Four French prospects who could be selected in the 2025 NBA Draft

Victor Wembanyama's selection as the first overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft was a landmark moment for France, becoming the nation’s first No. 1 pick and only its second top-10 selection, alongside Frank Ntilikina, who went eighth in 2017.

The momentum continued in the 2024 NBA Draft, as Zaccharie Risacher and Alex Sarr made history by going first and second overall, respectively, making it back-to-back years when a French player topped the draft. 

They were joined by Tidjane Salaun, picked sixth, and Pacome Dadiet, selected 25th, resulting in an unprecedented four French players in the first round. What was once a rarity is now becoming a norm: French players drawing attention at the top end of the draft. 

With a steady influx of talent emerging from France, the NBA is poised to welcome more of the country’s elite prospects in the coming years. Here are four French players projected to join the league in 2025.

Nolan Traore (PG)

Projected Draft Range: Top 10, Lottery Pick

Standing 6-foot-5, Nolan Traore has been widely regarded as one of the top prospects for the 2025 NBA Draft. Known for his exceptional ball-handling, court vision and three-point shooting, Traore showcased his talents at the 2024 Adidas Next Generation Tournament (ANGT), scoring a record 45 points to lead INSEP to an overtime victory against Barcelona.

Now playing for Saint-Quentin in France’s top tier, Traore has flashed his potential this season, including a standout 27-point, five-assist performance in the FIBA Champions League against Kolossos Rodou B.C.

However, the 18-year-old has struggled with inconsistency, particularly in his shooting. On the season, he is averaging just 35.1 percent from the field and 28.6 percent from deep. 

Despite these challenges, scouts remain high on Traore’s upside, viewing him as a likely lottery pick with significant long-term potential.

Noa Essengue (PF)

Projected Draft Range: Mid First Round

Noa Essengue, a 6-foot-10 power forward, has drawn attention as one of the youngest prospects in the 2025 NBA Draft, turning 18 just days before the new year. 

Playing for Ratiopharm Ulm in Germany’s BBL and EuroCup, Essengue has impressed scouts with his size, length and ability to run the floor while also flashing potential as a capable outside shooter.

In a preseason matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers, the French forward delivered an eye-catching performance, tallying 20 points, eight rebounds, three assists and two steals while hitting three three-pointers. His strong showing solidified his status as a first-round prospect.

Joan Beringer (C)

Projected Draft Range: Late First Round/Second Round

Joan Beringer, a 6-foot-9 center, has been a polarizing figure in draft circles. While he ranks as high as 29th on ESPN’s Top 100 board, he is notably absent from others.

Currently playing for Cedevita Olimpija in Slovenia, Beringer is praised for his mobility, rim-running ability and defensive presence. A reliable pick-and-roll finisher, he has shown promise on both ends of the floor, with scouts intrigued by his potential for growth.

Noah Penda (SF/PF)

Projected Draft Range: Late First Round/Second Round

Noah Penda has been a standout performer for Le Mans in France’s top tier. The 6-foot-8 forward ranks third in the league in both steals (1.6) and blocks (1.4) per game, highlighting his defensive prowess. Through 2024-25 so far, he is averaging 10.8 points, 5.7 rebounds and 2.5 assists, shooting an impressive 40.5 percent from beyond the arc.

With his two-way potential, size and versatility, Penda’s stock is rising rapidly. If his strong form continues, he could cement himself as a first-round pick by draft night.