Maximizing Brand Power: How Rising NBA Stars Can Cash In
Rising NBA stars from March Madness are boosting their draft stocks and personal brands, with players like Walter Clayton Jr. and Khaman Maluach making significant leaps.
The biggest risers in the NBA Draft following their performances in March Madness, where all four No. 1 seeds made the Final Four for the first time since 2008. The rankings remain fluid with the draft still three months away, but March has provided clarity on player evaluations.
Walter Clayton Jr. made the most significant leap, moving from 55th to 30th after stellar performances, showcasing elite shot-making and clutch play reminiscent of Stephen Curry. Labaron Philon climbed from 31st to 23rd with an improved three-point shot and strong decision-making, though he faces a tough choice between going pro or staying at Alabama. Milos Uzan, Tyrese Proctor, and Johni Broome also saw their stocks rise due to their reliability, defensive impact, and winning intangibles.
Other notable risers include Texas Tech's Darrion Williams and JT Toppin, who contributed to their team’s deep tournament run with versatile play. Danny Wolf's fluid movement as a seven-footer makes him an intriguing late-first-round gamble despite free-throw struggles. Meanwhile, Khaman Maluach moved up to No. 4 with elite rim protection and flashes of offensive versatility. At the top of the board, Cooper Flagg remains the consensus No. 1 pick, with his all-around dominance sparking debates about his place among the best draft prospects of the last two decades.
With March Madness elevating their draft stock, these players are also boosting their personal brands—setting the stage for major earning opportunities as they enter the NBA. In today’s era of athlete branding, social media presence, endorsements, and personal storytelling are just as valuable as on-court performance.
Beyond endorsements, these athletes can monetize their names, images, and likenesses (NIL) through content creation, personal apparel lines, and partnerships with brands that align with their playing style and personality. As they transition to the NBA, leveraging social media, telling authentic stories, and forming strategic brand collaborations will be key to maximizing their earning potential off the court.
