Could Payton Sandfort Be the Sleeper Star of the 2025 NBA Draft?

Payton Sandfort might not be the flashiest name you hear when draft season rolls around, but don’t let that fool you—this guy’s got a shooting stroke so smooth it almost feels unfair. Standing 6-8 and carrying a lanky 215 pounds, Sandfort endured a brutal senior year at Iowa, battling through a fractured wrist and not one, but two torn labrums in his shoulders. That alone tells me there’s grit and determination baked deep into his game. When healthy, Payton could easily shake up the Clippers’ bench with his catch-and-shoot prowess, draining shots from all corners of the floor. Sure, he’s not the creator who’ll break defenses down on his own, and defensively? Well, he’s got some toeing-the-line moments, especially in space. But I’m telling you, his basketball IQ and relentless effort make him a quietly promising piece ready to contribute. For a deep dive into Payton’s skills, plus a full scouting dossier and a two-round mock draft, I’ve got you covered over at my NBA Draft Guide. LEARN MORE

Passing: Never plays outside of himself as a good decision-maker with the ball in his hands. But with a growing role each season, he showed he’s more than just a basic decision-maker with his feel for passing to open teammates off of drives.

Payton Sandfort, F, Iowa

For a two-round mock draft and a big board with full scouting reports, check out my NBA Draft Guide.AdvertisementShot creation: Not a primary creator and can struggle generating clean looks against length.

Shot creation: Not a primary creator and can struggle generating clean looks against length.

Comparisons: Sam HauserSummary: Sandfort is a beautiful shooter off the catch capable of knocking down shots from anywhere. Even though his numbers dipped as a senior at Iowa, he played through a fractured wrist and torn labrums on both of his shoulders! But when he’s healthy, he could provide a spark as a member of the Clippers bench.