Where North Carolina stars Ian Jackson, Drake Powell stand in NBA Draft conversation

North Carolina got off to a slow start the season, struggling to pick up big wins in the non-conference portion of the schedule. Among many issues they have overcome, the growing pains of five-star freshmen Ian Jackson and Drake Powell played a role.

Entering the season, the star duo projected to land somewhere between 10 and 20 in the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft if they chose to go one-and-done.

The conversation has since changed, as both look to gain ground on draft boards, with a more difficult choice to make about the future. A breakout in conference play can change plenty, but take a look at where both players stand today.

Breaking down Ian Jackson

Of the two, Ian Jackson has maintained more stock for the 2025 NBA Draft, still firmly in the mix to land just outside the lottery if the season ended now. But there is a path up for him, depending on how the season goes from here.

The clear strength for Jackson comes on offense. He is a shot-maker from multiple areas of the floor, creating space for himself in a number of ways.

This season, he is averaging 15.4 points on 50.9-percent from the field and 42.7-percent from the 3-point line. More importantly, his consistency has recently increased without a drop-off from those numbers.

While those abilities stand out as a massive positive, there is another side. Even Hubert Davis has discussed the long leash needed for Jackson, given the questionable shot selection which sometimes comes with his play style. and high usage rate.

Defense and passing are also areas where the 6-foot-4 guard can stand to show improvement. While a bucket-getter is a valuable role to offer, adding neutral value in at least one of those skillsets is the type of move which helps a player like Jackson stick in the NBA for years to come.

Breaking down Drake Powell

Early in the season, Drake Powell’s draft stock took a hit when he failed to secure a significant role for the Tar Heels. Now finding his way into the rotation and into the boxscore every night, there is plenty room for growth and time for him to prove consistency in the results.

Due to his current stock, Powell is a candidate to potentially test the waters before making a final decision. However, he still has the prerequisite talent and physical measurements to draw attention and move back toward the lottery.

At 6-foot-6, Powell is long with broad shoulders, helping him defend at a high level on the perimeter.

His offense remains a work in progress, averaging 7.4 points on 48.9-percent from the field and 39.5-percent from deep. The key with those numbers is to maintain efficiency while increasing volume.

If he can show improvement there, and consistently showcase it, through ACC play then NBA scouts will surely come knocking again.