Kentucky Wildcats center Amari Williams could quietly become an NBA Draft pick in the 2025 draft, especially after many top prospects decided to return to college. Ahead of the withdrawal deadline for the draft, notable players like Kentucky’s Otega Oweh and several others from major programs chose to stay in college, strengthening the college basketball landscape but thinning the pool of second-round NBA prospects.
This trend has made it harder for NBA teams to find quality second-round picks, but it benefits players like Williams. In the latest Bleacher Report mock draft by Jonathan Wasserman, Williams is projected to be selected 50th overall by the New York Knicks—a spot he hadn’t appeared in on major mocks before. His draft stock has improved due to many higher-ranked players pulling out of the draft. Williams is a 7-foot center known for his rebounding, exceptional passing ability (averaging 3.2 assists per game), defensive energy, and physicality, although his lack of an outside shot limits his appeal somewhat. Despite this, his unique skill set makes him a valuable NBA prospect.
Wasserman also notes Kentucky guard Koby Brea is projected to go 43rd overall to the Sacramento Kings. Other Wildcats, like guard Lamont Butler, have been working out for NBA teams, so multiple Kentucky players may hear their names called on draft night in Brooklyn on June 25-26.
The influx of players returning to college, including several high-profile names, shows the evolving landscape of college basketball, especially with NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities allowing players to earn more in college than they might as low NBA draft picks or undrafted free agents. For NBA teams, this makes scouting the second round more challenging but opens the door for overlooked prospects like Williams to break through.
In summary, the 2025 NBA Draft may be deeper at the top but shallower in second-round prospects, giving players like Kentucky’s Amari Williams a better chance to be drafted and make an impact at the professional level.
