The NCAA Championship game featured six potential picks in the 2024 Draft according to B/R’s Jonathan Wasserman.
Editor’s Note: Find more of Jonathan Wasserman’s coverage of the 2024 Draft on Bleacher Report or to read this article on BleacherReport.com, click here.
(B/R) — Scouting for the 2024 NBA draft continued until college basketball’s final game of March Madness.
Six projected picks participated in Monday night’s championship between Connecticut and Purdue. And each player is currently projected higher today than they were when the tournament began.
Huskies stars Donovan Clingan and Stephon Castle were big winners during the NCAA tournament, while Zach Edey continued to strengthen his case and change minds about his pro outlook.
Next up is the Portsmouth Invitational, a tournament for seniors only. And that’s followed by G League Elite Camp and the NBA combine in May, which prospects are now required to attend.
Agents and players will also begin to start scheduling their workouts.
Some of the analysis is repeated from our previous mock draft published on Wednesday, April 3.
1. Detroit Pistons: Alexandre Sarr
Previous Mock Draft Spot: No. 1
Team: Perth Wildcats
Position: PF/C
Size: 7-foot-1, 216 lbs
Age/Year: 18
Nationality: French
Pro Comparison: Jaren Jackson Jr.
Alexandre Sarr may have the best case right now at No. 1 with physical tools, pro-level production and translatable defense that scream high floor, plus flashes of inside-out offensive skills that hint at room to improve and a path to higher scoring upside.
His season is over after Perth lost two of three to Tasmania in the NBL semis. At 18 years old, he averaged 9.6 points and 1.5 blocks in 18.0 minutes with 16 made 3-pointers in 30 games.
Looking ahead, the next steps will be testing, measuring and interviewing at the NBA combine. But while most prospects will go on daunting workout tours, Sarr should be comfortable with his stock where he can pick and choose which few teams atop the draft board he wants to visit.
There is no doubt that the primary draw to Sarr revolves around his potential defensive impact as a roaming shot-blocker who can sit in a stance and guard ball-handlers and wings around the perimeter.
But he’s become a strong candidate to go No. 1 thanks to glimpses of 3-point range, pull-up shooting and open-floor ball-handling—unique skills for a 7’1″, switchable rim protector.
Even with Cade Cunningham, Jaden Ivey, Jalen Duren and Ausar Thompson, the Detroit Pistons are far enough away from contention for positions or needs to matter in the draft. They still need to prioritize finding the best prospect available. The challenge this year is identifying him, as scouts continue to throw out all different answers for who should and will go No. 1.
2. Washington Wizards: Rob Dillingham
Previous Mock Draft Spot: No. 2
Team: Kentucky
Position: PG/SG
Size: 6-foot-3, 176 lbs
Age/Year: 19, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Darius Garland
No team has fewer surefire franchise cornerstones to bank on and build with than the Washington Wizards. Fit and position aren’t likely to factor into the front office’s decision, regardless of where the Wizards pick.
But Rob Dillingham may have both a best-prospect-available case and the right opportunity in Washington to earn immediate point-guard reps and develop his lead-guard feel and decision-making.
An off-night in Kentucky’s loss to Oakland won’t move the needle much. Scouts had always acknowledged how his style and shot selection left him vulnerable.
Even with that jumper-heavy diet and underwhelming finishing tools, he still shot 47.5% from the floor with a 59.5 true shooting percentage. Along with his mostly reliable shotmaking on and off the ball, he offers the most convincing creation ability in the class with his ball-handling skill and shiftiness. He even surprised with how well he leveraged his elusiveness and gravity for playmaking and finding teammates (29.7 assist percentage).
Defense is the biggest issue with Dillingham, and scouts remain concerned by how much his lack of size/physicality, effort and awareness will negate his offensive contributions. He’ll likely require a specific type of roster-building to ultimately hide his core weaknesses.
*Check out our Full Rob Dillingham 2024 NBA Draft Scouting Report.
3. San Antonio Spurs: Reed Sheppard
Previous Mock Draft Spot: No. 6
Team: Kentucky
Position: PG/SG
Size: 6-foot-3, 187 lbs
Age/Year: 19, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Kirk Hinrich
An uncharacteristic showing against Oakland re-raised questions asking how high is too high to draft Reed Sheppard. Aside from some bad passes and defensive lapses, he played mostly a background role during Kentucky’s loss, which was the bigger concern for a prospect who’d recently started to generate top-five buzz.
It added fuel to skeptics’ primary argument that he doesn’t provide enough half-court creation for a 6’3″ guard.
However, the bigger full-season picture still shows an excellent pick-and-roll ball-handler thanks to his pull-up game, passing IQ and feel/timing slashing to the basket. And he graded out as college basketball’s most efficient spot-up scorer (1.5 points per possession).
The case right now for Sheppard is more about fit over upside and translatable strengths/skills that teams always value, like shooting, playmaking, a reliable floater and generally sound decision-making. Even without an advanced one-on-one game or scoring ability, he finished tied for the 12th-best box plus-minus on record for a freshman, behind 11 top-10 picks.
*Check out our Full Reed Sheppard 2024 NBA Draft Scouting Report.
4. Charlotte Hornets: Zaccharie Risacher
Previous Mock Draft Spot: No. 4
Team: JL Bourg-en-Bresse
Position: SG/SF
Size: 6-foot-8, 204 lbs
Age/Year: 19
Nationality: French
Pro Comparison: Harrison Barnes
Zaccharie Risacher’s slump continued into this weekend when he went scoreless in Sunday’s win.
Consistent shooting has powered his draft stock for most of the season. But since January 20, he’s just 17-of-64 from 3-point range (26.5%). And now it’s suddenly worth thinking about his 69.4 free-throw percentage, whether it’s more indicative than the early-season 3-point accuracy—or the fact that he hadn’t been known for advanced shooting coming in.
Still, at 18 years old, the eye test will hold more weight, and Risacher looks like an obvious NBA-level shotmaker with excellent positional size, athleticism for open-floor finishing and defensive quickness/court coverage. The most common, plausible projection pictures a quality off-ball scoring starter.
5. Portland Trail Blazers: Stephon Castle
Previous Mock Draft Spot: No. 7
Team: Connecticut
Position: SG
Size: 6-foot-6, 215 lbs
Age/Year: 19, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Anthony Black
Stephon Castle didn’t have the most efficient scoring performance in the national title game, but he still made an impact with his passing, defense, hustle and play-finishing.
Between both Final Four wins, he combined for 34 points and a trio of 3-pointers, showing he can find ways to score and play several different roles from on and off the ball.
Even if teams remain hesitant to buy significant shooting improvement, there is still going to be heavy interest in the lottery in a 6’6″, two-way playmaker with winning intangibles and glowing background checks, according to scouts.
His Swiss Army knife versatility will sway teams to look past his shooting issues at 19 years old.
6. Toronto Raptors: Donovan Clingan
Previous Mock Draft Spot: No. 5
Team: Connecticut
Position: C
Size: 7-foot-2, 280 lbs
Age/Year: 20, Sophomore
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Rudy Gobert
Zach Edey still got his 37 points versus Connecticut, but Donovan Clingan made it difficult throughout the game, using his strength below the rim and reach to force tough hook shots and contested finishes.
He’d been dominant defensively against lower-level bigs, but enough stops against Edey should have helped solidify opinions on his upside protecting the basket.
Given Clingan’s size, strength, length and effectiveness at the college level, teams should ultimately feel they can bank on his defense, which could hold extra weight in a draft lacking sure things. And most picking top 10 have an obvious need to become tougher to score against.
7. Memphis Grizzlies: Ron Holland
Previous Mock Draft Spot: No. 3
Team: G League Ignite
Position: SF
Size: 6-foot-6, 204 lbs
Age/Year: 18
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Cam Whitmore
Despite Ron Holland’s stock having dipped since being projected No. 1 earlier in the season, he still averaged 19.5 points in the G League at 18 years old. And he made some encouraging adjustments throughout the season, particularly with his ability to play at different speeds, rather than just fast.
At worst, he should be able to inject his team with transition offense, rim pressure and easy baskets. But given his age and the flashes, there is still plenty of untapped self-creation, passing and shot-making to bet on.
*Check out our Full Ron Holland 2024 NBA Draft Scouting Report.
8. Utah Jazz: Dalton Knecht
Previous Mock Draft Spot: No. 10
Team: Tennessee
Position: SG/SF
Size: 6-foot-6, 204 lbs
Age/Year: 22, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Wally Szczerbiak
Despite the loss to Purdue, Dalton Knecht added another special scoring performance to a resume that already shows 30-40-point games against Kentucky, Auburn, North Carolina, South Carolina and Florida.
He put up 37 points in the Elite Eight off mostly signature shotmaking that scouts deem translatable, given his size, stroke and general shooting versatility. He seemingly has an ideal skill set for a complementary role at the next level, where he can space the floor, curl off screens and take dribble handoffs into pull-ups or drives.
Turning 23 years old this month, Knecht will have some skeptics who worry about age for a lottery pick. But most teams won’t be overly picky in 2024. The idea of adding a plug-and-play scorer with a valued core skill and professional approach will look appealing outside the top five.
9. Houston Rockets (via Nets): Nikola Topić
Previous Mock Draft Spot: No. 8
Team: KK Crvena Zvezda
Position: PG
Size: 6-foot-6, 198 lbs
Age/Year: 18
Nationality: Serbian
Pro Comparison: Goran Dragić
It’s been over three months since Nikola Topić went down with a knee injury, although he was warming up prior to Crvena Zvezda’s last game. With the college season over, scouts and executives will have more time to make a final Eurotrip to see the draft’s projected top playmaker.
Rare production for an 18-year-old overseas had led to top-five buzz. His stock has become vulnerable due to all this missed time, plus the fact that he doesn’t play off the ball and most lottery teams already have lead guards.
Leading the Adriatic League in assists and ranking second in scoring should have been enough to secure lottery interest, regardless of what happens upon his return.
Teams should feel comfortable about his potential to come in and provide instant rim pressure, pick-and-roll offense and playmaking.
10. Atlanta Hawks: Matas Buzelis
Previous Mock Draft Spot: No. 9
Team: G League Ignite
Position: SF
Size: 6-foot-8, 209 lbs
Age/Year: 19
Nationality: American/Lithuanian
Pro Comparison: Hedo Türkoğlu
Mixed feelings swirl around Matas Buzelis as he heads into the predraft process.
Throughout the season for Ignite, he impressed with flashes of scoring versatility fueled by open-floor drives, shotmaking, athletic finishing and defensive playmaking. The 14.1 points and highlights have also been clouded by 26.1% 3-point shooting and Buzelis’ team going 2-32.
He should be able to make up some ground during workouts, where his size and bounce will pop, and he can convince teams to buy his stroke over the numbers.
11. Chicago Bulls: Cody Williams
Previous Mock Draft Spot: No. 11
Team: Colorado
Position: SF/PF
Size: 6-foot-9, 190 lbs
Age/Year: 19, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Jaden McDaniels
Cody Williams finished the year on a high note in a loss to Marquette, looking more aggressive with drives, hitting a 3-pointer and delivering some impressive defensive sequences.
He’s still clearly on the raw side, lacking polish off the dribble, showing no real pull-up game and averaging just 1.7 3-point attempts per game. But he’ll remain a top-10 candidate, with the likelihood that one team covets a big, two-way wing archetype and can afford to wait on his creation and shot developing.
Even if the team that drafts him doesn’t have time to wait, Williams would still have something to offer as a 6’9″ driver, off-ball play-finisher and wing stopper who generally plays the right way.
*Check out our Full Cody Williams 2024 NBA Draft Scouting Report.
12. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Rockets): Jared McCain
Previous Mock Draft Spot: No. 12
Team: Duke
Position: PG/SG
Size: 6-foot-3, 197 lbs
Age/Year: 20, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Immanuel Quickley
North Carolina State’s upset win over Duke overshadowed Jared McCain’s 32-point game, which was the second time he went for 30-plus in the NCAA tournament.
He’s become one of the draft’s most convincing shotmakers, and though his size and athletic limitations do raise questions, he’s shown plenty of ways to compensate with his crafty ball-handling and pace, shooting versatility, touch shots in the lane and finishing adjustments.
Teams will view McCain as either a scoring combo and secondary playmaker or offensive spark to bring off the bench.
13. Portland Trail Blazers (via Warriors): Kyle Filipowski
Previous Mock Draft Spot: No. 13
Team: Duke
Position: PF/C
Size: 7 feet, 248 lbs
Age/Year: 20, Sophomore
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Santi Aldama
A strong sophomore season for Kyle Filipowski ended in disappointing fashion in the Elite Eight, with his 3-point shot not falling and North Carolina State’s physical bigs forcing tougher two-point attempts.
But the biggest scouting takeaway was that he struggled defensively to contain DJ Burns Jr.’s strength and footwork in the post. It served as a reminder that Filipowski should be better suited to play the 4 most nights in the NBA.
Overall, his draft stock remains relatively unchanged after he hit three 3-pointers against Houston and totaled eight assists through the tournament’s first two rounds. Shooting range, post skill, improved finishing and passing and defensive mobility create versatility that should lock Filipowski into the late-lottery/mid-first-round range.
While he doesn’t project as a top option like he was at Duke, he checks the right complementary boxes to make a quick transition to a supporting stretch 4 or 5 role.
*Check out our Full Kyle Filipowski 2024 NBA Draft Scouting Report.
14. New Orleans Pelicans (via Lakers): Isaiah Collier
Previous Mock Draft Spot: No. 14
Team: USC
Position: PG
Size: 6-foot-5, 210 lbs
Age/Year: 19, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Tyreke Evans
USC missed the NCAA tournament, so Isaiah Collier figures to start training for the draft and learn how he can alleviate scouts’ concerns over his shooting and decision-making.
The scouting report remains well-defined, with his quickness, power and tough finishing good for creation, rim pressure and gravity, and his shooting struggles and turnovers troublesome for a lead ball-handler.
Scouts are deciding what role will suit Collier best. Regardless, without many starting point guard jobs open, he figures to begin his career as a change-of-pace bench spark.
*Check out our Full Isaiah Collier 2024 NBA Draft Scouting Profile.
15. Miami Heat: Devin Carter
Previous Mock Draft Spot: No. 16
Team: Providence
Position: PG/SG
Size: 6-foot-3, 195 lbs
Age/Year: 22, Junior
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Derrick White
Devin Carter was quick to announce his decision to enter the draft after a breakout year showing significant offensive improvement, a needle-mover for one of the nation’s top perimeter defenders.
He closed the year with another outstanding performance, putting up 27 points on 14 shots against Marquette.
Regardless of the scoring outbursts this year, he’s going to earn NBA minutes and paychecks off versatility and intangibles. For a 6’3″ guard, the 32 blocked shots and 8.7 rebounds per game are telling.
Unteachable defensive intensity, toughness and instincts separate Carter and fuel his identity, though he’s entered the lottery conversation by developing into a dangerous shot-maker and crafty pick-and-roll ball-handler.
16. Philadelphia 76ers: Tristan da Silva
Previous mock draft spot: No. 15
Team: Colorado
Position: SF/PF
Size: 6-foot-9, 220 lbs
Age/Year: 22, Senior
Nationality: German/Brazilian
Pro comparison: Kyle Kuzma
A strong three-game NCAA tournament (18 PPG, 60.0% FG) helped Tristan da Silva continue to sell his scoring versatility and IQ for passing and defense. The lack of explosiveness and physicality brings down his perceived ceiling, but he’s too big, skilled and efficient for it to matter outside the lottery. Regardless of how much his athletic limitations hold him back, teams can bank on da Silva’s shooting, passing and overall discipline.
17. Toronto Raptors (via Pacers): Terrence Shannon Jr.
Previous Mock Draft Spot: No. 17
Team: Illinois
Position: SG/SF
Size: 6-foot-6, 225 lbs
Age/Year: 23, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Kelly Oubre Jr.
Terrence Shannon Jr. was the country’s hottest scorer until he ran into Connecticut, specifically Donovan Clingan’s rim protection and Stephon Castle’s perimeter defense.
That Illinois loss did expose some of Shannon’s reliance on using speed and athleticism over creativity and counter moves.
Regardless, scouts see Shannon continuing to apply pressure on defenses with a scoring attack fueled by confident shotmaking and explosiveness in transition, off his first step and turning the corner in ball-screen situations.
For Shannon, however, the predraft process will be all about teams’ investigations into September’s rape charge and the outcome of a May 10 hearing. The results could determine whether he’s in the mix for lottery teams or deemed undraftable.
*Check out our Full Terrence Shannon Jr. 2024 Draft Scouting Report.
18. Atlanta Hawks (via Kings): Ke’lel Ware
Previous Mock Draft Spot: No. 18
Team: Indiana
Position: C
Size: 7 feet, 242 lbs
Age/Year: 19, Sophomore
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Brook Lopez
Though Kel’el Ware struggled during Indiana’s finale and loss to Nebraska, he mostly had a strong last two months in terms of scoring and impact.
Narratives that point out empty stats or low-impact production have lost steam. He delivered more consistently in one-on-one situations around the basket while also flashing bonus shotmaking touch and range that create more offensive upside.
Ware is only going to look more enticing during workouts, where his physical tools, athleticism and shooting could push teams to ignore previous questions about inconsistency or motor.
19. Cleveland Cavaliers: Ja’Kobe Walter
Previous Mock Draft Spot: No. 19
Team: Baylor
Position: SG/SF
Size: 6-foot-5, 195 lbs
Age/Year: 19, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
After struggling during the Big 12 tournament, Ja’Kobe Walter scored 19 and 20 points, respectively, against Colgate and Clemson. He showed exactly what the scouting report read all season—catch-and-shoot shotmaking, physical line-driving and limited creativity off the dribble.
In 35 games, he had 75 3-pointers, 145 made free throws and just 50 assists, numbers that clearly reflect his strengths and weaknesses.
Walter figures to interest late-lottery to mid-first-round teams who could use more wing depth and see a three-and-D rotation player.
20. Phoenix Suns: Tyler Smith
Previous mock draft spot: No. 20
Team: Ignite
Position: PF
Size: 6-foot-11, 224 lbs
Age: 19
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Channing Frye
Scouts debate whether Tyler Smith is merely a spot-up shooter or a more versatile, inside-out scorer.
At 6’11”, a convincing stroke and strong finishing tools should draw top-20 interest regardless, but he has fans around the league who’d take him earlier than mid-first round.
The ability to catch, rise and fire from anywhere in the half court could turn Smith into a more useful/dangerous scoring threat.
21. Orlando Magic: Zach Edey
Previous mock draft spot: No. 25
Team: Purdue
Position: C
Size: 7-foot-4, 300 lbs
Age: 21, Senior
Nationality: Canadian
Pro comparison: Jonas Valančiūnas
With a 37-point effort in the national championship game, Zach Edey finished Purdue’s NCAA tournament run averaging 29.5 points.
He’s changed several minds regarding his pro outlook and potential to carve out an NBA role, even without adding any modern skills. His combination of 7’4″ height and one-handed touch creates a tremendous advantage in the post. And improved mobility has led to increased, quicker defensive court coverage around the key.
As we saw against Connecticut’s Donovan Clingan, he could still be predictable playing with his back to the basket. And NBA offenses will have an obvious game plan to put him in ball-screen situations and pull him away from the basket. Connecticut picked up two big second-half baskets against him as he failed to retreat back to the rim to contest the roll man.
Still, Edey should still be able to justify consideration in the teens or 20s for a team that could use more easy baskets, physicality inside and shot-blocking.
22. New Orleans Pelicans: Johnny Furphy
Previous Mock Draft Spot: No. 22
Team: Kansas
Position: SF
Size: 6-foot-9, 202 lbs
Age/Year: 19, Freshman
Nationality: Australian
Pro Comparison: Cam Johnson
The strengths on Johnny Furphy’s scouting report popped against Samford in Kansas’ opening NCAA tournament game. He buried three spot-up 3-pointers, drove past closeouts and made plays in transition.
His reliance on shooting and play-finishing was evident against Gonzaga, though he was still able to hit a pair of 3-pointers and show some defensive toughness.
NBA teams will ultimately have a clear picture of his future role and value, with Furphy’s shotmaking and athleticism built for a stretch-forward, off-ball role.
23. New York Knicks: Kevin McCullar Jr.
Previous mock draft spot: No. 21
Team: Kansas
Position: SG/SF
Size: 6-foot-7, 214 lbs
Age: 23, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Josh Hart
Kansas ruled Kevin McCullar Jr. out for the NCAA tournament before it started, and now the conversation heading into predraft revolves around his knee.
The Jayhawks looked like a different team without him, which speaks to his impact and wide-ranging contributions getting Kansas into offense, finishing plays, making shots and defending opponents’ top wings.
Scouts buy his versatility and defense for a supporting NBA role, though he’ll have to avoid any medical report concerns predraft.
24. Milwaukee Bucks: Ulrich Chomche
Previous Mock Draft Spot: No. 24
Team: NBA Africa Academy
Position: C
Size: 6-foot-11, 225 lbs
Age/Year: 18
Nationality: Cameroon
Pro Comparison: Serge Ibaka
Scouts will now have multiple opportunities to see Ulrich Chomche during April’s Nike Hoop Summit and May’s BAL Elevate season in Africa.
His play over the next two months will likely dictate whether the 6’11” 18-year-old will declare for the draft or consider his college offers for the 2024-25 season.
Chomche had some wow moments in December at the G League Showcase, making a strong impression with his rim protection and offensive flashes of shot-making, ball-handling and passing.
25. New York Knicks (via Mavericks): Tidjane Salaun
Previous mock draft spot: No. 26
Team: Cholet
Position: PF
Size: 6-foot-9, 212 lbs
Age: 18
Nationality: French
Pro comparison: Obi Toppin
The flashes and eye test figure to outweigh Tidjane Salaun’s numbers and inconsistency, given his age and the appeal of an athletic, 6’9″ shot-maker who can defend wings.
The 18-year-old forward is up to 61 made 3-pointers and 32 dunks, a combination that highlights his play-finishing as a spot-up shooter and finisher.
Anything he adds in between will take time and feels like a bonus, but he’ll draw first-round interest for his ability to space the floor, run in transition, cut for easy baskets and crash the glass.
26. Washington Wizards (via Clippers): Yves Missi
Previous mock draft spot: No. 23
Team: Baylor
Position: C
Size: 7 feet, 235 lbs
Age/Year: 19, Freshman
Nationality: Cameroon
Pro comparison: Mark Williams
A quiet game in a loss to Clemson capped off a productive season of 63 dunks, interior defense and occasional face-up drives for Missi. Teams interested in adding another easy-basket target and shot-blocker will have to assess Missi versus Zach Edey, who’s far more productive and skilled, but also older and less athletic/mobile.
Missi’s 61.6 free-throw percentage and 13 total assists are worth thinking about, but given his tools, foot speed, coordination and leaping, it’s also easy to picture his finishing, switchability and rim protection carrying over.
27. Utah Jazz (via Thunder): Harrison Ingram
Previous mock draft spot: No. 27
Team: North Carolina
Position: SF/PF
Size: 6-foot-7, 235 lbs
Age: 21, Junior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Naji Marshall
Five 3-pointers against Michigan State and five assists versus Alabama highlight Harrison Ingram’s shooting and passing for an NBA connector role. He also averaged 8.8 boards and 1.4 steals for the year. Ingram’s improved shotmaking off the catch and dribble are behind his rise up boards, but he’s become a well-rounded forward with secondary playmaking skill and defensive/rebounding activity.
28. Minnesota Timberwolves: Kyshawn George
Previous mock draft spot: No. 29
Team: Miami
Position: SG/SF
Size: 6-foot-8, 205 lbs
Age/Year: 20, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Dalano Banton
Kyshawn George finished the year at 40.8% on 4.2 3-point attempts, highlighting impressive shot-making for a 6-foot-8 wing who can handle and pass.
Scouts believe he can generate first-round interest from teams drawn to his archetype and upside, though his floor does feel low thanks to zero explosion and a 46.7 two-point percentage.
29. Denver Nuggets: Tyler Kolek
Previous mock draft spot: No. 28
Team: Marquette
Position: PG
Size: 6-foot-3, 195 lbs
Age/Year: 23, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Jason Preston
Tyler Kolek couldn’t generate enough offense for Marquette when the team shot 4-of-31 from 3-point range against NC State.
Though the scouting report hasn’t changed much from one season to the next, he made more fans this year with his advanced ball-screen feel and crafty finishes. He’s going to draw interest from teams that could use a second-unit engine capable of creating and setting the table, though his efficient catch-and-shoot stroke figures to also give Kolek an extra scoring method from off the ball.
30. Boston Celtics: Bobi Klintman
Previous Mock Draft Spot: No. 30
Team: Cairns Taipans
Position: SF/PF
Size: 6-foot-8, 215 lbs
Age: 21
Nationality: Swedish
Pro Comparison: De’Andre Hunter
Bobi Klintman has started preparing for the draft after an encouraging season in the NBL, showing teams his transition ball-handling, shooting range, athleticism around the rim, some live-dribble passing and strong defensive tools.
While he hasn’t established one signature skill, versatility and fit have become selling points for an NBA combo forward.
31. Toronto Raptors (via Pistons): Jaylon Tyson
Previous mock draft spot: No. 31
Team: California
Position: SF/PF
Size: 6-foot-7, 215 lbs
Age/Year: 21, Junior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Caleb Martin
Jaylon Tyson has become one of the draft’s most advanced on-ball forwards with handles and footwork for self-creation into drives, jumpers and floaters.
His shot-making off his own dribble and post moves powered his scoring production. He just wasn’t as efficient off the ball, and some teams may question how he’ll adjust and fit after this year’s 30.2 usage percentage.
32. Utah Jazz (via Wizards): Carlton Carrington
Previous mock draft spot: No. 33
Team: Pittsburgh
Position: PG/SG
Size: 6-foot-5, 190 lbs
Age: 18, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Nickeil Alexander-Walker
Carlton Carrington seemed like a candidate to return, but he was quick to announce he’d be going all in on the 2024 draft.
His lack of rim pressure and steals (0.6 per game) highlight limited burst and quickness for a lead guard. But at 6’5″, he’s a potent shotmaker off the dribble with playmaking feel, finishing with averages of 2.0 3-pointers and 4.1 assists at 18 years old.
33. San Antonio Spurs: KJ Simpson
Previous mock draft spot: No. 32
Team: Colorado
Position: Guard
Size: 6-foot-2, 189 lbs
Age/Year: 21, Junior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Cole Anthony
While there will always be skeptics in undersized scoring guards, KJ Simpson demonstrated the type of craftiness, high-level shotmaking and competitiveness for teams to bet on a 6’2″ guard overcoming some physical limitations. At least if the gamble only requires a pick in the late 20s or second round.
Simpson had an ultra productive and efficient season that continued into the NCAA tournament. A contested, game-winning dribble jumper against Florida gave Colorado a second win.
A 43.1% catch-and-shoot guard who hit 42.7% of his pull-ups and 43.2% of his mid-range shots, totaled 110 made half-court buckets at the rim and registered a 25 assist percentage in three consecutive season, Simpson is still likely to go late in the draft due to size and athletic question marks.
34. Portland Trail Blazers (via Hornets): Dillon Jones
Previous mock draft spot: No. 34
Team: Weber State
Position: SF
Size: 6-foot-6, 235 lbs
Age/Year: 22, Junior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Tosan Evbuomwan
The only NCAA player on record to average at least 20 points, nine rebounds, five assists and a 3-pointer, Dillon Jones has scouts divided on his historic production and unusual fit/position for the NBA. Teams are asking whether he’ll be a useful creator on the ball and if he offers any value playing off it.
There figures to be one team willing to take a chance earlier than others. At 6’6″, 235 pounds, his ball-handling, live-dribble passing, finishing, improving touch and capable shot ultimately create tempting versatility.
35. Milwaukee Bucks (via Blazers): Baylor Scheierman
Previous mock draft spot: No. 35
Team: Creighton
Position: SF
Size: 6-foot-7, 205 lbs
Age: 23, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Joe Ingles
Baylor Scheierman went out swinging in Creighton’s loss to Tennessee with 25 points off deep shooting and some improvised shotmaking. He finished the season with 110 3-point makes and a 19.9 assist percentage, numbers that reflect shooting and passing skills, which don’t require plus athletic traits.
36. Indiana Pacers (via Raptors): Pacome Dadiet
Previous Mock Draft Spot: No. 36
Team: Ratiopharm Ulm
Position: SF/PF
Size: 6-foot-8, 210 lbs
Age/Year: 18
Nationality: French
Pro Comparison: Isaac Okoro
Pacome Dadiet has turned into a regular shooting threat with range and a reliable two-point pull-up. At 6’8″, he’s flashed the right tools, shotmaking potential, finishing, activity and motor for an NBA off-ball role, and that’s while playing this entire season in the German League and EuroCup at 18 years old.
37. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Grizzlies): Ajay Mitchell
Previous mock draft spot: No. 37
Team: UC Santa Barbara
Position: PG
Size: 6-foot-5, 190 lbs
Age: 21, Junior
Nationality: Belgian
Pro comparison: Andrew Nembhard
Currently viewed as second-round pick by scouts, Ajay Mitchell will have a key opportunity to improve his image against power-conference guards and more mid-major stars during NBA combine scrimmages
His year ended with him scoring over 35 points in two of Santa Barbara’s final three games. A weak strength of schedule, record (seventh in the Big West) and his lack of 3-point volume work against him. But there will be believers in his scoring translating based on how effectively he uses change of speed to get to spots and touch shots/adjustments around the paint.
Plus, despite taking just 2.9 3-pointers in 31.5 minutes as a third-year college guard, he made them at a solid rate (39.3%), burying free throws (85.8%) and demonstrating the shot-making versatility to connect off the catch and dribble.
38. New York Knicks (via Jazz): Jamal Shead
Previous mock draft spot: No. 38
Team: Houston
Position: PG
Size: 6-foot-1, 200 lbs
Age: 21, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Jevon Carter
You could feel Houston’s Final Four chances plummet once Jamal Shead went down early with an ankle injury against Duke. It robbed him of more chances to showcase his leadership and intangibles, though at this stage, they’re well-documented.
While a lack of size and questionable shooting will limit his upside and first-round looks, translatable defense, playmaking and toughness point to a backup point guard role and second-round value.
39. Memphis Grizzlies (via Nets): Adem Bona
Previous mock draft spot: No. 39
Team: UCLA
Position: C
Size: 6-foot-10, 245 lbs
Age: 21, Sophomore
Nationality: Turkish/Nigerian
Pro comparison: Isaiah Jackson
NBA teams should know what they’re getting and what they’re not with Adem Bona. He can bring instant defensive activity/switchability and athletic finishing. And he’ll remain a threat in the post with his drop steps into hooks. Being foul- and turnover-prone will just mean a reduced role, likely one off the bench for the foreseeable future.
40. Portland Trail Blazers (via Hawks): Pelle Larsson
Previous mock draft spot: No. 40
Team: Arizona
Position: SF
Size: 6-foot-6, 215 lbs
Age/Year: 23, Senior
Nationality: Swedish
Pro comparison: Christian Braun
During Arizona’s loss to Clemson, Pelle Larsson had a forgettable offensive performance and some bad defensive lapses late in the game.
The timing was poor, but Larsson had been highly reliable all season, finishing at 42.6% from 3-point range and 47.2% on pull-ups with 3.7 assists and highly efficient pick-and-roll and transition play. Teams could see a plug-and-play wing with Larsson if this year’s improved shooting wasn’t fluky.
41. Philadelphia 76ers (via Bulls): Ryan Dunn
Previous mock draft spot: No. 41
Team: Virginia
Position: PF
Size: 6-foot-8, 216 lbs
Age/Year: 21, Sophomore
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Matisse Thybulle
Ryan Dunn finished the year with one double-digit scoring game in February and March. But certain teams will be willing to accept his scoring limitations, given his defensive specialist potential and explosiveness for play-finishing.
42. Charlotte Hornets (via Rockets): Kam Jones
Previous mock draft spot: No. 42
Team: Marquette
Position: SG
Size: 6-foot-5, 200 lbs
Age/Year: 22, Junior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Malik Beasley
Kam Jones averaged 22.0 points through three NCAA tournament games, mostly off spot-up, movement and rhythm-dribble shotmaking. He still showed some two-point scoring ability on drives and runners, though a lack of burst/explosion suggests NBA teams should expect to bank on his shooting.
43. Miami Heat: Jalen Bridges
Previous mock draft spot: No. 43
Team: Baylor
Position: SF/PF
Size: 6-foot-9, 225 lbs
Age: 22, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Dorian Finney-Smith
Scouts are starting to mention Jalen Bridges in the second-round sleeper discussion. After hitting 6-of-10 3-pointers in two NCAA tournament games, he finished the year at 41.2% on 5.1 attempts per game. Even if teams aren’t buying the improved self-creation and pull-up flashes, he’s developed into an accurate off-ball shotmaker (15-of-27 off screens) with an excellent defensive profile at 6’9″, 225 pounds.
44. Houston Rockets (via Warriors): Justin Edwards
Previous mock draft spot: No. 44
Team: Kentucky
Position: SF
Size: 6-foot-8, 203 lbs
Age/Year: 20, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: James Posey
Shooting is a clear swing skill for Justin Edwards, who has an NBA physical profile for a wing but no translatable creation or playmaking skills. He finished the season missing six of his seven 3-pointers in losses to Texas A&M and Oakland immediately following a six-game heater (14-of-21).
Going first round will require a real optimistic believer in Edwards’ shotmaking. But he did finish the year with some encouraging percentages: 38.8% catch-and-shoot, 38.1% on pull-ups and 77.6% on free throws.
45. LA Clippers (via Pacers): Melvin Ajinça
Previous mock draft spot: No. 45
Team: Saint-Quentin
Position: SG/SF
Size: 6-foot-7
Age: 19
Nationality: French
Pro comparison: Evan Fournier
Melvin Ajinça has been ruled out with a sternum injury, and it’s unclear if he’ll be ready to participate next week at the Nike Hoop Summit in front of dozens of NBA executives. He hasn’t been able to show much this year other than shooting, but at 6’7″ and 19 years old, Ajinça already has an impressive shotmaking resume between FIBA and LNB Pro A.
46. San Antonio Spurs (via Lakers): DaRon Holmes II
Previous mock draft spot: No. 46
Team: Dayton
Position: C
Size: 6-foot-10, 235 lbs
Age: 21, Junior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Trayce Jackson-Davis
DaRon Holmes II went out strong with 23 points and 11 boards against Arizona, though it was the two 3-pointers and three assists that were the most meaningful numbers from an NBA scouting perspective. The improved range, handles/body control attacking the basket and passing have raised his draft stock. There still seems to be some reluctance from scouts who question his defensive fit and how translatable his new shot is.
47. Sacramento Kings: PJ Hall
Previous mock draft spot: No. 47
Team: Clemson
Position: PF/C
Size: 6-foot-10, 238 lbs
Age: 22, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Dean Wade
PJ Hall’s strengths and weaknesses were evident during Clemson’s four NCAA tournament games. He showed his ability to get shots off in the post by sealing defenders, spinning off them or fading away. Hall showed confidence in his shooting range, even if the 3-pointers weren’t falling. He became vulnerable when forced to face up and put the ball down, and despite encouraging form and shotmaking ability, his 31.5 3-point percentage reflects some unreliability.
48. Indiana Pacers (via Cavaliers): Oso Ighodaro
Previous mock draft spot: No. 49
Team: Marquette
Position: PF/C
Size: 6-foot-10, 235 lbs
Age/Year: 21, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Brandon Clarke
Oso Ighodaro went out quietly to North Carolina State, playing mostly a background role to Marquette’s guards and wings. His value at the next level will revolve more around his ball-handling and passing from the frontcourt, skills that can give a lineup a different look and Ighodaro advantages against bigs. But he’ll also earn minutes with his play-finishing, touch shots and defensive versatility.
49. Orlando Magic: Hunter Sallis
Previous mock draft spot: No. 48
Team: Wake Forest
Position: SG
Size: 6-foot-5, 185 lbs
Age: 21, Junior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Malaki Branham
A breakout season with Wake Forest reignited interest around Hunter Sallis’ three-level scoring. His team couldn’t survive Georgia in the NIT with Sallis missing the game with an ankle injury. He’ll presumably now start the predraft process after averaging an efficient 18.0 points on 40.5% shooting from 3-point range. Sallis is viewed more safely as a second-rounder due to limited playmaking for a 185-pound guard. But he flashed enough creation, shotmaking and athleticism to sell scouts on his scoring, and he’ll likely be advised to try to improve his stock further during NBA combine scrimmages.
50. Detroit Pistons (via Knicks): Jaxson Robinson
Previous mock draft spot: No. 50
Team: BYU
Position: SF
Size: 6-foot-7, 190 lbs
Age: 21, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Julian Champagnie
Despite BYU’s upset loss to Duquesne, Jaxson Robinson made his strongest pitch of the season to scouts with his shooting versatility and bonus flashes of self-creation into jumpers and drives. He’ll have a chance to improve his odds of getting drafted with more impact shotmaking during NBA combine scrimmages.
51. Indiana Pacers (via Pelicans): Tristen Newton
Previous mock draft spot: No. 51
Team: Connecticut
Position: PG
Size: 6-foot-5, 195 lbs
Age: 22, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Terance Mann
Even if there are flaws tied to Tristen Newton’s athletic limitations and shooting, his versatility and winning percentage will earn him two-way contract offers. The Final Four’s Most Outstanding Player was Connecticut’s engine during its win over Purdue, finishing with 20 points, seven assists, five boards and zero turnovers. He’s ultimately showcased enough shotmaking, passing and tough finishing for teams to take a chance on an older player who might not pass the eye test.
52. Washington Wizards (via Suns): Payton Sandfort
Previous mock draft spot: No. 52
Team: Iowa
Position: SF
Size: 6-foot-7, 215 lbs
Age: 21, Junior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Sam Hauser
Payton Sandfort’s season ended in strange fashion during the NIT after he followed up his best game of the year (30 points against Kansas State) with his worst (1-of-11 against Utah).
Neither game will ultimately move the needle, with Sandfort’s shotmaking, passing IQ and athletic limitations all well-documented by now. He’ll be a second-round candidate for teams who see a fit in a 6’7″ shooter who can add some secondary playmaking with his dribble and decision-making.
53. Golden State Warriors (via Bucks): Coleman Hawkins
Previous mock draft spot: No. 53
Team: Illinois
Position: PF
Size: 6-foot-10, 225 lbs
Age: 22, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Georges Niang
Coleman Hawkins was having a strong NCAA tournament until Illinois ran into Connecticut. While scouts have their reservations, he has their attention with a shoot-dribble-pass skill set that creates a valuable stretch-playmaking 4 archetype.
54. Boston Celtics (via Mavericks): Alex Karaban
Previous mock draft spot: No. 55
Team: Connecticut
Position: SF/PF
Size: 6-foot-8, 220 lbs
Age/Year: 21, Sophomore
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Bojan Bogdanović
Alex Karaban’s shot didn’t fall during the championship game, but he impacted it with some impressive defensive displays of foot speed and instincts. Still, shotmaking and cutting will be behind the NBA interest in Karaban, who has a fitting off-ball skill set and mentality for a supporting role.
55. Los Angeles Lakers (via Clippers): Antonio Reeves
Previous mock draft spot: No. 54
Team: Kentucky
Position: SG
Size: 6-foot-6, 195 lbs
Age/Year: 23, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Justin Holiday
Antonio Reeves’ 27 points weren’t enough to make up for his own and Kentucky’s defensive struggles against Oakland. For a 6’6″ guard, he’s too advanced of a shotmaker with his spot-up, movement and pull-up shooting (and floater) to not think about in the 50s for a scoring specialist role.
56. Memphis Grizzlies (via Thunder): Cam Spencer
Previous mock draft spot: No. 56
Team: Connecticut
Position: SG
Size: 6-foot-4, 205 lbs
Age: 24, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Jeff Hornacek
At 24 years old with underwhelming physical and athletic traits, Cam Spencer will be earning himself draft looks thanks to consistent, off-screen shooting and ball-screen skills with his pull-up, floater and passing. His competitiveness and toughness could give him an extra edge in front-office conversations.
57. Denver Nuggets (via Timberwolves): N’Faly Dante
Previous mock draft spot: No. 57
Team: Oregon
Position: C
Size: 6-foot-11, 265 lbs
Age/Year: 22, Senior
Nationality: Malian
Pro comparison: Daniel Gafford
Through five postseason games between the NCAAs and Pac-12 tournament, N’Faly Dante averaged 22.4 points on 74.6% shooting. Even though he hasn’t expanded his range or added any ball-handling skill, he’s improved offensively in the paint with his footwork, poise and off-hand. A career 2.8 steal percentage is also extremely rare for a center. Dante has become a name worth watching heading into the predraft process, and more impact two-way play at the combine could further strengthen his chances of being drafted.
58. Dallas Mavericks (via Celtics): Johni Broome
Previous mock draft spot: No. 58
Team: Auburn
Position: C
Size: 6-foot-10, 240 lbs
Age: 21, Junior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Markieff Morris
Johni Broome’s 24 points, 13 boards and four assists in Auburn’s NCAA tournament opener were seemingly erased by a Yale upset. He still had a year worthy of NBA attention after he stood out last year at G League Elite camp, returned and improved key areas like shooting and passing. Broome should have done enough this season to earn an invite straight to the NBA combine.
Jonathan Wasserman is the lead scout and NBA Draft analyst for Bleacher Report. You can follow him on X, formerly known as Twitter. The views on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of the NBA, its clubs or Warner Brothers Discovery.
Stats courtesy of Synergy Sports and Sports Reference.
