North Carolina Schools Make Mark in 2025 NBA Draft’s First Round

The 2025 NBA Draft was a powerful testament to the ongoing dominance of North Carolina’s NCAA Basketball programs, particularly those within the ACC. With four standout players selected in the first round—three from Duke and one from UNC—the region once again proved it is the epicenter of elite basketball development.

From Cooper Flagg going No. 1 overall to Drake Powell continuing the UNC-to-NBA legacy, the night solidified the ACC’s influence and spotlighted emerging stars who are now set to shape the next era of professional basketball.

Cooper Flagg Goes No. 1 Overall

Cooper Flagg was selected with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft by the Dallas Mavericks, a move that immediately put Duke’s developmental success on full display. Flagg’s one season with the Blue Devils turned heads nationwide.

Known for his explosive athleticism, high motor, and ability to dominate both ends of the floor, Flagg averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 blocks and 1.4 steals in 37 games. His leadership, defensive versatility, and clutch performances made him the consensus top prospect, and now he brings those qualities to Dallas as the franchise centerpiece.

Kon Knueppel Joins the Hornets

Kon Knueppel, another Duke product, heard his name called in the first round when the Charlotte Hornets selected him to boost their offensive arsenal. Standing at 6-foot-6, Knueppel carved out a reputation as one of NCAA Basketball’s most efficient scorers.

He posted 14.4 points per game with a shooting clip of 40.6 percent from 3-point range. Knueppel’s ability to space the floor, make quick reads, and knock down shots under pressure makes him an ideal fit for a Hornets team looking to stretch defenses and add perimeter firepower.

Khaman Maluach Selected by Phoenix

Duke’s third first-rounder, Khaman Maluach, became the latest addition to the Phoenix Suns’ frontcourt. At 7-foot-2, Maluach is an imposing interior presence with elite shot-blocking instincts. He averaged 8.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks in 39 games during his freshman campaign at Duke.

His agility and timing around the rim allowed him to anchor Duke’s defense all season long. For Phoenix, Maluach brings immediate defensive help and long-term upside as a rim protector and rebounder—qualities that are invaluable for a team aiming to solidify its interior presence.

Drake Powell Continues UNC Legacy

Drake Powell ensured that the University of North Carolina remained firmly represented in the first round. Selected by the Brooklyn Nets, Powell’s all-around game reflects the program’s ability to produce NBA-ready players. At 6-foot-6, Powell delivered averages of 7.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game in 37 games.

His relentless energy, defensive instincts, and improving offensive game caught the attention of scouts across the league. His move to Brooklyn adds a high-ceiling, two-way talent to a team focused on development and versatility.

With the 2025 NBA Draft behind us, fans across North Carolina and beyond can now watch their favorite ACC stars make the leap to the professional stage.

Whether it’s tuning in to see Duke’s Cooper Flagg or UNC’s Drake Powell suit up for their new teams, the excitement of following these young standouts continues well beyond draft night. For those looking to take the action a step further, an NC sports betting promo offers a variety of options for NBA betting.

ACC Produces Four First-Round Picks

The ACC’s tradition of excellence was reinforced when four of its athletes were chosen in the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft. The conference’s dominance was anchored by Duke, with three selections—Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel, and Khaman Maluach—while North Carolina’s Drake Powell rounded out the group.

This continued presence in the early picks highlights the ACC’s ability to not only attract top-tier high school talent but also develop them into professional-ready prospects year after year.

Duke Dominates First Round

Duke University sent a clear message on draft night: it remains one of the most reliable sources of NBA talent. The program boasted three first-round selections—Cooper Flagg at No. 1, followed by Kon Knueppel and Khaman Maluach.

Each brought unique strengths: Flagg with his all-around brilliance, Knueppel with elite shooting, and Maluach with dominant defense. The trio’s transition to the NBA reflects the success of Duke’s system in preparing players for the next level through top competition, elite coaching, and high expectations.

UNC Maintains First-Round Presence

Drake Powell’s first-round selection continues a storied tradition for the University of North Carolina, which has long been a pipeline to the NBA. Powell’s game embodies the qualities often seen in UNC stars—toughness, versatility, and relentless effort.

His ability to adapt to various roles on both ends of the floor makes him an asset for the Brooklyn Nets. His development within the Tar Heel program ensured that he entered the NBA with the polish and mindset to contribute immediately.

Raptors Turn to SEC for Talent

While ACC programs stole much of the spotlight, the Toronto Raptors shifted attention to the SEC with the selection of South Carolina’s Collin Murray-Boyles. A dynamic forward known for his explosiveness and defensive presence, Murray-Boyles brings athleticism and hustle to the Raptors’ rotation.

Averaging 16.8 points and 8.3 rebounds per game, he also chipped in 2.4 assists, 1.5 steals and 1.3 blocks in 32 games, proving his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. His selection adds a physical, high-energy contributor to a Raptors team seeking fresh, defensive-minded talent in their frontcourt.

International and SEC Talent Add Depth

The 2025 NBA Draft showcased more than just the ACC’s dominance. It also reflected the growing influence of international and SEC programs on the league’s incoming talent pool.

While Duke and UNC held strong, the inclusion of South Carolina’s Collin Murray-Boyles showed how programs outside the traditional powerhouses continue to develop high-level prospects. His presence, along with the growing number of international athletes entering NCAA Basketball and transitioning successfully into the NBA, signals a broader, more diverse base of elite talent feeding into the league.

Brooklyn Nets Add Two-Way Potential

Drake Powell’s arrival in Brooklyn gives the Nets a potential cornerstone wing defender. His length, athleticism, and effort make him a natural candidate to guard multiple positions. Add to that his underrated passing and growing offensive confidence, and Powell becomes a versatile option for a team in need of exactly that.

The Nets now have a high-character, high-effort player with upside—and a proven track record of delivering when it counts.

Phoenix Suns Build Around Rim Defense

The Phoenix Suns are betting on rim protection and defensive intensity with their pick of Khaman Maluach. With elite size and timing, Maluach’s impact is immediate on the defensive end.

He has the potential to be the backbone of their future interior defense, capable of influencing shots at the rim and controlling the boards. His energy and willingness to do the dirty work make him a valuable addition as the Suns evolve their frontcourt strategy.

Hornets Embrace Sharpshooting Talent

Kon Knueppel’s reputation as a knockdown shooter fits perfectly with Charlotte’s goal to enhance perimeter scoring. His precision from long range forces defenders to stay honest, creating spacing for teammates to operate.

His 40.6 percent clip from deep and high free throw percentage make him one of the safest bets as a pure shooter in the draft. As the Hornets continue to build, Knueppel brings a ready-made skill set that addresses a direct need in today’s three-point-oriented league.