Tears of joy were flowing Wednesday night in Brooklyn, where NBA prospects and their families took in all of the life-altering moments at the 2025 NBA Draft.
When discussing the heartwarming scenes that unfolded inside the Barclays Center, ESPN analyst Jay Bilas remarked how this year’s first round is perhaps “the most emotional” he’s seen in some time.
“I don’t say this as a joke, I don’t remember a draft being this emotional,” Bilas said.
“This has been the most emotional first round — and this is my 23rd draft — there’s never been this many tears, except when I needed to use the restroom midway through the second round.”
Former UConn star Liam McNeeley broke down in tears during an interview with ESPN, where the new Charlotte Hornets rookie spoke about his Montverde Academy (Fla.) teammates — the Mavericks’ Cooper Flagg, the Hawks’ Asa Newell and the Pelicans’ Derik Queen — all being taken in the first round.
“Those are my brothers,” he said beside mom Ashley. “I’m so proud of them, it’s a dream come true.”
Prior to McNeeley being drafted, top prospect Danny Wolf and his family stole the spotlight when the former Michigan center was selected No. 27 overall by the Nets, owners of five first-round picks.
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When Wolf and his parents spoke to Monica McNutt after Brooklyn made its final selection of the night, the ESPN broadcast panned to his sibling at the table, who had tears streaming down his face.
“Just so much emotion, it’s healthy, I’m glad to see you guys letting it out,” McNutt said.
Wolf then offered kind remarks about his family and how they helped support his dreams.
“I have the two greatest brothers in the world, an unbelievable sister who I love and they all helped me get to where I’m at today,” he said.
The Post’s Zach Braziller gave the Nets’ pick of Wolf a B+ grade.
The second round of the 2025 NBA Draft continues Thursday night.
