As March Madness unfolded, several college basketball prospects saw their draft stock rise significantly, most notably Walter Clayton Jr. from Florida and Thomas Haugh. The landscape of college basketball has changed dramatically with the introduction of NIL deals, making it increasingly difficult to predict which players will stay in school and which will declare for the draft. A crucial date to keep in mind is June 15, which marks the final opportunity for prospects to withdraw from the draft while maintaining their college eligibility for the upcoming season.
Despite a disappointing Final Four loss, Cooper Flagg showcased his immense talent with a stunning performance, scoring 27 points and dishing out four assists against the nation’s top defense. His scoring versatility was evident, as he knocked down three three-pointers, bringing his season total to 52. Flagg's ability to drive and finish, combined with his physical play from the post, has made him a standout player. His exceptional passing and defensive playmaking propelled him to lead the nation in box plus-minus at just 17 years old. Now, the question looms: which team will win the lottery and add Flagg to their roster?
Dylan Harper had a stellar outing against USC, posting a 27-point, eight-rebound, and eight-assist performance, even though Rutgers' season came to an end. As a consensus No. 1 guard prospect, Harper is on the radar of teams like the Washington Wizards and Utah Jazz, who are looking to bolster their backcourt. His effectiveness in creating plays and scoring makes him an attractive option despite concerns about his assists-per-game average.
VJ Edgecombe made a lasting impression during the postseason with his explosive scoring and unselfish play. His ability to apply pressure with speed and quickness on both ends of the floor has made him a coveted prospect. While not as versatile as fellow freshman Ace Bailey, Edgecombe boasts superior shooting numbers and a greater defensive impact, positioning him as a well-rounded option for teams seeking a reliable player.
Ace Bailey had a productive season, averaging 17.6 points and 7.2 rebounds. Although USC ended his tournament run early, his unique combination of size and perimeter scoring remains appealing to scouts. Teams are likely to overlook minor flaws in his game, considering his age and potential for growth.
Derik Queen solidified his prospect status with a standout game against Florida, scoring 27 points and sinking three three-pointers. His skill level and versatility on offense have made him an attractive option for teams looking to invest in a player with potential, despite defensive limitations.
Despite Oklahoma's early exit from the tournament, Jeremiah Fears showcased his scoring ability with 20 points against Connecticut. His unique skill set, characterized by speed and improvisation, has caught the attention of scouts, although questions about his shooting consistency remain.
Kon Knueppel demonstrated his scoring prowess in Duke's final games, racking up 57 points on just 31 shots. His efficiency and shooting ability make him an attractive prospect for teams looking for a reliable scorer who can integrate into their offensive system.
Jase Richardson proved to be a reliable scorer, demonstrated by his 20-point performance against Ole Miss. Despite a lackluster showing against Auburn, his consistency and ability to create shots have established him as a player to watch in the upcoming draft.
Thomas Sorber has generated interest among NBA scouts due to his advanced finishing tools and disruptive defensive skills. Although he hasn't played since February, teams are hopeful to see him perform in workouts, especially given his impressive track record during the season.
With the NBA draft process heating up, several prospects will be weighing their options, including the possibility of returning to school for another season. Players like Bennett Stirtz and Isaiah Evans have the potential to improve their stock by showcasing their skills against tougher competition in college. The landscape of college basketball continues to evolve, and with it, the prospects for players eager to make a name for themselves at the next level.
