The Philadelphia 76ers made a pivotal choice in the recent NBA draft by selecting V.J. Edgecombe with the No. 3 pick, a move marked by rumors surrounding other options, including Ace Bailey, who opted out of a workout with the team. Edgecombe, a guard from Baylor, is expected to enhance the 76ers' backcourt alongside Jared McCain, providing a youthful infusion to a roster led by stars Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey.

The buzz around potential trades involving Paul George and the No. 3 pick was firmly dismissed, described as 'nonsense' by sources. The Sixers are now poised to leverage this youthful talent in pursuit of a championship after a disappointing season where their star trio played only 15 games together. Entering the 2025-26 season, the franchise aims for better health and a stronger push in the Eastern Conference.

No USC players were drafted in the 2025 NBA Draft, marking a rare occurrence for the Trojans. However, two standout players, Saint Thomas and Chibuzo Agbo, will get their chance to shine at the upcoming NBA Summer League. Thomas, who averaged 9.5 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game during his single season at USC, will be showcasing his skills with the Philadelphia 76ers. Meanwhile, Agbo, who had a more prolific season scoring 11.8 points and grabbing 4.5 rebounds per game, will represent the San Antonio Spurs.

Both players transferred to USC prior to the 2024-2025 season and now face a crucial opportunity to impress NBA scouts in Las Vegas from July 10-20. With no draft selections this year, the Summer League serves as a vital platform for them to potentially secure a spot on an NBA roster.

Vlad Goldin, the towering center from the University of Michigan, has signed a two-way contract with the Miami Heat after going undrafted in the 2024 NBA Draft. The 7-foot-1, 250-pound player had an impressive season, averaging 16 points and 7 rebounds, while showcasing his shooting skills with a 60.7% field goal percentage. Goldin's scoring prowess peaked with standout performances, including a remarkable 36-point game against UCLA.

After a slow start, Goldin turned his season around, scoring in double digits for 26 of his last 28 games, also adding a newfound three-point shooting capability to his arsenal. Despite his challenges, including a lengthy separation from family, Goldin's journey has been inspiring, earning praise for his character and leadership from Michigan's coach, Dusty May.

The Dallas Mavericks have restructured their aspirations following the trade of Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers. With just a 1.8% chance to win the draft lottery, the Mavericks struck gold by selecting Duke's Cooper Flagg with the first overall pick. General Manager Nico Harrison's decision-making has come under scrutiny, but this selection provides a much-needed reprieve and a chance for a quick recovery for a team that reached the finals just the season before.

As the Mavs look to regain their contender status, they face challenges, especially with All-Star Kyrie Irving recovering from an ACL injury and Anthony Davis’s persistent injury issues. Despite that, the team boasts a solid roster with players like Klay Thompson and Daniel Gafford. Flagg’s arrival is viewed as a boon, as he complements the existing talent and can ease the pressure of being the top pick. His enthusiasm for learning and playing under coach Jason Kidd, a former NBA great, presents a promising future for both him and the team.

Carter Bryant, selected 14th overall by the San Antonio Spurs, is an athletic 6-foot-8 wing out of Arizona. Known for his defensive skills, Bryant excels in shot-blocking, showcasing impressive leaping ability and quick reactions. His defensive prowess is complemented by an eye-catching draft-night outfit, reminiscent of 90's R&B style, adding a flair to his arrival in San Antonio.

Alongside fellow draft pick Dylan Harper, the Spurs are building a robust young core, with previous Rookie of the Year winners Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle already on the roster. This draft marks a significant step in fortifying the team's future, emphasizing defensive versatility and dynamic scoring potential.