Throughout the 2024-25 season, Babcock Hoops will provide comprehensive scouting reports on top 2025 NBA Draft prospects, analyzing their strengths, questions, and potential at the next level. Our reports offer an in-depth look at each player's development and draft outlook.
Kanon Catchings
Position: Forward
Team: BYU
Class: Freshman
Height/Weight: 6'9", 195 lbs
Birthdate: August 10, 2005
Previous School: Overtime Elite (GA)
Player Overview
Kanon Catchings is a versatile 6'9" forward with the size, skill set, and scoring ability to excel as a modern NBA wing. As a three-level scorer, Catchings is particularly effective at creating his own shot off the dribble and thrives in transition, where his athleticism and quick decision-making shine. His smooth shooting mechanics allow him to release his shot quickly and efficiently, even under closeout pressure.
Despite his offensive potential, Catchings has notable areas for improvement. He struggles with defensive discipline, often losing focus in key moments, and his tendency to settle for contested shots impacts his efficiency. Adding muscle without compromising his speed and agility will be crucial for his physical development. Moreover, improving his rebounding consistency and developing off-ball movement will elevate his overall impact on the game.
"A 6-foot-9 freshman, Catchings brings positional versatility and two-way potential. A rising prospect, he shows perimeter skill and defensive length." — Matt Babcock, NBA Draft Analyst
Strengths
Three-Level Scoring: Excels at scoring from beyond the arc, mid-range, and at the rim with smooth mechanics.
Transition Threat: Uses his size and speed to capitalize on fast-break opportunities effectively.
Shot Creation: He can create his own shot off the dribble and release it quickly under defensive pressure.
Mismatch Potential: Combines size and skill to exploit mismatches against smaller or slower defenders.
Concerns
Defensive Discipline: Frequently loses focus, leading to missed rotations and lapses in effort.
Shot Selection: Tends to settle for contested shots, impacting his offensive efficiency.
Rebounding Consistency: Despite his size, he struggles to make a significant impact on the boards.
Physicality: Needs to add muscle without sacrificing agility and speed.
Questions
Can he gain muscle without compromising his speed and agility?
Can he sustain consistent performance on both ends of the floor for the entire game?
Can he develop into an off-ball threat to consistently create higher-quality shots?
Bottom Line
Kanon Catchings is a skilled forward with the tools to be a high-impact player in the modern NBA. His ability to create mismatches, score efficiently at all three levels, and thrive in transition makes him an offensive weapon with significant upside. However, refining his defensive focus, improving rebounding consistency, and adding strength will be critical to his development. With proper growth, Catchings projects as a valuable two-way forward and a strong prospect for the 2025 NBA Draft.