If the latest ESPN mock draft successfully predicts the future, then the Oklahoma City Thunder will select Collin Murray-Boyles at No. 15 overall. Murray-Boyles is one of the most captivating players in the 2025 NBA Draft, possessing the upside and physical attributes to impact the game in every phase.
Moreover, Murray-Boyles is garnering comparisons to a player who knows a thing or two about contributing to a dynasty: Draymond Green.
Green is currently a four-time NBA champion, nine-time All-Defense honoree, and one-time Defensive Player of the Year. As such, any upside comparison to Green must be taken with a grain of salt—and an understanding that it's more about talent and style of play than potential accolades.
Nevertheless, one can't help but be intrigued by Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo of ESPN listing Murray-Boyles as the Thunder's selection with the No. 15 overall pick in their latest mock draft.
"The Thunder enter the draft with supreme flexibility thanks to their deep, talented roster and their huge cache of future draft capital, enabling them to move around in the draft and target who they want. Murray-Boyles' toughness and basketball IQ align with the criteria Oklahoma City tends to target, making this a potential landing spot for him."
For what it's worth: Both Kevin O'Connor of Yahoo Sports and The Ringer's 2025 NBA Draft Guide have listed Green as one of Murray-Boyles' upside comparisons.
Thunder select Collin Murray-Boyles with No. 15 pick in ESPN mock draft
Despite playing two seasons with the South Carolina Gamecocks, Murray-Boyles turned 20 on June 10. He's one of the youngest sophomores in his class and made considerable strides as a player during his two years in the SEC.
In 2024-25, Murray-Boyles turned that progress into averages of 16.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.2 offensive boards, 2.4 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.3 blocks per game.
Those numbers accurately reflect Murray-Boyles' appeal, as well as the foundation upon which the ambitious comparisons to Green are made. He's a true all-around player who can defend multiple positions, create for his teammates, and excel in virtually every phase of the game.
Though not a great shooter, it's worth noting that Murray-Boyles improved his free-throw shooting by 4.0 percent and buried nine three-point field goals in 2024-25 after failing to make a single shot from distance in 2023-24.
Beyond his averages, Murray-Boyles is a physical anomaly. He stands at 6'6.5" and 239 pounds with a remarkable 7'0.75" wingspan, an 8'10" standing reach, and the combination of strength and quickness to hold his own against bigs and perimeter players alike.
Murray utilizes those physical attributes to impose his will defensively, denying post entry, stifling the pick and roll, and even making plays at the rim or in the passing lanes on a consistent basis.
Furthermore, his defensive effort is reliable, which is a testament to his mental toughness considering South Carolina went 12-20 in 2024-25. That may be his most impressive attribute. Most players would've coasted on defense when wins were tough to come by, but Murray-Boyles remained active and engaged.
Compounded by his impressive finishing ability around the rim, Murray-Boyles would be a massive addition to a Thunder roster and culture that's perfectly equipped to explore his potential.