NBA Draft 2025: Toronto Raptors select Collin Murray-Boyles with 9th pick as he becomes South Carolina’s second-highest draft selection in history

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ollin Murray-Boyles was selected by the Toronto Raptors with the ninth overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft on Wednesday night. It was a major moment for South Carolina basketball.

The 6-foot-6 forward, who recently turned 20, now becomes the second-highest draft selection in the history of the Gamecocks program. Despite South Carolina’s disappointing season, Murray-Boyles stood out with his skill and defensive instincts, making him one of the most intriguing picks in this year’s draft.

Raptors land Collin Murray-Boyles with the 9th pick

Collin Murray-Boyles made a blue-chip impact. In a year where the Gamecocks finished dead last in the SEC with a dismal 2-16 conference record, his production was commendable.

Averaging 16.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.5 blocks per game, he earned All-SEC second-team honors. Indeed, it is a rare feat given the team’s record.NBA Commissioner Adam Silver made it official in Brooklyn, announcing: "With the 9th pick in 2025 NBA Draft, Toronto Raptors select Collin Murray-Boyles from the University of South Carolina."

Sports reporter Mike Uva of GamecockCentral reported the news by posting on X, "Just In: South Carolina forward Collin Murray-Boyles has been drafted with the 9th overall pick by the Toronto Raptors.

He's the second-highest draft pick in program history. #NBADraft."

His physical tools pop off the page. He has a 7-foot wingspan. Collins weighs 239 pounds and has a max vertical of 34.5 inches. But on top of that, his ability to judge opponents’ gameplay before the game has been widely praised by scouts.While his offensive range is still developing, he shot just 26.5% from three and hit 39 threes over two seasons. Collin’s ability to finish around the basket and timing on both ends make him a high-upside pick.

With a field goal percentage of 58.6%, Murray-Boyles showed consistency in scoring efficiently without needing to dominate the ball.The moment was an emotional one for the Columbia native, who shared the spotlight with his parents, brother, and girlfriend Chloe Kitts.Also Read: NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers reportedly eyeing $13,372,418 Utah Jazz star to join LeBron James and Luka Doncic to add power to the squadThe Raptors, in need of a defensive identity and versatility, may have found a future anchor. With the right development, Murray-Boyles could become a central piece in Toronto’s long-term rebuild with his basketball IQ that’s already pro-ready.