The official OKC Thunder Big board 1.0

The College Basketball season is here, and given the current state of the OKC Thunder, it is time to dive into NBA Draft coverage like we never have before.

As OKC Thunder fans, we have been spoiled. I will admit it. In 2008, the team slugged through their lone true losing season. That was also the first year the team was in Oklahoma City so the fan base did not really care, they just wanted to watch basketball.

That was one of just two seasons the fanbase saw the Thunder miss the postseason. 2019-20 feels a lot like 2008, so at T.I. we are revamping out NBA Draft coverage beginning with the start of college basketball!

We have a ton of draft coverage that I am incredibly excited to release throughout the college basketball season, but let’s start with the ultimate preview. A 60-man big board complete with each player’s position, height, weight, college, top games to watch, the likelihood they declare for the NBA, a quick scouting report, and what their ceiling is.

Each big board will also be complete with the “Tyler Herro of the month award” noting who I would absolutely love the OKC Thunder to draft. This big board is just the starting mark for a long college basketball season, and will be updated monthly until NBA Draft Night!

So take a second, grab your drinks and your snacks, kick back and relax because this is going to be a long one. Some of you may not be the biggest college hoop heads out there, so let this big board serve as a guide to the college basketball season highlighting which matchups see the most NBA level talent sharing a floor together.

If you are a huge college basketball fan let me know in the comment section or on Twitter who you think I have underrated and overrated.

Man, can you believe we are starting tank coverage on this site in November? Look at us, who would’ve thought?

Let’s buckle up, and embark on this unfamiliar territory that sees us caring more about college basketball than the NBA game.

1) James Wiseman, C, Memphis

This selection will not surprise too many, Penny Hardaway has done a great job collecting talent for the Memphis Tigers, including the nation’s top prospect in my opinion. However, it was a close race between him and my number two (spoiler alert) Cole Anthony. That will be a race to watch from now until the June NBA Draft.

James Wiseman stands 7’1 and weighs in at 240 pounds. The big man is primed to be a difference-maker in the NBA. The likelihood of him leaving school after a year? 10 out of 10.

The 18-year-old will see big game action against the University of Georgia on Jan. 4th on CBS at noon. That is the lone game against a fellow top-60 player on the Tigers resume unless both the Tigers and Sooners advance in the Phil Knight Invitational.

Other games to watch include a pair of matchups against Witchita State (1/9/2020, 3/5/2020) as well as tilts with Tennessee (12/14/19), and Oregon (11/12/2019). While Witchita State does not have the top-end talent that some other prospects will have to face in their conference play, they are extremely well-coached under the direction of Gregg Marshall who always has his Shockers ready to play. Marshall is incredibly skilled at taking away a team’s best player. How Wiseman responds to that situation will be telling.

Wiseman was the top-rated player according to ESPN in the 2019 recruiting class and elected to stay home and play for the Tigers over joining the likes of Kansas, Kentucky, North Carolina or Arizona. The lefty post player earned a living with his length (7’4.5 wingspan) and athleticism. Despite his size, Wiseman can move incredibly well especially on the defensive end. Don’t be surprised if you see the 7’1 center stroke it from outside, either.

Despite all the amazing things he does on the floor, we will need to see him improve in two areas. Given his competition, there is no reason that Wiseman should ever lose a rebounding battle. He should be able to clean the glass at will, and that was not always the case in high school. Offensively, his face up package could use a serious overhaul, which is the case for many big men who only had to walk to the rim and dunk on folks in high school.

James Wiseman without question will be the most fun to watch in college basketball, with the only downside being his competition. These Tigers will be dangerous in March.

The ceiling for Wiseman is clear, the number one pick, the floor would only come with a disastrous season and I still think it would be a mid-lottery pick.

2) Cole Anthony, PG/SG, North Carolina

Cole Anthony is a 6’3 guard who could pass as a shooting guard in the college game at 185 pounds but in the association will probably be labeled a true point guard. Anthony was ESPN’s second-ranked player in the 2019 class and almost immediately signed with North Carolina before any other blue bloods got in on the biding.

The likelihood Anthony leaves school after a year is again a 10 out of10, given the fact that his ceiling is the number one overall pick and the nation’s most talented player. Anthony is exactly the player head coach Roy Williams will love, and while Coby White dazzled with his big floppy hair and is off to a hot start with the Bulls this season, I expect Anthony to be much better than the herky-jerky ball-handler and strict bucket getter.

Cole Anthony has the pedigree being the son of a former NBA player Greg Anthony who spent a year in Seattle with the Sonics (1997-98). Cole Anthony has all the athleticism and explosiveness necessary to get to the rim and score, blowing past the defense to do so. However, unlike White, Anthony has incredible playmaking ability with his vision and passing skill he is the complete player.

While having that playmaking ability and the ability to create for others, at times he gets caught up in his own world being more of an iso heavy player. Some of that might have been the talent around him in high school both defensively and offensively. His mindset should be totally different in college basketball’s toughest conference compared to being “the guy” at the high school ranks. The main key is that he has the tools to be a phenomenal playmaker.

Anthony is a three-level scorer and a perfect fit for the modern NBA. In fact, he takes home this month’s Tyler Herro award. Now, if you think back to last year’s NBA Draft coverage on this site we were absolutely in love with the sharpshooting Herro and tried to find every situation possible that he could fall to the Thunder. He was the guy almost everyone in the Thunder fanbase wanted. Now, the Thunder are in the driver’s seat for a top prospect, not really needing them to fall to the team, just for ping pong balls to bounce the right way.

Why is Cole Anthony this month’s Tyler Herro award? Well, read his scouting report again. A great scorer and playmaker that can fit perfectly alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander who is used to playing with fellow ball handlers which he has done his entire career. Anthony is a difference-maker and a franchise-changing player. Pairing him with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander would set the OKC Thunder up with a very bright future.

Unlike Wiseman, fans will have plenty of time to watch Cole Anthony take on other top prospects. North Carolina will play Iowa State in the Battle 4 Atlantis if both schools advance to the second round on Nov. 28th, Virginia on Dec. 8th, a Cavs team that is known for their defense slowing down explosive guards and forcing them to change their pace of play. How will Anthony react?

The two teams also meet on Feb. 15th. Not to mention meetings with Gonzaga (Dec. 18th,) Pittsburgh (Jan. 8th and 18th) and of course, their annual two matchups with arch-rival and top 60 prospects littered Duke (Feb. 8th and Mar. 7th) with other key matchups sprinkled in along the way.

3) Anthony Edwards, SG, Georgia

That’s right, a football school landed a top basketball prospect. It helps that Edwards is an Atlanta native, but it was still surprising to see UGA land ESPN’s 4th best prospect over Kansas, North Carolina, and Kentucky.

Edwards stands 6’5 and comes in at 205. I have Edwards being a one and done with the confidence level in that prediction being a 10 out of 10. Edwards has the ceiling of top-five prospects, but the floor of a late lottery player. Playing in the SEC Edwards will get tested, especially on a team without a lot of talent surrounding him.

While Edwards is incredibly long and boosts good size and strength his athletism in terms of mobility is in question. Although he was able to out muscle players in high school, and simply be taller than most of them, as he faces talent with the same physical measurements how will his speed compare? His size allows him to finish strong at the rim, but he will also excel in the catch-and-shoot game. With his measurables, he could turn into an elite 3-and-D guy in the association.

Edwards biggest plus might be his basketball IQ. The 18-year-old is wise beyond his years and always makes the right play. Again, the test will come down to the talent around him. Can he continue to make the right play when his subpar teammates are not knocking down shots, etc.?

I would rank the SEC as the third toughest basketball conference, and Edwards will have to fight through a tough schedule this season. Edwards has the chance to match up with Michigan State in the Maui Invitational if both squads win their round one games, and if UGA pulls off the upset of the Spartans, they will move on to take on the Kansas Jayhawks in the same tournament. That tournament runs from Nov. 25th-27th.

Edwards will also be met at the rim by James Wiseman on Jan. 4th, The Bulldogs also clash with Kentucky twice (Jan 7th. and 21st) Auburn twice (Jan. 11th, and Feb. 19th) as well as Florida a pair of times (Feb. 5th and Mar. 4th). That is a tough stretch of games to slog through as a team’s top player with little-to-no help. Almost every team listed has at least three or four players you would take over Edwards number two guy.

4) LaMelo Ball, PG, NBL

Some of you may be surprised to find LaMelo Ball this low on my list, as it seems like everyone has hyped him up to be the nation’s top prospect after a couple of good performances in the NBL. Well, let’s settle down. Of course, it is the NBL of all leagues, and he is the only prospect that has started their season already. There is no one else to talk about right now. Ball also has the last name that will drive clicks. There are a lot of factors that go into seeing him skyrocketing up draft boards.

With all that being said, I still have LaMelo number four, and I think he will be a better player than Lonzo Ball. I think Ball will enter the 2019 NBA Draft without question. Really, you just wonder how his game will translate. We have seen LaMelo play overseas before but never in the widely considered top leagues such as the Euroleague.

The 18-year-old who stands 6’6 and comes in at 165 pounds has shown great playmaking abilities off the dribble and in the passing game while overseas.

LaMelo Ball’s Hawks will take on a fellow top 10 prospect RJ Hampton’s Breakers on Nov. 30th which will be the game to really focus on for both of their overseas tenures. The two NBA prospects will meet again Dec. 22nd and Feb. 2nd.

Unlike Hampton, Ball was not heavily recruited, after spending some time in Lithuania as a pro in high school it was unclear if Ball could even gain NCAA eligibility. Rather than fighting for it, the Ball family decided he would either play in China or the NBL and obviously LaMelo landed in the ABL. It was unclear if last November Kansas University recruited the most popular prospect.  LaMelo says it happened while the program denies it.

Ball’s size mixed with his playmaking and shooting ability makes him by far the most interesting prospect in this year’s Draft class. Not to mention the reality TV show, the failed shoe brand, and he was the most popular high school athlete ever.

Another bonus in his corner is that his father, LaVar Ball has taken a huge step back. Not making many splashes anymore, unlike during the Draft process of LaMelo’s brother Lonzo Ball. This makes organizations like the Thunder who do not want all the drama more likely to strongly consider Ball.

5) Isaiah Stewart, C, Washington

Alright, back to college basketball let’s head to the PAC-12 with an interesting Washington squad headlined by Isaiah Stewart. The big man was ESPN’s third prospect in the 2019 recruiting class. The 6’9 245 pound big man received offers from Duke, Kentucky, and Michigan State before settling on Washington. Of course, the Rochester, N.Y. native was a McDonald’s All American and Jordan Brand Classic game participant.

Stewart is a lock to leave the Huskies following the year, and I could see him being a top 3 pick in the NBA Draft depending of course how the lottery shakes out. Team needs at times have as much to do with draft position selection as talent.

Stewart really needs to take a jump offensively, he lacks a go-to post scoring move and of course needs to improve at the line. A surprising struggle he has is holding onto the ball. Tying into his lack of post moves you often see him getting stripped of the basketball on the way to the cup.

Stewart has an incredible energizer-bunny-like ability to never be tired which is even more impressive for his size. He does not struggle on the glass, unlike some bigs in this class.

The 18-year-old will play in a few big games this year, including the biggest stage in March if the season goes to plan in Washington.

The Huskies have a huge test in game one against the Baylor Bears in the Armed Force Classic on Friday, Nov. 8th. The Bears pose a 6’10 counter to Stewart in Tristian Clark that will be a must-watch game out of the gates.

Factor in a battle with Gonzaga on DEC. 8th, and a conference slate that features two tilts with Arizona (Jan 30th. and Mar. 7th) and we will get to see just how good Stewart is.

Could the OKC Thunder go for a big man in the NBA Draft and have Steven Adams even more accessible on the trade block entering the final year of his deal? It would be interesting to think about.

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.

7) RJ Hampton, G, NBL

If you ask our site expert, Tamberlyn Richardson, she will be shocked to find RJ Hampton this low. I have spent the last few months talking her ear off about how much I love RJ Hampton’s game, so even having him all the way down at 7 pains me a little bit. I think he has the highest upside in this year’s NBA Draft class, but Hampton has gotten off to a bit of a rough start in the NBL while LaMelo Ball steals all the headlines.

Hampton took on the OKC Thunder in this year’s NBA preseason where he posted eight points and five assists and showed his potential

Some came away underwhelmed with RJ Hampton’s NBA preseason but I am not leaving Hampton island under any circumstances.

Hampton was ESPN’s 5th rated prospect for the 2019 recruiting class, and even made his decision to go pro live on ESPN’s morning show “Get up!” Hampton was heavily recruited by Kansas, Duke, Kentucky, and Memphis while in high school. He told Barstool’s Pardon My Take that if he was not playing for the Breakers (A team in which Barstool has an ownership stake in) he would’ve committed to Kansas University playing his college ball with the Jayhawks.

The 6’5 185 pound Texas native is an obvious lock for this year’s NBA Draft and is as smooth as they come at the guard position. If the OKC Thunder paired Hampton with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander they would have the smoothest pair of guards in the league. His feel for the game and ability to handle the basketball has NBA scouts excited. His mid-range game and attacking the rim is his best asset offensively but when he gets to the rim he at times struggles to finish through contact.

Hampton also needs to figure out his long-range jump shot. His great size and IQ make him a pro-ready player right out of high school not to mention his year of ABL seasoning by the time the NBA Draft rolls around. The OKC Thunder has gone to the ABL well before selecting Terrance Ferguson in the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft.

Of course, refer back to LaMelo Ball’s slide to see when those two ABL stars and future NBA top prospects will clash on the hardwood down under. If you’re a big ABL fan please tell us in the comment section or on Twitter what other matchups could be must-watch for Ball and Hampton.

8) Deni Avdija, Wing, Israel

The 18-year-old wing that stands 6’9 and weighs in at 215 pounds plays with a ton of swagger, as ESPN reports, after defeating Spain the wing shouted “Adios!” to fans on his way off the court following his dominating performance that pushed Israel past the Spanish team. He told ESPN “I do not want to be boring.”

By all accounts, Avdija can create his own shot and has great defensive prowess.

I do not know much about Avdija, having not seen him play myself, but from what I have read he is going to be an incredibly fun player to watch for his play and his ability to get under opposing fans and players skins.

9) Theo Maledon, PG, France

Theo Maledon is a 6’5 175-pound point guard with his team ASVEL. Maledon plays in what is widely considered the second-best pro league in the world, the Euroleague. Maledon is averaging five points per game, three assists, a rebound, and is a 37 percent 3-point shooter through four contests.

Once both guys play more into their overseas seasons, and we get closer to the NBA Draft, we will get even more information on them. But from what I have read, seen, and heard, both these guys seem like locks to be a first-round pick in the 2020 NBA Draft.

10) Jeremiah Robinson-Earl, PF, Villanova

Jeremiah Robinson-Earl decided to go to Villanova over Arizona, North Carolina, Notre Dame, and his home town Kansas Jayhawks. The Overland Park, native was ranked 14th on the ESPN top 100 players in the 2019 recruiting class.

Normally when a player commits to Jay Wright’s Villanova program, it is a long term commitment so this gives me a bit of pause but ultimately I am still giving Jeremiah Robinson-Earl a 10 out of 10  he does enter the NBA Draft confidence scale. He just simply will be too good this year to go back to Nova.

Robinson-Earl will not be on Sports-Centers top ten plays, or the house of highlights youtube package all that often. But still, he has a great ability to simply make the correct and efficient play. While that is a good thing, it might be seen as a knock on him if he gets labeled a “fine” player with no upside.

Though do not let his seemingly “boring” play fool you. Robinson-Earl is an incredible rebounder that will never be outmatched on the glass, which again, is not a skillset you get often in young players. Despite being a power forward Jeremiah can handle the ball with the best of them, and his playmaking ability makes him a lethal fastbreak option after coming down with his plethora of rebounds.

If Jeremiah Robinson-Earl will have a highlight package it will come by way of taking the lives of college kids who try to challenge him at the rim with his elite-level shot-blocking skillset.

I think Jeremiah Robinson-Earl is the safest pick in this year’s lottery. I do not see any bust potential in this kid, but his franchise-changing outlook seems bleak as well. I think he is primed to be a very good starter in this league, which most teams would lock in right now given how random the NBA Draft can be.

Villanova has a tough slate of games to let us watch Jeremiah Robinson-Earl against some of the nation’s top talents.

The Wildcats could match up with the Baylor Bears in the Myrtle Beach Invitational if both squads advance to the finals as expected at the Nov. 16th-24th tournament.

Nova also welcomes in Robinson-Earl’s hometown Jayhawks for a Dec. 21st meeting and this matchup is so interesting because the Jayhawks will have top big men on the floor at all times against Robinson-Earl. From Udoka Azubuike, Silvio De Sousa, and even David McCormack. Robinson-Earl will not play a minute against a non-top-tier big man in college basketball on Dec. 21st.

11) Scottie Lewis, SG/SF, Florida

The 6’5 185-pound wing from New Jersey probably has the highest ceiling and lowest floor in my mind for this year’s NBA Draft class, I happen to believe he’ll hit closer to his ceiling than floor, but there is some worry surrounding Lewis. Luckily the Gators, who Scottie Lewis selected over Duke, Kentucky, and Villanova, has assembled a solid squad around him to let us truly evaluate his talent this college basketball season.

Lewis will be tested in the SEC with a pair of matches against Kentucky (Feb. 22nd and Mar. 7th, two games against LSU (Jan 21st and Feb. 26th) and two games against Georgia (Feb. 5th and Mar. 4th) that sees Lewis matching up with the aforementioned Anthony Edwards. Outside of that, the Gators’ non-conference schedule is weak, which gives time for the Florida team to gel before they get into the heart of SEC play.

The 18-year-old wing relies on his athleticism while playing at the rim. High flying jams, jumping out of the rim, and finishing through contact are the highlights of Lewis game. However, he really needs to show improvement this year both handling the ball and shooting the basketball.

Lewis can get out in transition like no other player in the country, by grabbing a board and immediately heading off to the races for a slam the other day. You would think for a player that is jumping to protect the rim, and scoring his buckets primarily if not exclusively at the cup, would get tired, but his motor is out of this world as well.

If Scottie Lewis can show better ball-handling skills and a better shooting touch, he could easily skyrocket up NBA Draft boards to even a top-five pick with his upside and bouncing ability. However, here is the bust potential, if he just stays as a freaky athlete but nothing more. He then becomes a Terrance Ferguson type. Ferguson can jump out of the gym but only recently developed a little bit of a 3 point shot and at the time was not selected until the 21st overall pick.

My confidence level in him leaving school after this year is a solid 10 out of 10.

12) Isaac Okoro, Wing, Auburn

I really like Isaac Okoro, and I love his decision to go to Auburn and gain coaching from Bruce Pearl. I think this pairing is a match made in heaven. The 6’6, 225 pound athlete will bring some college gym’s down with his explosive dunks.

Isaac Okoro fell to the 40th player on the ESPN top 100, which I can not understand. The Georgia native committed to Alburn right away in 2018 not giving any other schools the opportunity to offer him for the 2019 class.

Okoro has great size, and athleticism to go along with his elite strength. he has all the tools to be a threat on the defensive end, and a day one defensive maestro at the college ranks being able to defend almost every player on the floor. Okoro will likely lead the nation in ‘and-one’ buckets simply because contact at the rack does not phase him whatsoever.  He has the dribbling ability to run the show offensively in a transition look, but I am interested to see his offensive game in a half-court set.

Okoro really needs to improve when it comes to his jumper. Not only do his shots not fall, they simply look disgusting. While he can put his head down and get to the basket, Okoro also needs to work on being more crafty when trying to slither past a defense.

Auburn’s schedule features one nice out of conference game against Iowa State in the Big 12/SEC Challenge on Jan. 25th, to go along with his two games against Kentucky (Feb. 1st, and 29th), two games against Georgia (Jan. 11th, and Feb. 19th) and a pivotal matchup with Florida on Jan. 18th.

13) Jaden McDaniels, PF, Washington

The 13th best player in the upcoming NBA Draft according to my first big board also has the fasting rising potential in my opinion. When we do this big board in a month, and the first stock up stock down report next week, you could see Jaden McDaniels shooting his way into the top 5 of the NBA Draft prospect pool.

Jaden McDaniels was ESPN’s 7th best player in the 2019 recruiting class and committed to his hometown Washington Huskies over the Kentucky Wildcats, Texas Longhorns, and UCLA Bruins. I think right now in NBA Draft circles, McDaniels is the most divisive topic. While everyone agrees he is a good player, you can find him on people’s big board ranked anywhere from the top five to the end of the first round.

Jaden McDaniels is an extremely raw talent which right there creates bias. Either you are a person that values upside and potential and thinks your team, organization, staff, etc can get the best out of the player, or you believe it is too much of a risk. McDaniels is not even close to his finished product as a player which is incredibly exciting for basketball fans.

The biggest knock on the big man is his lack of physicality. He will often be bullied down low and knocked off his spots in the painted area. That also hinders his ability to finish strong through contact, and most 6’10 players do not get the benefit of a whistle that often especially in college where the average player is a lot smaller. So he can not rebound, shot block, or finish through contact at the rim. What can Jaden McDaniels do?

At 6’10 and just 185 pounds, McDaniels is a bit of a tweener and can even play the small forward spot especially when you factor in his ability to run the floor. He boasts an 8-foot-11 standing reach with humongous hands.  He has impeccable vision for his size which plays into his elite playmaking ability for his position. I also see the potential for him to develop a nice shot down the line.

So you can see how everyone is so spread out on the Federal Way, Washington native.

It also does not help that the Huskies have a weak schedule. The Baylor matchup right out of the gate will be huge for McDaniel until he sees Arizona twice in PAC-12 play. Watch out for Jan. 25th when McDaniels and the Huskies meet Colorado. While the Buffs do not have top-end talent, they are always a gritty team wit ha great zone defense that can smother offenses and make elite players look incredibly uncomfortable.

14) Matthew Hurt, PF, Duke

Matthew Hurt is a 6’8 214 pound forward that committed to Duke University over the likes of Kansas, Kentucky, Florida, and North Carolina. Hurt found himself at 11th in the ESPN top 100 last season.

Hurt has seen praise heaped on him for his high basketball IQ and his ability to always make the right play, something that Coach K will love at Duke this season. Hurt is a stretch forward in every sense of the word, with a nice 3 point stroke and his ability to move around the court. Do not mistake stretch with soft for Hurt, who can finish around the rim with the best of them. Hurt’s wingspan at just 6’9 may give some NBA scout pause, coupled with the fact he is not exactly the most explosive player on the floor.

I do not think Hurt is a franchise-changing player, but you will be able to trust him to make the right basketball play and get the job done. I believe Hurt will be a safe pick in the NBA Draft, but not a pick that alters your future.

15) Precious Achiuwa, SF/PF, Memphis

Yup, Penny Hardaway did it again. He got yet another top recruit to Memphis. This time by way of the 17th ranked player on ESPN, Precious Achiuwa. The 6’9 210-pound wing picked Memphis over Kansas, Syracuse, and UCLA.

Achiuwa lacks a half-court offensive game, above average handles, and a jump shot but the upside is there, and that is what I think will ultimately get him draft just outside the lottery in this year’s NBA Draft. Achiuwa has the size and length to be an elite defender. Achiuwa’s ability to get above the rim will land him on the youtube basketball highlight pages.

I do not see a possibility that Achiuwa does not declare for the 2020 NBA Draft following his freshman season at Memphis.

16) Tyrese Maxy, SG, Kentucky

Tyrese Maxy immediately committed to Kentucky in 2018, despite being a member of the 2019 class so his offer list starts and ends with Kentucky (but does include the hometown SMU Mustangs) the 6’2 190-pound guard. Maxy will excite Wildcat nation, college basketball fans, and NBA Draft scouts with his ability to get a bucket at any time the young man wants.

A true three-level scorer, Maxy possesses a nice jump shot with an excellent mid-range game that will let him get a bucket at any time he wants. However, as we know that is not the way most people want basketball played in this time period. His size is also a question, while he is a razzle-dazzle bucket getter, can that translate to even the college game this year given his size?

I think Maxy is, of course, a one and done, and has a chance to get into the late lottery with a floor of being in the mid-20 range.

17) Trendon Watford, SF/PF, LSU

Trendon Watford is an interesting 6’9 230-pound wing with a high basketball IQ and the ability to put the ball in the hoop at all three levels offensively. Like I said for Anthony Edwards, I worry about the talent around him at LSU. While it isn’t as bad as Georgia, Watford does not have the luxury of spacing as some of these other elite prospects that play at blue bloods.

18) Josh Green, SG/SF, Arizona

Josh Green was 8th in the ESPN top 100 for the 2019 class, and fielded offers from Kansas, North Carolina, and Villanova, before settling on Arizona. Green is a 6’6 206 pound two guard that will be in for an interesting freshman campaign, I have a few questions about his defense, and jump shot entering the year which can be solved quickly. His touch at the rim and driving ability is extremely impressive though.

19 ) Wendell Moore, SG/SF, Duke

Wendell Moore was a highly coveted recruit out of Charlotte, North Carolina but it was always clear he would end up at either Duke or North Carolina. Moore ultimately signed with Duke. Moore is considered the best player in the state of North Carolina for the 2019 recruiting class, and his 6’11 wingspan to go with his 6’6 215 frame is a big reason why.

Moore is an elite athletic defender with the ability to match up with anyone on the floor, yes, anyone on the floor. Moore has a solid offensive game with his pick and roll ability, and a good enough jump shot that has the upside to be even more. Oh yeah, do not let Moore pick up ahead of steam on his way to the rim.

Moore will not fill up the stat sheet when it comes to the points category but he will pass the eye test.

20) Aaron Henry, SG, Michigan State

Aaron Henry was almost a 40 percent 3 point shooter a year ago for the Spartans and at 6’6 215 pounds, the Spartans SG has a chance to solidify his spot in the 2020 NBA Draft first round with another solid season.

As a freshman, Henry earned six points per game, an assist, three rebounds, and a field goal percentage of just under 50 percent. The worry comes at the charity stripe, Henry shot just 69 percent from the free-throw line a year ago.

Aaron Henry can help lead MSU to the Final Four this year, and while college success does not really matter in terms of NBA evaluation it allows Henry to showcase his skillsets on a bigger stage.

If you extend his freshman numbers to a per 40 minutes bases, Henry averaged 11 points, a steal, two assists, and seven rebounds per game. With a year full of playing time (last year Henry only started in 22 of the 39 games he played in for 22 minutes per game) Henry could prove he belongs in the first round. I think his ceiling is 20, and his floor is the low 30 range.

21) Oscar Tshiebwe, C, West Virginia

Oscar Tshiebwe stands 6’8 230 pounds, and I do not think he is long for this college basketball world. His raw upside will be too tempting for NBA scouts when he puts his name in the NBA Draft pool for the combine period I believe Tshiebwe will be a guy that gets a late first-round promise and decides to forego the rest of his college career.

Out of high school blue bloods like Kentucky and Kansas were all over Tshiebwe, which goes to show you just how talented he is. The Jayhawks have a log jam at big man, yet they were beating down this one and dones door during the recruitment process.

22) Tre Jones, PG, Duke

I love Tre Jones’ game, and he in my mind, is an NBA ready player in this year’s NBA Draft. A year ago at Duke, the 6’2 183 pound guard averaged nine points, two steals, three rebounds, and five assists per game. Jones was an ACC All-Freshman on a Duke team that featured, of course, Zion, RJ, and Cam Reddish last year. That is impressive by itself. Throw in being named to the ACC All-defense team, and the ACC All-Tournament team.

Really I just want to see Jones extend his offensive game beyond the arc. A year ago from deep, Jones shot just 26 percent. I do not see Jones returning to school following this season, and I think right at 22 maybe at pick 21 is his ceiling, with the floor being 30-34 in next year’s NBA Draft. Again, team needs do play a big role in where guys get drafted.

With a weak free-agent class this summer, NBA ready players could be more important than ever for win-now teams.

23) Tyrese Haliburton, PG/SG, Iowa State

When you look at Tyrese Haliburton, he is an all-around player and could step on an NBA floor right now. The incoming sophomore plays a lot bigger than his 6’5 172 pound listed size. As a freshman, Haliburton posted six points, a block, almost two steals, three assists, three rebounds, and less than a turnover per game.

Really, if Tyrese Haliburton develops a three-point shot this season, he could fly up the draft board. I am a big believer in his game. The one knock on him is he does just about everything really good, but nothing elite.

24) AJ Lawson, SG, South Carolina

A year ago Lawson put up 13 points per contest, four rebounds, and two assists with a steal per game. He shot the 3 ball at a 35 percent rate, if he even improves that mark a little bit, he can find himself being a highly coveted prospect.

I do expect this to be his final year in school, we will get to see Lawson go up against Auburn, Georgia, LSU, Kentucky, and Florida in SEC play which will tell us just how much he has grown this offseason.

25) Vernon Carey Jr., C, Duke

Vernon Carey Jr. had the usual suspects after him for the 6th best player in the country. Kentucky, North Carolina, Michigan State, and Duke. Carey Jr. eventually settled on Duke, the southpaw big man boosts great size that will be on full display tonight (Nov. 5th) against Kansas. Vernon Carey Jr. can absolutely stretch the floor like a modern-day big which will make NBA scouts very happy.

I do not think Vernon Carey Jr. has the ability to create for himself, which as a center and with the talent around him at Duke he does not need to.

Add Carey to the one and done list and let’s see where he ends up in the NBA Draft.

26) Jalen Smith, PF, Maryland

Jalen Smith is a 6’10 forward that has shown flashes of being a stretch big but shot just 26 percent on two attempts per game. I really like Smith’s shot and I think with more opportunity Smith could prove to have enough of a jumper to consistently space the floor.

I think 26 is Smith’s ceiling, with his floor honestly being a second-round pick. No matter how this year ends for him, I think he will leave Maryland following this season.

27) Obi Toppin, PF, Dayton

Alright, this one is easy: A bucket getter. 14 points per game in just 26 minutes per contest as he shot 52 percent from deep…52 percent. The A-10 freshman of the year, and apart of the All-A-10 team, Toppin if he even improves on that a little bit is an absolute lock as a first-round pick. I mean a 6’9 sharpshooter? Sign me up right now.

Even in Toppin produces those same numbers and shows a tad bit more on the defensive end he is primed for a big payday.

I think he 100 percent enters the NBA Draft following this season.

28) Devon Dotson, PG, Kansas

Devon Dotson is an interesting case study. The explosive point guard found himself ranked 24th in the 2018 ESPN top 100, and a lot of early-season mock drafts saw Dotson being selected as high as 11th. Yet, despite a solid freshman season at the University of Kansas, and a decent combine, the Charlotte native decided to return to school after folks around the association and media landscape cooled on him.

The Kansas Jayhawks had a disappointing season, losing the Big 12 conference for the first time in 13 years, and getting bounced in the NCAA Tournament earlier than anyone would’ve expected.

Devon Dotson has elite athletism with an incredible ability to get to the rim given his 6’2 175 pound size. With a full offseason under his belt in a college strength and conditioning program, I expect him to look bigger on the floor tonight (Nov. 5th) against Duke. Dotson held the 11th best field goal percentage in the Big 12 shooting at a 48 percent clip from the floor. From deep, however, Dotson needs to develop more which is a key area of his game to look at throughout this season.

Despite his size, Dotson plays a scrappy brand of defense and is elite at playing the passing lanes. Though, anyone who has played basketball will tell you there is a bit of luck involved when coming away with steals though it does take skill.

It is clear Dotson will not be a lottery pick, partly due to his age, and partly due to his skill. But I think his ceiling is around pick 16, and his floor is an early second-round talent.

We will get a lot of big stages with Dotson to see if he has improved starting tonight with the first game of the season against Duke (Nov. 5) on primetime broadcasted nationally on ESPN at 7 p.m. eastern.

Kansas has a shot to play Michigan State in the Maui Invitational if both teams advance to the tournaments championship game on Nov. 27th as expected. Colorado’s staple zone defense could provide fits for Dotson, that will be an interesting game to watch how the point guard response to a normally stellar defensive team (Dec. 7th) and their non-conference slate wraps up with Villanova on Dec. 21st in Philadelphia, a must watch tilt on FOX at 12 p.m. EST.

I do not see a situation in which Dotson returns to school, no matter how this year goes, I think he is ready to start his NBA journey.

29) Trevelin Queen, SF, New Mexico State

Okay, I will admit when I see his name I can not help but say he is a “traveling queen.” which immediately makes me burst into song with Abba’s “Dancing Queen.” but enough about that.

Trevelin Queen on just three attempts per game shot 35 percent from deep. I wonder what that percentage looks like with more attempts so I hope we get to see that this year with New Mexico State.

On just 15 minutes per game, Queen posted seven points, a steal, an assist, and three rebounds per game. He won the WAC tournament MVP a year ago when he started gaining more minutes, so I want to see what he looks like.

The first round might be a bit high for Queen, but I do believe it is a realistic spot for him. However, we have talked about the guys that can skyrocket, Queen has the largest fall potential.

30) Amar Sylla, PF/C, Senegal

Sylla stands 6’9 with a 7’2 wingspan. Yeah, I’d say he has good size. Oh yeah, and he can jump out of the gym even at that size. My biggest question with Sylla is: Can he shoot consistently? We know he can drive and slam it home, look at his size, but can he stretch the floor? That will be interesting to find out as the NBA Draft process rolls on.

31) Isaiah Moss, G, Kansas

Isaiah Moss is a 6’5 208-pound prototypical 3-and-D guy, which makes him very appealing to NBA scouts on a “win-now” team which is over half the league at this weird juncture in the NBA Universe we find ourselves in. Moss is entering his grad-transfer year at the University of Kansas after spending his first three college seasons as a starter for the Iowa Hawkeyes setting nets on fire with his 3 point stroke.

As a Junior, Moss shot over 42 percent from deep, if he can translate that to Lawerence, on a Jayhawks team primed to put him on the big stage, we could see Moss leap into the first round on a team in desperate need of a play-now player. Given his 3 point shot and solid defense, Moss is ready for NBA minutes.

His floor, however, is a mid-second-round pick again, due to his age and even the threat of him taking a small step back from long range with the new 3 point line at the college level this year. Isaiah Moss is a Senior so the confidence level for him leaving has to be a 10/10.

32) Xavier Johnson, PG, Pittsburgh

Xavier Johnson is one of the best players you have problem never heard of, given the fact he plays for Pitt, but the incoming sophomore put up 15 points per game last year, with four rebounds and four assists with a steal to boot. Johnson stroked the 3-point shot at a 35 percent clip, with 75 percent shooting from the line.

The fact that Johnson only shoots 41 percent from the floor is not as concerning as some might think. The fact that in every game Johnson is forced to jack up shots to try and keep the Panthers in the mix is the biggest factor as to way.

Pitt has added talent in this recruiting class to the point that I think Johnson takes such a jump that he lands votes in the ACC player of the year award race. I would not be shocked to see Xavier Johnson dancing on selection Sunday, for those of you who care about my CBB takes and not just NBA Draft stuff (aka just my parents…well hopefully my parents care, I am not sure if they even read my work anymore…I should check on that.)

The hiccup with Johnson is the fact he loves Pittsburgh and by all accounts loves his head coach Jeff Capel. That is great for college basketball, he is amazing to watch, but I could absolutely see him returning to school no matter the kind of year he has to see this thing through. Looking ahead to the Panthers’ next recruiting class, they have a lot of talent coming in that can solidify them as tournament contenders.

33) Bryan Antoine, SG, Villanova

This Villanova team is going to be good. They captured the 14th and 15th best recruits in the nation out from the jaws of the likes of Florida, Kentucky, Duke and Kansas.

Bryan Antonie can easily be a first-round pick, especially considered his age and presumed upside. I wonder if Jay Wright can get Antonine to stick around another year, as he has with so many players in the past if Antoine does only earn a second-round grade as I expect.

I really like Antonie’s size and athleticism which makes him primed to be a great defensive prospect with Jay Wright will get out of him. He can handle the ball well and score with the best of them including a nice shooting stroke.

34) Kahili Whitney, Wing, Kentucky

Kahili Whitney reminds me a ton of Hamidou Diallo. A bouncy posterizing wing that will grit out defensive possessions. While he has a nice shot, they do not fall at a high enough rate to consider him an above after shooter.

However, good defense and being able to jump out of the gym is enough to get drafted, just as Sam Presti. That is why I believe Whitney will leave Kentucky following this year. Maybe teams can see upside in him to take him in the low 20’s but I think ultimately he is a high second-round guy.

35) Patrick Williams, Wing, Florida State

The 6’8 215 pound wing really just needs to put more on tape to move up the latter on the NBA Draft prospects. There just is not enough out there to properly evaluate him.

36) Cassius Winston, PG, Michigan State

The Senior point guard is a bit undersized at 6’1 185 pounds. However, he packs a punch. A Big Ten player of the year, tournament MVP, and consensus All-American is in that range of Devonte Graham. An incredible college player that can light it up but a second-round pick that may or may not pan out in the NBA after some time in the G-League (and Graham has seen a hot start to this season with the Hornets)

Last year Winston averaged 18 points, a steal, seven assists, and three rebounds a game. I think he can turn that into a double-double with 20 points per game this season with more talent around him. I am so excited to see him take on Kentucky tonight.

37) Jordan Nwora, SF, Louisville

Jordan Nwora was the 2018-19 ACC most improved player and a member of the all-conference team. He posted 17 points per game with seven rebounds. I really think this is the year the 6’7 wing averages a double-double. I do not think Nwora can go any higher than a second-round pick, but I still encourage all of you to take a look at his game, because he is a second-round pick that could make an impact at the next level.

38) Dru Smith, G, Missouri

At Evansville in the Missouri Valley Conference Dru Smith was sensational, with 13 points per game, two steals, four assists and three rebounds per game. I thought he was a draftable talent at Evansville which is impressive in its own right because there you not only need to pass the eye test but obliterate the eye test to be taken seriously. Really this blurb will be a lot longer on Smith once he plays at Missouri (this is his first year at Missouri after playing the previous two at Evansville) and we see him against the power-five competition.

I would say I am about six out of 10 on the confidence scale that he leaves. But if he will be a mid-to-late second-round pick after working so hard to finally play on a power five stage he might just return to school for his final year before making the NBA Draft jump.

39) Killian Tillie, PF, Gonzaga

Really we did not get to see Tillie’s year two to year three jump. after averaging 26 minutes per game as a sophomore, Tillie only played in 15 games for Gonzaga. The talent is there, we just need to see him back on the floor.

At 6’10 220 pounds with a nice shooter’s touch, I could see Tillie being a high second-round pick in this year’s NBA Draft but nothing more, especially considering his age.

40) Udoka Azubuike, C, Kansas

Udoka Azubuike continues a massive trend on Mass Street in Lawerence, Kansas: Interesting. I have and will say it for all players who have an attachment to Kansas in this article because oddly enough it is true for all of them in one form or another. For Udoka Azubuike the interesting part is not his name, it is his dominance. Weird right? A player that’s projected in the middle of the second round on my big board was just described as dominate?

Well yes, Udoka does things down low that just make you say “wow” with his incredible slams and his physical rebounds as well as rim-protecting defense. However, his entire college career has been riddled with injuries that have forced him to return to Lawerence for his Senior season. If there is anything we know about the NBA Draft process it is that older, Senior players, do not get drafted very high. Look at Jalen Brunson, now a starter for the Dallas Mavericks, he was selected in the second round after an amazing career at Villanova because folks thought a senior lacks upside.

Azubuike is interesting. While in terms of age he is not what you would consider a young pick, but in basketball year’s he is still incredibly young so will NBA teams account for that? Also, will teams see drafting him as a huge injury risk? Of course, the biggest question surrounding Udoka’s senior season is how many games can the big man play?

Azubuike’s only flaw in his game as a college athlete has truly been free-throw shooting, he is elite or borderline elite at every other area. If he can stay healthy this year, and throughout the rest of his career, Azubukie could be the biggest steal in this year’s NBA Draft.

I could see Udoka’s ceiling as about pick 32 somewhere around there, and the floor, sadly as undrafted if he gets hurt yet again.  Udoka is a Senior so the confidence level that he leaves Kansas is obviously a 10 out of 10.

41) Charles Bassey, C, Western Kentucky

Charles Bassey was the conference USA rookie of the year, defensive player of the year, on the All-Freshman team, All-defense team, and All-conference team all as a freshman a year ago. Bassey posted 14 points per game with ten rebounds and two blocks per contest. For a 6’11 245 pound player, Bassey has a nice free throw stroke nailing shots at the line at a 76 percent clip. Yes, I know he plays for Western Kentucky, but Bassey is exciting to watch and has all the upside in the world.

I think this is without question Bassey’s last year in college, and I could even see him going at the end of the first round if the right team pops up, sees his skillset, and believe they can turn him from a nice NBA role player to a solid starter.

42) Romeo Weems, SF, DePaul

DePaul landed a four-star. That’s right, DePaul landed the 46th best player in the country according to last year’s ESPN recruiting ratings. Weems is 6’6 with a 6’9 wingspan and can defend positions 1-4 on the floor. He has an elite ability to finish through contact, which is made even more impressive when you factor in his elite rebounding ability.

The problem I see in Weems game is that he went to DePaul, no not because I do not want to watch DePaul because if you can not tell by now I am a bit of a college basketball freak, but because being a big fish at DePaul might make him feel like he can or should do things he is not particularly good at. Like, turn into a point-forward, which without drastic improvement to his playmaking skillset should not happen whatsoever.

I do not see Weems sticking around in DePaul unless he absolutely has a terrible season. But maybe he really wants to build something there, I am it is a bit odd for a four-star to pick DePaul so I am not too confident in projecting if he stays or goes.

43) Grant Riller, PG, Charleston

Grant Riller is set up to be that second-round pick that goes unnoticed until next year’s NBA summer league when he bursts onto the scene with a few huge slams and becomes an instant fan favorite ala Deonte Burton style. Last year, the 6’3 190-pound point guard poured in 21 points, a steal, four assists, and three blocks per game. For his career, Riller is a 35 percent shooter from deep.

Get ESPN+, or do whatever you need to do to check this guy out this season. As a Senior, of course, Riller will be entering the NBA Draft, and I do think throughout the interview, drills, and scrimmage of the NBA combine, that Riller can climb his NBA Draft stock all the way up to a high 30’s pick.

44) Isaiah Joe, SG, Arkansas

Joe posted 13 points with almost two steals and two assists per game to go along with his two rebounds a game a year ago. Joe stroked the trey ball at a 41 percent clip last year. The SEC All-Freshman has great size at 6’5 167 pounds for a guard bucket getter. I think there is a chance that Joe returns to school I am only at about a 5/10 on the confidence scale with Joe. If he leaves, I think a mid-second-round pick is his ceiling with going undrafted in this year’s NBA Draft being his floor.

45) Samuell Williamson, SF, Louisville

Samuell Williamson is a 6’7 wing that comes into his freshman year as a 190-pound scorer. I really need to see more film on him to make a huge assessment on him, but from what I have read and the little we have seen of him out of high school, he seems like a mid-second-round pick in this year’s NBA Draft class. This leads me to believe he stays in college longer than just this one season.

46) Silvio De Sousa, PF, Kansas

Here is that word again: Interesting. Silvio De Sousa is exactly that. His first year in Lawerence De Sousa was ineligible to play during the fall semester, and after he stepped on the floor in January of that season (2018) he was immediately the big player on a talent littered Jayhawks team that boosted multiple NBA players and made a trip to the Final Four. De Sousa found jaw-dropping success in the Big 12 tournament.

Again, De Sousa ran into trouble with the NCAA that sidelined him the entire 2018-19 campaign. It is important to note that De Sousa was not in legal trouble, and in fact, did not receive any benefits himself but rather his parents got benefits without his knowledge which is why De Sousa has been cleared for the 2019-20 season.

Silvio De Sousa is elite at playing above the rim at both ends of the floor, with a decent face-up game that could use some improvement. He has all the skills of an NBA player, but again, like many in this area of the NBA draft, De Sousa has questions about his age and how that will factor into his NBA Draft decision. De Sousa is already 21 years old and will be 22 at the start of the 2020-21 NBA season.

I could see Silvio De Sousa’s ceiling being a top-40 player, and his floor being undrafted. Confidence level he leaves school: Nine out of 10.

47) Kristian Doolittle, PF, Oklahoma

Well, let’s hope this is not the start of the Rylan Stiles NBA Draft board curse, but as I sit down to start writing Kristian Doolittle’s portion of the 2019-20 NBA Draft board article, it has been announced that he has been suspended for the first game of the 2019-20 college basketball season against UTSA for…playing basketball?

Kristian Doolittle, a Senior from Edmond, Oklahoma stands 6’7 and comes in at 232. Doolittle has shown flashes throughout his entire college career of being an NBA level player but has yet to put it all together. A year ago, Doolittle posted 11 points per game, seven rebounds per game, and swatted a career-high 17 shots throughout the season.

For a big man, his 77 percent free throw shooting is nothing to sneeze at. For his career, Doolittle is a 37 percent 3 point shooter, taking 43 triples in 2016-17 but just four 3 pointers in both 2017-18 and 2018-19. I would like to see OU head man Lon Kruger allow Doolittle to show off his outside game a bit more.

I think being picked around the 40’s in this years NBA Draft is Doolittle’s ceiling, while undrafted would be his floor.

48) Andrew Nembhard, G, Florida

Nembhard has great size for a combo guard at 6’5 191 pounds to complement his nice playmaking skillset as he averaged five assists as a freshman a year ago. Nembhard held a 34 percent shooting rate from deep, with a steal per game and three rebounds per game.

I think a second-round pick is the SEC All-Freshman’s ceiling with undrafted being his floor, which again makes me think there is a good chance he returns to school following this year.

49) Tristan Clark, F, Baylor

Tristan Clark hopes to lead the Baylor Bears back to being competitive in the Big 12 and in the national spotlight in his junior season. Some experts have picked the Bears to win the conference outright over last year’s champs the Kansas State Wildcats, and Texas Tech Red Raiders, and the odds on favorite Kansas Jayhawks.

Clark averaged 14 points per game last year with six rebounds and 34 blocks on the year. I think Clark will be a walking double-double this season in Waco, and it could help improve his NBA Draft stock.

Ultimately, he could win Big 12 player of the year, and every award imaginable yet still find himself selected in the middle of the second round at best. So could he return for his senior season next year? I think there is a good shot he does return to school. But as of right now he is one of the top 60 draftable players in my eyes (49th to be exact).

50) Matt Coleman, G, Texas

Matt Coleman for his career at Texas (two seasons) averages 10 points on three assists with two rebounds and a steal per game. From deep he improved a year ago from 28 percent as a freshman to 32 percent as a sophomore but overall his second year was a bit of a step back in all other categories, including minutes played. I have seen a lot of Coleman’s game and believe he is still an NBA Draft caliber player.

However, mid-second-round pick is his ceiling in my eyes, as an undersized guard that does not play make nor score at an elite level as of now. I think he will return to Austin for his Senior season, but he needs to take a big step up in his junior season if he wants to stay on the NBA’s radar.

51) De’Vion Harmon, G, Oklahoma

I think De’Vion Harmon will be an incredibly fun player to watch. Harmond ranked 58th in the ESPN top 100 and immediately committed to the Oklahoma Sooners. The Denton, Texas native is a bit undersized at 6’1, 195 but his wingspan puts him at 6’6.5 to make up for the lack of traditional height.

Harmon is going to absolutely torment opposing guards and wings, and immediately be the Sooners, the Big 12’s and if not the country’s best defender.  Perhaps the biggest benefactors in Harmon’s commitment to the Sooners are Brady Manex and Kristian Doolittle. Harmon’s passing and playmaking ability will set them up for uncontested spoonfeed shots.

What’s the hiccup with De’Vion Harmon? I am not confident he leaves Norman, Oklahoma after just one year. I do not think being pick in the 50’s range at this year’s NBA Draft is enough for him. I think De’Vion Harmon will return to school and try to be in the top 40 of next year’s NBA Draft.

52) Sam Merrill, G, Utah State

Sam Merrill is entering his Senior campaign and if he even makes the smallest improvement to last year per-game averages of 20 points, one steal, four assists, three rebounds, and also shooting the trey ball at a 37 percent clip. The league will always need a 6’5 210-pound guard that can knock down the long ball. Merrill is such a fun and efficient player to watch.

53) Quentin Grimes, SG, Houston

Quentin Grimes was the 8th ranked player in the ESPN top 100 for the 2018 recruiting class. Quentin Grimes committed to Kansas University but his first year with the Jayhawks did not go according to plan. Bill Self elected to play Grimes out of position, and he simply never looked comfortable sharing the floor with Devon Dotson.

Grimes also struggled from deep shooting just 34 percent from deep for the year and was an extremely inconsistent player for the Jayhawks. He never found his way in the program and thus transferred back to his hometown to play for the University of Houston this season. The NBA level potential is still there for Grimes.

The 6’5 210 pound sophomore plays above-average defense at the college level, and if he can turn into a sniper from beyond the arc, you could see him skyrocket up the draft board.

Is Grimes leaving Houston after this season? That, I would put at about 7/10. Simply because he seems to genuinely like college basketball. When you watch some guys play you can tell they view this as just a pit stop before they try to fulfill their NBA dreams. Grimes seems to genuinely care about the college level, especially now that he is playing at his hometown school. He could also view his NBA Draft stock, at pick 53 or so, not worth it to leave school early like others have done in the past (Devonte Graham, Frank Mason, etc.)

Of anyone on this slide, I consider Grimes to have the highest potential for a long NBA career. The association can always use 3-and-D players.

54) Neemias Queta, C, Utah State

Queta averaged 11 points, eight rebounds, an assist, and two blocks a year ago. That is an impressive stat line that I think is just the beginning for Neemias Queta this season. I think the 6’11 225 pound center is primed to average a double-double this season with at least two blocks per game yet again.

Again, I wonder if Queta will go ahead and take the jump to the NBA after just two college seasons, or does he view this as a good spot to be as he continues to average double-doubles then eventually will join the NBA as a second-round pick that is more developed?

55) Tyler Bey, SF, Colorado

Bey was the winner of last year’s PAC-12 Most Improved Player award, and on the All-PAC-12 team for 2018-19. As a 6’7 wing, Bey averaged over a block per game a year ago, and in this Colorado defensive system, I would like to see him improve in the passing lanes this season. Despite scoring 13 points per game a year ago, Bey is not a shooter which limits his game in the modern NBA.

Bey has never attempted more than 0.6 3-point attempts per game. Defense is his most elite skill, and even that needs improving to make a lasting impact at the NBA level. If he can turn into a defensive specialist in this season though, teams can find a place for him in the association. Lucky for Bey, if he does get the defensive side (even more) locked down he is a 78 percent free-throw shooter, so teams will struggle to play him off the floor like an Andre Roberson.

56) Myles Powell, SG, Seton Hall

The Seton Hall guard that stands 6’2 195 pound guard is entering his senior season and looks poised for yet another step forward. Powell averaged a career-high 23 points per game a year ago with a pair of steals, almost three assists and four rebounds per contest. Powell nailed the 3-point shot at a 36 percent clip on almost nine attempts per game a year ago.

Powell was listed to the 2018-19 All-Big East team and the 2017-18 Big East Most Improved Player. Given the fact he plays for Seton Hall, Myles Powell is one of the most underrated players in the nation. He is so fun to watch and I encourage you all to check out a couple of games from Powell. Most notably when he takes on Michigan State, Iowa State and Villanova (twice) throughout this season.

57) Aaron Nesmith, SF, Vanderbilt

Nesmith is entering his second year at Vanderbilt and his first year under new head coach Jerry Stackhouse that is known for getting the most out of players. A year ago, Nesmith posts 11 points an assists, five rebounds per game. He stroked it at a 33 percent clip from deep a year ago and was an 82 percent shooter from the free-throw line. I want to see how the 6’6 213-pound wing grows under Stackhouse.

58) Paul Reed, PF, DePaul

Paul Reed is entering his third year as a starter at DePaul, and again despite stroking the 3 ball at a 40 percent clip last year with less than one attempt per game, and it seems likely he will improve on that again this season, will he leave school a year shy of his Senior season?

While it might sound strange when you are a fringe second-round pick in the NBA finishing school and your college career could be more important to you than hoping to be selected in the NBA Draft. I expect Paul to make yet another jump this season with DePaul. Look at his freshman to Sophmore year: 3 points to 12 points, 3 rebounds to 8 rebounds, half a block to a block and a half.

I am interested to see if Reed expands his game beyond the arc. Because it is clear the physical shot is there, it looks good, but he just does not have enough attempts to decide how often he can connect.

59) Brady Manek, SF, Oklahoma

The reason Brady Manek is so low, as a 6’9 231-pound sharpshooter is the fact that he is just now entering his Junior year. While I would gladly spend a second-round pick on Manek in the upcoming NBA Draft to come off the bench and knock down a hand full of trey balls a game, I do not think he will make the leap to the associate after this season. The Edmond, Oklahoma native will likely see his basketball career through at the University of Oklahoma before heading off to the NBA.

Teams will always take a chance on a 3 point sniper in the second round, and without having the upside to get his stock into a first-round talent, there isn’t much reason for him to leave the Sooners program.

60) Kerry Blackshear Jr., Wing, Florida

Kerry Blackshear Jr. is a grad transfer with the University of Florida, and some think he is the difference-maker in pushing the Gators to the Final Four. Blackshear Jr. holds a 2019 All-ACC honor and a 2019 NCAA East Region All-Tournament team.

Last year with the Hokies, Blackshear Jr. led the team with 7.5 rebounds per contest, including nine double-doubles on his way to averaging 17.3 points. From deep, Blackshear enjoyed his highest 3 point percentage of 33 percent. If he can build on that in his final college season then he is a lock to be selected in the 2019-20 NBA Draft.

Closing time

Whew, we made it. Over 11 thousand words on the top 60 prospects that will enter this year’s NBA Draft. Thank you all for reading the first big board of the year!

Again, this will be a monthly installment, and let me know in the comment section below and on Twitter what you think about my big board. Who do I have too high, or too low? Who is your Tyler Herro of the month? Now, It is closing time. So I will leave you, in the spirit of college basketball tipping off in a few hours, with my college basketball predictions.

Conference winners: 

More from Thunderous Intentions

• Stealing one player from every Southwest Division team for the OKC Thunder
• Should the OKC Thunder chase after a disgruntled hometown hero?
• 3 OKC Thunder players who can step up in Aleksej Pokusevski’s absence
• Aleksej Pokusevski sidelined approximately 6 weeks with ankle injury
• Damian Lillard does not fit with the OKC Thunder

Big 12: Kansas- Come on now, do you need an explanation? (If you do I will be happy to Tweet you a 15 tweet thread as to why)

ACC: North Carolina- Cole Anthony, duh.

Big 10: Michigan State- Simply the deepest team in the conference.

SEC: Florida- I actually love this Florida squad.

PAC-12: Washington- By far my least confident pick, but they have the talent.

Player of the year: Cassius Winston, PG, Michigan State

Final Four: Kansas, Florida, Memphis, Michigan State

National Champions: The Kansas Jayhawks cash in before Adidas does.

So there you have it, my top 60 players entering 2019-20 NBA Draft season and college basketball season including my conference winners and tournament picks that will surely be 100 percent correct and not end up on “old takes exposed.”

Now if you will excuse me I need to run to target and spend half my paycheck on coffee to try and keep up with all of the basketball that will rule my life from now until June.

The last portion of the big board will be the song of the month. Why not leave your brain with something none basketball related after you just read over 12 thousand words on information on the subject? (proud of you)

Song of the week: Total Entertainment Forever, Father John Misty.