Chicago NBA Combine: Day One Highlights
CHICAGO — With the **draft order** now established for the top 14 picks, the NBA shifted its focus to the basketball court at **Wintrust Arena** on Tuesday. This marked the beginning of the **2025 NBA Draft Combine**, where teams analyzed the measurements and skill sets of potential prospects. The first day of the combine was dominated by **Cooper Flagg**, but it also provided a platform for non-lottery and second-round hopefuls to demonstrate **physical attributes** that might influence their draft positions.
The day’s activities included **physical measurements**, athletic tests such as the **vertical jump**, agility drills, sprints, and shooting demonstrations, offering a comprehensive evaluation of the players’ capabilities. Here’s a detailed overview of the key takeaways from Day 1 of the combine.
The Leading Man: Cooper Flagg
Amid the buzz surrounding the **Dallas Mavericks**, who defied 1.8% odds to win the lottery, speculation arose about whether general manager **Nico Harrison** would explore trading the No. 1 pick. However, an **ESPN report** confirmed Tuesday that the Mavericks plan to retain the top pick to select **Duke’s Cooper Flagg**.
Flagg was a standout presence on the first day, fully participating in the combine thanks to a new stipulation in the collective bargaining agreement. This requires all domestic players to attend the event and engage throughout the week. He showcased impressive physical skills, including a **29-foot standing vertical leap** and a **35.5-foot maximum vertical jump**. While he did not lead in every category, Flagg’s shooting proficiency and athletic versatility solidified his position as the projected first pick in the upcoming draft.
Just a Little Short: Ace Bailey
A particular point of interest was **Ace Bailey**, a wing from Rutgers long considered a candidate for a top-four draft pick. The most crucial moment for Bailey during the combine arrived on Tuesday when he was officially measured. Bailey, who was listed as 6-foot-10 last season, measured significantly shorter at 6-foot-7.5 without shoes. Although he recorded an impressive **7-foot-0.5 wingspan** and an **8-foot-11 standing reach**, being over two inches shorter than his listed height raises concerns among scouts.
This height discrepancy could potentially impact Bailey’s draft stock, especially considering his unpredictable gameplay. As a player possessing undeniable talent but marked by inconsistency, losing a perceived height advantage may not help his case as he continues through the draft evaluation process.
Early Risers: Cedric Coward
Another name to watch is **Cedric Coward**, a senior from Washington State who has quickly gained attention. Initially projected as a mid-second-round selection, Coward is now on the verge of becoming a first-round talent. Standing at **6-foot-6** with a **7-foot-1 wingspan**, he exhibits promising length for a guard, alongside significant defensive potential that could transform him into a versatile two-way player.
Coward demonstrated a solid shooting form during the workouts, successfully making corner three-point shots. At 21 years old, he remains undecided about staying in the draft or returning to college, having previously committed to **Duke**. However, as interest from **front offices** continues to rise, it is becoming increasingly difficult to envision a scenario where Coward isn’t a major player in this year’s draft.
The Bulls’ Focus on the Frontcourt
This season, the Chicago Bulls need to concentrate on strengthening their frontcourt. Their current young core comprises primarily guards and wings, including talents such as **Coby White**, **Josh Giddey**, and **Matas Buzelis**. However, securing a dominant big man has not been a focus for the Bulls in recent years, relying heavily on veteran center **Nikola Vučević**.
Yet, Vučević’s time in Chicago is likely winding down. Despite having remaining contract years, he has expressed a desire to pursue **win-now** situations rather than remain on a rebuilding roster. This summer, the Bulls aim to offload Vučević, having passed up earlier trade opportunities.
Currently, the Bulls have younger options in **Zach Collins** (27) and **Jalen Smith** (25). Collins was acquired mid-season but overshadowed Smith’s role as a backup, complicating the team’s dynamics as they explore trade possibilities. However, neither player presents long-term starting potential.
Potential Frontcourt Draft Choices
Consequently, the Bulls should prioritize scouting for esteemed big men during the combine. **Khaman Maluach** from Duke and **Derik Queen** from Maryland are top candidates. Maluach stands at an imposing **7-foot-1**, showcasing a raw but intriguing profile with significant mobility in both offensive and defensive situations. Meanwhile, Queen measures **6-foot-9** and possesses an adaptable playing style along with a strong finish, making him an ideal complement to Buzelis and the Bulls’ guards.
However, given that the Bulls pick at **No. 12**, they may find themselves too far down the order to secure either Maluach or Queen, both projected to fall within the top ten. Other potential options on the table include **Asa Newell** from Georgia, **Collin Murray-Boyles** from South Carolina, **Danny Wolf** from Michigan, and **Thomas Sorber** from Georgetown.
Lastly, players outside the frontcourt mix who could also pique the Bulls’ interest include **Jase Richardson** from Michigan State, **Noa Essengue** from France, and **Kasparas Jakučionis** from Illinois.