BYU might have the program’s best NBA prospect since Jimmer Fredette.
ESPN projects 6-foot-8 freshman wing and Russian star Egor Demin as a lottery pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, putting him at No. 9 overall to the San Antonio Spurs in their latest projections.
Denim is of two Cougars in the first round of the mock draft alongside fellow freshman and 6-foot-6 small forward Kanon Catchings, who landed at No. 26 overall to the Utah Jazz.
Denim has been playing for Real Madrid’s youth teams since 2021 — when he was 15 years old. He helped lead the Real Madrid B squad to the EuroLeague Basketblal Next Generation Tournament title in 2022-23 and averaged 13.0 points and 5.1 rebounds in 2023-24 as well as making one appearance with Real Madrid’s senior team.
Denim has been compared to Dallas Mavericks superstar Luka Doncic.
From ESPN: “Demin shined as one of the top long-term prospects we saw abroad,” Schmitz says, noting that the guard “has ideal size for a modern playmaker and the type of focus, intensity and poise you look for in an international prospect.” He adds: “Demin was constantly talking defensively and directing traffic offensively, showcasing a feel for the game and maturity you rarely see from a player his age outside of young phenoms like [Luka] Doncic.”
BYU-bound Egor Demin is an exciting, talented young prospect with an impressive winning pedigree. Quick film breakdown from the ANGT Finals — showcasing the 6’9” 18-year-old's unique versatility, jumbo playmaking potential, and adaptable skillset on both ends. pic.twitter.com/m1MUSojltH
— League Him (@League_Him) June 3, 2024