ESPN’S JAY BILAS TALKS UP KENTUCKY’S KOBY BREA AND AMARI WILLIAMS AS SLEEPER PICKS IN THE 2025 NBA DRAFT, POINTING TO THEIR EXPERIENCE, VERSATILITY, AND FIT IN MARK POPE’S SYSTEM… BUT A LINGERING QUESTION MARK COULD COMPLICATE THEIR RISE
Kentucky basketball fans have a new reason to get excited — and it’s not just about five-star freshmen. ESPN’s Jay Bilas has his eye on two veteran Wildcats, Koby Brea and Amari Williams, labeling them as potential sleeper picks in the 2025 NBA Draft. The endorsement comes as both players prepare to take on major roles in Mark Pope’s system, which Bilas believes could unlock their pro potential in a big way.
Brea, a transfer from Dayton, is known as one of the best shooters in the country. With his lightning-quick release and deep range, he has the tools to stretch defenses and become a deadly weapon from beyond the arc. Bilas praised his high basketball IQ, ability to move without the ball, and the composure he brings as a veteran presence.
On the other end, Amari Williams, the former Drexel star and three-time CAA Defensive Player of the Year, has caught Bilas’s attention for his elite rim protection and switchability. Standing at 6’10” with a long wingspan and fluid mobility, Williams could become a defensive anchor for Kentucky — and a valuable asset to NBA scouts searching for modern bigs who can defend multiple positions.
“Both guys have the maturity, experience, and skill to really rise up draft boards,” Bilas said. “They’re not getting the headlines now, but come March, I wouldn’t be surprised if they’re in serious NBA conversations.”
But there’s a twist.
While Bilas is optimistic, he also hinted at one potential setback that could muddy the waters: opportunity. With Kentucky’s roster loaded with talent across the board, including several younger players eyeing breakout campaigns, there are questions about how consistent Brea and Williams’ usage will be. Will they get the minutes and spotlight they need to truly showcase their NBA readiness?
With the season fast approaching, all eyes will be on how Mark Pope utilizes his experienced duo — and whether Brea and Williams can rise above the rotation battle to prove they belong in the league. One thing is clear: the spotlight is shifting in Lexington, and a pair of under-the-radar stars could be ready to shine… if everything goes according to plan.