Asa Newell’s performance during his single season in Athens has positioned him as a highly anticipated prospect for the 2025 NBA Draft. Widely projected as a first-round pick, the former Georgia Bulldog has garnered significant attention from NBA scouts and analysts alike. This article delves into the various projections and assessments surrounding Newell’s draft potential, offering insights into his strengths, weaknesses, and potential landing spots.
Newell’s impact extended beyond individual accolades, as he played a crucial role in leading Georgia to its first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2015, a feat that even Anthony Edwards, the program’s most recent first-round pick, couldn’t achieve. His contributions on both ends of the court have solidified his status as a versatile and promising player, making him an intriguing prospect for NBA teams seeking a dynamic forward with considerable upside.
From his reflections on his college experience to the detailed evaluations of his draft potential, this article provides a comprehensive overview of Asa Newell’s journey to the 2025 NBA Draft. We’ll explore the opinions of various experts and analysts, examining the range of possibilities for where Newell might land and what he brings to the table. Join us as we break down the projections, stats, and key attributes that make Asa Newell a standout prospect in this year’s draft class.
A Standout Year in Athens
Asa Newell made a significant impact during his only season in Athens. His play and potential have led many to view him as a likely first-round pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Newell’s contributions were pivotal in Georgia’s return to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2015, a milestone not achieved by Anthony Edwards, Georgia’s most recent first-round pick.
Despite Georgia’s first-round exit against Gonzaga, Newell stood out, scoring 20 points and grabbing 8 rebounds. Reflecting on his time in Athens after his final collegiate game, Newell expressed gratitude for his college experience, stating, “I’d just say the college experience was amazing. Wearing the G on my chest, it’s something I’ll never take for granted. I’m just so blessed to have teammates and a wonderful coach, Coach White, helping me through the process. And I’ll just take it all in.”
Newell is set to discover his new home during the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft. While he is not expected to be the top pick like Edwards in 2020, most NBA mock drafts project him as a first-round selection. The anticipation surrounding Newell’s draft position underscores his value and the potential he brings to an NBA team.
Varied Draft Projections
The projections for where Asa Newell might land in the 2025 NBA Draft vary considerably. Kevin O’Connor of Yahoo Sports suggests Newell could be a lottery pick, potentially going as high as No. 9 overall. O’Connor notes, “Newell’s range is trending toward the lottery, according to sources around the league, because of his immense versatility on defense as a 6-foot-9 rim protector who can also comfortably switch screens. He has springs in his legs, regularly slamming lobs and swatting shots. And if he ever develops his jumper, he has a chance to exceed all expectations.”
Other analysts see Newell as a post-lottery selection. ESPN’s Jeremy Woo and Jonathan Givony have him being picked by the Brooklyn Nets at No. 19. They highlight his pre-draft performance, noting, “Newell is another player who appears to have helped himself in the predraft process, having showcased his physical tools and room for growth as a shooter, helping some teams better understand the potential versatility he could provide as a stretch-4. Still, he has a somewhat wider range on draft night, drawing consideration from teams in the back half of the lottery but with scenarios also in play where he could slip into the late teens or early 20s.”
Newell’s draft range reflects the diverse opinions among NBA teams regarding his current abilities and future potential. His combination of defensive versatility and offensive upside makes him an appealing prospect for teams seeking a player who can contribute in multiple facets of the game.
Invited to the NBA Draft
Asa Newell is among the 24 players invited to attend the 2025 NBA Draft in New York City. This invitation highlights his standing as one of the top prospects in this year’s class. Being present at the draft allows Newell to experience this pivotal moment in his career firsthand and engage with teams interested in his services.
There is speculation about whether the Atlanta Hawks, holding the No. 13 overall pick, might select Newell. However, mock drafts present different scenarios. suggests Newell could be picked at No. 12 by the Chicago Bulls, just before Atlanta’s turn. Ricky O’Donnell of, on the other hand, projects Newell landing with the New Orleans Pelicans at pick No. 23. Another scenario has the Miami Heat selecting Newell with the No. 20 overall pick.
These varied projections underscore the uncertainty and excitement leading up to the draft. Newell’s presence at the event ensures that he will be part of the action, regardless of where he is ultimately selected.
Potential Landing Spots
On the lower end of projections, has Asa Newell being picked by the Brooklyn Nets with the No. 26 pick in the draft. The Nets have a total of five picks in the draft, the most of any team, providing them with ample opportunity to select Newell if he is still available. The wide range of potential landing spots highlights the varied opinions and strategies among NBA teams.
Should Newell not be selected in the first round, the second round of the 2026 NBA Draft will take place on Thursday night at 8 p.m. ET. While it is unlikely, this remains a possibility, and Newell will be prepared for any outcome. The second round presents another opportunity for teams to acquire Newell and add his talents to their roster.
The diverse array of potential landing spots reflects the different needs and priorities of NBA teams. Newell’s versatility and potential make him an attractive option for teams seeking to bolster their roster with a dynamic and promising young player.
Asa Newell 2025 NBA Draft Projections
- Pick No. 9 to the Toronto Raptors
- Pick No. 12 to the Chicago Bulls
- Pick No. 19 to the Brooklyn Nets
- Pick No. 20 to the Miami Heat
- Pick No. 23 to the New Orleans Pelicans
- Pick No. 26 to the Brooklyn Nets
Asa Newell 2025 NBA Draft Bio, Stats
- Height: 6-foot-9
- Weight: 223 pounds
- Wingspan: 6-foot-11 1/4 inches
- Points per game: 15.4
- Rebounds per game: 6.9
- Field goal percentage: 54.3%
- 3-point percentage: 29% (26/89)
- Free throw percentage: 74.8%
- Blocks: 32
- Steals: 33
Conclusion
Asa Newell’s journey to the 2025 NBA Draft is marked by his standout performance at the University of Georgia and the widespread recognition of his potential. Projected as a first-round pick by many analysts, Newell’s versatility, defensive prowess, and offensive upside make him an appealing prospect for numerous NBA teams. His invitation to the draft further solidifies his status as one of the top talents in this year’s class.
While projections vary regarding where Newell might land, the consensus is that he has the tools and potential to become a valuable asset in the NBA. His ability to contribute on both ends of the court, combined with his strong work ethic and coachability, position him for a successful professional career. The draft night will undoubtedly be a significant moment for Newell, as he embarks on the next chapter of his basketball journey.
Ultimately, Asa Newell’s draft prospects reflect the culmination of his hard work, dedication, and the positive impact he made during his time in Athens. As he prepares to enter the NBA, Newell carries with him the support of his teammates, coaches, and the entire Georgia Bulldogs community. The future looks bright for this promising young player, and the NBA world eagerly awaits to see what he will accomplish.
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