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2025 NBA draft grades: Nets' Danny Wolf pick draws national media praise

The article from MLive, titled "2025 NBA Draft grades: Nets’ Danny Wolf pick draws national media praise," published in June 2025, provides an in-depth look at the Brooklyn Nets’ selection of Danny Wolf, a former Michigan Wolverines center, in the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft. Authored by Aaron McMann, the piece details Wolf’s journey from college basketball to the professional level, the reactions from national media outlets to his draft selection, and the potential impact he could have on the Nets’ roster. The article also contextualizes Wolf’s selection within the broader narrative of Michigan players transitioning to the NBA and offers insights into his playing style, background, and future prospects.

Danny Wolf, who spent his final college season with the Michigan Wolverines after transferring from Yale, was selected by the Brooklyn Nets with the 43rd overall pick in the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft. This selection came as a surprise to some, given that Wolf was not widely projected as a high draft pick. However, his unique skill set and versatility as a 7-foot center caught the attention of NBA scouts and analysts. During his lone season at Michigan, Wolf averaged 14.1 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, showcasing his ability to contribute both offensively and defensively. His performance earned him recognition as a player with significant potential, particularly for a second-round pick.

The article highlights the overwhelmingly positive reactions from national media outlets regarding the Nets’ decision to draft Wolf. ESPN’s draft analyst Jonathan Givony praised the pick, describing Wolf as a “sleeper” with the potential to develop into a valuable role player. Givony noted Wolf’s ability to stretch the floor with his shooting, a rare trait for a player of his size, as well as his high basketball IQ and passing skills. Similarly, The Athletic’s Sam Vecenie gave the Nets a high grade for the selection, emphasizing Wolf’s fit within the modern NBA, where big men are increasingly expected to contribute beyond traditional post play. Vecenie pointed out that Wolf’s ability to handle the ball and make plays from the perimeter could make him a unique asset in Brooklyn’s system under head coach Jordi Fernández, who is known for favoring versatile players.

CBS Sports also weighed in, with analyst Kyle Boone assigning an “A-” grade to the Nets for the Wolf pick. Boone highlighted Wolf’s defensive versatility, noting that while he may not be an elite rim protector, his ability to switch onto smaller players and guard multiple positions adds value in today’s positionless basketball landscape. Boone also mentioned Wolf’s rebounding prowess, which was evident during his time at Michigan, as a key attribute that could help him carve out a role in the NBA. These analyses collectively paint a picture of Wolf as a high-upside player whose skills align well with the evolving demands of professional basketball.

The article delves into Wolf’s background, providing context for his unconventional path to the NBA. Originally from Glencoe, Illinois, Wolf began his college career at Yale, where he played for three seasons and developed into a standout player in the Ivy League. Seeking a higher level of competition, he transferred to Michigan for the 2024-25 season, a move that proved pivotal in elevating his draft stock. At Michigan, under coach Dusty May, Wolf adapted to the Big Ten’s physicality and showcased his ability to impact games in multiple ways. His decision to transfer paid off, as his performance in a major conference caught the eye of NBA scouts, ultimately leading to his selection by the Nets.

Wolf’s selection also marks a continuation of Michigan’s recent success in producing NBA talent. The article notes that he joins a growing list of Wolverines who have made the leap to the professional level, including players like Moritz Wagner, Franz Wagner, and Jett Howard. This trend underscores the program’s reputation for developing players who are ready for the next level, even if they are not always first-round picks. Wolf’s journey, in particular, serves as an inspiration for late bloomers and transfer players who may not follow a traditional path to the NBA.

In terms of his fit with the Nets, the article explores how Wolf could complement the team’s current roster. Brooklyn, in the midst of a rebuild following the departure of key stars in recent years, is looking to build a young, versatile core. Wolf’s ability to play both the power forward and center positions gives the Nets flexibility in their lineups. Additionally, his passing ability could mesh well with the playmaking of guards like Cam Thomas, while his size provides a much-needed presence in the paint alongside Nic Claxton, the team’s starting center. The article suggests that while Wolf may not see significant minutes immediately, his development in the G League with the Long Island Nets could prepare him for a larger role in the future.

The piece also addresses potential challenges Wolf might face as he transitions to the NBA. At 7 feet tall, he lacks the elite athleticism of some of his peers, which could pose issues when defending quicker players or finishing at the rim against more explosive big men. However, analysts cited in the article believe that his basketball IQ and work ethic will help him overcome these limitations. His time at Michigan, where he often faced tough matchups in the Big Ten, is seen as valuable preparation for the rigors of professional basketball.

Beyond the immediate reactions to his draft selection, the article touches on the broader implications of Wolf’s story. His success as a second-round pick could serve as a blueprint for other college players who may not receive the same hype as top prospects but possess unique skills that translate to the NBA. Furthermore, his selection by the Nets, a team in need of depth and versatility, highlights the importance of fit in the draft process. Wolf’s ability to contribute in multiple areas aligns with Brooklyn’s vision for the future, making him a low-risk, high-reward pick in the eyes of many analysts.

In conclusion, the MLive article paints a comprehensive picture of Danny Wolf’s draft night success and the positive reception it garnered from national media. From his statistical output at Michigan to his unconventional journey through Yale and the transfer portal, Wolf’s story is one of perseverance and adaptability. The high grades and praise from outlets like ESPN, The Athletic, and CBS Sports reflect a consensus that the Nets made a smart choice in selecting him at No. 43. While challenges lie ahead, Wolf’s unique combination of size, skill, and intelligence positions him as a player to watch in the coming years. For Michigan fans, his selection is yet another point of pride, reinforcing the Wolverines’ status as a pipeline to the NBA. As Wolf embarks on his professional career, the optimism surrounding his potential suggests that he could exceed expectations and become a valuable contributor for the Brooklyn Nets. This detailed coverage, spanning over 700 words, captures the excitement and intrigue surrounding one of the 2025 NBA Draft’s most intriguing second-round selections.

Read the Full MLive Article at:
[ https://www.mlive.com/wolverines/2025/06/2025-nba-draft-grades-nets-danny-wolf-pick-draws-national-media-praise.html ]