SNAPSHOT

An impressive guard prospect who could be one of the biggest steals of the draft depending on where he lands, Cedric Coward looms as an intriguing figure in the 2025 NBA Draft in Chicago in the coming weeks.

A draft bolter, Coward has stormed into first round contention over the past 12 months, and if he continues on his current trajectory, could become one of the strongest players to come out of this draft class, and a bargain if he makes it past the first round.

DRAFT PROFILE

Coward grew up in Fresno, California and attended Central High School, where he was a solid prospect without setting the world on fire. His college career began in Division III with the Williamette Bearcats, where he averaged 19 points and 12 rebounds in a standout Freshman campaign.

More attention came as a result of his standout season, and he soon after transferred to the Eastern Washington Eagles, and although he struggled to find his feet initially, Coward looked much more comfortable against quality opposition in his second season.

The guard transferred again in his senior campaign, this time joining the Washington State Cougars, where he unfortunately suffered a season-ending injury midway through the season in a disappointing finish to an otherwise promising campaign.

Prior to his unfortunate injury, Coward was averaging 17.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 0.8 steals and 1.7 blocks per game, while shooting 55.7 per cent from the field, 40 per cent from three-point land and 83.9 per cent from the charity stripe.

STRENGTHS

+ Shooting
+ Defence
+ Athleticism
+ Playmaking

IMPROVEMENTS

- Strength
- Lack of experience

Coward emerged as a draft contender largely as a three-and-D guy, showing plenty as a sharpshooter and becoming proficient in catch and shoot situations. He also has plenty of upside as a shooter off the dribble, which could also be a key weapon in the future.

He is extremely versatile on the defensive end, with the ability to guard multiple position improving his impact on that side of the ball. He brings plenty of effort defensively, and it is often reflected when he chimes in for a steal or swats a shot attempt away.

At six-foot-six, he uses his size in pairing with his athleticism to score inside the paint, often gliding to the hoop before the defence can rotate in front of him. He often plays above his height and can finish through contact at a consistent rate.

He could add more size to his frame to make him even more versatile on the defensive end and able to guard big men better, but that will likely come after a few seasons in the gym to start his NBA journey, as is the case with most draftees.

DRAFT PROJECTION: Late first round/early second round

Coward has tremendous upside as an NBA prospect, with already proven defensive impact paired with an emerging offensive game. If he can continue to develop as a two-way player, he could become one of the best players in the draft class.