Montverde Academy (MVA) has once again solidified its reputation as the nation’s premier basketball powerhouse, with four of its alumni selected in the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft—a remarkable achievement previously accomplished by the program in 2021. The historic night was not only a testament to the school’s elite player development but also a celebration of the brotherhood forged during Montverde’s undefeated 33–0 national championship season in 2023–24.
Cooper Flagg – No. 1 Overall, Dallas Mavericks
Headlining the draft was Cooper Flagg, selected first overall by the Dallas Mavericks. The 6’9” forward, hailed as a generational talent, is expected to be the cornerstone of the Mavericks’ future. Known for his elite two-way play, relentless motor, and court vision, Flagg became Montverde’s third-ever No. 1 overall pick, joining NBA stars Ben Simmons (2016) and Cade Cunningham (2021).
Before spending a season at Duke, Flagg amassed every major high school accolade, including Gatorade National Player of the Year, Naismith National Player of the Year, and Nike EYBL Scholastic Player and Defensive Player of the Year. During his two seasons at Montverde, Flagg averaged 13.6 points, 6.5 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 1.6 steals, and 2.5 blocks per game, redefining what it means to be a high school standout.
Derik Queen – No. 13, New Orleans Pelicans (via Atlanta Hawks)
At No. 13, Derik Queen was selected by the Atlanta Hawks before his rights were traded to the New Orleans Pelicans. The former Maryland Terrapin made waves in college with his dominance in the paint, averaging 16.5 points and 9.0 rebounds per game. His NCAA Tournament buzzer-beater against Colorado State became a defining moment of his collegiate career.
A three-year player at Montverde, Queen rose through the ranks after playing behind NBA-caliber talent. By his senior year, he was a McDonald’s All-American, MaxPreps Second Team All-American, and Nike EYBL Scholastic First Team All-Conference selection. He posted an impressive 66% field goal percentage over his final two years, averaging 14.4 points and 7.1 rebounds per game.
Asa Newell – No. 23, Atlanta Hawks (via New Orleans Pelicans)
Ten picks later, Asa Newell was selected 23rd overall by the New Orleans Pelicans and then traded to the Atlanta Hawks—his hometown team. The 6’11” forward and Georgia Bulldog earned SEC All-Freshman honors, and his athleticism and defensive prowess are expected to add valuable depth to the Hawks’ young core.
At Montverde, Newell played two seasons while earning his associate’s degree. He earned recognition as a Nike EYBL Scholastic Second Team All-Conference selection and Naismith Trophy Honorable Mention. Averaging 9.1 points and 4.8 rebounds per game, Newell’s potential extends far beyond the box score.
Liam McNeeley – No. 29, Charlotte Hornets (via Phoenix Suns)
Closing out Montverde’s first-round quartet was Liam McNeeley, selected No. 29 by the Phoenix Suns, with his rights traded to the Charlotte Hornets. The UConn standout and Big East Freshman of the Year averaged 14.5 points and 6.0 rebounds during his lone season with the Huskies. His emotional draft-night appearance alongside his mother, Ashley, was a highlight of the evening.
At Montverde, McNeeley earned numerous accolades including McDonald’s All-American, Naismith Third Team All-American, and Nike EYBL Scholastic Second Team honors. Over two seasons, he averaged 12.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game, while shooting an efficient 50% from the field and 44% from beyond the arc.
More than a victory for the players, this moment is a celebration of the Montverde Academy community: its coaches, families, and teammates who helped shape these young men into future NBA stars. As these four former Eagles take flight in the NBA, they carry with them the legacy of a program that continues to raise the bar for basketball excellence.
