The question “how many rounds in NBA draft” is more relevant than ever, as the league continues to evolve its annual selection process. In 2025, the NBA Draft once again features two rounds, a format that has remained consistent since 1989. This year, the event is split across two nights—a trend that began in 2024—with the first round on Wednesday, June 25, and the second round on Thursday, June 26, both starting at 8 p.m. ET and held at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.
Fans tuning in to the 2025 NBA Draft saw the Dallas Mavericks secure the coveted first overall pick, a rare feat given their slim odds. The spotlight shone on top prospects like Cooper Flagg of Duke and Dylan Harper of Rutgers, who went first and second, respectively. With the draft’s two-round structure, teams have a total of 58 to 60 picks, depending on league decisions regarding forfeitures or compensatory selections.
Understanding the NBA Draft Structure
The NBA Draft is currently composed of two rounds. This format was established to streamline the selection process and ensure that only the most promising prospects are chosen. Each NBA team is generally entitled to one pick per round, but trades and other transactions can shift selections among franchises. In 2025, the first round consists of 30 picks, and the second round typically features 28 to 30 picks, with exact numbers occasionally adjusted due to penalties or trades.
The shift to a two-night event allows for greater focus on each round. The first night is dedicated to the first round, broadcast on both ABC and ESPN, while the second night, exclusive to ESPN, covers the second round. This change has been well-received, as it gives second-round picks more visibility and allows for in-depth analysis of each selection.
Key Developments in the 2025 NBA Draft
This year’s draft brought several notable developments. The Dallas Mavericks defied the odds to land the top pick, selecting Cooper Flagg, widely regarded as the best prospect available. The San Antonio Spurs followed by picking Dylan Harper, while the Philadelphia 76ers faced intriguing decisions at number three. Speculation swirled around other top prospects like Ace Bailey, whose draft position was shrouded in uncertainty due to canceled team workouts.
The two-round structure ensures that every team has a chance to add young talent, but the real drama often comes in the second round, where hidden gems and overlooked prospects can become future stars. The NBA’s decision to split the draft over two nights highlights the league’s commitment to showcasing every pick, no matter the round.
Why Two Rounds in the NBA Draft?
The NBA settled on the two-round format after years of experimentation. In earlier decades, drafts could stretch to 10 or even 21 rounds, but as the talent pool became more concentrated, the league reduced the number. The current two-round system, in place since 1989, reflects the reality that only a limited number of players are ready to make an immediate impact at the professional level.
This structure also allows for more strategic planning by teams. Front offices can focus on securing top-tier talent in the first round and then look for developmental players or specialists in the second. The two-round setup has become a staple of the NBA offseason, eagerly anticipated by fans and analysts alike.
Summary of Key Points
- Number of Rounds: The NBA Draft consists of two rounds.
- First Round: 30 picks, held on the first night.
- Second Round: 28 to 30 picks, held on the second night.
- Format Changes: Since 2024, the draft is split over two nights for increased visibility.
- 2025 Highlights: Dallas Mavericks selected Cooper Flagg first overall; San Antonio Spurs took Dylan Harper second.
- Purpose: The two-round system ensures a balance between selecting elite talent and finding hidden gems.
Engaging with the NBA Draft
For fans, the NBA Draft is a time of hope and excitement. Whether your team is picking first or last, the two-round structure means every franchise has a shot at improving its roster. The 2025 draft, with its two-night format and star-studded prospects, proves that the question “how many rounds in NBA draft” is more than just trivia—it’s central to understanding how teams build for the future.
Stay tuned for more updates on draft picks, trades, and rookie performances as the 2025 NBA season approaches. Don’t miss out on the next wave of basketball talent!