The 2025 NBA Draft has commenced, and FYM News is your go-to source for live updates and expert analysis. This year’s draft is headlined by the Dallas Mavericks selecting Cooper Flagg as the first overall pick, while the Oklahoma City Thunder made strategic moves, including drafting Thomas Sorber and executing a significant trade. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the first-round picks, key trades, and what these decisions mean for the future of the teams involved.
The draft, held at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, saw several surprising selections and impactful trades, reshaping team dynamics. For Thunder fans, the focus remains on how these new additions and trades will bolster their roster for the upcoming seasons. From Cooper Flagg’s potential impact on the Mavericks to Thomas Sorber’s fit with the Thunder, we break down every important detail.
Here’s a quick preview of what you’ll find in this article:
- Live updates on each first-round pick.
- Analysis of the OKC Thunder’s draft night decisions, including the selection of Thomas Sorber.
- Details on the Thunder’s trade involving the No. 24 pick.
- A look at other notable trades and selections from around the league.
- Where and how to watch the second round of the NBA Draft.
Cooper Flagg Selected First Overall by Dallas Mavericks
The Dallas Mavericks kicked off the 2025 NBA Draft by selecting Duke University standout Cooper Flagg with the first overall pick. Flagg, a consensus top prospect, is expected to bring immediate impact to the Mavericks. “Selecting Cooper Flagg was an easy decision for us,” said Mavericks’ General Manager. “His versatility and basketball IQ are off the charts.”
Flagg averaged 19.2 points per game in his lone season with the Blue Devils. His ability to score, rebound, and defend makes him a valuable addition to a Mavericks team looking to rebuild after trading away Luka Doncic. Many analysts believe Flagg has the potential to become a franchise cornerstone.
The Mavericks are banking on Flagg’s potential to transform their team. His arrival marks a new chapter for the franchise, and expectations are high as he joins the team.
OKC Thunder Draft Thomas Sorber with No. 15 Pick
With the No. 15 overall pick, the Oklahoma City Thunder selected Georgetown’s Thomas Sorber. The 6-foot-10 forward/center is known for his versatility and ability to read the game. Despite playing only 24 games due to injury, Sorber averaged 14.5 points and 8.5 rebounds per game as a freshman for the Hoyas.
“I think my ability to read the game because it’s very rare. I make quick decisions. I play this thing called point-five basketball,” Sorber said. This unique playing style emphasizes quick decision-making and keeping the defense on their toes, which Thunder management believes will fit well with their existing roster. Sorber’s rebounding skills are another key asset that the Thunder hope to utilize.
Sorber’s addition is seen as a strategic move to add depth to the Thunder’s frontcourt and provide a different dimension to their offense.
OKC Thunder Trades No. 24 Pick to Sacramento Kings
In a significant draft-night trade, the Oklahoma City Thunder sent the No. 24 pick to the Sacramento Kings in exchange for San Antonio’s 2027 first-round pick, which is top-16 protected. With the acquired pick, the Kings selected Colorado State guard Nique Clifford. Clifford averaged 18.9 points and 9.6 rebounds last season as a fifth-year senior.
This trade allows the Thunder to acquire future assets while the Kings get a player ready to contribute immediately. The 2027 first-round pick gives the Thunder flexibility in future drafts and potential trade opportunities.
The Thunder’s decision to trade the No. 24 pick reflects their long-term strategy of building through the draft and accumulating assets. The Kings, on the other hand, are looking to add immediate talent to their roster.
Other Notable First-Round Picks
Besides the selections by the Mavericks and Thunder, several other picks stood out in the first round:
- Utah Jazz Select Ace Bailey (No. 5): The Jazz selected Rutgers’ Ace Bailey, a 6-10 wing.
- New Orleans Pelicans Select Jeremiah Fears (No. 7): Former OU guard Jeremiah Fears was selected by the New Orleans Pelicans.
- Memphis Grizzlies Trade Up for Cedric Coward (No. 11): The Grizzlies traded up to select Washington State guard Cedric Coward.
- New Orleans Pelicans Trade Up for Derik Queen (No. 13): The Pelicans traded up to select Maryland’s Derik Queen.
These picks highlight the diverse talent pool in this year’s draft and the different strategies teams are employing to improve their rosters.
Hornets Trade Mark Williams to Suns
The Charlotte Hornets traded Mark Williams to the Phoenix Suns in exchange for the No. 29 overall pick, a 2029 first-round pick, and Vasilije Micic. Williams, who averaged 15.3 points and 10.2 rebounds last season, adds a valuable presence to the Suns’ frontcourt.
This trade provides the Hornets with future assets and the Suns with a proven player. The 2029 pick, though distant, could prove valuable as the Hornets continue their rebuild.
The Suns are making a clear push to contend now, adding Williams to complement their existing core. The Hornets are focused on the future, accumulating assets to build a sustainable contender.
Draft Schedule and How to Watch
The 2025 NBA Draft continues with the second round on Thursday, June 26. Here are the details:
- Round 2: Thursday, June 26 at 7 p.m. CT
- TV Channel: ESPN
- Livestream: Fubo
Make sure to tune in to see where the remaining prospects land and how teams will continue to shape their rosters for the future.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways from the 2025 NBA Draft
The 2025 NBA Draft saw Cooper Flagg go first overall to the Dallas Mavericks, marking the beginning of a new era for the franchise. The Oklahoma City Thunder made strategic moves, drafting Thomas Sorber and trading the No. 24 pick to the Sacramento Kings, prioritizing future assets and roster flexibility. Other notable picks and trades reshaped team dynamics across the league.
For FYM News, we will continue to follow the development of these draftees and trades, providing you with expert analysis and insights on how these decisions impact the future of the NBA.
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