Aggregate 2025 NBA Mock Draft 4.0: The best small forwards available

1. Ace Bailey (Rutgers, 6-9)

Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Aggregate mock draft best rank: 3 / Worst rank: 5

Agent: Lifestyle

Statistics: 17.6 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 1.3 apg, 1.0 spg, 1.3 bpg, 46.0% FG, 34.6% 3P in 30 games this season

Ace Bailey has been turning heads with his size, athleticism, and scoring ability, making him one of the most intriguing prospects for the 2025 NBA Draft. With a 7-foot wingspan and the skills to score from anywhere on the floor, Bailey has the tools to be a prototypical wing in today’s NBA. Some scouts see shades of Rashard Lewis or Michael Porter Jr. in his game, especially with his perimeter scoring and potential to step into a secondary creator role. But not everyone’s sold – some worry about his shot selection and whether he can improve his game to avoid settling for tough mid-range jumpers.

Bailey’s got star potential, no doubt. He’s got smooth shooting mechanics, advanced footwork, and the ability to create his own shot off the dribble. Defensively, he uses his length and quickness to disrupt passing lanes and contest shots, as a versatile defender who can guard multiple positions. But there are still some question marks. Critics point to his decision-making, saying he doesn’t always make the right reads or generate easy offense. He doesn’t consistently attack the rim for high-percentage finishes, and his off-ball defense could use some work. Still, a lot of teams are willing to overlook those flaws because they believe his shooting will improve in the NBA, especially if he’s not given the green light to take as many tough shots as he does now.

2. Tre Johnson (Texas, 6-5)

Syndication: Austin American-Statesman

Aggregate mock draft best rank: 5 / Worst rank: 10

Agent: WME

Statistics: 19.8 ppg, 2.8 apg, 3.0 rpg, 0.9 spg, 0.4 bpg, 42.7% FG, 37.1% 3P in 32 games this season

Tre Johnson has been putting up big numbers this season, showing he can score from just about anywhere on the floor, including NBA range. Johnson’s got strong footwork and knows how to create separation from defenders, as a dangerous off-the-dribble shooter. He’s arguably the best pull-up shooter in this draft class, and he’s not afraid to take – and make – tough, contested shots. But while he’s a walking bucket, there are still some areas where he needs to grow if he wants to make a bigger impact at the next level. Tre Johnson is more of a swingman than a true guard, large scoring two-guard or small ball wing.

For starters, Johnson’s playmaking is hit-or-miss. He’s averaging just 2.8 assists per game, and for someone who handles the ball as much as he does (with a 28.4 percent usage rate), he should be creating more opportunities for his teammates. Another issue is his lack of free throw attempts – he’s only drawing 2.9 per game, which is low for a high-usage scorer. If he can start attacking the rim more aggressively and drawing fouls, he’ll become even harder to stop.

Defensively, Johnson is pretty much a non-factor. He doesn’t move his feet well enough to stay in front of quicker guards, and he doesn’t bring much energy or effort to disrupt passing lanes or contest shots. If he wants to elevate his draft stock and become more than just a scorer, he’ll need to commit to improving on defense.

Johnson’s scoring ability is legit. He’s got the potential to be a go-to bucket-getter in the NBA, similar to a guy like Cam Thomas. But to really stand out, he’ll need to round out his game. If he can become a better playmaker, start drawing more fouls, and at least hold his own on defense, he could develop into a problem for the league.

3. Liam McNeeley (Connecticut, 6-7)

Michelle Pemberton/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Aggregate mock draft best rank: 8 / Worst rank: 23

Agent: CAA

Statistics: 14.5 ppg, 2.3 apg, 6.1 rpg, 0.5 spg, 0.2 bpg, 39.1% FG, 33.3% 3P in 25 games this season

Liam McNeeley has had a rocky season, as he had to take on a bigger role this season than he might’ve been ready for. With Connecticut lacking strong guard play, he’s often acted as a point wing, which has exposed some weaknesses in his game. He’s not a great pull-up shooter, and he’s had to take a lot of tough shots as a result. McNeeley’s shooting and basketball smarts make him an intriguing prospect, he is a natural fit in any NBA team’s system.

He’s not just a shooter, though – he’s also a smart decision-maker who can score and facilitate, as a versatile offensive threat. Defensively, he competes hard, but his lack of quickness can be an issue against faster opponents. Teams are also keeping an eye on how he bounces back from an ankle injury that sidelined him for a bit. If he can continue to develop his game and improve his efficiency, he’s got the potential to be a valuable floor-spacer and role player at the next level.

4. Hugo Gonzalez (Real Madrid-Spain, 6-6)

Sonia Canada/Getty Images

Aggregate mock draft best rank:18 / Worst rank: Not Ranked

Agent: ProMondo

Statistics: 3.3 ppg, 0.5 apg, 1.8 rpg, 0.3 bpg, 0.2 spg, 40.8% FG, 27.4% 3P in 46 games this season

Hugo Gonzalez is the kind of player who makes an impact even when he’s not stuffing the stat sheet.

While the numbers might not jump off the page, Gonzalez’s real value lies in his defensive versatility, relentless motor, and ability to fit into any system without disrupting the flow. He’s a high-energy, 3-and-D wing who can guard multiple positions and excel in transition, making him an appealing prospect for anyone role player who does the little things. The unique facet about Gonzalez's game is his defensive impact. He’s got strong instincts, quick hands, and a non-stop motor.

Offensively, Gonzalez is still a work in progress. His shooting is inconsistent, and he struggles to create his own shot, but he’s shown flashes of potential as a slasher and decision-maker. His jumper doesn’t look broken, but it’s clearly a work in progress, and he’ll need to become more efficient from deep to stick in the NBA. He’s got the tools to be a reliable role player if he can improve his mechanics and improve his decision-making. Gonzalez’s stock is all about upside. He’s not going to wow you with stats, but his defensive versatility, basketball IQ, and high-energy style make him a strong candidate for a long-term role in the NBA.

5. Nique Clifford (Colorado State, 6-6)

Mar 21, 2024; Charlotte, NC, USA; Colorado State Rams guard Nique Clifford (10) drives to the basket while defended by Texas Longhorns guard Ithiel Horton (9) in the first round of the 2024 NCAA Tournament at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

Aggregate mock draft best rank:21 / Worst rank: Not Ranked

Agent: Life

Statistics: 19.0 ppg, 4.4 apg, 9.7 rpg, 0.6 bpg, 1.2 spg, 50.7% FG, 39.8% 3P in 34 games this season

Nique Clifford is one of the most versatile players in this draft. He’s got a great feel for the game, can pass at a high level, and has a smooth jumper that makes him a threat from deep. He’s also a strong rebounder, especially on the defensive end, where he’s grabbing over eight boards a game. Offensively, he’s a matchup nightmare because he can score inside, knock down threes, and create for others. He’s got a solid in-between game and can pull up off the dribble, as a tough cover for defenders. Defensively, he’s got good instincts and can guard multiple positions, though he can sometimes get lost off the ball. Still, his athleticism and effort make him a plus defender, and he’s even made the Mountain West All-Defense team this season.

Clifford’s been on fire lately, leading Colorado State to a 15-2 record over their last 17 games while putting up 20 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists per game during that stretch. His passing and court vision are elite for a wing, and he’s shown he can handle the ball and make plays when needed.

Scout Notes:

An NBA scout on Nique Clifford: "Yeah, Nique Clifford is a dog. From last year to this year, his game has really grown, in this post-Isaiah Stevens era, he’s really stepped up as the clear No 1 option."

6. Carter Bryant (Arizona, 6-8)

Arizona Wildcats Athletics

Aggregate mock draft best rank: 19 / Worst rank: Not Ranked

7. Alex Karaban (Connecticut, 6-8)

David Butler II-Imagn Images

Aggregate mock draft best rank: 24 / Worst rank: Not Ranked

8. Miles Byrd (San Diego State, 6-7)

Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

Aggregate mock draft best rank: 27 / Worst rank: Not Ranked

9. Alex Toohey (Sydney Kings-Australia, 6-8)

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - FEBRUARY 13: Alex Toohey of the Kings drives to the basket during the NBL Play-In Qualifier match between Sydney Kings and Adelaide 36ers at Qudos Bank Arena, on February 13, 2025, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images)

Aggregate mock draft best rank: 26 / Worst rank: Not Ranked

10. Dink Pate (Mexico City Capitanes-G League, 6-8)

PABLO LOMELIN/NBAE via Getty Images

Aggregate mock draft best rank: 25 / Worst rank: Not Ranked

11. Isaiah Evans (Duke, 6-6)

Grant Halverson/Getty Images

Aggregate mock draft best rank: 24 / Worst rank: Not Ranked

12. Drake Powell (North Carolina, 6-6)

Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Aggregate mock draft best rank: 24 / Worst rank: Not Ranked

13. Jamir Watkins (Florida State, 6-7)

Mar 14, 2024; Washington, D.C., USA; Florida State forward Jamir Watkins (2) holds the ball as North Carolina forward Harrison Ingram (55) defends in the first half at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Aggregate mock draft best rank: 45 / Worst rank: Not Ranked

14. Kanon Catchings (BYU, 6-7)

Feb 1, 2025; Orlando, Florida, USA; Brigham Young Cougars forward Kanon Catchings (6) drives around UCF Knights guard Keyshawn Hall (4) during the second half at Addition Financial Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-Imagn Images

Aggregate mock draft best rank: 32 / Worst rank: Not Ranked

15. RJ Luis (St. John's, 6-7)

Mar 20, 2025; Providence, RI, USA; St. John's Red Storm guard RJ Luis Jr. (12) puts up a shot during the second half against the Omaha Mavericks at Amica Mutual Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images

Aggregate mock draft best rank: 37 / Worst rank: Not Ranked

16. Jaxson Robinson (Kentucky, 6-7)

Feb 8, 2025; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Jaxson Robinson (2) brings the ball up court during the second half against the South Carolina Gamecocks at Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-Imagn Images

Aggregate mock draft best rank: 39 / Worst rank: Not Ranked

17. Mackenzie Mgbako (Indiana, 6-8)

Mar 4, 2025; Eugene, Oregon, USA; Indiana Hoosiers forward Mackenzie Mgbako (21) dribbles the ball against the Oregon Ducks during the second half at Matthew Knight Arena. Mandatory Credit: Craig Strobeck-Imagn Images

Aggregate mock draft best rank: 50 / Worst rank: Not Ranked

18. Malique Lewis (Southeast Melbourne Phoenix-Australia, 6-8)

WOLLONGONG, AUSTRALIA - FEBRUARY 28: Malique Lewis of the Phoenix looks on during game one of the NBL Semi Final Series between Illawarra Hawks and South East Melbourne Phoenix at WIN Entertainment Centre on February 28, 2025 in Wollongong, Australia. (Photo by Jason McCawley/Getty Images)

Aggregate mock draft best rank: 59 / Worst rank: Not Ranked

19. Tucker DeVries (WVU, 6-7)

Nov 27, 2024; Paradise Island, Bahamas, BHS; West Virginia Mountaineers guard Tucker DeVries (12) drives to the basket as Gonzaga Bulldogs guard Michael Ajayi (1) defends during the first half at the Atlantis Resort. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Aggregate mock draft best rank: 49 / Worst rank: Not Ranked

20. Payton Sandfort (Iowa, 6-7)

Mar 13, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes forward Payton Sandfort (20) holds the ball while Illinois Fighting Illini guard Kylan Boswell (4) defends in the first half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Aggregate mock draft best rank: 59 / Worst rank: Not Ranked

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Aggregate 2025 NBA Mock Draft 4.0: The best small forwards available

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