Sean Marks has quietly built the Brooklyn Nets into a team with plenty of tools and potential, but the truth is, tomorrow night’s draft might be the biggest test of his leadership yet. The 2025 NBA Draft is not just another date on the calendar, it is a pivotal moment that could shape the Nets’ future for years to come. Everyone in their right mind knows that Brooklyn is not expected to be a contender next season, and that is 100% fine. That being said, they still need to focus on this one goal in mind.
What is that goal?
To find a player they can build around, someone who can grow with the team and help avoid the long, frustrating rebuilds that other franchises have endured. The Nets have had their share of lottery picks over the years, but very few became the franchise-defining player every team dreams of. Guys like Brook Lopez and Kenyon Martin were good, but neither stuck around long enough to become Brooklyn’s face of the franchise type of player.
Now, with four first-round picks in tomorrow’s draft, including the valuable eighth overall pick and some solid veterans who still have trade value, Sean Marks has a chance to change that story. The team is rumored to be eyeing players like Jeremiah Fears and Ace Bailey. Both are exciting prospects who could fit Brooklyn’s style, but landing them might mean trading up. Luckily, the Nets have the assets to make that happen, possibly packaging picks with players like Cam Johnson or Nic Claxton.
Brooklyn’s plan should be about more than just winning next year. It should be about building something real and lasting. Take Ace Bailey, for example. At 6-foot-8, he’s got the size and skill to be a real impact player on both ends of the floor. His shooting, defense, and length make him a great fit for the modern NBA. Sure, he needs to tighten up some parts of his game, but the upside is there, and that is exactly what the Nets need.
The big picture here is that Sean Marks’ future with Brooklyn is not just tied to wins and losses, it is tied to finding that player who can be “the guy”. Someone who can grow into a leader, a star, and eventually the guy fans get excited about for years. This draft is a huge opportunity for the Nets. Nail it, and they avoid a long rebuild. Miss it, and it could be more of the same. Marks knows all this, and the pressure is on to get it right.