Georgetown’s Thomas Sorber might not be the first big off the board in the 2025 NBA Draft, but the Archbishop Ryan grad is an intriguing prosepct.
Before the 2025 NBA Draft, we’ll take an in-depth look at different prospects here at Liberty Ballers and try to figure out which players would be the best fit for the Sixers at Nos. 3 and 35. Next up in this series is Georgetown’s Thomas Sorber.
Georgetown had a tough season, failing to make the NCAA Tournament and finishing just 8-12 in conference play. Archbishop Ryan alum Thomas Sorber was one of the Hoyas’ bright spots, making the Big East All-Freshman team and All-Big East Third Team. Unfortunately, his season was cut short because of a left foot injury that required surgery. Now recovered, the 19-year-old was one of the best big men in the conference and should be in the lottery mix in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Profile
2024-25 Stats: 24 games, 31.3 minutes, 14.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 1.5 steals, 2.0 blocks, 53.2% FG, 16.2% 3P, 72.4% FT
Team: Georgetown
Year: Freshman
Position: C
Height & Weight: 6’9.25” (without shoes) | 262.8 lbs
Born: December 25, 2005 (19 years old)
Hometown: Trenton, New Jersey
Strengths
Sorber has great size, standing nearly 7-foot with shoes and weighing a sturdy 260-plus pounds. He also possess a massive wingspan at 7-foot-6, second only to Duke big man Khaman Maluach. While he’s not an explosive leaper, he uses his size and energy to make up for it.
Despite the size, Sorber shows tremendous touch with the ability to finish with both hands at the rim and also hit the occasional jumper. He looked comfortable facing the basket and pulling up for the occasional middie. While the results weren’t there from deep, he put up plenty of threes and the shot looks far from broken. The fact that he shot 72.4% from the line is encouraging.
His ability as a screener, roller and playmaker out of pick-and-rolls is second to none in the class. He shows great feel, is a good cutter and makes quick decisions with the ball in his hands. He averaged 2.4 assists a game, often delivering timely and accurate passes. As the season went on, he also proved to be adept at navigating double teams in the post.
The most notable thing about Sorber on the other end of the floor is his motor. He’s relentless pursuing the basketball. He posted over two blocks and 1.5 steals per game, combining his length, motor and instincts. Those things also make him an excellent rebounder, where he uses his size, strength and timing to make up for a lack of elite athleticism. His “second jump” helps make up for some deficiencies as well. He’s also excellent at challenging shots without fouling.
The skillset is similar to an Isaiah Hartenstein but with more offensive upside and potential to be a more impactful defender.
Weaknesses
The biggest weakness for Sorber is a lack of top-end athleticism. If he were a high flyer, he’d be a top-five pick. He’s sort of a below-the-rim player despite his size. He often used his skill, length and strength to finish in college, but will he able to do so against NBA competition? That of course also leads to questions on the defensive end.
While there were shooting flashes and the free throw shooting shows a decent foundation, Sorber went just 6-of-37 from three during his freshman season. To reach his highest ceiling, he’ll have to be a consistent jump shooter.
The turnovers weren’t great but maybe that changes in a better offensive ecosystem at the next level.
Potential Fit with the Sixers
Sorber would only be taken by the Sixers in a trade-back scenario, but he would be a fascinating fit.
With his size and the rim protection he offers, he could be a solid fit in lineups with Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain. Offensively, he would create opportunities for both guards with his ability as a screener, roller and passer. He’d also fit well with what Nick Nurse wants to do by using his length to create turnovers.
Looking towards the future, it’s not crazy to think he could play in lineups with Adem Bona. If Sorber shoots at the next level, Bona could make up for his lack athleticism. They could make an intriguing front court duo.
Draft Projection
SB Nation mock draft: No. 15, Oklahoma City Thunder
I’m actually mad at this. OKC getting the 15th pick and then basically drafting a player that could take Hartenstein’s place when their current starting center prices himself out … the rich just keep getting richer. Sorber would be such a great fit with the Thunder and the culture they’ve built.