A pair of former Wildcats made significant contributions to a team that reached a thrilling Game 7 in the NBA Finals, culminating in the conclusion of the 2024-25 season. With the league now shifting its focus to the upcoming 2025 NBA Draft, set to take place this Wednesday and Thursday at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY, excitement is building among fans and scouts alike.
In total, 59 players will be chosen over two rounds during the draft. Notably, Carter Bryant is the only former University of Arizona player projected to be selected, and he is anticipated to be a lottery pick, a status not seen since Bennedict Mathurin in 2022. Despite having averaged 6.5 points and 4.1 rebounds while primarily coming off the bench as a freshman, Bryant has garnered attention from scouts due to his impressive athleticism in recent workouts. Standing at 6-foot-6.5 with a wingspan nearing 7 feet, Bryant is projected to play as either a forward at the next level, depending on the development of his outside shooting skills.
According to various mock drafts, the Portland Trail Blazers are the frontrunners to select Bryant at No. 11. Historically, the last Wildcat chosen by Portland was Rondae Hollis-Jefferson at No. 23 back in 2015, with Hollis-Jefferson being traded on draft night to the Brooklyn Nets without making an appearance for the Blazers. Additionally, former No. 1 overall pick Deandre Ayton, also an ex-Wildcat, has spent the last two seasons with the Blazers and is entering the final year of a significant contract.
Other potential teams interested in Bryant include the Phoenix Suns at No. 10 and the Chicago Bulls at No. 12. Ayton was the last Wildcat drafted by Phoenix, while Dalen Terry was a first-round pick by Chicago in 2022.
As for other former UA players, Adama Bal, Oumar Ballo, and Caleb Love may also enter the draft but are more likely to sign as undrafted free agents afterward. Coach Tommy Lloyd is optimistic about Love’s future in the NBA, though most draft boards currently rank him in the low 70s, making his selection less likely.
Bryant’s journey and the impending 2025 NBA Draft embodies the hopes of many young athletes. His unique skill set and physical attributes could make him a valuable asset in the NBA, and as he prepares for this momentous opportunity, the Wildcats community is watching with anticipation.