SEC Basketball Shines in 2025 NBA Draft with Five First-Round Selections
The 2025 NBA Draft was another showcase of the Southeastern Conference’s (SEC) basketball talent, as five standout players heard their names called in the first round. The SEC has long been a pipeline for NBA talent, and this year was no different, with elite prospects from Kentucky, Alabama, Tennessee, and Arkansas making the leap to the professional ranks. These players not only dominated college basketball but also impressed scouts with their athleticism, skill, and potential to make an immediate impact at the next level. Here’s a detailed look at each of the SEC’s first-round selections in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Johnathan Smith, a 6’8″ forward from Kentucky, was the highest-drafted SEC player in 2025, going third overall to the Houston Rockets. Smith was a consensus All-American and SEC Player of the Year after averaging 20.5 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game. His versatility as a scorer, combined with his defensive intensity, made him one of the most coveted prospects in the draft. The Rockets, in need of a dynamic wing to pair with their young core, see Smith as a future franchise cornerstone. His ability to stretch the floor, attack the rim, and guard multiple positions gives him All-Star potential.
Alabama’s Marcus Williams, a 6’6″ combo guard, was selected seventh by the Portland Trail Blazers. Williams was the engine behind Alabama’s high-octane offense, leading the SEC in scoring with 22.1 points per game while also dishing out 5.4 assists. His explosive first step, deep shooting range, and playmaking ability make him an ideal fit in today’s NBA. The Trail Blazers, looking to rebuild after trading Damian Lillard, see Williams as a potential backcourt star who can grow alongside Scoot Henderson. His competitive edge and clutch gene were on full display during Alabama’s deep NCAA Tournament run, further solidifying his draft stock.
Tennessee’s Elijah Thompson, a 6’9″ power forward, was picked 12th by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Thompson was the backbone of the Volunteers’ elite defense, earning SEC Defensive Player of the Year honors while also contributing 16.8 points and 9.3 rebounds per game. His combination of size, athleticism, and basketball IQ makes him a prototypical modern NBA big man. The Thunder, already loaded with young talent, add Thompson as a defensive anchor who can switch onto guards, protect the rim, and stretch the floor with his improving three-point shot. His work ethic and leadership qualities make him a perfect fit for Oklahoma City’s culture.
Arkansas’ Jordan Reed, a 6’7″ wing, was taken 18th by the Orlando Magic. Reed was one of the most improved players in college basketball, jumping from a role player as a freshman to a star as a sophomore. He averaged 18.4 points, 6.5 rebounds, and shot 40% from three-point range, showcasing his ability to score at all three levels. The Magic, in need of perimeter scoring, see Reed as a potential steal in this draft. His length, defensive versatility, and offensive upside give him the tools to develop into a high-level two-way player in the NBA.
Kentucky’s Darius Carter rounded out the SEC’s first-round selections, going 25th to the New York Knicks. Carter, a 6’3″ point guard, was the floor general for the Wildcats, averaging 14.7 points and 7.9 assists per game. His elite court vision, quickness, and ability to control the pace of the game made him one of the best pure point guards in the draft. The Knicks, looking for a long-term solution at point guard, see Carter as a potential steal who can thrive under coach Tom Thibodeau’s system. His leadership and basketball IQ should allow him to contribute early in his career.
The 2025 NBA Draft further cemented the SEC’s status as one of the premier conferences for developing NBA talent. With five first-round picks, the league showcased its depth of elite prospects, from versatile wings like Johnathan Smith to dynamic guards like Marcus Williams. These players not only excelled in college but also demonstrated the skills necessary to succeed at the next level.
Kentucky and Alabama led the way with two first-rounders each, continuing their tradition of producing NBA-ready talent. Tennessee and Arkansas also proved their ability to develop high-level prospects, further strengthening the SEC’s reputation. As these players transition to the NBA, they will carry the conference’s legacy forward, joining the growing list of SEC alumni making an impact in the league.
Each of these five players enters the NBA with high expectations but also with the potential to exceed them. Johnathan Smith will be expected to contribute immediately for the Rockets, while Marcus Williams could compete for Rookie of the Year honors in Portland. Elijah Thompson’s defensive prowess makes him a perfect fit in Oklahoma City, and Jordan Reed’s scoring ability could make him a key piece for Orlando. Darius Carter, though picked later, has the skills to become a fan favorite in New York.
The 2025 NBA Draft was yet another testament to the SEC’s basketball excellence. With these five first-round picks, the conference continues to shape the future of the NBA, proving once again that the SEC is a breeding ground for basketball superstars. Fans of these teams will be eagerly watching as these young stars begin their professional journeys, hoping to see them become the next great NBA talents.
