The 2025 NBA Draft Combine is set to kick off in Chicago, bringing together 120 of the most promising basketball talents from across the globe. This event marks the unofficial start of the NBA offseason, where teams, scouts, and fans will get their first in-depth look at the next generation of stars. Here’s what you need to know about the combine, the G League Elite Camp, and the players to watch.

Key Highlights of the NBA Draft Combine

• Cooper Flagg in the Spotlight: As one of the most talked-about prospects, Flagg will dominate discussions, especially for the team that secures the top pick in the draft lottery.
• Drills and Scrimmages: Players will undergo rigorous testing, including athletic drills, medical examinations, and 5-on-5 scrimmages, to showcase their skills and improve their draft stock.
• G League Elite Camp: A platform for lesser-known prospects to shine, with the top performers earning an invite to the main combine.

Top Prospects to Watch

1. Yaxel Lendeborg (PF/C, Michigan): A breakout star in the transfer portal, Lendeborg’s size and skill set make him a intriguing prospect.
2. Boogie Fland (PG, Arkansas): Despite his size, Fland’s craftiness and scoring ability could make him a standout in the combine’s guard-friendly setting.
3. Darrion Williams (SF/PF, Texas Tech): Known for his versatility and playmaking, Williams is weighing his options between the NBA and returning to college.
4. Rocco Zikarsky (C, Australia): At 7-foot-3, Zikarsky’s size and coordination make him a unique prospect, though he needs to prove he can keep up with the pace of the NBA.
5. Miles Byrd (SG, San Diego State): A defensive standout, Byrd’s late-blooming trajectory and offensive potential could make him a sleeper pick.

Key Storylines

• Draft Lottery Implications: The draft lottery will set the stage for the combine, with teams jockeying for position to land top talents like Flagg.
• Stay or Go Decisions: Several players, including Yaxel Lendeborg and Boogie Fland, are weighing whether to stay in the draft or return to college for another year.
• Agency Pro Days: Agents will showcase their clients in scripted workouts, though NBA teams are increasingly skeptical of these events.

G League Elite Camp Prospects

The G League Elite Camp will feature 45 players, with the top performers earning a spot in the main combine. Players like Caleb Love and Amari Williams will look to make a strong impression and secure their place in the draft.

Conclusion

The 2025 NBA Draft Combine is a critical event for both players and teams, offering a glimpse into the future of the league. With so much talent on display, this week in Chicago will shape the narrative for the upcoming draft and beyond.