There are many impressive point guard and shooting guard prospects in the 2025 NBA Draft, and the small forward prospects are no different. With the college season in full swing, here are the top small forward prospects to watch for in the 2025 NBA Draft.
2025 NBA Draft: Top Small Forward Prospects to Watch for
Ace Bailey
The first on this list is Rutgers forward Airious “Ace” Bailey, whose athleticism and skill on the offensive end give him a great argument to be a top-five draft pick. Standing at 6-foot-10, Bailey has excellent length and athleticism to be a positive on both sides of the floor. As a defender, Bailey has the tools to be impactful defensively, but he still needs to develop to reach his potential. However, the real area in Bailey’s game that has scouts and draft analysts excited is on the offensive end.
Bailey can effectively score on all three levels and possesses a deep bag of tricks to get his shot off. Utilizing his athleticism, Bailey can make highlight plays at the rim. Both in the half-court and transition, Bailey can throw down devastating dunks or make crafty finishes. He possesses a smooth jumper that he can hit, even when contested. Bailey can always get a shot off, regardless of whether the shot is a pull-up, fadeaway, or catch-and-shoot. Furthermore, his range extends past the three-point line.
Additionally, Bailey has shown potential as a passer and has flashed some nice reads. There are clear areas where Bailey needs to improve, like his shot selection. However, the talent and potential he brings gives him a strong argument to go in the top five and to be someone to watch throughout the college season.
Kon Knueppel
Despite playing next to Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel has stood out at Duke for his three-point shooting and secondary ball-handling. Standing at 6-foot-7, Knueppel has a sweet-looking jumper in his arsenal. As of right now, Knueppel is shooting 38.5% from three while averaging 6.5 three-point attempts per game, making him a real threat from three. He can knock down threes in various ways and he has a quick release on his shot. Not only can Knueppel knock down threes, but he can also knock down mid-range jumpers.
Another part of his offensive game is his ball-handling as he can both score and play make with the ball in his hands. Knueppel has a good feel for the game and has good fundamentals. While he isn’t the most athletic nor the best defensively, there is a lot of talent present. As long as he continues to refine and develop his game, the lottery isn’t out of the question for him.
Liam McNeeley
UConn forward Liam McNeeley is another strong three-point shooting prospect on this list and a good defender. Currently, McNeeley is shooting 41.2% from three while averaging 4.5 attempts per game. He can operate as both a movement shooter and a catch-and-shoot floor spacer. Furthermore, McNeeley possesses a smooth shooting form with a quick release. While not a ball-handler, he can attack closeouts and operate in the post a bit.
The other prominent part of his game is his defensive skill. McNeeley can handle contact well and can guard multiple positions. Standing at 6-foot-7, he can realistically guard between the two through four positions. He has a good feel for the game and a great basketball IQ. He has quick hands and he is good at picking pockets for steals. Most importantly, McNeeley competes hard and always gives effort in every play. He isn’t the best athlete, but he does have a strong frame and enough athleticism to get by. Given his 3-and-D skill set, McNeeley has a high chance to go high in the draft.
Will Riley
Illinois forward Will Riley has a combination of positional size, ball-handling, and defensive upside that makes him an intriguing prospect in the draft. Standing at 6-foot-8, Riley has a good enough handle to attack off the dribble and to operate in the pick-and-roll. He has the size and athleticism to find mismatches and exploit them. Riley is great at getting downhill and can finish through traffic. He can finish above the rim and throw down some nasty dunks. Additionally, he has good court vision and can get the ball to the right teammate. Riley can score on all three levels and he possesses a smooth jumper, but it could use more refinement.
Defensively, Riley has the physical tools to be an impactful defender. Given his size and athleticism, Riley could develop into a versatile defensive piece who can guard multiple positions. He does need to further develop his body and lateral quickness, however. Regardless, Riley has the skills and potential to be a great player in the league. Without a doubt, Riley is one of the top small forward prospects in the 2025 draft and is someone to keep an eye on this season.
Honorable Mentions: Kanon Catchings, Jamir Watkins, Carter Bryant, Nique Clifford, Alex Karaban
