The NBA Draft remains three months away, but with March Madness about to begin, fans will get to take a glimpse of the top potential prospects. There are many faces that fans should keep an eye on this season, but to get you better prepared for March Madness, here’s a list of the festivities.
Cooper Flagg, Duke – No. 1
If the Washington Wizards or the Utah Jazz can snag the No. 1 pick, it seemed like a preconceived notion that Flagg will be the selection. There was some concern that Flagg would miss the tournament, but he is expected to suit up. Flagg averaged 18.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.1 assists this season.
Tre Johnson, Texas – No. 2
While there are some concerns about Johnson’s game, he has all the tools needed. He is an underrated passer, can play high-IQ basketball, and is one of the most dynamic scorers in the NCAA. Johnson averaged 19.8 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.8 assists this season.
VJ Edgecombe, Baylor – No. 3
In some ways, Edgecombe feels like an underrated prospect. He’s been able to improve in key areas like shot creation and his ball-handling skills, making him a formidable piece to add to any offense. Edgecombe averaged 15.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game this season.
Asa Newell, Georgia – No. 4
This 6’11” big has great defensive instincts, a powerful touch around the key, the potential to become a solid shooter, and is extremely versatile. The same holes in his offense game will grow over time, but he’s become a more efficient scorer, improving at the rim. Newell averaged 15.3 points and 6.8 rebounds this season.
Kasparas Jakučionis, Illinois – No. 5
He is probably the most debated prospect of this draft, but he has a very high upside. What he lacks in athleticism, he makes up for it with his IQ, skill level, scoring ability, and overall versatility. Jakučionis averaged 15.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.6 assists this season.
Jeremiah Fears, Oklahoma – No. 6
While his jumper needs some more work, Fears has shown he can still score when needed. He’s known for putting a lot of pressure on the defense with his burst of speed and playmaking ability. Teams in the NBA Draft will look for those attributes when selecting. Fears averages 17.0 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 4.1 assists this season.
Jase Richardson, Michigan State- No. 7
He’s one of the most versatile players in the tournament, but Richardson knows how to get the job done when it comes to scoring. Richardson has grown into a multidimensional scorer, perfecting his pull-up jumper while improving his finishing. Richardson averages 12.0 points and 3.2 rebounds, but those numbers can be deceiving.
Derik Queen, Maryland – No. 8
He’s among the most skilled players in this potential draft class and has a high IQ when on the court. Queen is a very solid ball handler, has immense footwork, and a great feel for the game. He has some defensive limitations, but with the right team, that will improve. Queen is averaging 16.3 points and 9.0 rebounds this season.
Carter Bryant, Arizona – No. 9
Bryant’s strong suit remains his defensive ability, but he’s also developed into a solid three-point shooter. His athleticism and size help to drive his game to the next level, but his versatility and defense will be key heading into this tournament. Bryant only averaged 6.4 points and 4.1 rebounds this season, but his defense will have him in the spotlight multiple times.
Egor Demin, BYU – No. 10
While he has his limitations, Demin is still a highly touted prospect. His playmaking is what truly defines his game, but he’s able to score when needed and handle the ball. His game could translate well into the NBA, but the improvement is showing with each game. Demin averaged 10.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 5.4 assists on the season.
Kon Knueppel, Duke – No. 11
While Knueppel is not considered a dynamic ISO scorer, he can knock down quick-release three-pointers, get out in transition, and keep moving without the ball. Knueppel heads into the tournament, averaging 14.4 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.7 assists this season.
Will Riley, Illinois- No. 12
This season has been a year of growth for Riley. He seems much more focused as the year progressed, improved as a playmaker, and continues to impress as a shot-maker. Riley averaged 12.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists on the season.
Liam McNeeley, UConn – No. 13
In this era of basketball, you need a player with a great catch-and-shoot game, and McNeeley checks that box. He’s far from the most athletic and not the greatest defender, but his offball movement and shooting always make him such a threat. McNeeley averaged 14.5 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists on the season.
Khaman Malauch, Duke – No. 14
The giant of the Blue Devils is pivotal in what they do, and they’ll turn to him for what he provides in the tournament. His length, defensive prowess, and finishing ability make him a force to be reckoned with. Malauch averaged 8.3 points and 6.8 rebounds this season, but his impact goes beyond the numbers.
JT Toppin, Texas Tech – No. 15
Versatility is his strong suit, but Toppin is a jack of all trades. The Dallas native has been a force in the Big 12 since his arrival. Toppin averages 18.1 points and 9.2 rebounds this season.
So many prospects this year for the NBA draft and playing in this March Madness tournament. Which team will emerge as the winner as the tournament nears? Time will tell.