Top 50 NBA Prospects in the World
/granite-web-prod/eb/c6/ebc61fbef2f94af092597c115989211a.jpeg)
LaMelo Ball played for the Illawarra Hawks in the Australian Basketball League.Like almost everything else, the coronavirus pandemic changed the NBA's 2020 plans. Yet one thing remains untouched in this era of wide-open spaces and the almighty 3-pointer — the types of players that are in demand around the league.
The top of the want list can be divided into two groups: 1. distance shooters, especially ones who can create off the dribble, and 2. athletic types with the size and length to play multiple positions. If a candidate doesn’t offer one or the other, it will be a little tougher to break into the league.
There are no slam dunk franchise players on the immediate horizon, but there are plenty of rotation players with upside. Some of them could have nice pro careers or even be stars. Here are the top 50 NBA prospects in the world.
50. Terrence Shannon
/granite-web-prod/fb/08/fb089a8148744671a9851ec187fbd190.jpeg)
Terrence Shannon Jr. went to Texas Tech after starring at Lincoln High School in Chicago.Position: Guard/forward
School: Texas Tech
Class: Freshman
Height/weight: 6-foot-6, 210 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 9.8 points/4.1 rebounds/1.0 assists
Bottom Line: Terrence Shannon
/granite-web-prod/9d/7a/9d7ad475933f4970a00f1744db66dfc7.jpeg)
Terrence Shannon is a high flyer.Is it prudent to take a physical presence who attempted a total of 200 shots at the college level? If this swingman returns to Lubbock, Tex., that question will be a moot point.
Otherwise, a playoff-caliber team could gamble that his offensive game will develop at some point down the road.
49. Payton Pritchard
/granite-web-prod/9f/97/9f9747672abe4c33b8841b0056cf328d.jpeg)
Oregon guard Payton Pritchard, right, has great handles.Position: Guard
School: Oregon State
Class: Sophomore
Height/weight: 6-foot-2, 180 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 20.5/4.3/5.5
Bottom Line: Payton Pritchard
/granite-web-prod/a7/a1/a7a1974600df4011892f8dc95e2e6cc3.jpeg)
Payton Pritchard is winner.He’s 22 years old and played four seasons of college ball. Geez, what’s wrong with this guy? Well, there’s plenty right, too.
He could be another Scott Skiles type — a pit bull who can shoot the ball or pass it and knows how to win.
Hey, Skiles lasted 10 NBA seasons, you know.
48. Skylar Mays
/granite-web-prod/5f/95/5f953ded0ad94d858771458a0605f6f0.jpeg)
Skylar Mays is fundamentally sound.Position: Guard
School: Louisiana State
Class: Senior
Height/weight: 6-foot-4, 200 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 16.7/5.0/3.2
Bottom Line: Skylar Mays
/granite-web-prod/67/d7/67d738acb8ea4ce8bb7e06e51adc61c8.jpeg)
Skylar Mays might be underrated.Skylar Mays doesn’t wow anyone with his athleticism, but he has size and is well-schooled in the fundamentals.
He could develop into a solid player at the next level.
47. Jared Butler
/granite-web-prod/47/d8/47d8eec573ac4e65a18bf40f6ee81087.jpeg)
Jared Butler is a playmaker.Position: Guard
School: Baylor
Class: Sophomore
Height/weight: 6-foot-3, 190 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 16.0/3.2/3.1
Bottom Line: Jared Butler
/granite-web-prod/05/a7/05a700b09f3b4969aae0e651cbdb4ff1.jpeg)
Jared Butler, right, knows how to score.This 6-foot-3 combo guard was among the biggest losers in the aborted NCAA tournament in that he could have improved his stock considerably there.
The fact remains that he was the top scorer and No. 2 playmaker with one of the best teams in the country.
There’s a legit question as to whether he’ll be a tweener at the pro level, but there should be none about his ability to shoot the rock.
46. Kaleb Wesson
/granite-web-prod/6c/a0/6ca02a34b6e846f6bf98f1409479de51.jpeg)
Kaleb Wesson, center, is tough.Position: Center
School: Ohio State
Class: Junior
Height/weight: 6-foot-9, 270 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 14.0/9.3/1.9
Bottom Line: Kaleb Wesson
/granite-web-prod/8d/4e/8d4e7b49ec104fa196c12f8368329678.jpeg)
Kaleb Wesson shot 73 percent from the free-throw line in college.While not overly athletic, this 21-year-old plays smart and tough in the post area.
He also can step out to the 3-point line, which puts him in some pretty exclusive company at the position.
A weight problem earlier in his college career could give pause to some talent evaluators.
45. Paul Reed
/granite-web-prod/b5/cc/b5ccbc7222004e03ab98b6829e9ee061.jpeg)
Paul Reed averaged over 15 points per game in his junior season at DePaul.Position: Forward/center
School: DePaul
Class: Junior
Height/weight: 6-foot-9, 215 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 15.1/10.7/1.6
Bottom Line: Paul Reed
/granite-web-prod/98/cc/98cc3f36a36d4bf7b2fe4d5358b11e03.jpeg)
Don't sleep on Paul Reed.Paul Reed has a 7-foot-plus wingspan and is a great defender. He averaged 2.6 blocked shots and 1.9 steals per game in the 2019-20 season.
His offensive game is a bit limited, but it’s certainly not hopeless.
The kid is underrated and could help a lot of teams.
44. Udoka Azubuike
/granite-web-prod/eb/07/eb0704eef5b84642b858b8bbbdf894de.jpeg)
Udoka Azubuike is from Nigeria.Position: Center
School: Kansas
Class: Senior
Height/weight: 6-foot-11, 275 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 13.7/10.5/0.9
Bottom Line: Udoka Azubuike
/granite-web-prod/93/80/9380b50564f04e0a842f90ba7f044dad.jpeg)
Udoka Azubuike has size and length you can't teach.Right place, wrong time. It wasn’t long ago when his size and length would have made him a first-round selection.
But Udoka Azubuike doesn’t move well enough to defend in space to be considered a can't-miss future pro.
His potential as a defensive anchor cannot be dismissed, though.
43. Daniel Oturu
/granite-web-prod/df/94/df948f1309994e6e9ad8616bbff99726.jpeg)
Daniel Oturu went to Cretin-Derham Hall High School in St. Paul, Minnesota.Position: Center
School: Minnesota
Class: Sophomore
Height/weight: 6-foot-9, 240 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 20.1/11.3/1.1
Bottom Line: Daniel Oturu
/granite-web-prod/89/b5/89b56242f99e48e48bbd2099c6f818ae.jpeg)
Daniel Oturu averaged 20 points in his sophomore season at Minnesota.This fast-riser moved up the charts in a super sophomore season. Now how high is up?
To dominate Big Ten bigs with size and strength is one thing, but to do it against taller, more talented competition is another.
Nonetheless, Daniel Oturu may have value as a complementary piece off the bench.
42. Ashton Hagans
/granite-web-prod/ec/68/ec68d2f4bc704e72861c4ff2d91fd2ae.jpeg)
Ashton Hagans has room for his game to grow.Position: Guard
School: Kentucky
Class: Sophomore
Height/weight: 6-foot-3, 198 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 11.5/3.9/6.4
Bottom Line: Ashton Hagans
/granite-web-prod/db/93/db93ef6d5ffc4d4ab94e6b4d50e5511f.jpeg)
Ashton Hagans is not known as a shooter.Ashton Hagans can find the open man, plays dogged defense and is deadly at the free-throw line. He also lacks confidence as a scorer.
Will his shaky jump shot improve in time? His hoops future could depend on it.
41. Grant Riller
/granite-web-prod/29/de/29de773ac9234e9fa34c4e5dd3a88400.jpeg)
Remember the name Grant Riller.Position: Guard
School: Charleston
Class: Senior
Height/weight: 6-foot-3, 190 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 21.9/5.1/3.9
Bottom Line: Grant Riller
/granite-web-prod/48/60/486030f3c07344218a60da9cffe752fb.jpeg)
Grant Riller is not your average prospect.Upside is the magic word in NBA circles, so Grant Riller's age (23) works against him in that regard.
What he does have is a solid four-season resume, proven shotmaker ability, above-average athleticism and a high compete level.
Any team in need of instant offense off the bench will want to look his way.
40. Robert Woodard
/granite-web-prod/e0/3b/e03bdbfdfafa48689094559732f6a308.jpeg)
Robert Woodard shot 48.5 percent from the floor in his first two college seasons.Position: Guard/forward
School: Mississippi State
Class: Sophomore
Height/Weight: 6-foot-7, 235 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 11.4/6.5/1.3
Bottom Line: Robert Woodard
/granite-web-prod/a2/2e/a22e1698e8c74450ad7e0965de2e4623.jpeg)
Mississippi State guard Robert Woodard (12) tries to push past Oklahoma guard Austin Reaves (12) during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in Oklahoma City, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2020.Robert Woodard is long and strong. He also shot 43 percent from beyond the arc albeit in limited chances in the 2019-20 season.
The question marks: 1. Does he have the size to play power forward, and 2. will he be consistent enough to hold a spot in the rotation?
We shall see.
39. Corey Kispert
/granite-web-prod/f6/a6/f6a649fce668406b8e92a0f03fcf187a.jpeg)
Corey Kispert brings size and smarts to the court.Position: Forward
School: Gonzaga
Class: Junior
Height/weight: 6-foot-7, 220 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 13.9/4.0/2.1
Bottom Line: Corey Kispert
/granite-web-prod/40/a5/40a56c2940e14ab9a9cb44bc4a1a4ec1.jpeg)
Corey Kispert, right, has great shooting range.Corey Kispert lacks ideal athleticism, but there’s something to be said for a flat-liner who can offer something at both ends. Namely, size, smarts and a sure shot.
He could become the kind dependable, cost-effective role player that teams need on a roster.
38. Xavier Tillman
/granite-web-prod/ad/d9/add94093f53d4e1195c4389667ec0b0e.jpeg)
Xavier Tillman has a polished game.Position: Center
School: Michigan State
Class: Junior
Height/weight: 6-foot-8, 245 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 13.7/10.3/3.0
Bottom Line: Xavier Tillman
/granite-web-prod/b1/1d/b11d021b387840d48956550a560d542a.jpeg)
Xavier Tillman can bang with the big boys.Need a big to step in right away? This could be your guy.
Xavier Tillman rebounds, plays functional defense and even sticks a midrange shot on occasion.
The weird thing is, his game may be a bit too polished to the extent that some teams believe he’s a finished product already.
37. Malachi Flynn
/granite-web-prod/96/23/96230e5348944f2aac4cb21d11b9c998.jpeg)
Malachi Flynn went to Bellarmine Preparatory School in Tacoma, Washington, for high school.Position: Guard
Schools: Washington State and San Diego State
Class: Junior
Height/weight: 6-foot-1, 185 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 17.6/4.5/5.1
Bottom Line: Malachi Flynn
/granite-web-prod/cb/cb/cbcb518e6462475c8d6e9795abf214f7.jpeg)
Malachi Flynn has something to prove.Here’s another player who could have used the NCAAs to convince the doubters.
A lack of elite athleticism limits his potential, but he can score the ball as well as distribute it, especially off the dribble.
His physical toughness and feel for the game give him a puncher’s chance at the next level.
36. Zeke Nnaji
/granite-web-prod/82/db/82db9322916244d09fc99f38aaf4edc3.jpeg)
Zeke Nnaji is strong.Position: Forward
School: Arizona
Class: Freshman
Height/weight: 6-foot-11, 240 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 16.1/8.6/0.8
Bottom Line: Zeke Nnaji
/granite-web-prod/dd/59/dd59fd59449c47e18b52e67ec4e887dc.jpeg)
Zeke Nnaji is money inside 15 feet.There’s something to be said for a big who’s lethal anywhere within 15 feet.
This one also hits the boards with a purpose, which makes for easy points on stick-backs.
Zek Nnaji is limited at the defensive end, though, and that figures to knock him down a few pegs.
35. Jalen Smith
/granite-web-prod/79/04/7904f657c5c4412e82693b850b271e56.jpeg)
Jalen Smith can play forward or center.Position: Center/forward
School: Maryland
Class: Sophomore
Height/weight: 6-foot-10, 225 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 15.5/10.5/0.8
Bottom Line: Jalen Smith
/granite-web-prod/a5/e4/a5e48b2c1cd7446fbd423fac2916327f.jpeg)
Jalen Smith averaged a double-double his sophomore season at Maryland.True, this fast-riser is a 20-year-old project, but he’s a 6-foot-10 project who can knock down jump shots away from the basket.
While questions persist about Jalen Smith's mobility and physicality at the next level, he has been a capable rebounder and rim protector.
And he had a solid sophomore season.
34. Tyrell Terry
/granite-web-prod/c9/07/c907df0f2de24826b7bbbb0026182efb.jpeg)
Tyrell Terry made the Pac-12 All-Freshman team.Position: Guard
School: Stanford
Class: Freshman
Height/weight: 6-foot-2, 160 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 14.6/4.5/3.2
Bottom Line: Tyrell Terry
/granite-web-prod/55/83/5583ca316c5f4b869eabe292670f0e35.jpeg)
Tyrell Terry went to DeLaSalle High School in Minneapolis, Minnesota.If the ability to score and move the ball means anything, then this kid has a bright future.
Problem is, he’s Snoop Dogg skinny, which leaves him highly vulnerable at the other end.
Four words — rich, creamy, malted milkshakes.
33. Isaiah Joe
/granite-web-prod/cb/d9/cbd94102a4d44d90b0efaeb07bc38867.jpeg)
Isaiah Joe made the SEC All-Freshman team.Position: Guard
School: Arkansas
Class: Sophomore
Height/weight: 6-foot-5, 180 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 16.9/4.1/1.7
Bottom Line: Isaiah Joe
/granite-web-prod/68/3a/683ab817db4d4958a01beb4a01572c2c.jpeg)
Isaiah Joe can shoot from way downtown.Could be that this 21-year-old is ranked a bit too high here. We're partial to big shooters, though, and few if any college players stroke it better than this Isaiah Joe.
His 3-point percentage dipped in the 2019-20 season, partly because of some health issues. At the same time, his physical strength improved noticeably, which resulted in an uptick at the defensive end.
32. Devon Dotson
/granite-web-prod/61/3d/613dd57d37c04bc2a404f8ab5936295b.jpeg)
Devon Dotson was a consensus All-American in his sophomore season.Position: Guard
School: Kansas
Class: Sophomore
Height/weight: 6-foot-2, 185 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 18.1/4.1/4.0
Bottom Line: Devon Dotson
/granite-web-prod/87/9c/879c25294e6d45fdade3baf79a065e5d.jpeg)
Kansas guard Devon Dotson (1) steals the ball from TCU guard PJ Fuller, left, during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in Lawrence, Kan., Wednesday, March 4, 2020.Devon Dotson's 31 percent rate from 3-point land last season is a concern, but the Chicago kid is quicker than an oil spill and can finish in the paint.
Still, Kansas doesn't have a great track record of producing solid NBA players, so some teams are hesitant to add them to the mix.
31. Tre Jones
/granite-web-prod/59/fc/59fc8439094341fab364462aa39e5a25.jpeg)
Tre Jones had an impressive career at Duke.Position: Guard
School: Duke
Class: Sophomore
Height/weight: 6-foot-2, 183 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 16.2/4.2/6.4
Bottom Line: Tre Jones
/granite-web-prod/29/57/2957ebe9f7b348528bb1626bdd9923b4.jpeg)
Tre Jones makes players around him better.The Dukies weren’t their usual uber-talented selves in the 2019-20 season, but their floor leader had a knack to make those around him better.
Many scouts believe his intangibles will translate at the next level albeit in a reserve role.
Now if he only had a more consistent jump shot.
30. Tyler Bey
/granite-web-prod/66/d7/66d7eff54a65485c9aa1bceed03067c2.jpeg)
Tyler Bey averaged almost 14 points in his junior year at Colorado.Position: Forward
School: Colorado
Class: Junior
Height/weight: 6-foot-7, 215 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 13.8/9.0/1.5
Bottom Line: Tyler Bey
/granite-web-prod/61/b5/61b5f436bcb244a6b68bf09356f9feea.jpeg)
Expect to see more bright lights for Tyler Bey.Tyler Bey has an NBA body and impressive ups. Check out that rebound number.
If his shot percentages are close to what they were in limited opportunities in the 2019-20 season — 42 from 3-point land, 53 overall — then he may be a keeper even without a true position.
Hey, it’s 2020, people.
29. Leandro Balmaro
/granite-web-prod/7a/9b/7a9b0f4e3d284c14986dd44cd5144b2a.jpeg)
Leandro Bolmaro is considered one of the best international prospects today.Position: Guard
Team: Barcelona (Spain)
Class: N/A
Height/Weight: 6-foot-7, 180 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 5.5/1.3/1.8
Bottom Line: Leandro Balmaro
/granite-web-prod/aa/6d/aa6d945c13f64271a4fcdb80c492a37a.jpeg)
Leandro Bolmaro began his pro career in 2017 when he was 16.His size, vision and creativeness put him in the upper echelon of point guard prospects.
His jump shot needs some work, but it’s much too early to write off, especially given his other assets.
A team might want to have the 20-year-old continue playing overseas to grow for a season or two.
28. Kira Lewis
/granite-web-prod/b2/36/b23612370aa84314866960b6454fa50f.jpeg)
Kira Lewis averaged close to 20 points in his sophomore season.Position: Guard
School: Alabama
Class: Sophomore
Height/weight: 6-foot-3, 165 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 19.6/5.1/5.6
Bottom Line: Kira Lewis
/granite-web-prod/b2/cf/b2cfd3e9d37f409589b8c883c83d8adb.jpeg)
Kira Lewis went to Hazel Green High School in Alabama.This 19-year-old reminds us of a taller Darren Collison — an ultra-light, super-quick combo guard who can score off the dribble or at the perimeter.
His game continues to progress, which bodes well for his future.
27. Cassius Stanley
/granite-web-prod/61/4f/614f4aaedee44f71a5f2029f06bfcfe6.jpeg)
Cassius Stanley has 3-and-D potential.Position: Guard/forward
School: Duke
Class: Freshman
Height/weight: 6-foot-6, 195 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 12.6/4.9/1.0
Bottom Line: Cassius Stanley
/granite-web-prod/4c/92/4c9216ffe9a84bc8a028dc02a3acbecf.jpeg)
Cassius Stanley is from Los Angeles.Cassius Stanley is an upper-level athlete. More like a 21-year-old freak of nature.
He plays with a high motor that masks some obvious weaknesses.
Will the rest of his game catch up to his physical talents eventually?
26. Aleksej Pokusevski
/granite-web-prod/21/ae/21ae4f487576473d85186111c68ca6ff.jpeg)
Aleksej Pokusevski is from Serbia.Position: Forward
Team: Olympiacos (Greece)
Class: N/A
Height/weight: 7-foot-0, 220 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 0.0/0.0/0.0
Bottom Line: Aleksej Pokusevski
/granite-web-prod/f9/e0/f9e00b56690641aab26ec521d9852a20.jpeg)
Aleksej Pokusevski needs to put on some weight.Aleksej Pokusevski is highly skilled, but the 18-year-old beanpole remains one of basketball's great mysteries. He has played five minutes in the Euroleague the last two years. So let’s ask Aleksej, shall we?
Aleksej, will you be able to endure the NBA grind? Maybe, for sure.
Aleksej, what will be your best position? Yes, I always give my best.
Aleksej, where should you be drafted? Yes, definitely.
25. Cassius Winston
/granite-web-prod/66/d7/66d73d8daf2d4506bbe552867f0dd3ce.jpeg)
Cassius Winston averaged 18.6 points per game in his senior year.Position: Guard
School: Michigan State
Class: Senior
Height/weight: 6-foot-1, 185 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 18.6/2.5/5.9
Bottom Line: Cassius Winston
/granite-web-prod/c5/61/c56145b0d7d24160977e56461a8841cd.jpeg)
Cassius Winston was born and raised in Detroit.Despite the death of his brother, Cassius Winston put up numbers that were comparable to those in his breakthrough junior season.
While he can run an offense and shoot for distance, defense and durability remain question marks.
He is one of the rare college players these days who stays in school for four years, and that could serve him well at the next level.
24. Vernon Carey
/granite-web-prod/95/13/9513c7a1c7da4956ac87835c8e8ceabf.jpeg)
Watch out for Vernon Carey.Position: Forward/center
School: Duke
Class: Freshman
Height/weight: 6-foot-10, 275 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 17.8/8.8/1.0
Bottom Line: Vernon Carey
/granite-web-prod/53/e0/53e05f85a4cc4464848306ef559386be.jpeg)
Vernon Carey was a man among boys in college.Vernon Corey was a man among boys at the college level, where his size and strength dominated in the paint area.
Yet he won’t be able to bully opponents in the pros. There’s also a question whether he’ll be able to defend in space.
Still, it’s difficult to overlook somebody this young and physically gifted.
23. Jahmi'us Ramsey
/granite-web-prod/28/6a/286ae282e56e4e9c8dba79c3a149b560.jpeg)
Jahmi'us Ramsey chose Texas Tech over Memphis.Position: Guard
School: Texas Tech
Class: Freshman
Height/weight: 6-foot-4, 195 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 15.0/4.0/2.2
Bottom Line: Jahmi'us Ramsey
/granite-web-prod/5f/8d/5f8d7c35db5147728df61c827b2f5a18.jpeg)
Jahmi'us Ramsey was the Big 12 Rookie of the Year.Jahmi'us Ramsey offers size and length, and his jump shot is money, especially on pull-up opportunities. At the same time, he’s no threat off the dribble and doesn’t create much for others.
There’s such a premium on distance shooters that, if he can come close to his 43 percent rate on 3-pointers in the 2019-20 season, there will be a place for him somewhere.
22. Josh Green
/granite-web-prod/09/e0/09e00137f20849c1b699fa305ec83065.jpeg)
Josh Green averaged 12 points in his freshman season at Arizona.Position: Guard/forward
School: Arizona
Class: Freshman
Height/weight: 6-foot-6, 206 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 12.0/4.6/2.6
Bottom Line: Josh Green
/granite-web-prod/0e/d3/0ed3b91874e74feb81e1e961bd02b5af.jpeg)
Josh Green was born in Sydney, Australia.His length, athleticism and energy level make him an ideal wingman in an up-tempo offense.
If his ball skills and jump shot ever catch up to his physical attributes, it’s easy to envision the Aussie as a rotation player at some point.
He's young and still growing.
21. Aaron Nesmith
/granite-web-prod/40/a3/40a3784a3f1843cbbe1ab0dfc92d48fa.jpeg)
Aaron Nesmith is a big-time scorer.Position: Forward
School: Vanderbilt
Class: Sophomore
Height/weight: 6-foot-6, 213 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 23.0/4.9/0.9
Bottom Line: Aaron Nesmith
/granite-web-prod/6c/0c/6c0c3e428c914afa90fba85785bb3cd6.jpeg)
Aaron Nesmith scored 675 points in 46 college games.If not for a fractured right foot that limited Aaron Nesmith to 14 games in the 2019-20 season, this swingman could be headed to lotto land.
But his impressive length and strength, along with his ability to stroke it with confidence whether open or with a hand in his grill, overshadow any warts. Prior to the injury, he shot an absurd 53 percent in 115 attempts from beyond the arc.
On the assumption that his medicals check out, he has the potential to become a rotation player before long.
20. Patrick Williams
/granite-web-prod/3a/4a/3a4ab111114c46ae9bb59906752058bd.jpeg)
Patrick Williams went to West Charlotte High School.Position: Forward
School: Florida State
Class: Freshman
Height/weight: 6-foot-8, 225 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 9.2/4.0/1.0
Bottom Line: Patrick Williams
/granite-web-prod/f9/8f/f98f5a54fe46424e8eff8ae311ae03a0.jpeg)
Florida State forward Patrick Williams (4) slams a dunk against Louisville in the second half of an NCAA college basketball game in Tallahassee, Fla., Monday, Feb. 24, 2020.The kid is only 19 years old, but there’s a lot to work with here.
Patrick Williams can play any of three positions, possesses a sneaky-good offensive game, participates on defense and continues to grow.
His best path forward is if he can catch on with a stable team that can afford to be patient.
19. Nico Mannion
/granite-web-prod/28/28/2828b02b1da548b5803b1318f4dda621.jpeg)
Nico Mannion was born in Siena, Italy.Position: Guard
School: Arizona
Class: Freshman
Height/weight: 6-foot-3, 180 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 14.0/2.5/5.3
Bottom Line: Nico Mannion
/granite-web-prod/0a/6d/0a6d4c127d6f4eada6598ac8daa18a9c.jpeg)
Nico Mannion was one of the top point guards in the 2019 recruiting class.Nico Mannion scores high as a ballhandler and distributor. His feel for the game is well ahead of the curve.
So stop us if you’ve heard this before — will he finish off the drive and deliver at the perimeter well enough to become more than a backup in the pros?
We shall see.
18. Devin Vassell
/granite-web-prod/f4/4e/f44ecc3151b145b085644ce6ca4a4fdf.jpeg)
Devin Vassell played his college ball for Florida State.Position: Guard
School: Florida State
Class: Sophomore
Height/weight: 6-foot-7, 194 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 12.7/5.1/1.6
Bottom Line: Devin Vassell
/granite-web-prod/f2/c8/f2c81b18862849de8647ce2aff7b1451.jpeg)
Devin Vassell, left, is an all-around talent.This all-around talent solidified his status as a player to watch with a solid, if not spectacular, sophomore season.
He has some rough edges to be sure, particularly with the ball, but there’s time to smooth them.
At the very least, he could contribute as a defender and spot-up shooter off the bench.
17. Theo Maledon
/granite-web-prod/ed/fc/edfc285b7ebc489fb13cd985d8ff4ee6.jpeg)
Theo Maledon was born in Rouen, France.Position: Guard
Team: ASVEL (France)
Class: N/A
Height/weight: 6-foot-4, 174 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 7.9/1.9/2.5
Bottom Line: Theo Maledon
/granite-web-prod/2b/4b/2b4b721ecf914eab8f16936388273730.jpeg)
NBA talent evaluators like what they see in Theo Maledon.A myriad of health problems did him no favors in the 2020 season. Still, NBA talent evaluators like to think big picture, and some see an athletic combo guard with upside here.
He’s an 87 percenter at the free-throw line the last two seasons.
The hope is that his perimeter shot will follow eventually.
16. R.J. Hampton
/granite-web-prod/e0/a7/e0a72181450144aaa35180586f9edb32.jpeg)
R. J. Hampton played professionally in New Zealand after high school.Position: Guard
Team: New Zealand Breakers (New Zealand)
Class: Freshman
Height/weight: 6-foot-5, 185 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 8.8/3.9/2.4
Bottom Line: R.J. Hampton
/granite-web-prod/23/62/2362ab04111e44b08f830f6d79d8fe35.jpeg)
R. J. Hampton, left, was a five-star player at Little Elm High School in Texas.After Shawn Marion convinced this 19-year-old to play Down Under, a hip issue left more questions than answers.
The former five-star prep offers size, an advanced floor game and room to grow.
That's good news for him and his next employer.
15. Jaden McDaniels
/granite-web-prod/16/44/16446e626b254eaa9b0f29560b12dba4.jpeg)
Jaden McDaniels averaged 13 points in his freshman season at Washington.Position: Forward
School: Washington
Class: Freshman
Height/weight: 6-foot-10, 185 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 13.0/5.8/2.1
Bottom Line: Jaden McDaniels
/granite-web-prod/ff/b7/ffb7eaa4b4914114a0a6871ea60187a4.jpeg)
Jaden McDaniels was a McDonald's All-American at Federal Way High School in Federal Way, Washington.Sure, Jaden McDaniels is an enigma, but he’s the best kind of enigma — a multi-skilled athlete with a 7-foot-7 wing span and plenty of upside.
The kid converted only 40 percent of his field goal tries in his freshman season, but the fact that he hit a semi-respectable 34 percent from beyond the arc and 76 percent at the charity stripe gives hope for the future.
Now about those five technical fouls.
14. Precious Achiuwa
/granite-web-prod/de/36/de36fbb4b35848fa804cca6aa0d70f4a.jpeg)
Precious Achiuwa was born in Port Harcourt, Nigeria.Position: Forward
School: Memphis
Class: Freshman
Height/weight: 6-foot-8, 210 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 15.8/10.8/1.0
Bottom Line: Precious Achiuwa
/granite-web-prod/74/b1/74b158158fe3467881e9efae8d93a1c5.jpeg)
Precious Achiuwa has skills.On athleticism alone, Precious Achiuwa is NBA talent.
The 21-year-old more than held his own near the basket at both ends in the 2019-20 season, which suggests that he’s best suited for the center position. Except that his frequent forays away from the bucket say his heart is somewhere else.
Might be best for some team to take those physical tools, and let the rest sort itself out later.
13. Saddiq Bey
/granite-web-prod/84/d5/84d5879002d944daae831610da84004d.jpeg)
Saddiq Bey made a name for himself at Villanova.Position: Forward
School: Villanova
Class: Sophomore
Height/weight: 6-foot-8, 215 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 13.8/9.0/1.5
Bottom Line: Saddiq Bey
/granite-web-prod/4a/56/4a56821096224db2b8872e0a566d3223.jpeg)
Saddiq Bey averaged 13.8 points per game in his sophomore season.This combo forward checks a lot of boxes out of the gate — size, strength, versatility, 3-point range.
His handle and boardwork need to improve, but Saddiq Bey isn’t allergic to hard work.
His Villanova pedigree won’t hurt him, either.
12. Cole Anthony
/granite-web-prod/6a/d9/6ad9ac4f64ee440881f36c837f998b17.jpeg)
Cole Anthony can score and create.Position: Guard
School: North Carolina
Class: Freshman
Height/weight: 6-foot-3, 185 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 18.5/5.7/4.0
Bottom Line: Cole Anthony
/granite-web-prod/71/1e/711e7b76000d43aaa15141893af63a8b.jpeg)
Cole Anthony is ready for a new challenge.Cole Anthony was the No. 2 scorer in the Atlantic Coast Conference despite a right meniscus injury in the 2019-20 season. He’s more about volume than efficiency, though.
Some also question his ability to raise the floor around him, although in fairness, the most recent Tar Heels team was the least talented in years.
Could be there’s nothing with the kid that a new challenge wouldn’t make better.
11. Isaiah Stewart
/granite-web-prod/5f/f7/5ff7e2c535c043f994b78bbafa0d9a21.jpeg)
Isaiah Stewart averaged 17 points per game in his freshman season at Washington.Position: Forward/center
School: Washington
Class: Freshman
Height/weight: 6-foot-9, 250 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 17.0/8.8/0.8
Bottom Line: Isaiah Stewart
/granite-web-prod/a0/6f/a06f3d75f7f04d639bb89274fdc3d3f2.jpeg)
Isaiah Stewart is a hard worker.How high will a team jump for an old-school big? This one is long, strong and mean on the backboards.
He also lacks the ups and mobility that’s in demand nowadays.
If Isaiah Stewart develops a post move and midrange jump shot, he's got a chance.
10. James Wiseman
/granite-web-prod/bd/cb/bdcb1ab64ba74bfcb9c71613b858463e.jpeg)
James Wiseman is a 7-footer with big-time skills.Position: Center
School: Memphis
Class: Freshman
Height/weight: 7-foot-1, 245 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 19.7/10.7/0.3
Bottom Line: James Wiseman
/granite-web-prod/d5/1e/d51efa7ec6a94e6ba53eaa1fce3b040f.jpeg)
James Wiseman could have a solid pro career.Even though James Wiseman is far and away the best pure center available in 2020, he's not guaranteed anything. Fact is, pivotmen aren’t in great demand in the No Bigs Allowed these days.
What’s more, Wiseman left school only three games into the 2019-20 season, which left questions about his primitive offensive game.
Even so, there’s a lot of upside here as a rebounder and rim protector to consider.
9. Onyeka Okongwu
/granite-web-prod/74/d1/74d1151128124787853d6e3608b644e3.jpeg)
Onyeka Okongwu went to Chino Hills High School before playing at USC.Position: Forward
School: Southern California
Class: Freshman
Height/weight: 6-foot-9, 245 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 16.2/8.6/1.1
Bottom Line: Onyeka Okongwu
/granite-web-prod/67/0a/670a08be02da43418cede4e2543cb1c8.jpeg)
Onyeka Okongwu is Nigerian-American.If Onyeka Okongwu were a bit taller, his name would be in conversations about the No. 1 pick. As it stands, he’s the quintessential high-floor, low-ceiling prospect.
Will he continue to dominate close to the bucket? Or is he destined to fall short in the pros?
Either way, he’ll pique the interest of some team and could make a splash in the league.
8. Tyrese Maxey
/granite-web-prod/08/9c/089c2e1ce7bc4a009d8b23933747f84f.jpeg)
Tyrese Maxey could be the next NBA star out of Kentucky.Position: Guard
School: Kentucky
Class: Freshman
Height/weight: 6-foot-2, 190 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 14.0/4.3/3.2
Bottom Line: Tyrese Maxey
/granite-web-prod/78/92/7892623c4d6748c185fbe6babe69dea6.jpeg)
Kentucky guard Tyrese Maxey (3) makes a 3-point basket against Texas A&M during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2020, in College Station, Texas.Tyrese Maxey's strength, athleticism and ability to create for himself sets himself apart from a lot of backcourt players. That and a passion for defense.
He didn’t shoot well at the perimeter in the 2019-20 season, but he was an 83 percenter at the free-throw line, so that could change in time.
Add it all up, and Maxey could be another Kentucky Wildcat alumni with a nice NBA career.
7. Killian Hayes
/granite-web-prod/41/8a/418a02d0b1434a9e9638d44d95c2111f.jpeg)
Killian Hayes has an NBA name. But does he have NBA game?Position: Guard
Team: Ulm (Germany)
Class: N/A
Height/weight: 6-foot-5, 176 pounds
2019-20 statistics: 12.8/2.3/6.2
Bottom Line: Killian Hayes
/granite-web-prod/ed/92/ed927516c5684fc1ab1bdc34dd9abaf2.jpeg)
Killian Hayes is a fan favorite in Germany.At 19, Killian Hayes offers size and toughness and advanced point guard skills. Indeed, there may be no better passer in the 2020 NBA draft pool. He also packs a jump shot and breaks a sweat at the other end.
Yet his early success has had more to do with know-how than athleticism. How will that translate against better competition?
To judge by his recent play, the answer is quite well.
6. Deni Avdija
/granite-web-prod/b5/e4/b5e4ad23d90d43a4b74a9fb2a891c1d5.jpeg)
Can Deni Avdija compete in the NBA?Position: Forward
Team: Maccabi Tel Aviv (Israel)
Class: N/A
Height/weight: 6-foot-9, 215 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 4.0/2.6/1.2
Bottom Line: Deni Avdija
/granite-web-prod/27/e6/27e6a315732a4b5d90e88c158afd8909.jpeg)
If Deni Avdija can do this in the NBA, he'll get his name in the paper.Deni Avdija has NBA talent evaluators licking their chops because of his size, smarts and skillset. But the 19-year-old from Israel is not without some risk.
For one, his lack of physicality will make him a target at the defensive end. He also needs to produce more from beyond the arc.
Then again, the kid has too much talent to write off just yet.
5. Obi Toppin
/granite-web-prod/68/f6/68f6db5a6afc4f9ca75b7a98efd5cba5.jpeg)
Obi Toppin is a highlight machine.Position: Forward
School: Dayton
Class: Sophomore
Height/weight: 6-foot-9, 220 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 20.0/7.5/2.2
Bottom Line: Obi Toppin
/granite-web-prod/fd/fc/fdfc3638789442b2b0240b087afc5d38.jpeg)
Obi Toppin can score in many different ways.It wasn’t until that insane between-the-legs dunk late last season that many took the Atlantic-10 Conference Player of the Year seriously as a lotto pick. Where have you been, people?
Obi Toppin is the rare stretch four who can score inside and out. Think Zion Williamson without the baby fat.
While advanced age (22) and faulty footwork/lack of defensive awareness might conspire against Toppin, he’s one of the few prospects who could make an immediate impact.
4. Tyrese Haliburton
/granite-web-prod/e9/fb/e9fb5ae552c84103a5861a2acef32981.jpeg)
Tyrese Haliburton made the All-Big 12 team for the 2019-20 season.Position: Guard
School: Iowa State
Class: Sophomore
Height/weight: 6-foot-5, 172 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 15.2/5.9/6.5
Bottom Line: Tyrese Haliburton
/granite-web-prod/98/9e/989ee3452c2d4211997ea57591099f55.jpeg)
Iowa State guard Tyrese Haliburton (22) drives up court as he is defended by West Virginia guard Chase Harler (14) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2020, in Morgantown, W.Va.A fractured left wrist cut short his sophomore season, but Tyrese Haliburton did enough to maintain his lofty status.
As a highly gifted ballhandler and distributor, he’s capable of a seamless transition to the next level. He also can hit the open shot.
If he becomes a bit more selfish to create for himself off the dribble, then watch out, kids.
3. Isaac Okoro
/granite-web-prod/db/e5/dbe5818fe39a4eea84dba52c1246172c.jpeg)
Isaac Okoro made the SEC All-Defense team.Position: Forward
School: Auburn
Class: Freshman
Height/weight: 6-foot-6, 225 pounds
2019-20 statistics/game: 12.9/4.4/2.0
Bottom Line: Isaac Okoro
/granite-web-prod/f3/d3/f3d3182f8c014e17a1e0415df2785962.jpeg)
Isaac Okoro has all-around game.He plays hard and smart at both ends. He also has big-play capabilities. In short, the Isaac Okoro has the look of a winner.
But those are intangibles mostly, and how does one measure them exactly?
If the kid becomes even an average shooter — and there are hints he will be — Okoro could help a team. Even if it’s off the bench.
2. LaMelo Ball
/granite-web-prod/88/d5/88d5abc8fa7e412f99baa7a17fddc08d.jpeg)
LaMelo Ball is the youngest one in the Ball family.Position: Guard
Team: Illawarra Hawks (New Zealand)
Class: N/A
Height/weight: 6-6, 165
2019-20 statistics: 17.0/7.6/6.8
Bottom Line: LaMelo Ball
/granite-web-prod/29/19/291954dbcc0e41959be4c367f56af700.jpeg)
LaMelo Ball might be the best Ball of them all.This 19-year-old package of flash and dash resembles Magic Johnson except for one notable exception: LaMelo Ball has no history of team success. OK, two exceptions — Lavar Ball is his father. (Insert bug-eyed emoji here.)
The stats sheet-stuffer can run the show and do it with flair even if he does consider defense to be optional.
In the end, LaMelo might have the best career of anyone in the Ball family.
1. Anthony Edwards
/granite-web-prod/9b/28/9b282dbf287f43d093e3249525cd3b99.jpeg)
Anthony Edwards was the 2019-20 SEC Rookie of the Year.Position: Guard
School: Georgia
Class: Freshman
Height/weight: 6-foot-5, 225 pounds
2019-20 statistics: 19.1/5.2/2.8
Bottom Line: Anthony Edwards
/granite-web-prod/ab/33/ab337f9401ac4dc99ccd0ecb347d31bc.jpeg)
The sky's the limit for Anthony Edwards.This 19-year-old gets the top spot for this reason: He has loads of upside as a robust wing scorer, a quality that’s in great demand around the NBA.
Sure, he’s prone to ill-advised shots and hero ball, but his athleticism and shotmaker ability pack All-Star potential. Zach LaVine 2.0, anyone?
What’s more, Anthony Edwards is low-maintenance and comes from a solid background.