Top Small Forwards in the 2025 NBA Draft
- Matt Babcock
- Jun 3
- 3 min read
Although the modern NBA has embraced a more positionless style of play, placing greater value on versatility and well-rounded skill sets on both ends of the floor, I still find it helpful to categorize prospects into the five traditional positions: point guard, shooting guard, small forward, power forward, and center. From an organizational standpoint, this approach helps us better assess the depth and makeup of each draft class. Below are my top-ranked small forwards for this year’s draft, with links to scouting reports compiled by the Babcock Hoops prospect research team.
Top Small Forwards
Ace Bailey | 6’8” | 203 lbs | Rutgers | Freshman
A terrific athlete at 6-foot-8, Ace Bailey possesses raw talent and dynamic shot-making ability—an elite trait typically exclusive to star-level players. He certainly has the potential to become one himself.
Kon Knueppel | 6’5” | 219 lbs | Duke | Freshman
Knueppel, a sharpshooter with a high basketball IQ, excels as a scorer but has hinted there's more to his game. His ability to play a key role without dominating the ball adds valuable versatility.
Egor Demin | 6’8” | 199 lbs | BYU | Freshman
Demin’s playmaking ability is special. Few players his size have his vision and feel for the game. His upside is high—he’s a unique prospect.
Carter Bryant | 6’7” | 215 lbs | Arizona | Freshman
Bryant possesses the size, athleticism, and well-rounded skill set that NBA teams covet in today’s game. His potential is significant, and that upside became increasingly evident as the season progressed.
Liam McNeeley | 6’7” | 215 lbs | UConn | Freshman
McNeeley is one of the top shooters in this year’s class. His IQ, toughness, and winning mentality give him real appeal to NBA teams.
Will Riley | 6’8” | 186 lbs | Illinois | Freshman
The NBA loves 6'8" versatile wings, and Riley’s ability to handle the ball and score in multiple ways at his size aligns perfectly with what teams are looking for. While he still needs to develop his body and refine his game, his upside is substantial.
Nique Clifford | 6’5” | 202 lbs | Colorado State | Senior
Clifford is an athletic wing who excels at many little things that contribute to winning. If he continues to progress as an outside shooter, he has the potential to be an effective two-way player and connective piece at the next level.
Cedric Coward | 6’5” | 213 lbs | Washington State | Senior
Coward’s season-ending injury was disappointing, especially given how well he played. Fortunately, his injury doesn’t appear to be a long-term concern, so he remains firmly on the radar—he’s a talented player.
Noah Penda | 6’8” | 225 lbs | Le Mans | International
Penda’s defensive impact, physical tools, and versatility immediately stand out. He has continued developing his offensive game and has been very productive this season, boosting his stock.
Drake Powell | 6’5” | 200 lbs | North Carolina | Freshman
Powell is a competitive, high-motor wing who thrives on defense, is effective as a slasher, and finishes well in transition. He has the tools to make an impact on both ends.
