The Miami Heat are set to bolster their roster with a proven March Madness standout, according to the 2025 NBA Mock Draft 3.0 from On3 Sports, released after the NCAA Tournament concluded.
In a tweet shared by Auburn Live (@AuburnLiveOn3), the mock draft projects all 59 picks, spotlighting Florida Gators guard Walter Clayton Jr. as the star projected to land with the Heat, a move that could elevate their lineup significantly.
Clayton Jr. cemented his legacy during the 2025 NCAA Tournament, earning a place alongside Larry Bird as the only players in history to score 30+ points in back-to-back Elite Eight games and beyond.
The 6-foot-3 guard led the top-seeded Gators to a national championship, showcasing his clutch scoring ability with a tournament performance that included a legendary Final Four showing against the Auburn Tigers.
His knack for knocking down outside shots and his lights-out free-throw shooting make him a perfect fit for the Heat’s needs, who direly need to turn the tides after a disappointing year.
The Heat, who hold a first-round pick, have struggled offensively this season, ranking 23rd in offensive rating. Clayton Jr., named the Most Outstanding Player of the NCAA Tournament, would bring the scoring punch Erik Spoelstra and his group are craving right now.
While the tweet’s image highlights other top prospects like Baylor’s VJ Edgecombe, Rutgers’ Ace Bailey, Duke’s Cooper Flagg, and Texas’ Tre Johnson, it’s Clayton Jr.’s proven ability under pressure that aligns with the Heat’s culture.
As the draft nears, Heat fans are buzzing about the potential addition of this March Madness superstar to South Beach, a place that has seen a barrage of premier basketball players flock through and display their talent.