Underrated Upperclassmen Poised to Make Waves in 2025 NBA Draft Landscape

As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, the buzz surrounding the freshman class is palpable, often overshadowing the potential contributions of upperclassmen. While this year’s freshmen, including standout talents like Cooper Flagg, capture most of the attention, a group of underrated prospects are quietly making their cases for consideration by NBA scouts. The current draft landscape suggests that the lottery may be dominated by one-and-done players and young European talents. In fact, many upperclassmen have struggled to establish themselves as consensus top-20 picks, with some failing to deliver expected performances. However, a closer look reveals a handful of older players who may have been underestimated heading into the season, warranting attention as we delve deeper into conference play. One such player is Penda, a versatile talent transitioning from the French second division to the Jeep Elite league. While he may not excel athletically, his impact is evident in his performance metrics, boasting averages of over three combined steals and blocks per game with commendable assist-to-turnover ratios. Though his shooting remains a question mark, his current 36.2 percent from beyond the arc and solid free-throw percentages indicate he could emerge as a valuable asset for NBA teams. Texas Tech’s Williams has emerged as a point forward, showcasing his ability to distribute the ball effectively while also being a scoring threat. With impressive shooting percentages and a strong rebounding profile, he has the potential to elevate his draft stock considerably if he continues to perform well in the Big 12. At Auburn, Johni Broome has taken his game to new heights, posting an NCAA-leading Player Efficiency Rating (PER) and demonstrating an all-around skill set that makes him a nightmare for opponents. His rebounding prowess and ability to score in various ways make him a compelling candidate, despite concerns regarding his age and defensive capabilities. Kam Jones is another standout, currently the most productive perimeter player in college basketball. His established track record and analytics-backed performances position him as a potential lottery pick, despite being 23 years old come draft night. His readiness for the NBA and consistent production signal a player who could step in and contribute immediately. International prospects like De Larrea and Oweh are also generating intrigue. De Larrea, although playing a limited role for Valencia, has impressed scouts with his skills against high-level competition. Oweh’s transition from Oklahoma has been marked by notable defensive metrics and improved shooting, making him a player to watch as he continues to develop. Fleming and Thiero round out this group of underrated prospects, both displaying exceptional athleticism and potential on the court. Fleming’s shooting touch and rebounding skills align with the needs of modern NBA teams, while Thiero’s defensive tenacity and athletic profile could see him drafted higher than anticipated. In a draft class that appears to lean heavily on youthful talent, these older prospects provide a different narrative. They could offer teams reliable contributions and experience, making them valuable assets as franchises look to balance their rosters with a mix of youth and maturity. As conference play intensifies, these players will face a critical juncture in their paths to the NBA. The coming months will reveal whether their performances can solidify their draft positions or if they will need to rely on impressive showings at the combine to earn a shot at the professional level. While the spotlight may be on the fresh faces of the 2025 draft, keep an eye on these underrated gems who could very well shape the future of the league.