This week, NBA Draft Analyst Matt Babcock is on the road evaluating top prospects. Follow along for insights on future NBA draft picks.
Big Week of Hoops for Me — Here's a Preview
I'm gearing up for an action-packed scouting schedule this week, with some of the nation's top prospects on my radar. From high school standouts to college stars, it should be an insightful trip as I track players who could define the 2025 NBA Draft and beyond.
Tuesday, November 12:
The week begins today in Atlanta, Georgia, at Overtime Elite, where I'll observe the City Reapers' practice. This program has become a premier destination for top young talent, giving high school players a unique environment that combines skill development, academic support, and exposure to pro-level expectations. I'm eager to watch Arkansas commit Meleek Thomas and Bryson Tiller in action. Then, I'll shift my focus to the RWE team, which features Kentucky-bound Jasper Johnson. All three players are among the top-rated in the 2025 high school class, making them eligible as early as the 2026 NBA Draft.
Later in the evening, it's off to the State Farm Champions Classic, a signature early-season event featuring some of the biggest names in college basketball. I'll focus on Kansas freshman Flory Bidunga in the opener against Michigan State. Bidunga is already on my radar due to his athleticism, motor, and shot-blocking instincts. He's also shooting 90% from the field in his first two career college games. Tonight's matchup should provide insight, allowing me to determine further if he's a legitimate prospect for this year's draft or down the road. The second game, No. 6 Duke vs. No. 19 Kentucky, is even more important for my scouting initiatives, as Duke brings a stacked roster with top freshmen like Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel, and Khaman Maluach--all included in the top 10 of the Babcock Hoops' 2025 NBA Draft Big Board. There's significant buzz around Duke's lineup. This game should give a valuable glimpse into each player's skill set and readiness for the NBA.
Wednesday, November 13:
On Wednesday, I'll head to Auburn, Alabama, where the Tigers will host Kent State. This game provides a close-up look at Auburn's lineup, particularly senior big man Johni Broome, who's currently averaging 16 points and 8 rebounds per game. Broome's experience and presence in the paint have been a cornerstone for Auburn, but I'll also be watching freshman point guard Tahaad Pettiford. Pettiford showed promise with a recent 21-point performance against Houston, giving a strong impression of his dynamism and potential. I'm looking forward to getting a closer look at both of these players.
Friday, November 15:
I'll be back in Atlanta for Georgia's in-state rivalry game against Georgia Tech to close the week. These rivalry games always bring a heightened intensity, and for Georgia's freshman star, Asa Newell, it's an opportunity to see how he handles a high-pressure college matchup. Newell has averaged 20 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.5 blocks per game, showcasing his two-way potential and versatility. Facing off against Georgia Tech's Baye Ndongo, a sophomore forward averaging 15 points and 8.5 rebounds, will offer a test for Newell.
Final Thoughts
Overall, it looks like a productive upcoming week filled with top-tier basketball and invaluable scouting opportunities. I'll dive deep into what these players bring to the court, how they adapt to the demands of high-level competition, and where their skill sets and potential might take them next. Watch for updates, recaps, and detailed scouting insights as the week unfolds!
Stay ahead of the game! Check out our 2025 NBA Draft Big Board to discover the top-ranked prospects and their potential draft positions.