2025 NBA draft player survey: Who is most underrated?

As we draw closer to the 2025 NBA Draft, the tension and excitement are palpable. Every year, teams and analysts dedicate countless hours to scrutinizing prospects and predicting their potential impact in the league. Yet, amid the hustle of projections and rankings, one question often emerges—who do the players themselves believe are the most underrated prospects?

In a recent player survey conducted at the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago, insider Jeff Borzello and analysts Jeremy Woo, Jonathan Givony, and Zach Kram posed this very question to several prospects. Their findings shed light on those who may not be grabbing the headlines but possess undeniable talent.

The survey revealed that certain players received multiple votes as the most underrated prospects, highlighting those recognized not just by their peers, but also by college teammates and observers alike.

Tahaad Pettiford: The Rising Star

The most frequently mentioned name was Tahaad Pettiford, a guard from Auburn. Emerging with four votes, Pettiford is recognized for his electrifying play style and potential. Although he started only one game during his freshman year, he shined during the combine, where he scored 23 points and handed out eight assists in one scrimmage. This performance garnered attention across the board, earning him a jump in mock drafts—from No. 39 to No. 37. His former teammate, Johni Broome, referred to him as a “very good guard” who makes impactful plays on the court and has room to evolve into a star player.

Additionally, other prospects noted his impressive scoring ability and defensive intelligence, solidifying Pettiford’s reputation as a player to watch as the draft approaches.

Carter Bryant: The Versatile Big Man

Next in line is Carter Bryant, a forward/center from Arizona who garnered three votes. Draft analysts predict him to be a first-round selection, projected at No. 14 overall by ESPN. His athleticism and defensive aptitude make him a coveted player in the upcoming draft.

Teammate Caleb Love called him a "sleeper" with immense potential, asserting his capability to shoot and defend multiple positions effectively. As a first-year pro, Bryant’s size and skills have been compared to those of NBA greats, leading observers to agree that he will seamlessly transition into the professional realm.

Drake Powell: The Underrated Athlete

With two votes, Drake Powell from North Carolina has established himself as another underrated name in this year’s draft pool. Listed as the first prospect off the board in the second round of ESPN’s recent mock draft, Powell has showcased his versatility on both ends of the floor.

His teammate, RJ Davis, praised his ability to impact the game defensively and offensively, stating Powell can defend positions 1 through 4 with ease. It seems that Powell is not only a skilled athlete but also a favorable addition for any team looking to bolster its backcourt.

Teammate Recognition: A Community of Belief

Interestingly, many prospects named their teammates as underrated, showcasing unity in college basketball. Among them is Terrence Edwards Jr. from Louisville, whose defensive prowess caught the eye of Chucky Hepburn. Edwards contributes significantly to both offensive and defensive plays on the court, helping his team in crucial moments.

Another notable mention is Chaney Johnson, who received high praises for his work ethic and ability to leap above the competition, further enriching the depth of talent evaluated in this draft class.

Votes of Self-Confidence: Players’ Self-Belief

Perhaps the most significant aspect of this survey was the vote of confidence some players cast for themselves. Max Shulga from VCU and RJ Luis Jr. from St. John’s expressed their beliefs in their capabilities despite projections that didn’t align with their self-assessments. This demonstrates the competitive nature in the draft process, as confidence can often serve as a catalyst for success.

Players Who Are On Boards but Still Underrated

Despite being projected to fall within the first or second rounds of the latest mock drafts, several players are still considered underrated by their peers. Khaman Maluach from Duke, for instance, is recognized for his potential yet remains relatively underappreciated in conversation surrounding top picks. His work ethic and undying desire to improve make him a valuable asset for any franchise.

Similarly, Collin Murray-Boyles from South Carolina and Thomas Sorber from Georgetown, both regarded for their distinct skill sets and passing abilities, also appear on the radar of their peers. This acknowledgement points to the noticeable disconnect between mainstream media narratives and the perspectives of players who are in the trenches with them day in and day out.

Conclusion

The 2025 NBA Draft presents a unique opportunity for teams to reconsider the conventional rankings and scouting reports they depend on. There’s an undeniable depth in talent for this year’s draft class, with various underrated players ready to prove their worth on the grand stage. As prospects like Tahaad Pettiford, Carter Bryant, and Drake Powell receive attention, it reminds us that sometimes, the most valuable players are the ones flying under the radar. Ultimately, these insights from players themselves could redefine expectations and strategies as the NBA draft approaches.

The narrative is clear: in a world increasingly driven by statistics and expectations, the voices of the players offer a refreshing take on who truly deserves recognition. With the 2025 NBA Draft looming, it will be fascinating to see how these perceived underdogs fare in the next chapter of their basketball careers.

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