Carter Bryant could be one of the great players in the 2025 NBA Draft, but he won’t be an impact player anytime soon.
There are a lot of players advertised as “NBA-Ready” in the 2025 NBA Draft, especially the first round. Even outside the generally agreed top ten, players like Jace Richardson, Neek Clifford and Walter Clayton Jr. could play a major role in the rookie season.
Carter Bryant may not be a stud in his first season, but due to proper development he could be an NBA starter, if not great. He has physical tools and two-way possibilities.
Predicted to be selected primarily 15-25th overall, Bryant is one of the most complete players in the draft, but he is not perfect.
- Age/Date of Birth: 19 (November 6, 2005)
- Nationality: America
- Height/Weight: 6ft 8, 220lbs
- University: Arizona Wildcats
- Career Statistics: 6.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, 1.0 assists, 1.9 “Stocks”, 46.0 FG%, 37.1 3pt%
- NCAA Tournament Statistics: 8.3 points, 4.7 rebounds, 0.3 assists, 3.0 “Stocks”, 35.4 FG%, 41.7 3pt%
- Career Highs: 14 points (Iowa, Cincinnati), 11 rebounds (vs. Kansas), 6 assists (vs. Baylor)
- NBA comparison: Kevin Knox (before we know better)
Looking at his game-by-game stats, he doesn’t pop out much, but keep in mind that he only averaged 19 minutes per game.
He moves very well on the ball, allowing him to open in corners and slash into the rims of the lob. And if he gets the ball with paint, he expects to dunk it. He has a large size, strength and athleticism, and NBA combination numbers only improve draft stock.
While most of his 3-point attempts (he took 105) are supported and as he continues to improve his shots he could be a high-level catch-and-shoot threat, certainly, his sub-70% mark from the free throw line doesn’t inspire confidence.
In defense, he is very versatile and can hold himself for most positions. He’s not a “lockdown” defender against both the security guard and the centre, but he certainly can hold his own. His defenses against the wings in particular are solid, which will likely be what he is known for his rookie season.
If Bryant wasn’t solid in his first year, that’s because of these obvious weaknesses. Like most young college players, his NBA discipline at each end of the floor is usually modified by experience, but leaves what is desired.
If his three-point shot is shaking, don’t expect him to score a lot. Yes, he has the talent and size to head to the hoops, but against the NBA defender, his traffic handle could use some work. At a true point guard, he must be fine, as it does not prevent him from cutting off the ball.
Around There is no ceiling, 82.2% of his shots shot from the catch. In the NBA, most of his external shots are supported, but the inability to create space with the ball around can be a problem.
On the defensive side, he has a size that makes him a threat, but like most rookies, he was able to wander into more complicated offensive schemes. If you’re protecting someone like Aaron Gordon, Jimmy Butler, or Paolo Bancello, you’ve been through with other concerns, but hopefully a better player will let his coverage slip for a simple dunk.
Bryant quickly fits best with teams that can split the time between the NBA and G League. In a loaded draft, picking someone who won’t play in every game seems counterintuitive, but the benefits of being a two-way wing with versatile scoring capabilities are worth it.
In an ideal world, he plays for a high-level point guard and brings a lot to a team with poor defense. The Atlanta Hawks, who own the Sacramento Kings and Los Angeles Lakers picks, are uncertain about Trae Young’s long-term role, but they fit the bill.
The Dallas Mavericks are meaningful, assuming Kyrie Irving’s return, and fits into Nico Harrison’s “Defense Winning Championship” mantra. Dallas also achieved success recently with Kessler Edwards, Kai Jones and Brandon Williams spending time in the G League.
Finally, the Indiana Pacers make sense. Their defense has improved, but some work can be used and Tyrees Halliburton will not go anywhere soon. Carter could be a solid running mate for both Halliburton and TJ McConnell.