Five of the best international prospects for the 2025 NBA Draft

The 2025 NBA Draft is set to showcase another wave of international talent, reinforcing the league’s growing reliance on global prospects. 

With top players developing in elite European leagues, the NCAA and other international competitions, front offices are evaluating which rising stars have the tools to succeed at the highest level. This year’s class offers a diverse mix of size, skill and versatility, with several prospects emerging as potential first-round selections.

As the draft approaches, five players from international backgrounds have separated themselves as likely top picks. Their performances in high-level competition, combined with their physical attributes and long-term potential, make them some of the most intriguing names in this class.

Kasparas Jakucionis (Lithuania, Point Guard)

Jakucionis has been a standout in his freshman season at Illinois, averaging 16.0 points, 5.8 rebounds, 5.4 assists, and 1.1 steals per game. At 6-foot-6, he combines size with exceptional playmaking skills, displaying strong court vision and passing ability. 

His outside shooting has also been a key asset, making him a dynamic offensive threat. Early mock drafts project him as a top-10 pick, with some placing him as high as sixth overall.

Khaman Maluach (South Sudan, Center)

Maluach, a 7-foot-2 freshman at Duke, has established himself as a dominant force in the paint. An elite shot-blocker with great mobility for his size, he thrives as a rim protector and lob finisher. 

His experience in the Basketball Africa League helped prepare him for high-level competition, and he gained valuable exposure playing a limited role for South Sudan at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Scouts are closely monitoring his continued development, particularly on the offensive end.

Ben Saraf (Israel, Shooting Guard)

Saraf, an 18-year-old standout in the German BBL, has impressed with his versatility and high basketball IQ. At 6-foot-5, he excels in the pick-and-roll, using his skill and awareness to manipulate defenders and make smart reads. 

His ability to absorb contact and finish at the rim has been a key strength, and his well-rounded game makes him an intriguing backcourt prospect in this draft class.

Noa Essengue (France, Power Forward)

Essengue, a 6-foot-9 forward, is known for his fluid athleticism and versatility. With the mobility of a guard, he poses a matchup challenge for defenders and thrives when attacking the basket. 

His expanding offensive arsenal has made him one of the most intriguing young prospects in this draft cycle, and as one of the youngest players in the class, his long-term upside is significant.

Nolan Traore (France, Point Guard)

Traore, a 6-foot-3 point guard, is well regarded for his playmaking and defensive instincts. Though he has shown some inconsistency, particularly with his outside shooting, his potential as a high-level floor general remains strong. 

Scouts are keeping a close eye on his development, as his combination of size, court vision and defensive ability makes him a promising long-term prospect.