowess and versatility as a guard.
Key Points:
- Trey Johnson is described as a six-foot-six shooter with excellent perimeter shooting and athleticism.
- Johnson led Texas in scoring with 19.9 points per game, 3.1 rebounds, and 2.7 assists.
- Norlander emphasizes Johnson’s development potential and fit alongside existing Sixers stars like Tyrese Maxey.
- Parrish underscores Johnson’s ability to project as a top draft pick despite existing talent on the team.
Notable Quote: Matt Norlander remarks at [28:18], "Trey Johnson is a top three prospect in this draft and I would take him third if I'm Philadelphia."
4. Charlotte Hornets Select BJ Edgecombe (#4 Pick)
Timestamp: [43:49] - [53:17]
Summary: With the fourth pick, the Charlotte Hornets draft BJ Edgecombe from Baylor. Edgecombe is lauded for his scoring ability, defensive versatility, and contributions beyond raw statistics.
Key Points:
- BJ Edgecombe averaged 15 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 2.1 steals.
- He is recognized for his ability to shoot from deep, drive to the rim, and his defensive prowess.
- Both hosts agree on Edgecombe’s strong case for the fourth spot, highlighting his all-around game and importance to a rebuilding Hornets team.
- Edgecombe's unique combination of size and skill makes him an ideal fit for Charlotte’s needs.
Notable Quote: Gary Parrish observes at [31:13], "BJ Edgecombe from Baylor is a really good player with incredible highlights. He checks all the boxes for a prospect."
5. Utah Jazz Select Ace Bailey (#5 Pick)
Timestamp: [53:17] - [58:11]
Summary: The Utah Jazz take Ace Bailey from Rutgers with the fifth pick. Bailey is commended for his scoring efficiency, rebounding, and defensive capabilities, despite concerns about his impact on team success at the college level.
Key Points:
- Ace Bailey averaged 17.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, 1 steal, and 1.3 blocks.
- Bailey is one of the top Big Ten freshmen, with his father having a notable NBA legacy.
- There’s discussion about whether collegiate team success should influence draft stock, with both hosts agreeing it doesn’t significantly impact NBA evaluations.
- Bailey’s high variance is noted, but his potential for high-impact play keeps him solidly within the top five picks.
Notable Quote: Gary Parrish states at [34:46], "Ace Bailey is among the most inefficient young players in the NBA, but his floor is super high."
6. Washington Wizards Select Con Knippel (#6 Pick)
Timestamp: [58:11] - [73:43]
Summary: The Washington Wizards choose Con Knippel from Duke University with the sixth pick. Knippel is praised for his shooting, defensive instincts, and overall basketball IQ, making him a versatile asset for the Wizards.
Key Points:
- Con Knippel averaged 14.4 points, 4.0 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.3 blocks, with a 48% field goal and 41% three-point shooting.
- His ability to contribute defensively and his proficiency in shooting make him a strong candidate.
- Both hosts appreciate his fit with the Wizards, despite the franchise’s recent struggles.
- Knippel is seen as a complement to the Wizards’ roster, providing both offense and defensive support.
Notable Quote: Gary Parrish mentions at [41:09], "Con Knippel is a tremendous complimentary piece. He can switch defensively and is a great shooter from beyond the arc."
7. New Orleans Pelicans Select Casper Yakotonis (#7 Pick)
Timestamp: [73:43] - [82:33]
Summary: The New Orleans Pelicans draft Casper Yakotonis from Illinois with the seventh pick. Yakotonis is evaluated for his shooting capabilities and overall basketball intelligence, positioning him as a valuable asset despite some concerns about his three-point efficiency.
Key Points:
- Casper Yakotonis averaged 16 points, 5.7 rebounds, 4.7 assists, and shot 32% from three-point range.
- His shooting mechanics and basketball IQ are highlighted, although there's skepticism about his shooting consistency.
- Norlander compares Yakotonis to guards like Ja Morant, emphasizing his potential to excel through agility and intelligence rather than pure athleticism.
- Parrish agrees on Yakotonis's potential but notes his three-point shooting needs improvement.
Notable Quote: Matt Norlander reflects at [72:30], "Yakachunas could do a lot of smart plays and has the potential to excel even if his shooting percentages improve."
8. Brooklyn Nets Select Malawatch (#8 Pick)
Timestamp: [82:33] - [93:34]
Summary: With the eighth pick, the Brooklyn Nets pick Malawatch from Duke University. Malawatch is recognized for his defensive versatility, size, and potential to grow into an all-star player.
Key Points:
- Malawatch averages 8.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and has a wide wingspan, making him a formidable defender.
- His ability to switch on defense and his offensive potential as a lob threat are emphasized.
- Both hosts express confidence in his ability to adapt and thrive in the NBA, highlighting his teamwork and intelligence.
- Malawatch's versatility is seen as a perfect fit for the Nets' dynamic roster.
Notable Quote: Gary Parrish comments at [52:34], "Malawatch has the widest spectrum of what he could be. His defensive instincts are tremendous."
9. Toronto Raptors Select Jeremiah Fierce (#9 Pick)
Timestamp: [93:34] - [101:09]
Summary: The Toronto Raptors select Jeremiah Fierce from Oklahoma with the ninth pick. Fierce is seen as a solid player with potential to grow, though there are debates about his current standing compared to his peers.
Key Points:
- Jeremiah Fierce averaged 17 points, 4.1 rebounds, showing strong offensive capabilities.
- His speed and ability to navigate around defenders are praised, while his three-point shooting remains a concern.
- Both hosts acknowledge his potential to excel if his shooting improves, likening him to players who thrive through agility and skill despite shooting inefficiencies.
- There's consensus that Fierce could become a significant contributor to the Raptors' lineup.
Notable Quote: Matt Norlander states at [55:32], "If Fears can navigate like an elite guard, he doesn’t need to be a top shooter to succeed in the NBA."
10. Houston Rockets Select Derek Queen (#10 Pick)
Timestamp: [101:09] - [116:35]
Summary: The Houston Rockets use the tenth pick on Derek Queen from Maryland. Queen is commended for his scoring, rebounding, and passing abilities, making him a promising addition to the Rockets' roster.
Key Points:
- Derek Queen averaged 16.5 points, 9 rebounds, and 3.6 assists, shooting 53% from the field.
- His mature playstyle and basketball intelligence are highlighted as strengths.
- Queen's fit with the Rockets is discussed, emphasizing his potential to contribute immediately and grow into a long-term asset.
- Both hosts agree on his high draft stock and potential impact on the Rockets' performance.
Notable Quote: Gary Parrish notes at [116:35], "Derek Queen is set to be a 10+ year pro and would be a wonderful addition to the Rockets."
11. Portland Trail Blazers Select Carter Bryant (#11 Pick)
Timestamp: [116:35] - [133:43]
Summary: The Portland Trail Blazers draft Carter Bryant with the eleventh pick. Bryant is recognized for his size, versatility, and potential as a key wing player, though there are uncertainties regarding his offensive production.
Key Points:
- Carter Bryant averaged 6.5 points, 4.1 rebounds in limited games, showing glimpses of potential.
- His defensive abilities and physical presence are praised, while his offensive consistency is questioned.
- Bryant is viewed as a fit for teams needing versatile wing players who can defend multiple positions.
- Both hosts express cautious optimism, acknowledging his potential if he can enhance his offensive game.
Notable Quote: Matt Norlander shares at [119:50], "Carter Bryant is the type of player every NBA franchise needs—versatile, gritty, and defensively sound."
12. Chicago Bulls Select Jagor Demon (#12 Pick)
Timestamp: [133:43] - [152:02]
Summary: With the twelfth pick, the Chicago Bulls select Jagor Demon from BYU. Demon is evaluated for his point-guard skills, assist ability, and potential to develop into a starting point guard.
Key Points:
- Jagor Demon averaged 10.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, 5.5 assists while maintaining solid shooting percentages.
- His leadership and playmaking abilities are highlighted as key strengths.
- Hosts discuss his potential to grow into a starting point guard, enhancing the Bulls' backcourt depth.
- There is acknowledgment of his fluctuating performance but consensus on his future potential.
Notable Quote: Gary Parrish comments at [152:02], "Jagor Demon is set to be a valuable point guard, bringing leadership and playmaking to the Bulls."
13. Atlanta Hawks Select Jace Richardson (#13 Pick)
Timestamp: [152:02] - [165:43]
Summary: The Atlanta Hawks utilize the thirteenth pick to draft Jace Richardson from Michigan State. Richardson is praised for his versatility, basketball IQ, and the influence of his professional athlete father.
Key Points:
- Jace Richardson is recognized for his ability to play multiple backcourt positions and his potential to develop alongside a star like Trey Young.
- His father's legacy in the NBA is seen as a positive influence, providing him with advanced training and understanding of the professional game.
- The hosts discuss his shooting mechanics and handle, noting areas for improvement but overall strong potential.
- Richardson is viewed as a smart player with the capability to adapt and grow within the Hawks' system.
Notable Quote: Gary Parrish notes at [168:49], "Jace Richardson’s basketball IQ and versatility make him a perfect fit for the Atlanta Hawks."
14. Chicago Bulls Select Jagor Demon (#14 Pick)
Timestamp: [165:43] - [183:34]
Summary: The Chicago Bulls conclude the lottery mock draft by selecting Derek Queen from Maryland with the fourteenth pick. Queen is commended for his rebounding, passing, and defensive abilities, making him a promising addition to the Rockets.
Key Points:
- Derek Queen is highlighted for his strong rebounding, efficient scoring, and excellent passing.
- His defensive prowess is noted as a significant asset, particularly his ability to protect the rim.
- The hosts discuss Queen’s fit with the Rockets, emphasizing how he complements their existing roster and potential for long-term contribution.
- There is acknowledgment of his slight turnover issues but overall agreement on his high potential.
Notable Quote: Gary Parrish concludes at [183:34], "Derek Queen would be a wonderful addition to the Rockets, bringing both scoring and rebounding to the team."
Conclusions and Wrap-Up
Gary Parrish and Matt Norlander wrap up the mock draft by reflecting on the projected picks and their potential impacts on respective teams. They emphasize the unpredictability of draft outcomes and the evolving nature of player evaluations as the draft approaches. The hosts also hint at future episodes and additional mock drafts to further analyze and discuss upcoming prospects.
Key Takeaways:
- Cooper Flagg stands out as the clear #1 pick with vast potential.
- Dylan Harper and Trey Johnson secure the top three spots, aligning with team needs and player capabilities.
- The mock draft highlights the depth and talent in the 2025 draft class, with multiple players showcasing both high ceilings and specific areas for growth.
- The discussion underscores the importance of team fit, player versatility, and long-term potential in draft projections.
Final Quote: Matt Norlander concludes at [182:26], "This is where we call a swing, folks, recognizing that the draft is full of uncertainties but also immense potential."
Additional Notes
- The episode includes a segment of advertisements for OpenPhone, Hyundai Ioniq 9, Autotrader, and Five Hour Energy. These sections were omitted from the summary as per the user’s request.
- The hosts' camaraderie and playful banter, including discussions about Diet Dr. Pepper and humorous interactions, add an engaging layer to the episode but were streamlined in the summary to focus on content-related discussions.
Disclaimer: This summary is based on a provided transcript and may not capture all nuances of the full episode. For the most accurate and comprehensive understanding, listeners are encouraged to tune into the full podcast.