Throughout the 2024-25 season, Babcock Hoops will provide comprehensive scouting reports on top 2025 NBA Draft prospects, analyzing their strengths, questions, and potential at the next level. Our reports offer an in-depth look at each player's development and draft outlook.
Hunter Dickinson
Position: Center
College: Kansas
Class: Senior
Height/Weight: 7'2", 265 lbs
Birthdate: November 25, 2000
Previous College: Michigan
High School: DeMatha Catholic (MD)
Player Overview
Hunter Dickinson is one of college basketball's most polished and productive big men. His size, skill, and footwork allow him to dominate as a low-post scorer and interior presence. He has a soft touch around the rim, can finish with both hands, and is a strong screen-setter and rebounder. His stretch potential is intriguing, as he can step out and knock down an occasional three.
Despite his well-rounded offensive game, questions remain about his ability to translate to the next level. Dickinson lacks athleticism and lateral quickness, which impacts his ability to guard in space and defend pick-and-roll actions. Additionally, at 23 years old, there are concerns that he may have already reached his developmental ceiling. If he can improve his defensive mobility and limit turnovers, he could carve out a role as a floor-spacing, skilled big at the professional level.
"There’s no denying Hunter Dickinson's size and skill make him a force on the block. However, I’d be remiss not to mention my concern that his lack of mobility could limit his effectiveness in today’s NBA, which is faster and more spaced than ever. He’s earned a chance, but it could be an uphill battle." — Matt Babcock, NBA Draft Analyst
Strengths
Polished Post Scorer: Uses footwork, size, and soft touch to score efficiently.
Rebounding Machine: Positions himself well and secures rebounds with strength.
Stretch Potential: Can knock down mid-range shots and occasional threes.
Strong Screen Setter: Creates space for ball handlers in pick-and-roll situations.
Physical Interior Presence: Uses his frame well to establish position and seal off defenders.
Concerns
Limited Defensive Mobility: Struggles to defend quicker players and in space.
Turnover-Prone Under Pressure: Can hold the ball too long, leading to bad decisions.
Age & Development Ceiling: At 23, is there significant room for growth?
Struggles Against NBA-Level Athleticism: Will he be able to keep up with the speed and physicality of the next level?
Questions
Can he improve his defensive footspeed to stay on the floor in NBA systems?
Will his stretch shooting continue to develop and become a reliable weapon?
Can he be an impactful enough rebounder and low-post presence to offset his defensive limitations?
Bottom Line
Hunter Dickinson is a skilled, physical center with a high basketball IQ and an NBA-ready offensive game. His ability to score inside, rebound at a high level, and occasionally stretch the floor makes him an intriguing prospect. However, his lack of mobility and defensive versatility could limit his role at the next level. If he can develop into a more consistent floor spacer and improve his defensive mobility, he could earn a spot as a rotational big in the NBA or a high-level international player.