NBA Draft Combine 2025: Day 1 Highlights

The 2025 NBA Draft Combine kicked off in Chicago with a flurry of activity, as over 100 prospects showcased their skills in drills, measurements, and athletic testing. The event, held at Wintrust Arena and the Marriott Marquis, set the stage for what promises to be an exciting draft season.

Cooper Flagg: The Franchise Player

Cooper Flagg, the projected No. 1 pick, lived up to the hype with a dominant performance. Standing at 6-foot-7 3/4 and weighing 221 pounds, Flagg impressed with his energy, charisma, and skill. He shot the ball well in drills and demonstrated significant improvement over the past year. Sources indicate that the Dallas Mavericks, who won the No. 1 pick in the draft lottery, are thrilled to have the opportunity to select Flagg.

Rising Stars

Several other prospects made waves on Day 1:

• Yaxel Lendeborg (PF/C, UAB/Michigan): Lendeborg showcased his all-around skills, with outstanding measurements and impressive performances in drills and 3-on-3 play.
• Drake Powell (SG/SF, North Carolina): Powell tested as one of the best athletes at the combine, with a 43-inch max vertical leap and a 7-foot wingspan.
• Chaz Lanier (SG, Tennessee): Known for his shooting, Lanier continued to impress, finishing in the top five in all three 3-point shooting drills.
• Mark Sears (PG, Alabama): Sears was the best shooter on Day 1, finishing first in three of the four shooting drills.
• Tre Johnson (SG, Texas): Johnson displayed quick and clean shooting mechanics, leaving a strong impression on scouts.

Injury News

Duke's Kon Knueppel, a projected top-10 pick, sat out drills and tests due to an ankle injury. He is expected to participate in a pro day later in the week.

What's Next?

The combine continues with team interviews, media availability, and 5-on-5 scrimmages. Stay tuned for more updates as the 2025 NBA Draft approaches.