Kansas Guard Zeke Mayo Emerges as NBA Prospect in Breakout Season

One of the most exciting developments in the 2024-25 Kansas Jayhawks basketball season has been the stellar play of transfer guard Zeke Mayo. A Lawrence native and former standout at South Dakota State, Mayo has exceeded expectations in his first 11 games with the Jayhawks. The hometown hero has quickly become a fan favorite, cementing his place as one of the team’s most impactful players.

Mayo’s journey to Kansas and the national stage is nothing short of remarkable. Overlooked out of high school, he spent three years dominating the Summit League before seizing the opportunity to compete at a higher level in the Big 12. With his consistent performances this season, speculation about his NBA potential has started to grow.

An Intriguing NBA Prospect

Sports Illustrated writer Jace Derryberry recently highlighted Mayo’s professional potential, describing him as an “intriguing prospect” for the 2025 NBA Draft.

“As the season progresses, Mayo’s versatility and consistency will continue to be closely monitored by NBA scouts,” Derryberry wrote. “His ability to contribute in multiple areas, along with his scoring efficiency and defensive potential, make him an intriguing prospect for the 2025 NBA Draft. If he can maintain his current level of play and further refine his skills, particularly as a perimeter shooter and playmaker, there’s a strong chance he’ll be an impactful player at the next level.”

Standing at 6-foot-3, Mayo is proving to be one of the most efficient scorers in the Big 12. He currently averages 13.5 points per game, second on the Jayhawks’ roster, and is shooting 38.7% from three-point range, hitting 24 of 62 attempts. His back-to-back scoring explosions of 26 and 25 points in recent games have only solidified his reputation as a go-to scorer.

A Unique Opportunity

Mayo’s presence is particularly significant for a Kansas team that doesn’t feature many clear-cut NBA prospects this season. Star center Hunter Dickinson, while dominant in college, lacks the defensive agility and modern offensive game to fit seamlessly at the next level. Similarly, seniors Dajuan Harris and KJ Adams haven’t done enough to stand out to scouts. Mayo, with his scoring touch and versatility, may be the Jayhawks’ best hope for representation in the 2025 NBA Draft.

His road to the NBA won’t be without challenges. At 23 years old by next December, Mayo’s age might cause some scouts to hesitate, especially given his late emergence on the national stage. However, his Summit League Player of the Year award last season, where he averaged 18.8 points and shot 39.1% from deep, shows he can deliver under pressure.

What’s Next?

To solidify his NBA candidacy, Mayo will need to maintain his current production and continue refining his skills. Improved playmaking and consistent three-point shooting will be critical as he showcases his potential to NBA scouts. Even if he isn’t selected in the early rounds of the draft, his skill set could earn him a spot in the G League or a two-way contract next year.

For now, Mayo’s focus remains on leading the Jayhawks to success in the Big 12 and beyond. But with each standout performance, his dream of playing at the next level seems more and more achievable. Lawrence’s own Zeke Mayo has arrived, and the basketball world is starting to take notice.