Duke Flagg, Rutgers Bailey Lead 2024 NBA Draft Forwards

Cooper Flagg and Ace Bailey are the leading forwards in the 2025 NBA draft, with Flagg projected as the No. 1 overall pick and Bailey expected to be a top-five selection. Flagg, a 6-foot-8 versatile player from Duke, led his team to the Final Four and earned the Associated Press men's national player of the year award as a freshman, showcasing advanced scoring, playmaking, and defensive abilities. Bailey, also 6-foot-8, was a standout at Rutgers with strong scoring, shooting, and athleticism despite his team's losing season. Flagg's competitive edge and responsiveness to coaching have been highlighted as key strengths, though he could improve his strength and reduce turnovers. ESPN draft expert Kevin Pelton projects Flagg's Wins Above Replacement Player (WARP) at 5.3 over his first five NBA seasons, slightly below the pre-draft projections of stars like Zion Williamson and Luka Doncic. Both players are seen as exceptional prospects with significant potential to impact their future NBA teams.