2024 mock NBA Draft: Europe set to dominate?
With the turn of the new year, the eagerly anticipated NBA Draft doesn't seem too long away, with European players dominating the opening lottery picks.
This year's NBA Draft is more unpredictable than most, with the lottery picks constantly changing and no standout generational talents being eligible this year.
The 2024 NBA Draft could make history by being the first draft to have three international players selected in the opening three picks. Is it a sign of things to come?
Bronny James was eligible for this draft class and would have created a stir in the mix, but after his cardiac arrest, LeBron James' son will have to wait for a future class.
Here are our projected top ten picks in the draft!
French 7ft1 Center Alexandre Sarr is the standout player in this year's NBA Draft, presenting size, athleticism, and defensive versatility for the NBA level. At his size, Sarr possesses lightning-fast handles and elite shot-making, giving him the best chance at number one.
6ft6 Serbian point guard Nikola Topic is the most productive teenager in the EuroLeague, being compared to Luka Doncic. Topic has limited athleticism, but his basketball IQ and playmaking ability separate him from the rest. He could be a perfect fit for Victor Wembanyama.
Shooting nearly 50% from 91 three points, French teenager Zaccharie Risacher has moved up to three after a stellar season in the LNB. The 6ft8 small forward has a combination of size, skill, athleticism, and elite shooting that will keep him in the top-five mix.
6ft8 Colorado freshman Cody Williams possesses perfect positional size for a small forward and possesses slashing, finishing, passing, and defense. Williams has averaged 14 points on 62% shooting, bringing an efficient and versatile game to the NBA.
UConn guard Stephon Castle is a player who has proven he could do a bit of everything on the basketball floor. A big-time talent, Castle can get to his spots and can facilitate to give his teammates open looks. He has helped UConn to first in the Big East.
G-League Ignite guard/forward Matas Buzelis had an underwhelming G-League showcase, but his on-ball defending, fluid athleticism, and shot-making ability are keeping Buzelis in the top ten. At 19, there is plenty of upside to work with when he comes to the NBA.
G-League Ignites Ron Holland possesses an unteachable attack downhill and defensive quickness that is unique in this draft class. Despite being a poor three-point shooter, the 18-year-old small forward has all the attributes to make it in the NBA.
Kentucky guard Rob Dillingham is 44.7% from beyond the arc this season and has averaged 4.5 assists. At 6ft3 and 176 pounds, NBA scouts may worry about his physical shortcomings and effectiveness in the paint, but his three-point shot is elite.
At 6ft5, Baylor freshman Ja'Kobe Walter can score on three levels, shooting 40% on spot-up threes and being consistent on shots off the screen and in ball screen situations. Walter can finish at the rim and is good at getting to the foul line.
Kentucky guard Reed Sheppard's shooting stats are unbelievable, converting 60% from two, 56% from three, and 90% from the free throw line. His excellent shooting, passing IQ, and defensive instinct are translatable to the pros.
This is one of the most open draft classes in recent memory, with the number one pick changing every other week. It will be interesting to see which player will have the greatest impact on the NBA in years to come.