2025 NBA Draft: Underclassmen Decisions & Projections
- The landscape for the 2025 NBA draft is solidifying as players finalize their decisions to stay in the draft or return to college.
- Washington State's Cedric Coward previously confirmed he would remain in the draft.
- John's forward RJ Luis Jr., Penn State's Yanic Konan Niederhauser, Florida State's Jamir Watkins, and Arkansas' Adou Thiero all declared they would stay in the NBA Draft.
Underclassmen decisions are shaping the 2025 NBA Draft landscape! The deadline for early entry withdrawals has passed, impacting the draft projections. Key prospects like Yanic Konan Niederhauser and RJ Luis Jr. are staying in the NBA Draft, while players such as Labaron Philon are returning to college.These crucial choices will substantially impact team strategies. Get the latest updates on the 2025 NBA Draft Combine performances and player rankings. News Directory 3 delivers thorough coverage of the evolving player pool. Discover which underclassmen are poised to make a splash and which teams will benefit, as the selections become clearer. Discover what’s next to keep your eye on the next draft.
NBA Draft 2025: Key Decisions Shape Prospect Pool
Updated May 29, 2025
The landscape for the 2025 NBA draft is solidifying as players finalize their decisions to stay in the
draft or return to college. The NCAA’s withdrawal deadline, which fell on Wednesday, prompted several
last-minute announcements.
Washington State’s Cedric Coward previously confirmed he would remain in the draft. Meanwhile, Yaxel
Lendeborg of Michigan opted to withdraw and play for Dusty May at Michigan.
On the deadline day, St. John’s forward RJ Luis Jr., Penn State’s Yanic Konan Niederhauser, Florida State’s
Jamir Watkins, and Arkansas’ Adou Thiero all declared they would stay in the NBA Draft.
Conversely, Kentucky guard Otega Oweh, Auburn guard Tahaad Pettiford, and San Diego State wing Miles Byrd
announced their return to school. Tahaad Pettiford, once considered a potential first-round pick, is now
expected to lead Auburn’s offense.
Yanic Konan Niederhauser, Penn State
Yanic konan Niederhauser, with a Big Board ranking of 42, is staying in the draft. His performance at the NBA
Draft Combine improved his standing, projecting him as a potential second-round pick.
RJ Luis Jr., St. John’s
RJ Luis Jr., ranked 71 on the Big Board, is also staying in the draft. Despite entering the transfer portal,
the 6-foot-7 wing is turning pro and is highly likely to be a second-round pick.
labaron Philon, Alabama
Labaron philon, ranked 23 on the Big Board, is returning to Alabama. This decision is a important boost for
the team, making him a potential SEC Player of the Year candidate.
Miles Byrd, San Diego State
miles Byrd is returning to San Diego State.
What’s next
As the dust settles, teams will focus on evaluating talent and preparing for the upcoming NBA Draft, where
these players hope to realize their professional dreams.