Podcast Summary: Eye On College Basketball – “Mega Mock Draft: Overvalued/Underrated Prospects, Intel on Lottery Picks, Projecting Cooper Flagg’s Career, Ace Bailey’s Stock, Picks Doomed to Miss + Much More”
Release Date: June 24, 2025
Hosts: Gary Parrish, Matt Norlander, & Kyle Boone
Platform: CBS Sports

Introduction

In the latest episode of CBS Sports’ Eye On College Basketball, hosts Gary Parrish, Matt Norlander, and Kyle Boone delve into an extensive mega mock draft for the 2025 NBA Draft. The trio provides insightful analysis on top prospects, discusses overvalued and underrated players, and projects potential career trajectories for standout athletes like Cooper Flagg and Ace Bailey.

Conducting the Mock Draft

[02:20]
Gary Parrish kicks off the episode by setting the stage for their mock draft, emphasizing its comprehensive nature and the limited time frame they have to complete it.

Matt Norlander adds, “I am eager,” highlighting the excitement and anticipation surrounding the upcoming draft.

[03:28]
The hosts decide to adopt an alternating pick format, where Matt Norlander makes the first selection, followed by Kyle Boone, and then Gary Parrish.

Top Picks and Projections

1. Cooper Flagg – Dallas Mavericks

[07:21] – Gary Parrish:
“Cooper Flagg has the highest floor and ceiling of any player in this class. His defensive prowess and versatility make him a potential Hall of Famer.”

[06:35] – Matt Norlander:
“If Cooper Flagg remains injury-free, he will undoubtedly have a Hall of Fame career, averaging close to an MVP-caliber performance.”

Gary emphasizes Flagg’s comprehensive skill set, comparing his potential to legends like Scottie Pippen, stating, “I think he can hit Scottie Pippen type levels at his ceiling.”

2. Dylan Harper – San Antonio Spurs

[08:52] – Kyle Boone:
“Dylan Harper, son of former NBA player Ron Harper, brings a strong pedigree and versatility to the Spurs. His ability to create for himself and his teammates makes him an ideal pick.”

Kyle compares Harper to Jalen Brunson, noting his smooth left-handed gameplay and playmaking skills.

4. Ace Bailey – Charlotte Hornets

[09:40] – Matt Norlander:
“Ace Bailey’s pre-draft process has been unconventional, raising questions about his fit with the Philadelphia 76ers. However, his potential landing in Charlotte could offer him a thriving environment.”

[14:00] – Gary Parish:
“Taking Ace Bailey at number four to Charlotte is strategic. His ceiling is the second-best in this draft, capable of averaging over 25 points per game with the right team support.”

5. BJ Edgecombe – Utah Jazz

[19:38] – Kyle Boone:
“BJ Edgecombe stands out as a top-tier athlete and a defensive game changer. His two-way capabilities make him a perfect fit for the Utah Jazz’s system.”

Kyle highlights Edgecombe’s high athleticism and defensive skills, noting his potential to become a standout NBA player.

6. Con Canepel – Washington Wizards

[22:14] – Kyle Boone:
“Con Canepel is the best shooter in this class, boasting over 40% from three-point range. His smart play and defensive prowess make him a valuable asset for the Wizards.”

Gary Parish echoes Kyle's sentiments, praising Canepel’s versatility and intelligence on the court, saying, “He’s going to be a really quality NBA player for a long time.”

7. Casper Siakachonas – New Orleans Pelicans

[27:18] – Kyle Boone:
“Casper Siakachonas brings excellent size and shooting ability. His basketball IQ and passing skills make him an intriguing pick for the Pelicans.”

Gary adds, “Siakachonas is destined to be taken early, potentially reshaping any team he joins with his skill set.”

8. Jeremiah Fears – Brooklyn Nets

[29:25] – Kyle Boone:
“Jeremiah Fears combines high usage rate with exceptional ball-handling. Despite concerns about his shooting, he has the potential to be a star with the Brooklyn Nets.”

Gary Parish, however, remains skeptical about Fears’ defensive capabilities, stating, “He is too small and an atrocious defender compared to the expectations of a top pick.”

10. Carter Bryant – Phoenix Suns

[17:16] – Gary Parish:
“Carter Bryant is a solid defender with the ability to translate his skills immediately to the NBA. His growth potential makes him a valuable pick for the Suns.”

Matt Norlander underscores Bryant’s defensive impact and potential for multiple All-Star appearances, highlighting his suitability for Phoenix’s evolving roster.

11. Cedric Coward – Portland Trail Blazers

[42:20] – Kyle Boone:
“Cedric Coward’s rise has been meteoric, reminiscent of players like Jalen Williams. His physicality and shooting make him a prime target for the Blazers.”

Gary Parish lauds Coward’s dedication and potential, describing him as one of the most impressive players he has ever covered.

12. Derek Queen – Chicago Bulls

[50:14] – Kyle Boone:
“Derek Queen possesses exceptional passing skills for a big man, projecting him as an Alperen Şengün-type player. His versatility makes him a contender for the Bulls’ frontcourt.”

Gary acknowledges Queen’s strengths but remains cautious due to concerns about his shooting mechanics and conditioning.

Additional Notable Picks

• 13. Noah Ascende – Atlanta Hawks:
  A strong international prospect with questions about his shooting and strength, Noah Ascende is positioned at number thirteen, reflecting his solid pre-draft evaluations.

• 14. Colin Murray Boyles – San Antonio Spurs:
  Colin provides depth and defensive versatility, fitting well into the Spurs’ system alongside Victor Wembanyama.

• 15. Liam McNeely – Oklahoma City Thunder:
  McNeely’s shooting consistency raises concerns, but his potential keeps him within the Thunder’s draft strategy for future role players.

• 16. Asa Newell – Memphis Grizzlies:
  Projected to contribute immediately with his athleticism and length, Newell is expected to blend well with the Grizzlies’ versatile frontcourt.

• 17. Nick Clifford – Minnesota Timberwolves:
  An All-American with immediate impact capabilities, Clifford is a high-upside pick deserving of his position in the mid-first round.

• 18. Jace Richardson – Washington Wizards:
  Despite his smaller stature for a guard, Richardson’s basketball IQ and scoring ability make him a valuable pick for the Wizards.

• 19. Thomas Sorbert – New Orleans Pelicans:
  A physical presence from Georgetown, Sorbert offers efficient scoring and rebounding, fitting seamlessly into New Orleans' roster.

• 20. Nolan Trey – Miami Heat:
  Trey's consistent growth and international experience make him a strategic addition for the Heat’s backcourt needs.

• 21. Danny Wolf – Utah Jazz:
  Wolf’s unique combination of guard skills and size positions him as a versatile asset for the Jazz, despite some polarizing opinions.

• 22. Joan Berenger – France:
  Berenger’s exceptional shot-blocking and rebounding skills make him a standout prospect with high expectations in the NBA.

• 23. Rashire Fleming – St. Joseph’s:
  Fleming’s reliable three-point shooting and strong physique make him a desirable late first-round pick, akin to a Bobby Portis-type role player.

• 24. Ben Seraph – Israel:
  An upcoming point guard with solid pick-and-roll abilities, Seraph is drafted by the Oklahoma City Thunder as part of their strategy to develop future role players.

• 25. Walter Clayton Jr. – Orlando Magic:
  Clayton’s defensive prowess and shooting capabilities make him a fitting pick for the Magic, emphasizing his potential for growth.

• 26. Hugo Gonzalez – Spain:
  A developing shooter with strong measurables, Gonzalez offers international finesse and versatility to the Detroit Pistons.

• 27. Maxim Reynold – Stanford:
  Reynold’s stretching ability and modern big-man skills position him as a valuable draft pick for teams seeking perimeter threats in the frontcourt.

• 28. Additional Prospects:
  The hosts briefly touch upon other emerging talents, emphasizing the depth and unpredictability of the 2025 draft class.

• 29. Ryan Kalkbrenner – Creighton:
  An efficient rebounder and strong interior presence, Kalkbrenner is highlighted as a top-tier prospect with significant NBA potential.

• 30. Rashire Fleming – St. Joseph’s:
  Fleming rounds out the mock draft with his versatile skill set and reliable shooting, projecting a role akin to Bobby Portis.

Reflections and Insights

Throughout the mock draft, the hosts discuss the significance of scouting, the impact of college performance, and the unpredictability of draft outcomes. They emphasize that while top picks like Cooper Flagg and Ace Bailey have clear trajectories, many prospects’ futures remain uncertain and highly dependent on their development and the teams that select them.

[90:24] – Matt Norlander:
“Consistent performance and adaptability are key. It’s not just about being drafted but how you evolve in the league.”

Gary Parish echoes this sentiment, reminding listeners of the dynamic nature of player development and the critical role of the right team environment in shaping an NBA career.

Conclusion

As the mock draft concludes, the hosts express excitement for the real 2025 NBA Draft, promising live coverage and further analysis. They encourage listeners to tune in live on Wednesday night for an in-depth look at the actual draft results.

[99:48] – Gary Parish:
“We’ve gone over 90 minutes. Make sure to join us live on draft night where we’ll break down the selections and what they mean for the teams and players involved.”

Matt Norlander wraps up the episode by highlighting the importance of versatility and determination for aspiring NBA players, reinforcing the message that success can come from anywhere, not just the most prestigious college programs.

Notable Quotes

• Gary Parrish [07:21]:
  “Cooper Flagg has the highest floor and ceiling of any player in this class. His defensive prowess and versatility make him a potential Hall of Famer.”

• Matt Norlander [06:35]:
  “If Cooper Flagg remains injury-free, he will undoubtedly have a Hall of Fame career, averaging close to an MVP-caliber performance.”

• Kyle Boone [22:14]:
  “Con Canepel is the best shooter in this class, boasting over 40% from three-point range. His smart play and defensive prowess make him a valuable asset for the Wizards.”

• Gary Parish [14:00]:
  “Taking Ace Bailey at number four to Charlotte is strategic. His ceiling is the second-best in this draft, capable of averaging over 25 points per game with the right team support.”

Final Thoughts

This episode of Eye On College Basketball offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the 2025 NBA Draft prospects. Whether you’re a die-hard college basketball fan or simply interested in the future stars of the NBA, the hosts provide valuable insights and thoughtful analysis that enrich your understanding of the draft process and its potential impact on the league.

For more detailed scouting reports and in-depth analysis, be sure to subscribe to Eye On College Basketball on your preferred podcast platform.