2024 NBA Draft: Top Prospects Enter the Race
The excitement for the 2024 NBA Draft is building as highly touted college and overseas players prepare to showcase their skills on the basketball’s biggest stage. With the draft set for June 26-27 in Brooklyn, New York, let’s dive into the top prospects who have already announced their intentions to join the NBA’s next generation.
Dominant Big Men: Donovan Clingan, Kyle Filipowski Lead the Way
Two of the most highly regarded prospects in the class are 7-foot-2 center Donovan Clingan of UConn and 6-foot-10 center Kyle Filipowski of Duke. Clingan played a pivotal role in UConn’s championship run this season, averaging 15.3 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 3.2 blocks per game. His size, athleticism, and defensive prowess make him a potential No. 1 overall pick.
Filipowski, meanwhile, emerged as Duke’s top scorer and rebounder, averaging 16.3 points and 8.3 boards. His versatility on both ends of the court and his ability to stretch the floor with his shooting range make him a sought-after lottery pick.
Talented Guards: Jared McCain, Tyler Kolek, and Others Make Their Mark
Several talented guards have also declared for the draft, including Duke’s Jared McCain, Marquette’s Tyler Kolek, USC’s Bronny James, and Isaiah Collier. McCain, a 6-foot-3 guard, led Duke in scoring in his lone season, averaging 14.3 points per game while shooting 41% from beyond the arc. Kolek, a senior guard, has started 99 games for Marquette and averaged 15.3 points per game this past season. Bronny James, the son of NBA superstar LeBron James, averaged 4.8 points for USC and has also retained his college eligibility by entering the transfer portal. Collier, who played one season at USC, averaged 16.3 points per game and was an honorable mention on the All-Pac 12 Team.
Elite International Prospects: Alex Sarr Projected Top-3 Pick
One of the most highly anticipated prospects in the draft is Alex Sarr, a 7-foot-1 big man from France. Sarr has been projected as a top-3 pick and could follow Victor Wembanyama, who was taken with the No. 1 pick in the 2023 draft, as the second consecutive French big man to claim the top spot. Sarr combines size, athleticism, and skill, drawing comparisons to Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jaren Jackson Jr.
With many other talented prospects still eligible to declare for the 2024 NBA Draft, the competition for the top picks is sure to be fierce. As the draft approaches, expect more young stars to step into the spotlight and put their aspirations on the line.
Mehek