The 2025 NBA draft was dominated by the nation's best college freshmen -- 10 of the 14 lottery picks once ranked in ESPN's top 100, with 17 ranked prospects drafted in total -- and don't expect this trend to disappear. The league tends to covet star talent with upside, while also valuing role players with a track record of production and strong character traits. And college freshmen tend to fit the bill.
The high school class of 2026 is already showing signs of elite talent, with players across the country flashing skill sets that evoke comparisons to current NBA stars.