NBA Rookie of the Year Odds 2025: Can Former Indiana Center, Kel'el Ware Win?

As we get closer to midseason and the NBA All-Star break, it’s a great time to look at the Rookie of the Year race.

Miami Heat and former Indiana Hoosiers center Kel'el Ware has been on a roll this season after a slow start in early 2024. The first round pick is now clearly in the discussion for the 2025 NBA Rookie of The Year Award abut can he win?

The No. 15 pick has been one of the most productive big men in the NBA over the last month and a half and is averaging 10.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks in his last 16 games. 

Ware played head to head with last year's Rookie of The Year Award winner and french sensation Victor Wembanyama and posted a career-high 25 points and added eight rebounds in Sunday’s blowout win over the Spurs.

Rookie of the Year will likely come down to favorite Wizards forward/center Alexandre Sarr (+190), or Spurs guard Stephon Castle (+200). The secondary candidates, are Grizzlies forward Jaylen Wells at +350 odds, Kel'el Ware at +460 and Grizzlies center Zach Edey at +800 per FanDuel Sportsbook

Presumptive favorite Jared McCain of the 76ers would have ran away with this award but suffered a season-ending injury. And despite early consistent play from first year names like Zach Edey, Stephon Castle, Jaylen Wells, and Yves Missi, Alex Sarr seems as the heavy favorite to win with his usage on offense and defensive play.

Ware has a shot to be in the top three but I think Sarr and Castle have the best chances to now win the ROTY award.