[The following scouting report is part of a series on potential 2025 draft prospects from Sports Business Classroom alumni.]

Asa Newell
Frame: 6’11”, 220 lbs
Position: Power Forward
School: Georgia Bulldogs
2025 Draft Age: 19
Stats via sports-reference.com

Offense

Newell is having an impressive freshman campaign at the University of Georgia, showcasing his potential as an athletic and skilled big man. He averages 15.4 points and 6.8 rebounds per game and has an effective field goal percentage of 58%. Newell thrives as a finisher around the rim, using his mobility and length to convert efficiently in the paint. He also attacks off the dribble, showing promise as a face-up scorer.

One area for improvement is his three-point shooting. While he can hit standstill jumpers, he is shooting 29 percent from beyond the arc. Developing consistency from deep will be crucial to maximizing his offensive versatility at the next level. His shooting mechanics are sound, suggesting he has the foundation to become a reliable floor spacer.

Newell’s high motor and strong hands make him an excellent offensive rebounder, averaging 3.1 offensive boards per game. His ability to keep plays alive and generate second-chance opportunities will be an immediate asset in the NBA, particularly in a play-finisher role.

At the next level, Newell projects as a play finisher with the potential to expand his offensive repertoire. His ability to run the floor, finish above the rim, and move fluidly for his size makes him an ideal fit as a pick-and-roll big. If he continues to refine his jumper, he could develop into a pick-and-pop threat, adding another dimension to his offensive game.

 

Defense

Newell’s physical tools and high motor make him an intriguing defensive prospect. With a 7’0″ wingspan, he possesses the length and lateral quickness to guard multiple positions. His rim protection is solid, averaging one block per game, but he will need to continue improving his defensive awareness and timing to be a more impactful shot-blocker at the NBA level.

Newell needs to add strength with his slight frame and muscle to handle physicality in the post. Improving his ability to absorb contact will be essential if he is to play minutes at center in small-ball lineups. However, his defensive versatility, IQ, and effort level suggest he can develop into a reliable multi-positional defender.

Looking Ahead

Newell projects as a lottery-to-mid-first-round pick this June. He leads Georgia in scoring (15.1 PPG) and rebounding (6.5 RPG), ranking third in field goal percentage and offensive rebounds per game in the SEC. He has been named to the SEC All-Freshman Team and has earned SEC Freshman of the Week honors four times.

Newell’s immediate role in the NBA will likely be as a high-energy rotational big contributing as a play finisher, transition threat, and secondary rim protector. While he may not develop into an elite defender, his athleticism and mobility will allow him to guard multiple positions and fit into various defensive schemes. If he can improve his three-point shooting and strength, he has the upside to become a valuable two-way player and starting-caliber frontcourt player.