The Philadelphia 76ers are projected to select University of North Carolina (UNC) standout Ian Jackson in the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft, according to a recent mock draft by Bleacher Report’s Jonathan Wasserman. Jackson, a 6’4″ guard and former five-star recruit from the Bronx, New York, had an impressive freshman season at UNC, averaging 13 points per game with a 48% field goal percentage and a 41% success rate from three-point range.
Despite some inconsistency, Jackson showcased his scoring prowess with notable performances, including multiple games with seven three-point makes. Wasserman describes Jackson as possessing “enough self-creation, strong driving and confident shotmaking to provide instant offense or scoring firepower,” though he notes that streakiness and limited playmaking abilities may impact his draft value.
The 76ers’ draft strategy has been a topic of discussion, especially given their current roster dynamics and the need to build for the future. Analysts suggest that if the Sixers secure a top pick, they should prioritize talent acquisition, with prospects like Cooper Flagg, Dylan Harper, Ace Bailey, and V.J. Edgecombe being considered.
In addition to Jackson, other UNC players are gaining attention in mock drafts. ESPN’s Jonathan Givony projects incoming five-star recruit Drake Powell to go No. 10 overall to the Utah Jazz, while fellow five-star Ian Jackson is projected at No. 19 to the Indiana Pacers, and freshman Elliot Cadeau at No. 35 to the San Antonio Spurs.
As the draft approaches, the 76ers’ selections will be crucial in shaping their roster for the upcoming seasons, with the potential addition of players like Ian Jackson offering both immediate scoring options and long-term development opportunities.
