Maxime Raynaud: A rapidly emerging star in the 2025 NBA Draft class

In the early stages of the basketball season, a French center has emerged as a standout performer — and it’s not Victor Wembanyama.

Stanford senior Maxime Raynaud, a 7-foot-1 center from Paris, is enjoying a breakout campaign that has thrust him firmly into the NBA Draft conversation. Once absent from mock drafts, the 21-year-old’s polished performances have caught the attention of analysts and scouts alike.

Through 10 games, Raynaud is delivering career-high numbers across the board: 22.1 points, 11.3 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 1.4 steals per game. His efficiency is equally noteworthy, as he’s shooting 50.9 percent from the field and an impressive 40 percent from three-point range on 4.5 attempts per game.

After earning the Pac-12 Most Improved Player award, alongside a spot on the All-Pac-12 Second Team, Raynaud’s production has taken a significant jump since his junior year.

Dominating the leaderboards

Raynaud ranks among the nation's best in several key statistical categories. His scoring average ties for ninth in the NCAA, while his rebounding ranks fourth. On the offensive glass, his 39 rebounds are tied for the ninth-highest nationally, and he leads the country with eight double-doubles.

This dominance highlights the Stanford star’s versatility as both a commanding presence in the paint and an emerging stretch big. His ability to shoot from deep — a prized trait for modern centers — has developed considerably.

After shooting 42.3 percent from three-point range as a freshman and 36.1 percent as a junior on limited attempts, Raynaud is now averaging 4.3 attempts per game while maintaining a conversion rate above 40 percent. This improvement has significantly boosted his draft stock.

His season has already featured several eye-catching performances. On Nov. 17, he posted a season-high 33 points in a win over UC Davis, shooting 13-of-26 from the field, including 5-of-10 from beyond the arc. He also grabbed 14 rebounds — eight on the offensive glass — and added two steals.

Six days later, he followed up with a dominant 32-point, 16-rebound effort against Santa Clara, with 10 rebounds coming on the offensive end. He shot 12-of-23 from the floor, made two three-pointers and contributed defensively with a steal and a block.

Draft stock on the rise

Raynaud’s emergence as a mobile, versatile big man who can stretch the floor has positioned him as a legitimate NBA prospect. His size, rebounding and shooting touch align with the league's increasing focus on big men who can contribute immediately.

The NBA has grown open to drafting older players, valuing their readiness to step into rotation roles. While Raynaud’s exact draft range remains uncertain, speculation has risen that he could be selected in the second round. Even if he goes undrafted, his production and skill set make him a strong candidate for a two-way contract, offering a clear pathway to the league.

The towering center's trajectory mirrors that of other late-blooming big men, such as Jay Huff, who entered the NBA as an undrafted rookie and has since carved out a role with the Memphis Grizzlies. Similarly, Dalton Knecht’s contributions to the Lakers highlight the value of selecting players closer to making an impact rather than long-term projects.

Raynaud appears well-prepared to transition to the professional level with a mature 250-pound frame and a polished offensive arsenal. His nation-leading numbers and rapid improvement ensure he stays on scouts' radar throughout the season. 

Whether through the draft or a post-draft opportunity, Raynaud is a compelling prospect with a real chance to impact the NBA.