Former Kentucky Wildcat Adou Thiero Drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers
In one of the more exciting moments of the 2025 NBA Draft, former Kentucky Wildcat Adou Thiero heard his name called by none other than the Los Angeles Lakers, marking the beginning of his professional basketball journey in Hollywood.
Thiero, a versatile 6-foot-8 forward, made significant strides during his time at Kentucky, earning a reputation as a tenacious defender, athletic finisher, and high-motor competitor. Known for his ability to guard multiple positions and his relentless work ethic, Thiero became a fan favorite in Lexington thanks to his gritty play and team-first mentality.
Selected in the second round by the Lakers, Thiero now joins a franchise rich in history and championship pedigree. Though his role in the rotation remains to be seen, his athletic upside and defensive potential make him an intriguing addition to a roster that has been searching for young talent to complement its veteran core.
At Kentucky, Thiero emerged as a key contributor during his sophomore season, averaging 9.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game. His breakout performances in big SEC matchups drew the attention of NBA scouts, who praised his physical tools and defensive instincts. Despite not being projected as a first-rounder early in the season, a strong finish and impressive pre-draft workouts helped boost his stock.
For the Lakers, Thiero represents a high-upside project with the potential to develop into a valuable two-way player. Under the guidance of new head coach JJ Redick and a veteran leadership group that may still include LeBron James, Thiero will have the opportunity to grow within one of the NBA’s most closely watched environments.
Fans in Los Angeles are already buzzing about the pick, with some drawing early comparisons to other successful second-round defensive standouts. For Thiero, the draft night marks the realization of a lifelong dream but also the start of a new challenge.
I’m grateful to the Lakers for believing in me, Thiero said in a post-draft interview. “Now it’s time to put in the work.
