Inside the 2025 NBA Draft: Unlock the Secrets to the Biggest Surprises and Top Picks You Can’t Miss

While all eyes are glued to the 2025 NBA Finals showdown between the Pacers and Thunder — a battle for supremacy that’s got everyone buzzing — there’s another basketball spectacle lurking just around the corner: the 2025 NBA Draft. And believe me, this draft is a can’t-miss event packed with intrigue, drama, and fresh talent ready to shake up the league in a big way.

With the clock ticking down to June 25th, when ESPN and ABC roll out live coverage, I’m here to break down every little detail you’ll want before that first pick falls — from the draft’s two-night format (yes, it’s spread across June 25 and 26) to where the action unfolds (once again at the Barclays Center in NYC), to who’s likely snagged the top selection — none other than Cooper Flagg, Duke’s rising star, poised to join the Dallas Mavericks.

There’s also chatter about the draft shrinking to 59 picks instead of 60 because of the Knicks’ penalty — a juicy twist if you ask me. Contracts? Guaranteed for first-rounders, but more of a negotiation dance for second-rounders and undrafted hopefuls. The league’s tweak to extend the draft over two nights isn’t just about spectacle; it’s a tactical move to let teams recalibrate and fans soak in every moment of the draft frenzy.

Curious about the full lineup or the lottery surprise that handed the Mavericks the first pick against all odds? You’re in the right place — I’ve got the comprehensive scoop coming up that’ll fuel your NBA obsession through draft night and beyond.

LEARN MOREThe Brooklyn arena has hosted the draft every year since 2013, with the exception of 2020, when it was held at ESPN’s studios in Connecticut due to the COVID-19 pandemic.First-round picks sign a two-year rookie contract that is guaranteed. This means the player will be paid fully, even if they get injured, play poorly or get cut from the team.

When is the 2025 NBA Draft?

This year, there will only be 59 picks in the draft, as opposed to the usual 60. That is because the Knicks lost a second-round pick as a result of the league’s investigation into the team’s 2022 signing of Jalen Brunson.

How many rounds is the 2025 NBA Draft?

All eyes are on the 2025 NBA Finals between the Pacers and Thunder, but the 2025 NBA Draft is less than one week away.

What time is the 2025 NBA Draft?

Both rounds of the draft start at 8 p.m. ET.

How many picks are there in the 2025 NBA Draft?

Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about the draft, including when it is, where it is, what channel it is on, who is projected to be taken first overall and more.

Where is the 2025 NBA Draft held?

The NBA made the draft two nights so teams could regroup between rounds, the league said last year. They also felt two nights of television coverage made the viewing experience more exciting for fans and better highlighted the players being taken.This is the second consecutive draft that will feature a two-night format. Before last year, both rounds took place on one night.Prior to 2013, the draft was held at Prudential Center (2011-2012) and Madison Square Garden (2001-2010). Before 2001, the draft took place at stadiums around the country.

Do 2025 NBA Draft picks get guaranteed contracts?

There are two rounds in the 2025 NBA Draft spread across two days. The second round is Thursday, June 26 on ESPN.