ESPN 2025 NBA Mock Draft: Cooper Flagg, Ace Bailey Go 1-2; Bronny James Goes Round 2

The first look at the 2025 NBA draft is here, and Cooper Flagg is at the top.

ESPN's Jonathan Givony released his first 2025 mock draft, with the future Duke forward coming in at No. 1 while soon-to-be Rutgers swingman Ace Bailey comes in at No. 2.

Here's a look at how Givony's top five played out:

1. Washington Wizards: Cooper Flagg, SF/PF, Duke

2. Charlotte Hornets: Airious "Ace" Bailey, SG/SF, Rutgers

3. Portland Trail Blazers: Khaman Maluach, C, NBA Academy Africa

4. Chicago Bulls: Jalil Bethea, PG/SG, Miami

5. San Antonio Spurs: Hugo Gonzalez, SF, Real Madrid B

Flagg is the consensus top player in the 2024 high school class and is one of the highest-rated prospects in this generation. Gifted with size, athleticism and elite feel for the game for his age, Flagg has the makings of a two-way superstar at the next level. He's a crown jewel for rebuilding teams, the type of prospect not found in the more shallow 2024 draft class.

Bailey, who shocked many by choosing Rutgers in November, isn't far behind him. The swingman should get a chance to be the focal point of the Scarlet Knights' offense and help turn around a program that hasn't reached the Sweet 16 since 1979.

Maluach, a 7-foot Sudanese prospect who won the Basketball Without Borders MVP last year, slots in as the No. 3 pick. Maluach did not start playing basketball until 2017 and is more of a long-term project, but he was already named to the South Sudan national team in 2023.

The most noteworthy name outside the lottery is USC guard Bronny James, who comes in at No. 39 overall. James, the son of LeBron James, was at one point projected as a 2024 lottery pick. However, he's struggled to return to form since returning to the court after suffering cardiac arrest in July.

It's unclear whether James plans to extend his career at USC or go pro after one season, but Givony is currently projecting him outside of the first round in 2025.