Image Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

Cedric Coward Draft Projection: Evaluating His Stock Ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft

From unknown to NBA spotlight contender

Image Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

Cedric Coward wasn’t handed ideal opportunities, but he maximized every chance that came his way. Coming out of high school, Coward was barely on the radar in major recruiting discussions. He admitted, “I wasn’t that good.”

The shooting guard began at Division III Willamette University, where his standout stats earned a sophomore transfer to Eastern Washington, followed by a jump to Washington State for his final year. Despite promising numbers, Coward fell early to a season ending shoulder injury.

He averaged 17.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in his last NCAA season. Despite his setbacks, the California native credits his Olympic gold medal-winning grandfather, who played a major role in shaping his career.

“To be honest with you. I just wasn’t that good.”

Duke commit Cedric Coward discusses his remarkable journey going from D3 to Duke.

This guy is so likable.

(@TheFieldOf68) pic.twitter.com/WI3cNr9126
— Karter Baughan (@karterb8) April 29, 2025

Cedric Coward Scouting Report – Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

Cedric’s standout strength lies in his elite shooting touch. He shot an impressive 55.7% from the field and 40.0% from three-point range.

Coward uses his body effectively to play bigger than his size. His blend of size, upper-body strength, and light footwork helps him bully smaller defenders on drives and challenge shots at the rim.

Weaknesses

Though a guard, Coward has drawn criticism for his limited playmaking and low assist numbers across his college career. Averaging around 1.7 assists per game across his college basketball career.

He’s largely operated as a lead scorer rather than a floor general, rarely tasked with initiating team offense.

Coward’s health is a concern for NBA teams, as he played only six games last season due to a shoulder injury.

Cedric Coward’s Stats and Accomplishments at Washington State

The 21-year-old averaged 17.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in the 2024-25 NCAA season.

Coward’s college achievements

Northwest Conference Freshman of the Year (2022)

First-Team All-Big Sky (2024)

Cedric Coward’s Draft Projection

The shooting guard is expected to come in the middle of the first round, with the Washington Wizards most probable to pick him at #18 in the 2025 NBA Draft.