One and Done: Asa Newell Enters NBA Draft After Breakout Season at Georgia after just one electrifying season with the Georgia Bulldogs, freshman forward Asa Newell has officially declared for the 2025 NBA Draft. The 6-foot-10 phenom made the announcement via social media, thanking his coaches, teammates, and Bulldog Nation for their support during what he called “the most transformative year” of his life.Newell, a five-star recruit coming out of high school, arrived in Athens with high expectations—and somehow exceeded every single one. Averaging 16.4 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game, he quickly established himself as one of the most dominant two-way players in the country. His combination of length, athleticism, and shooting touch made him a matchup nightmare and a constant presence on highlight reels.What makes Newell’s breakout season even more impressive is how seamlessly he adapted to the college game. In his debut against a ranked opponent, he dropped 22 points and 11 rebounds, setting the tone for a season of consistent production and clutch performances. He developed a strong pick-and-roll chemistry with Georgia’s veteran guards and often served as the emotional and defensive anchor of the team.Scouts took notice. By midseason, Newell was already climbing up mock draft boards. NBA executives were particularly impressed by his versatility. He can stretch the floor with a smooth three-point shot, but he’s just as comfortable punishing defenders in the paint or running the floor in transition. On the defensive end, he showcased the ability to switch onto guards and protect the rim—a skill set tailor-made for the modern NBA.Georgia head coach Mike White had high praise for his departing star. “Asa’s work ethic, humility, and team-first mindset made him a joy to coach,” White said. “He’s got all the tools to succeed at the next level, and I have no doubt he’ll make an impact from day one.”While Georgia fans are understandably disappointed to see Newell leave after just one year, there’s an overwhelming sense of pride in what he accomplished. He helped lead the Bulldogs to their first NCAA Tournament appearance in over a decade and gave the program a much-needed boost in national relevance. His success may also have a ripple effect on recruiting, showing other top prospects that Georgia can be a launchpad to the NBA.Asa Newell’s decision to go “one and done” doesn’t come as a surprise, but it does mark the end of a special chapter in Georgia basketball history. With a projected top-10 draft grade, he’s poised to be a lottery pick—and potentially the face of a franchise down the line.Now, as he prepares for the NBA Draft Combine and private team workouts, the basketball world will be watching closely. Asa Newell may have only spent one season in college, but he made it count. The next chapter of his basketball journey is just beginning—and if his freshman year was any indication, it’s going to be something special.
