With the college basketball season upon us, NBA Draft Analyst Matt Babcock highlights a few under-the-radar NBA prospects.
While the top NBA Draft prospects in college basketball often consist of highly touted 5-star recruits and incoming freshmen, there are always players who elevate their draft stock through development and increased on-court production. With practices underway and the season set to start on November 4th, this year offers a fresh opportunity for returning players to move the needle for themselves. Let's take a look at a few returning players I think could be poised to make a leap, organized by conference:
ACC
Blake Buchanan, Virginia, 6'11" Center, Sophomore
Virginia may not be known for churning out NBA big men every season, but Blake Buchanan has the potential to change that narrative this year. Hailing from Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, Buchanan is a mobile, blue-collar big man who thrives on effort plays, rebounding, and defense. He showed glimpses of becoming a highly valuable frontcourt presence last season, and I'm hoping to see him come out of his shell offensively this season. If Buchanan can boost his production and add shooting touch and versatility to his game, he could transform from a role player into a legitimate NBA prospect by season's end. With Tony Bennett's recent retirement, who was known for his systematic style, it will be intriguing to see how newly appointed interim head coach Ron Sanchez utilizes Buchanan.
Big East
Garwey Dual, Seton Hall, 6'5" Guard, Sophomore
Seton Hall's Garwey Dual is poised to turn heads this season after transferring from Providence, where he flashed potential as a freshman. Dual is a combo guard with impressive length and athleticism and has the tools to develop into a dynamic, versatile player. His combination of size and quickness allows him to be a disruptive force on defense while his offensive game continues to evolve. If Dual can make strides in his overall offensive production and efficiency this season, he could position himself as a legitimate NBA prospect.
Big Ten
Kylan Boswell, Illinois, 6'2" Guard, Junior
Kylan Boswell returns home to Champaign, Illinois, to join Brad Underwood's Fighting Illini after two seasons at Arizona. Despite being in his junior year, Boswell reclassified in high school to join Arizona early and is still only 19. A physical guard, he's a terrific passer, shooter, and on-ball defender, capable of playing both on and off the ball. With his blend of skills and versatility, Boswell has the potential to become a quality complementary guard at the next level. If he can establish more consistency in his on-court production, he could solidify himself as a strong NBA prospect.
Big 12
Coleman Hawkins, Kansas State, 6'10" Forward/Center, Senior
After four seasons at Illinois and testing the NBA draft waters twice, Coleman Hawkins has found a new home at Kansas State. Early word out of Manhattan is that head coach Jerome Tang plans to utilize Hawkins' versatility fully. At 6-foot-10, Hawkins brings a unique and valuable combination of skills, including playmaking, outside shooting, and switchable defense. His ability to impact the game in various ways makes him an intriguing prospect, and if he can take his all-around game to the next level, he could be an appealing option for NBA teams.
Mountain West
Donovan Dent, New Mexico, 6'2" Guard, Junior
Donovan Dent, a junior guard at New Mexico, has already established himself as a dynamic on-ball creator. Last season, Dent showcased his ability to break down defenses with his quick first step and crafty ball-handling. His combination of speed and vision allows him to make plays for himself and his teammates, making him a central piece of New Mexico's offensive attack. As he continues to refine his shooting and decision-making, Dent could emerge as a hot commodity attracting NBA interest.
SEC
Mark Sears, Alabama, 6'1" Guard, Senior
Although Alabama's Mark Sears may be well-known among college basketball circles, I don't consider his NBA draft projection established. And despite this, Sears has proven himself to be a highly productive guard in Nate Oats' fast-paced, high-octane system, averaging nearly 22 points per game on impressing shooting numbers last season. If he can replicate that production level again this season or even build upon it, it might be difficult for NBA teams to overlook his sheer output. Sears thrives as a scorer and playmaker, and while some might be tempted to overanalyze his game, he might be a prospect who doesn't need much dissection—he produces, plain and simple.
Other
Graham Ike, Gonzaga, 6'9" Center, Senior
Graham Ike is a physical force in the paint, but his game extends beyond brute strength. The big man has demonstrated a high skill level, with the ability to score in various ways around the rim and contribute on both ends of the floor. Known for his winning mentality, strong character, and leadership, Ike brings invaluable intangibles. As he looks to build on his success this season, it's clear that he has the potential to rise as an NBA prospect. Don't bet against Ike—he has the tools and mindset to make a significant impact.
Final Thoughts
These prospects like these I've mentioned might not receive the same level of hype as freshmen like Cooper Flagg, Ace Bailey, Dylan Harper, or VJ Edgecombe, but they have the potential to emerge as coveted NBA draft prospects. It's one of the most exciting aspects of college basketball; as teams work to achieve their goals as units collectively, it often creates opportunities for individual players to shine and elevate their draft stock, too. As the season unfolds, these emerging talents should have plenty of opportunities to prove themselves against top competition, and with success, they could find their names rising on draft boards by season's end. College basketball has always been a stage for developing aspiring stars; this year is likely no exception. And in my role as an NBA Draft Analyst, I'll certainly be keeping a close eye on all of them.
