With varying degrees of talent amongst conferences, the best scorer in college usually has little hope of playing in the NBA. However, Villanova’s Eric Dixon has a legitimate chance to be selected in the 2025 NBA Draft. While Villanova wasn’t as talented as years past, the Big East is still one of the best conferences. So, what else does an elite scorer like Dixon bring to the table? What needs work?
Eric Dixon 2025 NBA Draft Profile
College Career
Dixon stayed at Villanova his entire college career. He played sparingly as a freshman, but he worked his way into the rotation for his sophomore season. In 25.2 minutes, he averaged 9.1 points and 6.4 rebounds on 49.8% shooting from the field and 48.6% from three in limited attempts. Over his next two seasons, he elevated his gameplay even more, averaging more than 15 points and six rebounds per game in each. Dixon opted to remain at Villanova one more season, using his extra year of eligibility.
Dixon earned serious NBA draft consideration because of his elite fifth-year season. He caught fire, averaging 23.3 points per game, leading the NCAA in scoring. Notably, he shot 40.7% from three, averaging 2.9 makes per game. He also averaged 5.1 rebounds and improved his playmaking to a career-best 1.9 assists per game. Villanova had minimal success, firing their coach after the season before hiring Maryland’s Kevin Willard to take over. Dixon was one of the only bright spots, earning third-team All-American honors. He also earned three All-Big East honors throughout his career.
Strengths
Dixon is an elite three-point shooter. He thrives off catch-and-shoot threes and uses a 6-foot-8 frame to shoot over late closeouts. He can create his shots, but he excels more at shooting directly from passes. Dixon’s range is virtually limitless and will translate well to the next level. With the open-floor style that most teams play, Dixon will find himself open for three consistently to punish opposing teams.
Dixon is a strong player who uses strength to fight for rebounds and position underneath. He works well out of the post, improving his ability to pass over his career. Whether he finishes with a post move or makes a smart pass, Dixon has good decision-making when it comes to finding the open player. He’s another high-IQ player who uses basketball knowledge to overcome some of his flaws.
Weaknesses
Dixon lacks the athletic ability to be a strong defender in the NBA. He was picked out at Villanova, a problem that will only be exacerbated professionally. He has the strength to cover centers underneath, but lacks the size. Centers will shoot right over him, and many forwards will use athleticism to blow right by him. We have seen players thrive in the NBA with a similar problem, but he likely needs to improve his defensive acumen to have a significant role in the NBA.
Dixon’s athleticism on both ends remains his biggest NBA draft flaw. Offensively, he doesn’t have the burst to outrun or outjump opponents. While his shooting is an incredible bonus, along with good post-play, he won’t be the center of attention at the next level. Questions remain about whether Dixon will get the opportunity to prove his scoring, or whether he will remain a rotational player who only shoots open threes. Unfortunately for him, his athleticism will make it hard for him to earn that opportunity.
NBA Comparison
A good comparison for Dixon is Dorian Finney-Smith. DFS lacks the incredible athleticism to make him an elite player, but he shoots threes well and has carved out a meaningful role. If anything, Dixon will likely have trouble reaching the level of Finney-Smith unless he puts in serious defensive work. Dixon will have a higher ceiling in scoring ability, but won’t earn the playing time without defense.
2025 NBA Draft Prediction
Eric Dixon should be taken in the second round of the NBA Draft, but could fall into the last ten picks.
Featured image: © Steven Branscombe-Imagn Images
