The NCAA’s deadline for players to withdraw from the 2025 NBA Draft passed Wednesday night amid much anticipation. Many teams watched anxiously as final decisions were made. Leading up to the deadline, key events such as interviews, team workouts, and NBA draft combines shaped the outlook for the draft class set to start June 25th, highlighting changes in both the college and professional basketball landscapes.
Here are the key takeaways and notable moments:
Yaxel Lendeborg, a standout from UAB, was expected to showcase his skills at the NBA Draft Combine to solidify staying in the draft and build on his Michigan commitment. He impressed, but ultimately decided to return to school, postponing his NBA career to play under new Michigan coach Dusty May. Rated as the top returning college player on my board, Lendeborg offers a strong defensive presence and leadership role, poised to become a well-known talent and a top prospect for the 2026 NBA Draft.
Cedric Coward from Washington state saw the quickest draft stock rise, moving from a low profile to a projection ranging from late lottery to the mid-twenties. He committed to Duke and remains in the draft after a meteoric rise in attention.
Milos Uzan from Houston is set to have the biggest impact on the 2025-26 NCAA title race by returning to college. Coming off a season with 35 wins and a national runner-up finish, Houston’s core is intact, bolstered by new top recruits. Uzan is a potential preseason All-American and a first-round NBA draft candidate.
Florida also experienced significant roster changes, with coach Todd Golden bringing back key players like Thomas Hauf and Alex Condon while adding transfers Boogie Fland and Zaivian Lee, all considered future NBA players. Their outlook for next season has improved drastically.
PJ Haggerty, a Memphis forward, withdrew from the draft and plans to transfer to Kansas after stints at TCU and Tulsa, marking his fourth school in four years. His scoring ability and national recognition make him a valuable addition to Kansas.
Auburn’s guard Tahahad Pettiford chose to stay in college despite a strong combine showing and high NIL value, positioning himself as a likely standout and preseason star for next year.
Kentucky’s Otega Oweh returning was a quieter but important coup, as he leads the team in points, minutes, and steals. His presence strengthens Kentucky’s roster as Coach Mark Pope enters his second year.
St. John’s RJ Luis Jr. made the unusual choice to stay in the draft despite unclear prospects and having entered the transfer portal, forgoing a potentially lucrative college return.
North Carolina’s Drake Powell, known for his impressive vertical leap and athleticism, is a rising star expected to deliver highlight dunks in the NBA.
Lastly, Alabama’s LaBaron Philon’s late decision to return to school shocked many, reneging on his initial intention to stay in the draft after receiving a last-minute NIL package, a rare and surprising twist on deadline day.
Fan Take: This year’s withdrawal deadline underscores the increasing complexity and fluidity in college basketball and the NBA draft process, highlighting how players are making strategic decisions about their futures. For fans, it promises an exciting upcoming collegiate season loaded with talent and sets the stage for a dynamic 2026 NBA Draft class.
