NBA Mock Draft 2025: March Madness Stars to Watch for Player Prop Bets

March Madness is here, and it's not just fans and teams who should be paying attention—bettors should too. With 19 of the 30 projected first-round picks in the 2025 NBA Draft competing in the NCAA tournament, there's an explosion of talent that could dramatically influence the best NBA prop bets over the next few weeks.

These rising stars are not only climbing draft boards—they're impacting the player prop bets market game by game. Below, we break down the top prospects to watch during the tournament and how their play could shape the best player props today and in the near future.

1. Cooper Flagg – F, Duke

Flagg entered the season with immense hype and has lived up to it, even emerging as a potential Wooden Award winner. The freshman has dominated both sides of the court and leads all NCAA players in BPM (Box Plus-Minus). His defense, rebounding, passing, and shooting have been elite. The only concern is a recent ankle sprain during the ACC tournament.

Impact on prop bets: If healthy, Flagg is one of the safest over bets across multiple stat categories—points, rebounds, and blocks. He’s a go-to for best NBA prop bets this March.

2. Derik Queen – F/C, Maryland

Queen is turning heads with his production and versatility. He scored 31 points against Michigan in the Big Ten tournament and has become Maryland’s offensive anchor. While he lacks elite athleticism and shooting range, his scoring and rebounding volume are drawing comparisons to a younger Boogie Cousins.

Impact on prop bets: Queen's strong inside presence makes him a high-value pick for rebound and point props. In matchups against smaller frontcourts, he’s among the best player props today.

3. Kon Knueppel – G/F, Duke

When Flagg went down, Knueppel stepped up with a 28-point performance in the ACC tournament. His shooting touch (39% from three) and pick-and-roll vision have elevated his draft stock. Knueppel is a top-10 pick in waiting if he continues to thrive in March.

Impact on prop bets: His three-point shooting and assist potential make Knueppel a smart pick for made threes and combo props.

4. Khaman Maluach – C, Duke

Maluach has one of the most impressive physical profiles in the draft (9’9” standing reach) and contributes as a finisher, rebounder, and potential stretch five. His defense is a work in progress, but his energy and effort are high.

Impact on prop bets: Look to the over for rebound props and watch for value in blocks, especially as Duke advances.

5. VJ Edgecombe – G, Baylor

Edgecombe’s athleticism and defensive instincts are elite, although his offensive game still needs polish. If Baylor advances to face Duke, this matchup could be a goldmine for prop bettors.

Impact on prop bets: Defensive stats like steals are where Edgecombe shines. He’s also a sleeper in points props if he catches fire.

6. Tre Johnson – G, Texas

A natural scorer with one of the best shooting strokes in the draft, Johnson relies heavily on his jumper but has shown flashes of defensive competency and passing.

Impact on prop bets: Johnson is a great pick for over on made threes and points in matchups against weaker perimeter defenses.

7. Jase Richardson – G, Michigan State

Richardson has flourished since joining the starting lineup. Though undersized and with injury concerns, his scoring efficiency and off-ball movement are elite.

Impact on prop bets: Watch for point props and three-pointers made. He’s a sleeper pick with high upside.

8. Kasparas Jakucionis – G, Illinois

Jakucionis has cooled off after a strong start but remains a creative passer and shot creator. Turnovers and athleticism are concerns.

Impact on prop bets: Risky, but intriguing for assist props in favorable matchups.

9. Jeremiah Fears – G, Oklahoma

One of the youngest and highest-usage players in the class, Fears has exceptional shot-creation skills but needs development in playmaking and physical strength.

Impact on prop bets: With high usage, his scoring props are worth targeting, especially in up-tempo matchups.

10. Asa Newell – F, Georgia

Newell is a powerful rim finisher who can score unassisted and stretch the floor, though accuracy and playmaking remain inconsistent.

Impact on prop bets: Bet on dunks, offensive rebounds, and points in transition-heavy games.

11. Nique Clifford – G/F, Colorado State

Older than most prospects, Clifford is a complete player with improved shooting and vision. He’s shooting 40% from deep and excels in multiple areas.

Impact on prop bets: Versatile for points, threes, and even rebound props. High-floor prop target.

12. Carter Bryant – F, Arizona

An athletic wing with great defensive instincts and solid shooting. He plays a limited role but makes the most of it.

Impact on prop bets: Defensive stats and threes are where he adds betting value.

13. Liam McNeeley – F, UConn

A skilled shooter still adapting to college-level physicality. His numbers don’t show it yet, but his stroke is pure.

Impact on prop bets: Future potential in three-point props, though matchup dependent for now.

March Madness is the ultimate platform for young stars to shine. As these players fight for tournament glory, they also offer some of the best player props today. Keep your eyes on emerging trends, minutes played, and matchups to make the most out of player prop bets this month.

With the NCAA tournament full of future NBA talent, the betting value is unmatched—this is the time to stay sharp, do your research, and enjoy the madness.

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