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The fate of half the NBA franchises hangs in the balance. The 2025 NBA Draft Lottery will determine the selection order for the draft, shaping the future of the 14 teams that failed to reach the postseason.
Unlike other U.S. professional leagues, the NBA Draft order isn't solely based on the previous season's standings. Instead, a lottery system helps prevent intentional losing-known as "tanking"-to secure higher draft positions.
This year's lottery participants include seven teams from each conference:
- Eastern Conference: Atlanta, Brooklyn, Charlotte, Chicago, Philadelphia, Toronto, and Washington
- Western Conference: Dallas, Phoenix, Utah, Sacramento, San Antonio, New Orleans, and Portland
When is the 2025 NBA Draft Lottery?
The lottery takes place on Monday, May 12, with NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum overseeing the drawing and announcing the results to the public. The 2025 NBA Draft itself will follow six weeks later on June 25 and 26 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.
How to watch the NBA Draft Lottery
Fans can tune in to ESPN for the live broadcast of the results, while NBA Hub will offer streaming options.
Which teams have the best odds?
Based on their 2024-2025 season records, Utah, Washington, and Charlotte hold the best chances-each with a 14% probability of landing the No. 1 pick. As the worst-performing team, the Utah Jazz are guaranteed a top-five pick.
What time does the Draft Lottery start?
The announcement of the lottery results will begin at 7:00 p.m. ET (6:00 p.m. CT / 4:00 p.m. PT). However, the lottery drawing itself happens earlier in a private meeting attended by team representatives, NBA officials, select media , and an official clerk who ensures the procedure's integrity.