The official OKC Thunder Big board 1.0

6) Nico Mannion, PG, Arizona

ESPN listed Nico Mannion as the 9th best prospects in the 2019 recruiting class, but I am a bit higher on the 6’3 180-pound point guard. Mannion was being recruited by Duke and Villanova before he decided to stay in Arizona where he went to high school in Scottsdale and attend the University of Arizona. Mannion is listed as the best player in the state and third at the point guard position. Again, like almost everyone in the first round, I am at a 10 out of10 confidence level that Mannion is leaving school following this year.

Nico Mannion’s father, Pace played in the NBA for six seasons so Nico has the background to adjust to the NBA game with ease. He just has to get bigger, he does not look as if he has filled into his frame. Unlike most player’s who are the son or daughter of a former professional athlete Mannion lacks basketball IQ at times, making the wrong decision and forcing a play that is not there.

Mannion is a great shooter both off the dribble and on a catch and shoot basis. Surprisingly, Mannion is stellar on the defensive end with great anticipation in the passing lanes, and a great man to man presence.

Arizona will have a few tough games with Washington in PAC-12 play, the Wildcats also take on Baylor on Dec. 7th and Gonzaga on Dec. 14th.

Mannion is a lock to enter the NBA Draft, but I could see his floor being a fringe lottery pick, while his ceiling is being picked in the top ten.