Future Duke star Cooper Flagg isn’t arriving until next year, but there are still a handful of NBA draft prospects set to play in the upcoming NCAA tournament.
The good news for NBA draftniks: Cooper Flagg, a 17-year-old Duke commit from Maine, is on track to be a captivating headliner for March Madness next year. Now, for the bad news: This year’s NCAA men’s basketball tournament field,, the best teenager in a generation, and Flagg, the most exciting NCAA prospect since Zion Williamson and the consensus favorite to be the first selection in 2025.
Sheppard is a homegrown product whose parents, Jeff and Stacey, both played for Kentucky. The 19-year-old freshman has come off the bench for most of the season, but his deadeye outside shooting and deep range have led to an expanded role since the new year.While there are questions about his size and explosiveness, the 6-foot-3 guard is a fierce and disruptive defender who exhibits a team-first attitude on both ends.
It’s worth noting the San Antonio Spurs, who could have two of the top seven picks, and Washington Wizards need significant backcourt help, while the lottery-bound Detroit Pistons, Charlotte Hornets and Portland Trail Blazers could have other priorities.In a draft class that’s weak at the top, a strong tournament could vault Williams into consideration for the No. 1 pick.
Drafting Williams, who missed more than a month with a wrist injury and has donned a mask after taking a blow to the face recently, represents a reasonable gamble on upside. He should be able to play on and off the ball offensively, his length and quickness should allow him to defend multiple positions, and he will boast a prototypical wing frame once he adds weight.
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