# Team Player Pos
1 Victor Wembanyama C
Reaction: Spurs Select Victor Wembanyama No. 1 Overall

I'm setting the over/under on time spent on the clock for the Spurs here at 1.6 seconds, and I am hammering the under. Wembanyama has long been the favorite to go No. 1, and the Spurs will do what everyone expects and make him the first pick on Thursday night.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Wembanyama has long been considered one of the best basketball prospects on the planet and a generational talent. Standing 7-foot-4 with an 8-foot wingspan, Wembanyama projects as the No. 1 player in the class and one of the best basketball prospects since LeBron James with his rare combination of size, skill and defensive versatility.

Pro comparison: Kristaps Porzingis' length and shooting with Rudy Gobert's shot-blocking

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 1 overall (No. 1 C)

Height: 7'4" | Weight: 237 pounds | Wingspan: 8'0"

Facts and stats

  • Led LNB Pro A in PPG (21.5), RPG (10.4) and BPG (3.0) playing for Metropolitans 92


Strengths

  • Advanced ball-handling skills for his position and size
  • Elite defensive prospect who can cover ground quickly and moves fluidly
  • Great defensive anchor who can block shots from anywhere on the court; affects shots with his length and long frame
  • Mechanically sound shot and repeatable shooting motion that extends to the 3-point line


Weaknesses

  • Tall, slender frame raises questions about how his body could hold up in the NBA; he plays roughly once weekly with Mets 92, can he play 82 games in an NBA season and be durable?
  • Can sometimes be turnover prone and foul prone; he struggles sometimes to play within himself and frequently, likely because of his situation, tries to do too much
  • Has tendency to take wild shots, though even the one-legged trick shots frequently fall through the hoop
2 Scoot Henderson PG
Full Prospect Breakdown: Scoot Henderson | 2023 NBA Draft

The betting markets now have Scoot Henderson as a heavy favorite to go No. 2 just hours after Brandon Miller was found as heavy as a -900 favorite at Caesars to be selected here. Henderson is the higher-ranked prospect on the CBS Sports Big Board and has the electricity and athleticism to be a nice fit next to LaMelo Ball to ease some of his playmaking burdens.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

A former five-star recruit from Marietta, Georgia, Henderson is a first-of-his-kind prospect who spent two seasons with G League Ignite, developing the last two years into a bona fide top-five prospect in the 2023 draft class. Henderson's combination of playmaking, athleticism and competitiveness makes him an appealing lead guard who could serve as a building block for a franchise.

Pro Comparison: Collin Sexton

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 2 overall (No. 1 PG)

Height: 6'2" | Weight: 195 pounds

Facts and Stats

  • Led G League Ignite in PPG (17.6), APG (6.6) and SPG (1.2) in 2022-23
  • Shot 33% on catch-and-shoot jumpers and 31.3% on pull-up jumpers from beyond the arc
  • Reported 6-foot-9 wingspan makes him one of the longer athletes comparative to height in this class


Strengths

  • High-level competitor who plays with an edge and chip on his shoulder
  • Bouncy athlete who is unafraid to attack the basket and can finish around the rim
  • Tight handles help him operate as a lead guard; has savvy to facilitate for others and knows when to be aggressive


Weaknesses

  • Capable outside shooter but did not make developmental leap as 3-point shooter that some hoped he would
  • Good, but not great frame; a really good defensive hound at point of attack but doesn't project as switchable defender
  • Needs to improve as a shooter, particularly in catch-and-shoot situations, to become a more rounded weapon
3 Brandon Miller SF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Brandon Miller | 2023 NBA Draft

I'm not totally convinced Miller isn't still in play for the Hornets at No. 2, but if Henderson goes to Charlotte, Miller's fall won't be a long one. This is a draft seen by evaluators as having three clear top talents before a tier drop. Miller shot 38.4% from 3 as a freshman at Alabama and led the SEC in scoring, box plus/minus and win shares.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Long wings who can score are among the more valuable archetypes in the NBA, and Miller projects neatly as exactly that. The former five-star recruit was a first-team All-American, led all freshmen in scoring last season at Alabama and led the Tide to SEC regular-season and tournament championships while going on to secure a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament.

Pro comparison: Playmaking Jabari Smith Jr.

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 3 overall (No. 1 SF)

Height: 6'9" | Weight: 200 pounds

Facts and stats

  • Named to AP and CBS Sports All-America first team
  • Led SEC in PPG and led all freshmen in PPG in 2022-23
  • Finished in 22nd percentile as at-rim finisher on shots that qualified as layup per Synergy data, finishing 46.8% (58/124) on such shots
  • Shot 38.4% from 3-point line on 276 attempts


Strengths

  • Excellent shooter who can be a threat from distance and space the floor
  • Can create and operate as ball-handler in spots; knows how to operate in transition and savvy at creating looks for himself
  • Long frame with big reach; projects as solid wing defender and embraced his role on defensive end as true freshman for Alabama team that finished top-three in adjusted efficiency on defense


Weaknesses

  • Improved during the season at Alabama but still can struggle finishing around the rim
  • Shows signs of being a good playmaker and passer but can be turnover-prone; had a higher turnover rate than assist rate in one season at Alabama
  • Has tendency to play rushed when running as lead guard in pick-and-roll
  • Doesn't do a great job of setting up his defender on screens and makes mistakes with loose handle/errant passes

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32.6 18.8 8.2 2.1 43.0
4 Amen Thompson SF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Amen Thompson | 2023 NBA Draft

Realistically there are several names involved here at No. 4 and the Rockets' potential interest in James Harden this offseason could tilt their preference. But Thompson presents the most long-term upside here as a home-run swing. He has superstar athleticism and a silky smooth game with passing and playmaking that makes him appealing, though his shot remains a work in progress.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Thompson is the twin brother of Ausar, both of whom project as lottery picks in the 2023 draft. Amen is a natural playmaker who has explosive athletic ability and a long frame to buttress one of the most exciting long-term profiles in the class. He spent the last two seasons developing with Overtime Elite and could be the program's first player selected in the first round - if his twin brother doesn't beat him to the punch.

Pro comparison: Dejounte Murray

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 4 overall (No. 2 SF)

Height: 6'5 ¾" | Weight: 214 pounds | Wingspan: 7'0" | Vertical: N/A

Facts and stats

  • Shot 25% from three with OTE in 2022-23
  • Led OTE in playoffs with 9.2 APG in helping lead the City Reapers to a championship


Strengths

  • Special athlete with rare combination of size and leaping ability for a point guard prospect
  • Twitchy with his ability to stop and start
  • Can make advanced reads as playmaker and facilitator


Weaknesses

  • Can be turnover-prone, a product of trying to force passes into tight windows
  • Jump shot has improved but needs to continue developing
  • Level of competition faced against OTE leaves questions about scouting him and how his game will project early on
5 Jarace Walker PF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Jarace Walker | 2023 NBA Draft

The long-held belief here is that Detroit might look to add at the wing position to fill out its lineup around Jaden Ivey and Cade Cunningham, but Walker on the board presents real value. Ausar Thompson should be in play at No. 5 as well, but the size, skill and inside-out ability of Walker is a nice fit for the Pistons.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Walker became the highest-rated signee in Houston men's basketball history in 2022 in signing with the Cougars out of high school, and paid off right away as a floor-spacing forward with talents galore on both ends of the floor. He was a versatile defensive weapon and Swiss Army knife offensive player for a 33-win Houston team that was primarily comprised of upperclassmen, and there is untapped potential in his game as a playmaker and scorer that should be unlocked with NBA spacing.

Pro comparison: Thomas Bryant

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 7 overall (No. 1 PF)

Height: 6'6 ½" | Weight: 249 pounds | Wingspan: 7'2 ½" | Vertical: 38"

Facts and stats

  • Shot 34.7% from 3 on 101 attempts as freshman for Houston
  • McDonald's All-American and former five-star recruit who went on to win AAC Freshman of the Year honors in 2022-23


Strengths

  • Playmaking power forward who has guard-like playmaking and passing vision
  • Physically advanced body and frame with movement skills and fluidity of a four-year college player
  • Gifted playmaker with off-the-dribble skills; projects as combination forward who can slide anywhere from the wing to a small-ball center


Weaknesses

  • Can fade in and out of action. Was the best talent on a veteran Houston team, but had a tendency to be standoffish.
  • Has playmaking upside as both a creator and passer, but had a higher turnover rate than assist rate as freshman, partly due to erratic decision-making and partly due to carelessness when handling the ball and driving.

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
27.5 11.2 6.8 1.8 46.5
6 Anthony Black PG
Full Prospect Breakdown: Anthony Black | 2023 NBA Draft

When you think of Black the word immediately connected with him is "connector." He'd be a huge addition for the Magic who are now building around Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero, giving them someone who can play selflessly on offense and embrace his role on defense.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Black was the No. 1-ranked point guard prospect in the Class of 2022 and a consensus five-star recruit who signed with Arkansas out of high school. He led the team in assists and minutes per game as a true freshman in 2022-23 and profiles as a big-bodied combo guard who can make plays and score. If his 3-point shot shows continued improvement, he will be one of the most complete NBA prospects in this class.

Pro comparison: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 8 overall (No. 2 PG)

Height: 6'5 ¾" | Weight: 210 pounds | Wingspan: 6'7 ½" | Vertical: 39"

Facts and stats

  • Led all Arkansas players as true freshman in assist rate at 20.9% and steal rate 3.4%, per KenPom data
  • Shot 30.1% from 3 on 93 attempts at Arkansas


Strengths

  • Smart guard who has quick processing skills and showed he can function as a facilitator and playmaker
  • Big frame who uses it well as a dynamic defensive player; knows how to slither his way to spots on offense as smooth operator
  • Immense feel for the game as young player; knows how to read defenses as lead guard and has innate sense for where to be and when


Weaknesses

  • Needs to improve his shooting, particularly as spot-up shooter and in distance shooting; he shot 30.1% from 3 and rated in the 34th percentile in spot-up shooting situations
  • Rarely put in isolation situations at Arkansas, but in the instances he was, he averaged .375 points per possession, which was in the fifth percentile among all college players last season, per Synergy. His creation ability and talents to create space one-on-one need improvement.

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
34.3 12.8 5.1 3.9 45.3
7 Ausar Thompson SF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Ausar Thompson | 2023 NBA Draft

Adding scoring punch next to Tyrese Haliburton should be a priority for the Pacers, and in Ausar Thompson they get it at No. 7. Thompson is a natural scorer who can play both on and off the ball and has a well-rounded game and frame that could make him a starter long-term on the wing in Indy.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

The twin brother of potential top-five pick Amen Thompson, Ausar, like his brother, has long been viewed as a bluechip prospect with NBA pedigree. Ausar spent the last two seasons developing with Overtime Elite and has grown into his own as a gifted scorer and improved shot-maker. He brings great size and skill to the wing spot and projects as a boom prospect with loads of long-term upside.

Pro comparison: Andrew Wiggins

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 6 overall (No. 4 SF)

Height: 6'5 ¾" | Weight: 218 pounds | Wingspan: 7'00" | Vertical: N/A

Facts and stats

  • Led OTE in regular season in APG (6.1)
  • Shot 40% on catch-and-shoot jumpers in OTE playoffs (12 of 30)


Strengths

  • Has made significant developmental strides as a shooter and functional scorer
  • Top-shelf athlete like his twin brother who can play above the rim and use his length to affect plays on defense
  • Improving finisher with good shooting touch around the basket


Weaknesses

  • Still not a reliable shooter; while he has made improvements in this area, he still needs to work on strengthening his shot to become a threat
  • Can struggle to finish through contact - or finish in general - when getting to the rim
  • Can get boxed out in offensive situations; really good in transition and shows signs of promise as a playmaker with the ball, but hard to envision him being a star if his shooting doesn't improve
8 Cam Whitmore SF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Cam Whitmore | 2023 NBA Draft

Whitmore's draft range is a bit wider than maybe initially expected, but it's hard to see him slipping too far down the lottery. He's not an adept passer but he's a jaw-dropping athlete who can shoot the 3-pointer and space the floor.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

The first Villanova one-and-done since Tim Thomas in 1997, Whitmore brings power and explosiveness to the table as one of the most appealing long-term wing prospects in this year's draft class. A former five-star recruit who ranked as the No. 1 prospect in his class from Maryland, Whitmore is an above-the-rim wing finisher who can provide floor-spacing as a spot-up threat and showed immense talent making shots in a variety of ways, though his playmaking ability for others is an area of improvement. 

Pro comparison: Miles Bridges

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 5 overall (No. 3 SF)

Height: 6'5 ¾ " | Weight: 235 pounds | Wingspan: 6'8 ½" | Vertical: 40 ½"

Facts and stats

  • Turnover rate (15.1%) more than double his assist rate (6.4%) at Villanova
  • 85% of his drives in college were to his left, per Synergy data


Strengths

  • Explosive athlete with jaw-dropping hops who can finish above the rim and thrives in transition
  • Good catch-and-shoot weapon; hit 34.3% of 3s at Villanova and rated in 84th percentile in catch-and-shoot across all opportunities, per Synergy data
  • Powerful athletic ability that he uses to attack downhill; can be a load for defenders to keep in front of and has good off-the-ball creation flashes
  • Smart cutter who plays well off the ball and knows when to flash into gaps in the defense
  • Can be a winner in isolation situations given his power and athletic ability


Weaknesses

  • Needs to improve playmaking ability; very low assist rate in one college season, though he was mostly asked to play as an attacking wing and not as a creator
  • His unwillingness/inability to make plays for others slows down the flow of the offense and can lead to him making forced errors

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
27.2 12.5 5.3 0.7 47.8
9 Taylor Hendricks PF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Taylor Hendricks | 2023 NBA Draft

Hendricks is a fast-rising prospect who presents immense upside in this range with a 6-9 plus-wingspan. He brings amazing defensive versatility and shooting and has the movement ability to develop into a foundational piece as Utah retools its roster.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Ranked as the No. 84 player in the Class of 2022 coming out of high school in Florida, Hendricks is the most meteoric of risers over the last year among potential top-10 picks after a stellar one-and-done season at UCF. He flashed dominance as a do-it-all defender and shot nearly 40% from 3 on 155 attempts throughout the year, earning second-team All-AAC honors as a true freshman.

Pro comparison: Jaden McDaniels

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 9 overall (No. 2 PF)

Height: 6'8 ¼" | Weight: 214 pounds | Wingspan: 7'0 ½" | Vertical: 36"

Facts and stats

  • Rated in the 98th percentile as post-up defender at UCF, per Synergy, allowing only a staggering 0.4 points per possession
  • One of the best transition players at his position in the draft, averaging 1.458 points per possession, per Synergy data


Strengths

  • Versatile defensive prospect who brings good length, smarts and savvy positioning to the table for his position
  • Excellent shooter who showed shot-making skills and shot-making versatility not only as a floor-spacing spot-up threat but also in some dynamic situations off the dribble and attacking
  • Explosive athlete who can be a pogo-stick leaper and lob threat around the basket; that skill allows him to recover on defense and act as a high-level rim protector and weak-side shot blocker


Weaknesses

  • Shows great shooting touch but his finishing ability at the rim leaves something to be desired; improved strength and reps will in time likely quell concerns
  • Needs to show improvement as a playmaker and decision-maker to hit his high-end NBA outcome; had more turnovers than assists and sometimes looked out of his depth when asked to make plays with the ball in his hands

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
34.7 15.1 7 1.4 47.8
10 Cason Wallace PG
NBA Draft Grades: Oklahoma City Thunder Select Cason Wallace No. 10 Overall

Dallas could -- and I think, should -- be thinking of ways to best maximize its pieces around Luka Doncic, and for my money Wallace is the best bet here. He's a great defensive playmaker who can play on or off the ball and brings playmaking to the game as a potential secondary creator.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

The best on-ball defensive menace in the 2023 class, Wallace is a playmaking defensive prospect who channels energy and enthusiasm to the point guard position. He's a long-strider with good passing instincts who can facilitate and create and has shown improvement as a shooter the last few seasons.

Pro comparison: DeAnthony Melton

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 12 overall (No. 4 PG)

Height: 6'2 ½" | Weight: 195 pounds | Wingspan: 6'8 ½" | Vertical: 36"

Facts and stats

  • Top 90th percentile finisher in around-the-rim looks at Kentucky on floaters, runners, layups


Strengths

  • Strong, muscled-up prospect who plays physical for his size; at 6-foot-3, he is a smaller guard but plays bigger than that with physicality and smart technique
  • Hustle and energy is his game; he is a great assignment defender but can be an impactful help defender and knows when and when not to take chances doing so
  • Good shooter, particularly projecting well as role player given efficiency as spot-up and catch-and-shoot threat


Weaknesses

  • Good athlete but relies more on smarts than athleticism to create separation; doesn't have a quick 0-60 get-off-the-line
  • Audacious attacker who isn't afraid to go inside, but can be too willing to go right at bigs to show off finishing ability
  • Needs to show improvement as a shooter off the dribble

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32 11.7 3.7 4.3 44.6
11 Gradey Dick SF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Gradey Dick | 2023 NBA Draft

After adding a playmaker who struggles to shoot consistently (Anthony Black) earlier in this mock, here I have Orlando coming back to grab Dick at No. 11 -- giving them the best and most versatile shooter in this year's class.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

One of the best knockdown shooters in the 2023 NBA Draft, Dick brings both size, skill and scoring to the wing position as a multi-talented bucket-getter who can fill it up in a variety of ways. He's a heady off-ball player who has the IQ to be a smart cutter and slasher and thrives in transition, where he can use his athleticism to be a finisher.

Pro comparison: Kevin Huerter

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 10 overall (No. 5 SF)

Height: 6'6 ¼" | Weight: 204 pounds | Wingspan: 6'8 ¾" | Vertical: 34"

Facts and stats

  • 58% of his spot-up attempts at KU were no-dribble jumpers, per Synergy data
  • Shot 40.3% from 3-point range on 206 total attempts


Strengths

  • Dead-eye shooter from anywhere on the court with a quick release
  • Cannot be left open; knockdown 3-point shooter in catch-and-shoot situations and has the ability to attack closeouts and create off the dribble
  • Very good 1-on-1 defender; plays physical and uses his length to gain advantage. Doens't have the quickest feet or agility but can hold his own when matched up one-on-one


Weaknesses

  • Can struggle to defend at the point of attack; quicker guards give him fits and may require he need backup help. Projects as secondary-level defender who will not be tasked with defending 1s, but rather, 2s, 3s and in some situations, 4s
  • Needs to improve as playmaker and passer; more turnovers than assists at KU

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32.6 14.1 5.1 1.7 44.2
12 Bilal Coulibaly SF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Bilal Coulibaly | 2023 NBA Draft

Coulibaly helped himself in a big way the last month in helping lead Mets 92 to the Pro A Finals. He's played his way into a potential lottery selection and would make sense for OKC, which historically tends to value long wings with major potential.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Coulibaly draws the Nassir Little comparison on the grounds of his athleticism and length. His wingspan is reportedly over 7 feet, though he wasn't tested at the combine. The French prospect is green from a skill perspective but full of tools and promise.

Pro comparison: Nassir Little

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 19 overall (No. 7 SF)

Height: 6'8" | Weight: 194 pounds

Facts and stats

  • Teaming with this year's top NBA Draft prospect Victor Wembanyama, led Metropolitans 92 to a finals appearance in the top pro league in France
  • Averaged 4.9 PPG and 3.0 RPG in 28 regular-season games
  • Before joining Mets 92 late in the season for its playoff push, averaged 21.9 PPG, 6.4 RPG and 2.6 SPG in 16 games with its under-21 team


Strengths

  • Projects as a high-impact defender because of length and athleticism
  • Highlight-reel finisher who draws help defense when he drives
  • Can generate his own shot off the dribble


Weaknesses

  • Needs to improve his 3-point shooting consistency
  • Mediocre free-throw shooting suggests his shot won't come naturally
  • His assist-to-turnover ratio will need work
13 Kobe Bufkin SG
Full Prospect Breakdown: Kobe Bufkin | 2023 NBA Draft

The belief for Toronto is that they may look to add to their weapons in the backcourt to potentially protect themselves from Fred VanVleet's potential departure. Bufkin is a combo guard who had a breakout second half of the season for Michigan and has the scoring ability to fill it up at every area of the court to go with sound defense.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Ranked as a fringe top-50 prospect out of high school, Bufkin blossomed into a second-year standout at Michigan in 2022-23 while showing off immense improvement as a combo guard and creator. He hit 36% of his 3-pointers and became the No. 1 option for the Wolverines down the stretch while acting as a creator and facilitator, making him an appealing two-way talent who has the physical tools to be a dynamic threat on both ends.

Pro comparison: TyTy Washington

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 18 overall (No. 4 SG)

Height: 6'4 ¼" | Weight: 187 pounds | Wingspan: 6'7 ¾" | Vertical: 36"

Facts and stats

  • Finished in 92nd percentile as at-rim finisher last season, per Synergy data
  • Jumped from 22.2% 3-point shooter to 35.5% 3-point shooter at Michigan


Strengths

  • Silky scorer who plays with effort and is a great finisher around the rim
  • Good defensive tools and instincts who seems to be in the right place at the right time; can be a playmaker who impacts winning and loves to do glue-guy things
  • Really difficult to defend with a head of steam; running off screens or driving downhill is when he is at his best


Weaknesses

  • Good scorer, good playmaker, but can be a "master of none" prospect because he does many things well but nothing at an elite level
  • Small, slender frame brings concerns about how he will physically match up in the NBA

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33.9 14 4.5 2.9 48.2
14 Jalen Hood-Schifino PG
Full Prospect Breakdown: Jalen Hood-Schifino | 2023 NBA Draft

NBA teams are always on the hunt for combo guard/creators like Hood-Schifino, and he flashed enough on both ends at Indiana to push for a potential lottery spot in this year's draft. Great frame, really good defensively, and knows how to attack and make plays off the bounce. His shot needs to become more developmentally consistent but the tools here are undeniable.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Combo guard who thrives at attacking downhill and scoring in the mid-range. Shows flashes of becoming a consistent 3-point shooter but is most comfortable creating for himself and for others by being a disruptive downhill driver.

Pro comparison: Ayo Dosunmu

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 11 overall (No. 3 PG)

Height: 6'4 ¼" | Weight: 217 pounds | Wingspan: 6'10 ¼" | Vertical: N/A

Facts and stats

  • Finished 20 of 64 in catch-and-shoot opportunities at Indiana (including both guarded and unguarded), per Synergy data
  • Hit 33.3% from 3-pointers as freshman at IU


Strengths

  • Combo guard comfortable in playing both on and off the ball and custom-fit to be a hybrid pick-and-roll player in today's NBA
  • Confident scorer who willingly can get to the rim and thrives when matched up in isolation situations
  • Good physical frame and tenacity and willingness to be a multi-positional defender


Weaknesses

  • Improving shooter but needs to make strides as a spot-up weapon to not become one-dimensional; teams can sag off him and dare him to drive to draw extra coverage
  • Electric finisher in open court who makes wow plays in transition, but needs to fine-tune his decision-making when running the floor
  • Has great touch on runners but can struggle at times to finish around the rim

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33 13.5 4.1 3.7 41.7
15 Jett Howard SG
Full Prospect Breakdown: Jett Howard | 2023 NBA Draft

Knock-down shooters aren't easy to come by, and Howard is an exciting one at 6-8. He's a quick decision-maker who can spot up in transition or hit 3-pointers off the dribble, and has also flashed some playmaking ability off of closeouts.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

The son of Michigan coach Juwan Howard played one season for the Wolverines after entering college as the 45th-ranked prospect in the Class of 2022. He seemed undervalued heading into college, and that wound up being the case. Michigan (18-16) had a forgettable season, but Howard showed poise and promise throughout most of his freshman campaign. In addition to having NBA DNA, Howard has so much room to grow.

Pro comparison: Nicolas Batum

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 23 overall (No. 6 SG)

Height: 6'8" | Weight: 215 pounds

Facts and stats

  • Averaged 14.2 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 2.0 APG


Strengths

  • A quality shooter who is a quick study with spacing and how to utilize screens.
  • His range already looks to be NBA-ready. Will not be a surprise if he's hitting 25-footers with confidence and regularity in his rookie season
  • Does not hunt his shots. Howard can be relied upon to help move the ball and is a slightly above-average distributor for his size and position


Weaknesses

  • Not an outright negative, but there is some softness to his game, and that can sometimes be used against him
  • Lacks tenaciousness on defense. Would have a chance at being a firm NBA starter if he can change his game to be more competent one-on-one
  • Tends to want to go right much more than left, but lacks the elite-level explosiveness to overcome this habit

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
31.7 14.2 2.8 2 41.4
16 Keyonte George SG
Full Prospect Breakdown: Keyonte George | 2023 NBA Draft

If you squint a bit at George's game you'll see some shades of Bradley Beal in terms of what he can do as a scorer and combo guard. George impressed NBA teams at his pro day in Chicago during the NBA Draft Combine and appears to be on the rise, though he is a bit of a polarizing prospect who could go in the lottery or slip into the 20s.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

A nagging ankle injury sapped some of George's sensational skill set in his one-and-done season at Baylor, but he has made a strong impression on NBA teams during the pre-draft process both with his athleticism and his polished scoring ability. George led all Big 12 freshmen in scoring last season and showed growth as a playmaker, making him an appealing two-way guard whose offensive versatility is his biggest selling point.

Pro comparison: Bradley Beal

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 13 overall (No. 1 SG)

Height: 6'4" | Weight: 185 pounds

Facts and stats

  • Led all freshmen in Big 12 in PPG (15.8) and finished second among all Big 12 freshmen in APG (2.8)
  • Ranked as the No. 1 shooting guard prospect in the 2022 class by 247Sports and was a consensus five-star, top-10 national recruit


Strengths

  • Dynamic shot-maker and shot-creator who can function as an offensive hub
  • Lots of untapped potential as facilitator and playmaker with good passing and vision
  • Microwave scoring option who can play on and off the ball


Weaknesses

  • Can be streaky at times as a shooter; needs to improve consistency with which he scores
  • Shows playmaking promise, but needs to cut down on turnovers; turnover rate and assist rate were virtually identical during freshman season at Baylor
  • Needs to improve defensive discipline; has tools to be multi-positional defender but has tendency to stand upright and out of stance, and frequently bites on pump fakes

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
28.6 15.3 4.2 2.8 37.6
17 Jaime Jaquez Jr. SG
Full Prospect Breakdown: Jaime Jaquez Jr. | 2023 NBA Draft

Twenty-two-year-olds don't frequently climb this high in drafts much, but Jaquez could be an exception. He's a savvy, experienced guard who can be a creator and scorer and embraces his role as a defensive playmaker to boot. One of the most tough prospects in the class who battled through injuries and still produced at an All-American clip.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

A four-year college player who had an illustrious career at UCLA, Jaquez brings major credentials to the NBA as a three-time All-Pac-12 player and a consensus All-American who starred for the Bruins. Jaquez isn't a flashy athlete, and he'll turn 23 years old during his rookie season, but he's one of the most savvy prospects in the class who can score anywhere and has the smarts to be a sound wing defender who helps in a rotation for years to come.

Pro comparison: Glenn Robinson Jr.

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 25 overall (No. 7 SG)

Height: 6'6" | Weight: 226 pounds | Wingspan: 6'9 ½" | Vertical: 39"

Facts and stats

  • Averaged 17.8 PPG, 8.2 RPG and 2.4 APG


Strengths

  • Multi-functional game. Can penetrate, can hit floaters, shoot from mid-range and deep. One of the best prospects outside the top 20
  • A long battery life and a good dose of athleticism will serve him well in being a long-term role player
  • Good in the clutch. Doesn't shy away from wanting the ball in tough situations


Weaknesses

  • The shiftiness he shows on offense does not translate to defensive prowess
  • Stock is lower because he is not a poised defender for long stretches

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33.3 17.8 8.2 2.4 48.1
18 Brandin Podziemski SG
Full Prospect Breakdown: Brandin Podziemski | 2023 NBA Draft

One of the big winners of the NBA Draft Combine, Podziemski, coming off a breakout season in which he won Co-WCC Player of the Year honors at Santa Clara, goes No. 18 here as a plug-and-play combo guard who can add scoring, playmaking and toughness for a title contender.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Podziemski burst onto the scene at Santa Clara in the 2022-23 season after barely playing as a true freshman at Illinois. He's a combo guard with a trusty 3-point shot and natural distribution skills who plays excellent defense. He hit an absurd 52.1% of his 3-point attempts in conference games on 5.7 attempts per contest.

Pro comparison: John Konchar

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 28 overall (No. 9 SG)

Height: 6'3 ¾" | Weight: 204 pounds | Wingspan: 6'5 ½" | Vertical: 39"

Facts and stats

  • Named 2022-23 West Coast Conference Co-Player of the Year


Strengths

  • One of the best 3-point shooters in the draft class
  • Can play on or off the ball, slotting in as a facilitator or primarily as a shooter
  • Great collegiate defender with the athleticism and instincts to be a good defender in the NBA


Weaknesses

  • Average lateral quickness could be a problem against shifty guards
  • Could be a liability defensively when switched onto bigger wings
  • Relatively poor competition at Santa Clara casts collegiate credentials into doubt

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
36 19.9 8.8 3.7 48.3
19 Dereck Lively II C
Full Prospect Breakdown: Dereck Lively II | 2023 NBA Draft

Best player available here is Lively, the one-and-done Duke big man who was among the most effective rim-protecting players in all of college hoops last season. He's still got some growing to do as an offensive weapon, but his defensive impact is a foundational piece of his game that will translate, and there is a wave of momentum at his sails during the pre-draft process that makes me think this will present real value for the Dubs.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Lively was the No. 2 overall prospect in the Class of 2022, per 247Sports. He had something of a quiet one-and-done season at Duke, which was impacted by injury. The 19-year-old is a high-ceiling prospect due to his bounciness, rim protection, galloping frame and long-term shooting potential. He's considered one of the best bargains and potential boom picks outside of the top 10.

Pro comparison: A blend of Brook Lopez and Jaxson Hayes

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 14 overall (No. 2 C)

Height: 7'1" | Weight: 230 pounds

Facts and stats

  • Averaged 5.2 PPG, 5.4 RPG and 2.4 BPG with 72.1 two-point percentage
  • Named to All-ACC Freshman Team and All-Defensive Team


Strengths

  • Rim-running big who is well-conditioned and eats up space quickly
  • Good help-defense instincts and a defender who has the capacity to guard 2-5 if he puts all his tools together
  • Look out up top! Lively is an alley-oop threat at almost all times


Weaknesses

  • For as good as the shooting stroke is, the results still have a long way to go. Not a proven knock-down shooter, but his potential to be one is why he's projected so high
  • Vision and decision-making in passing situations is pedestrian at this stage for how he'll be used in the NBA
  • Needs more discipline as a defender; gets into foul trouble too frequently

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
20.5 5.2 5.4 1.1 65.8
20 Nick Smith Jr. SG
Full Prospect Breakdown: Nick Smith Jr. | 2023 NBA Draft

A nagging knee injury cost Smith Jr. real exposure to showcase himself on a big stage this season after carrying momentum into the season as a potential top-three pick. But the No. 1 recruit from the 2022 class, an immensely talented scorer and slasher, is still someone I think teams will be glad to bring in and develop, and in this range he'd be a no-brainer.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

The former top-ranked prospect from the 2022 recruiting cycle by 247Sports dealt with a right knee injury that forced him to miss significant time this past season. The 6-foot-5 combo guard showed flashes in the limited action he played in on why he was the No. 1 recruit in America before stepping foot on campus. His shot-making ability should translate to the next level and it is considered one of if not his greatest abilities as a player.

Pro comparison: Tyler Herro

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 17 overall (No. 3 SG)

Height: 6'5" | Weight: 185 pounds

Facts and stats

  • Averaged 12.5 points, 1.7 assists and 1.6 rebounds in 17 games (14 starts)


Strengths

  • Elite shotmaker who scores in a variety of ways including on contested mid-range jumpers and floaters
  • Lethal catch-and-shoot threat with fluid shooting mechanics
  • Can impact the game on both sides of the ball with his wingspan and showed flashes of being a two-way player


Weaknesses

  • Has a long-and-lean frame and would benefit tremendously from added weight to handle the physicality of the NBA
  • Finishing around the rim was an issue and a right knee injury that forced him to miss over half the season limited the explosiveness he showed in high school
  • Playmaking and facilitating was something Smith didn't show a ton of at Arkansas and will need to improve to be a true guard at the next level

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
25.8 12.5 1.6 1.7 37.6
21 Kris Murray PF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Kris Murray | 2023 NBA Draft

Murray had a breakout season for Iowa averaging north of 20 points per game while showing off range as a 3-point shooter. He's a combo forward who brings versatility, polish and size.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

The twin brother of former Iowa star Keegan Murray, Kris, also hailing from the Hawkeyes, brings similar scoring instincts and upside after a breakout season at Iowa last season. He's a gifted scorer inside and out with great size and skill who can run in transition, pick apart defenders in iso situations and score in the mid-range. He also hit 33.5% of his 3-pointers last season.

Pro comparison: Jalen Johnson

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 20 overall (No. 3 PF)

Height: 6'7 ¾" | Weight: 213 pounds | Wingspan: 6'11 ¾ " | Vertical: 35"

Facts and stats

  • Rated in 91st percentile as post-up scorer at Iowa last season, per Synergy data, particularly thriving on the left block with his strong hand being a finisher
  • Career 34.8% 3-point shooter across three seasons on 313 attempts


Strengths

  • Jumbo forward who can defend and present length as a specialized wing with major defensive upside
  • Crafty scorer who can get his own but doesn't force the action; plays smart and moves the ball within the flow of things without being too pushy
  • Really good scorer whose talents extend beyond the 3-point line; can be a deadeye shooter from distance in catch-and-shoot/spot-up situations


Weaknesses

  • One of the older prospects in the class; set to turn 23 before rookie season begins
  • Not the most athletic or agile athlete; more of a silky scorer and finisher than a sudden one, winning often with smarts. His lack of separation may be a difficult transition for him in the NBA

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
34.7 20.2 7.9 2 47.6
22 Leonard Miller SF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Leonard Miller | 2023 NBA Draft

Miller is a double-double machine who was playing like one of the best prospects for G League Ignite by the end of the season. His long-term potential as a big wing who can pass and defend presents nice value for the Nets, who have back-to-back picks here.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Miller emerged as a legitimate first-round prospect after deciding to skip college and play for the G-League Ignite. He's a 6-foot-9 forward with a 7-foot-2 wingspan who shot 57.5% on 2-pointers this season.

Pro comparison: Paul Millsap

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 15 overall (No. 6 SF)

Height: 6'9 ¼" | Weight: 213 pounds | Wingspan: 7'2" | Vertical: 37 ½"

Facts and stats

  • Won a silver medal with Canada at the 2019 FIBA Under-16 Americas Championship before signing with the G-League Ignite
  • Averaged 15.1 points and 8.6 rebounds in 14 games this season


Strengths

  • Nice athlete who can rebound out of his area
  • Comfortable finishing around the rim with either hand
  • Can attack closeouts to create scoring opportunities


Weaknesses

  • Has never shown he can be a reliable 3-point shooter
  • Often loses focus on the defensive end of the court
23 Jordan Hawkins SG
Full Prospect Breakdown: Jordan Hawkins | 2023 NBA Draft

No player in this class is more skilled as a spot-up shooter than Hawkins, whose ability to be his own offensive hub because of his space-creation is underrated and under-appreciated. He profiles as a Duncan Robinson-like talent who can specialize as a floor-spacing scorer.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Hawkins is widely viewed as one of the best shooters in the 2023 NBA Draft. He's a 6-foot-4 guard with a 6-foot-7 wingspan who made 38.8% of the 7.6 3-pointers he attempted per game this season while helping UConn win the national title.

Pro comparison: Devin Vassell

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 16 overall (No. 2 SG)

Height: 6'4 ¼" | Weight: 186 pounds | Wingspan: 6'6 ¾" | Vertical: N/A

Facts and stats

  • Finished as UConn's second-leading scorer (16.2) and sixth-leading rebounder (3.8) while earning first-team All-Big East honors in 2022-23


Strengths

  • Elite shooter with a quick release
  • Great motor that allows him to move constantly without the ball
  • Solid defender both on and off the ball


Weaknesses

  • Doesn't really have the handle to provide minutes at lead guard
  • Slender frame allows him to get pushed around sometimes

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
29.3 16.2 3.8 1.3 40.9
24 Olivier-Maxence Prosper SF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Olivier-Maxence Prosper | 2023 NBA Draft

Prosper played so well on the first day of scrimmages at the combine that he pulled out of the second day, showing so much as an energetic combo forward that he likely solidified himself as a top-30 pick in this class. A really athletic, long forward who can shoot and impact winning with effort.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Prosper solidified himself as a real first-round option with an impressive showing at the NBA Draft Combine. He's a top-shelf athlete who plays hard on both sides of the ball and should be a nice role player, at worst.

Pro comparison: P.J. Tucker

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 30 overall (No. 11 SF)

Height: 6'6 ¾" | Weight: 212 pounds | Wingspan: 7'1" | Vertical: 40 ½"

Facts and stats

  • Attended an NBA academy in Mexico City before spending one season at Clemson and two more at Marquette
  • Averaged 12.5 PPG and 4.7 RPG this season while helping the Golden Eagles win the Big East


Strengths

  • Explosive athlete who moves well laterally and jumps out of the gym
  • Switchable defender
  • Great motor


Weaknesses

  • Doesn't yet have the skills to be much of a playmaker
  • Has never consistently made 3-pointers

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
29.2 12.5 4.7 0.7 51.2
25 Trayce Jackson-Davis
IndianaMOCK TRADE from BOS
PF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Trayce Jackson-Davis | 2023 NBA Draft

Mock Trade from: BOS

Big men who don't shoot 3-pointers don't pop off the page as definite first-rounders, and yet Jackson-Davis by most measures appears to be an anomaly. He's a dominant interior scorer and rebounder who shows great touch and makes great plays as a passer, and there is optimism in NBA circles that he will in time develop into a floor-spacer.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Jackson-Davis elected to return to Indiana for a final season after withdrawing his name for consideration for the 2022 NBA Draft and produced another high-level year in Bloomington. Jackson-Davis left Indiana as the program's all-time leader in rebounds and blocks and projects as an undersized small-ball center at the NBA level. He had one more season of eligibility but elected to go through with the draft process this time around.

Pro comparison: John Collins

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 29 overall (No. 4 PF)

Height: 6'8 ¼" | Weight: 240 pounds | Wingspan: 7'1" | Vertical: 36 ½"

Facts and stats

  • CBS Sports first-team All-American
  • Averaged 20.9 PPG, 10.8 RPG, 4 APG and 2.9 BPG as a senior


Strengths

  • Exceptional athlete for his size who finished around the rim at a high level, especially off pick-and-rolls and dump offs
  • Solid rim protector with a high motor, which helps him guard smaller players on the perimeter on switches
  • Ability to go coast-to-coast and score or facilitate in transition off an opposing miss


Weaknesses

  • Tends to favor his dominant left hand on finishes around the rim and uses it even when going right
  • Hasn't shown the ability to stretch the floor and knock down shots consistently from mid-range or beyond the arc
  • Struggles guarding bigger and stronger defenders in the post when playing center

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
34.6 20.9 10.8 4 58.2
26 Noah Clowney PF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Noah Clowney | 2023 NBA Draft

Clowney received a green room invite to the draft, suggesting he's likely a first-round pick. In a class thin on bigs, his value as a shot-blocking center with 3-point shooting potential could be boosted.

Draft prospect outlook

Pro comparison: Jaden McDaniels

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 41 overall (No. 6 PF)

Height: 6'10" | Weight: 210 pounds 

Facts and stats

  • Named to SEC All-Freshman Team


Strengths

  • Long and rangy, capable of playing the four or five
  • Coordinated enough to defend on perimeter
  • Budding offensive arsenal that includes impressive efficiency at the rim and in the paint


Weaknesses

  • His 3-point shot remains a work in progress
  • Needs to add muscle in order to deal with physicality of NBA bigs
  • Seems uncomfortable off the dribble when defenders close out

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
25.3 9.8 7.9 0.8 48.6
27 Ben Sheppard SG
Full Prospect Breakdown: Ben Sheppard | 2023 NBA Draft

Sheppard had a tremendous pre-draft process and starred at the NBA Draft Combine, showcasing his shooting ability. He plays hard on both ends and could wind up in the back end of the first round.

Draft prospect outlook

Pro comparison: Quentin Grimes

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 44 overall (No. 16 SG)

Height: 6'5 ¼" | Weight: 195 pounds | Wingspan: 6'7 ¾" | Vertical: 35 ½"

Facts and stats

  • Two-time first-team Ohio Valley Conference selection
  • Averaged 18.8 PPG and 5.2 RPG as a senior


Strengths

  • Ability to knock down mid-range jumpers and three-pointers off different movements and actions
  • Terrific feel as a passer, can create for others within the flow of an offense


Weaknesses

  • Scoring and finishing around the basket, which could be correlated to his lean frame
  • Not quick enough to defend faster guards and is more suited guarding less athletic wings at the next level

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
34.3 18.8 5.2 2.9 47.5
28 Rayan Rupert SF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Rayan Rupert | 2023 NBA Draft

A developmental wing with real skill and a defensive baseline, Rupert hails from the NBL's New Zealand Breakers as an intriguing long-term talent worth gambling on in this range. He has incredible movement skills and flashes serious upside as a creator and downhill driver. Lots of tools to like.

Draft prospect outlook

Pro comparison: Terrance Ferguson

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 31 overall (No. 12 SF)

Height: 6'6" | Weight: 193 pounds | Wingspan: 7'2" | Vertical: 32 ½"

Facts and stats

  • Averaged 5.9 PPG, 2.1 RPG and 0.7 SPG for the New Zealand Breakers of the National Basketball League as part of the Next Stars Program, which produced LaMelo Ball, Ousmane Dieng, Josh Giddey and R.J. Hampton
  • Helped lead the prestigious INSEP Academy in Paris to the 2021-22 EuroLeague Basketball Adidas Next Generation Tournament Finals 


Strengths

  • Great on-ball defender because of his size and length
  • Should be able to switch and guard 1-5 with fluidity
  • Coordinated and shifty ball-handler with knack for creating space and angles


Weaknesses

  • 3-point shooting needs to improve for long-term NBA success
  • Needs to build out his frame to withstand NBA rigors
  • Remains an inefficient shooter due to limited scoring skillset outside of transition scenarios
29 Dariq Whitehead
DukeMOCK TRADE from DEN
SF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Dariq Whitehead | 2023 NBA Draft

Mock Trade from: DEN

Whitehead is one of the more intriguing prospects in the class, and another recent foot surgery only adds to the mystery. If healthy, though, he could be the steal of the draft with his size and scoring ability. The Nuggets may be hunting for a more immediate win-now piece, but they have shown a willingness to gamble on big talents like Bol Bol and Michael Porter Jr. who wound up slipping to them in recent years.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Whitehead's freshman season with the Blue Devils got off to a rocky start when he had to have surgery months before the start of the season to repair a fracture in his right foot. Whitehead is a former five-star prospect who came into the season with a ton of hype around his name. He was considered a very explosive and athletic wing coming out of high school, and you have to assume that injury played a part in him not looking like himself in that department during the start of the season. He is still one of the top wing prospects in this year's draft.

Pro comparison: Ochai Agbaji

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 24 overall (No. 9 SF)

Height: 6'-5 ¾" | Weight: 217 | Wingspan: 6'-10 ¼" | Vertical: N/A

Facts and stats

  • Averaged 8.3 points and 2.4 rebounds in 20.7 minutes of action in 28 games
  • Missed the first four games of the season because of the foot fracture


Strengths

  • Fluid shooting motion with a high release point that helped him average over 43% on over three attempts per game from distance
  • Versatile defender with a lengthy wingspan that will help him guard multiple positions at the next level
  • Showed flashes as an isolation scorer with an ability to finish around the basket with a soft touch floater


Weaknesses

  • Drawing foul attempts and getting to the free-throw line is something he didn't show much of during his freshman season; only averaged one free-throw attempt per game
  • Poor screen navigator and occasionally got lost on the defensive end during switches
  • Multiple foot surgeries limited the athleticism and explosiveness he showed in high school, and it hasn't been the same post-surgery

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
20.5 8.3 2.4 1 42.1
30 Maxwell Lewis SF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Maxwell Lewis | 2023 NBA Draft

Lewis is a fun, intriguing prospect who has showcased basically every skill you're looking for in an NBA wing -- catch-and-shoot prowess, one-on-one scoring, finishing at the rim, defensive versatility. His 7-foot wingspan allows him to collect steals and throw down some impressive dunks in traffic. He ran into trouble at Pepperdine trying to do a little too much, so he would flourish in a simplified role with the Jazz.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Ranked as the No. 133 player in the Class of 2020, Lewis in two seasons at Pepperdine blossomed into one of college basketball's most underrated stars. He averaged a career-high 17.1 points and 5.7 rebounds per game as a sophomore in 2022-23 while earning All-WCC honors and playing his way into a bonafide NBA prospect thanks to his production profile, ideal frame and knack for scoring.

Pro comparison: Devin Vassell

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 27 overall (No. 10 SF)

Height: 6'6 ¼" | Weight: 207 pounds | Wingspan: 7'0" | Vertical: 36 ½"

Facts and stats

  • Played two seasons at Pepperdine, where he averaged 17.1 PPG and 5.7 RPG as a sophomore while shooting 34.8% from 3-point range


Strengths

  • Shoots with proper form and from the perimeter reliably
  • Good ball-handler even though he's not a point guard
  • Versatile defender who guards enthusiastically


Weaknesses

  • Not an elite athlete
  • Sometimes struggles to create separation in isolation

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
31.4 17.1 5.7 2.8 46.9
# Team Player Pos
1 Victor Wembanyama C
Reaction: Spurs Select Victor Wembanyama No. 1 Overall

Wembanyama has been described as the most unique, and arguably best, teenage basketball prospect the world has ever seen. If things break the right way, the French sensation could develop into the best offensive and the best defensive player in the NBA, one who eventually adds championships to San Antonio's trophy case.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Wembanyama has long been considered one of the best basketball prospects on the planet and a generational talent. Standing 7-foot-4 with an 8-foot wingspan, Wembanyama projects as the No. 1 player in the class and one of the best basketball prospects since LeBron James with his rare combination of size, skill and defensive versatility.

Pro comparison: Kristaps Porzingis' length and shooting with Rudy Gobert's shot-blocking

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 1 overall (No. 1 C)

Height: 7'4" | Weight: 237 pounds | Wingspan: 8'0"

Facts and stats

  • Led LNB Pro A in PPG (21.5), RPG (10.4) and BPG (3.0) playing for Metropolitans 92


Strengths

  • Advanced ball-handling skills for his position and size
  • Elite defensive prospect who can cover ground quickly and moves fluidly
  • Great defensive anchor who can block shots from anywhere on the court; affects shots with his length and long frame
  • Mechanically sound shot and repeatable shooting motion that extends to the 3-point line


Weaknesses

  • Tall, slender frame raises questions about how his body could hold up in the NBA; he plays roughly once weekly with Mets 92, can he play 82 games in an NBA season and be durable?
  • Can sometimes be turnover prone and foul prone; he struggles sometimes to play within himself and frequently, likely because of his situation, tries to do too much
  • Has tendency to take wild shots, though even the one-legged trick shots frequently fall through the hoop
2 Scoot Henderson PG
Full Prospect Breakdown: Scoot Henderson | 2023 NBA Draft

Henderson emerged as a heavy favorite in the hours leading up to the draft to be the No. 2 pick, which is a development that seems worthy of respecting in this mock. He's a super-athletic lead guard who skipped college for the G-League Ignite and was widely considered the second-best prospect in the draft (behind only Wembanyama) before Miller had an incredible freshman season at Alabama.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

A former five-star recruit from Marietta, Georgia, Henderson is a first-of-his-kind prospect who spent two seasons with G League Ignite, developing the last two years into a bona fide top-five prospect in the 2023 draft class. Henderson's combination of playmaking, athleticism and competitiveness makes him an appealing lead guard who could serve as a building block for a franchise.

Pro Comparison: Collin Sexton

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 2 overall (No. 1 PG)

Height: 6'2" | Weight: 195 pounds

Facts and Stats

  • Led G League Ignite in PPG (17.6), APG (6.6) and SPG (1.2) in 2022-23
  • Shot 33% on catch-and-shoot jumpers and 31.3% on pull-up jumpers from beyond the arc
  • Reported 6-foot-9 wingspan makes him one of the longer athletes comparative to height in this class


Strengths

  • High-level competitor who plays with an edge and chip on his shoulder
  • Bouncy athlete who is unafraid to attack the basket and can finish around the rim
  • Tight handles help him operate as a lead guard; has savvy to facilitate for others and knows when to be aggressive


Weaknesses

  • Capable outside shooter but did not make developmental leap as 3-point shooter that some hoped he would
  • Good, but not great frame; a really good defensive hound at point of attack but doesn't project as switchable defender
  • Needs to improve as a shooter, particularly in catch-and-shoot situations, to become a more rounded weapon
3 Brandon Miller SF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Brandon Miller | 2023 NBA Draft

There's a lot of speculation that Portland will move this pick for an experienced piece who is better equipped to help Damian Lillard win now. Either way, the expectation is that Miller will likely be the third player off the board regardless of which franchise makes the pick (unless somebody moves up specifically to take a Thompson twin).

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Long wings who can score are among the more valuable archetypes in the NBA, and Miller projects neatly as exactly that. The former five-star recruit was a first-team All-American, led all freshmen in scoring last season at Alabama and led the Tide to SEC regular-season and tournament championships while going on to secure a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament.

Pro comparison: Playmaking Jabari Smith Jr.

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 3 overall (No. 1 SF)

Height: 6'9" | Weight: 200 pounds

Facts and stats

  • Named to AP and CBS Sports All-America first team
  • Led SEC in PPG and led all freshmen in PPG in 2022-23
  • Finished in 22nd percentile as at-rim finisher on shots that qualified as layup per Synergy data, finishing 46.8% (58/124) on such shots
  • Shot 38.4% from 3-point line on 276 attempts


Strengths

  • Excellent shooter who can be a threat from distance and space the floor
  • Can create and operate as ball-handler in spots; knows how to operate in transition and savvy at creating looks for himself
  • Long frame with big reach; projects as solid wing defender and embraced his role on defensive end as true freshman for Alabama team that finished top-three in adjusted efficiency on defense


Weaknesses

  • Improved during the season at Alabama but still can struggle finishing around the rim
  • Shows signs of being a good playmaker and passer but can be turnover-prone; had a higher turnover rate than assist rate in one season at Alabama
  • Has tendency to play rushed when running as lead guard in pick-and-roll
  • Doesn't do a great job of setting up his defender on screens and makes mistakes with loose handle/errant passes

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32.6 18.8 8.2 2.1 43.0
4 Amen Thompson SF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Amen Thompson | 2023 NBA Draft

The Rockets have some interesting pieces but are still in take-the-best-prospect-available mode. In most people's eyes, at this point in the draft, that prospect is Thompson, a top-shelf athlete who can play lead guard and is maybe just a reliable jump shot away from being a star.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Thompson is the twin brother of Ausar, both of whom project as lottery picks in the 2023 draft. Amen is a natural playmaker who has explosive athletic ability and a long frame to buttress one of the most exciting long-term profiles in the class. He spent the last two seasons developing with Overtime Elite and could be the program's first player selected in the first round - if his twin brother doesn't beat him to the punch.

Pro comparison: Dejounte Murray

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 4 overall (No. 2 SF)

Height: 6'5 ¾" | Weight: 214 pounds | Wingspan: 7'0" | Vertical: N/A

Facts and stats

  • Shot 25% from three with OTE in 2022-23
  • Led OTE in playoffs with 9.2 APG in helping lead the City Reapers to a championship


Strengths

  • Special athlete with rare combination of size and leaping ability for a point guard prospect
  • Twitchy with his ability to stop and start
  • Can make advanced reads as playmaker and facilitator


Weaknesses

  • Can be turnover-prone, a product of trying to force passes into tight windows
  • Jump shot has improved but needs to continue developing
  • Level of competition faced against OTE leaves questions about scouting him and how his game will project early on
5 Cam Whitmore SF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Cam Whitmore | 2023 NBA Draft

Whitmore reportedly had a super-impressive pro day in California that pushed him into this range of the draft. The 6-7 wing is a great athlete with an elite body and in possession of most of the attributes that are usually necessary to star in the NBA.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

The first Villanova one-and-done since Tim Thomas in 1997, Whitmore brings power and explosiveness to the table as one of the most appealing long-term wing prospects in this year's draft class. A former five-star recruit who ranked as the No. 1 prospect in his class from Maryland, Whitmore is an above-the-rim wing finisher who can provide floor-spacing as a spot-up threat and showed immense talent making shots in a variety of ways, though his playmaking ability for others is an area of improvement. 

Pro comparison: Miles Bridges

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 5 overall (No. 3 SF)

Height: 6'5 ¾ " | Weight: 235 pounds | Wingspan: 6'8 ½" | Vertical: 40 ½"

Facts and stats

  • Turnover rate (15.1%) more than double his assist rate (6.4%) at Villanova
  • 85% of his drives in college were to his left, per Synergy data


Strengths

  • Explosive athlete with jaw-dropping hops who can finish above the rim and thrives in transition
  • Good catch-and-shoot weapon; hit 34.3% of 3s at Villanova and rated in 84th percentile in catch-and-shoot across all opportunities, per Synergy data
  • Powerful athletic ability that he uses to attack downhill; can be a load for defenders to keep in front of and has good off-the-ball creation flashes
  • Smart cutter who plays well off the ball and knows when to flash into gaps in the defense
  • Can be a winner in isolation situations given his power and athletic ability


Weaknesses

  • Needs to improve playmaking ability; very low assist rate in one college season, though he was mostly asked to play as an attacking wing and not as a creator
  • His unwillingness/inability to make plays for others slows down the flow of the offense and can lead to him making forced errors

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
27.2 12.5 5.3 0.7 47.8
6 Ausar Thompson SF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Ausar Thompson | 2023 NBA Draft

This Thompson is Amen's twin brother and a comparable talent whom some believe is actually the superior prospect. He would be a nice building block in Orlando next to frontcourt standouts Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner even if the fit isn't exactly perfect.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

The twin brother of potential top-five pick Amen Thompson, Ausar, like his brother, has long been viewed as a bluechip prospect with NBA pedigree. Ausar spent the last two seasons developing with Overtime Elite and has grown into his own as a gifted scorer and improved shot-maker. He brings great size and skill to the wing spot and projects as a boom prospect with loads of long-term upside.

Pro comparison: Andrew Wiggins

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 6 overall (No. 4 SF)

Height: 6'5 ¾" | Weight: 218 pounds | Wingspan: 7'00" | Vertical: N/A

Facts and stats

  • Led OTE in regular season in APG (6.1)
  • Shot 40% on catch-and-shoot jumpers in OTE playoffs (12 of 30)


Strengths

  • Has made significant developmental strides as a shooter and functional scorer
  • Top-shelf athlete like his twin brother who can play above the rim and use his length to affect plays on defense
  • Improving finisher with good shooting touch around the basket


Weaknesses

  • Still not a reliable shooter; while he has made improvements in this area, he still needs to work on strengthening his shot to become a threat
  • Can struggle to finish through contact - or finish in general - when getting to the rim
  • Can get boxed out in offensive situations; really good in transition and shows signs of promise as a playmaker with the ball, but hard to envision him being a star if his shooting doesn't improve
7 Jarace Walker PF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Jarace Walker | 2023 NBA Draft

Walker will enter the NBA with incredible physical attributes and should be more immediately capable of making an impact defensively than offensively. In time, he'll be able to play the four and some small-ball five, and All-Star Game appearances are possible if the former Houston standout's offensive game develops as he grows older.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Walker became the highest-rated signee in Houston men's basketball history in 2022 in signing with the Cougars out of high school, and paid off right away as a floor-spacing forward with talents galore on both ends of the floor. He was a versatile defensive weapon and Swiss Army knife offensive player for a 33-win Houston team that was primarily comprised of upperclassmen, and there is untapped potential in his game as a playmaker and scorer that should be unlocked with NBA spacing.

Pro comparison: Thomas Bryant

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 7 overall (No. 1 PF)

Height: 6'6 ½" | Weight: 249 pounds | Wingspan: 7'2 ½" | Vertical: 38"

Facts and stats

  • Shot 34.7% from 3 on 101 attempts as freshman for Houston
  • McDonald's All-American and former five-star recruit who went on to win AAC Freshman of the Year honors in 2022-23


Strengths

  • Playmaking power forward who has guard-like playmaking and passing vision
  • Physically advanced body and frame with movement skills and fluidity of a four-year college player
  • Gifted playmaker with off-the-dribble skills; projects as combination forward who can slide anywhere from the wing to a small-ball center


Weaknesses

  • Can fade in and out of action. Was the best talent on a veteran Houston team, but had a tendency to be standoffish.
  • Has playmaking upside as both a creator and passer, but had a higher turnover rate than assist rate as freshman, partly due to erratic decision-making and partly due to carelessness when handling the ball and driving.

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
27.5 11.2 6.8 1.8 46.5
8 Jalen Hood-Schifino PG
Full Prospect Breakdown: Jalen Hood-Schifino | 2023 NBA Draft

Hood-Schifino is a super-talented combo guard who has a more-dependable 3-point shot than what he showed in his one season at Indiana. He could theoretically become the first important piece the Wizards add to the franchise to start a rebuild less than a week after trading Bradley Beal to the Suns.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Combo guard who thrives at attacking downhill and scoring in the mid-range. Shows flashes of becoming a consistent 3-point shooter but is most comfortable creating for himself and for others by being a disruptive downhill driver.

Pro comparison: Ayo Dosunmu

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 11 overall (No. 3 PG)

Height: 6'4 ¼" | Weight: 217 pounds | Wingspan: 6'10 ¼" | Vertical: N/A

Facts and stats

  • Finished 20 of 64 in catch-and-shoot opportunities at Indiana (including both guarded and unguarded), per Synergy data
  • Hit 33.3% from 3-pointers as freshman at IU


Strengths

  • Combo guard comfortable in playing both on and off the ball and custom-fit to be a hybrid pick-and-roll player in today's NBA
  • Confident scorer who willingly can get to the rim and thrives when matched up in isolation situations
  • Good physical frame and tenacity and willingness to be a multi-positional defender


Weaknesses

  • Improving shooter but needs to make strides as a spot-up weapon to not become one-dimensional; teams can sag off him and dare him to drive to draw extra coverage
  • Electric finisher in open court who makes wow plays in transition, but needs to fine-tune his decision-making when running the floor
  • Has great touch on runners but can struggle at times to finish around the rim

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33 13.5 4.1 3.7 41.7
9 Taylor Hendricks PF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Taylor Hendricks | 2023 NBA Draft

Hendricks is an out-of-nowhere one-and-done prospect who is likely to go in the lottery despite being a sub-80 prospect in the Class of 2022. He's the type of tall, athletic and a proven shooter who could help progress Utah's rebuild.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Ranked as the No. 84 player in the Class of 2022 coming out of high school in Florida, Hendricks is the most meteoric of risers over the last year among potential top-10 picks after a stellar one-and-done season at UCF. He flashed dominance as a do-it-all defender and shot nearly 40% from 3 on 155 attempts throughout the year, earning second-team All-AAC honors as a true freshman.

Pro comparison: Jaden McDaniels

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 9 overall (No. 2 PF)

Height: 6'8 ¼" | Weight: 214 pounds | Wingspan: 7'0 ½" | Vertical: 36"

Facts and stats

  • Rated in the 98th percentile as post-up defender at UCF, per Synergy, allowing only a staggering 0.4 points per possession
  • One of the best transition players at his position in the draft, averaging 1.458 points per possession, per Synergy data


Strengths

  • Versatile defensive prospect who brings good length, smarts and savvy positioning to the table for his position
  • Excellent shooter who showed shot-making skills and shot-making versatility not only as a floor-spacing spot-up threat but also in some dynamic situations off the dribble and attacking
  • Explosive athlete who can be a pogo-stick leaper and lob threat around the basket; that skill allows him to recover on defense and act as a high-level rim protector and weak-side shot blocker


Weaknesses

  • Shows great shooting touch but his finishing ability at the rim leaves something to be desired; improved strength and reps will in time likely quell concerns
  • Needs to show improvement as a playmaker and decision-maker to hit his high-end NBA outcome; had more turnovers than assists and sometimes looked out of his depth when asked to make plays with the ball in his hands

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
34.7 15.1 7 1.4 47.8
10 Anthony Black PG
Full Prospect Breakdown: Anthony Black | 2023 NBA Draft

Black has great size for his position and the ability to make plays out of pick-and-rolls. Those attributes combined with a high basketball IQ make him a sensible option for a Dallas franchise that might need a lead guard given the uncertainty surrounding Kyrie Irving.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Black was the No. 1-ranked point guard prospect in the Class of 2022 and a consensus five-star recruit who signed with Arkansas out of high school. He led the team in assists and minutes per game as a true freshman in 2022-23 and profiles as a big-bodied combo guard who can make plays and score. If his 3-point shot shows continued improvement, he will be one of the most complete NBA prospects in this class.

Pro comparison: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 8 overall (No. 2 PG)

Height: 6'5 ¾" | Weight: 210 pounds | Wingspan: 6'7 ½" | Vertical: 39"

Facts and stats

  • Led all Arkansas players as true freshman in assist rate at 20.9% and steal rate 3.4%, per KenPom data
  • Shot 30.1% from 3 on 93 attempts at Arkansas


Strengths

  • Smart guard who has quick processing skills and showed he can function as a facilitator and playmaker
  • Big frame who uses it well as a dynamic defensive player; knows how to slither his way to spots on offense as smooth operator
  • Immense feel for the game as young player; knows how to read defenses as lead guard and has innate sense for where to be and when


Weaknesses

  • Needs to improve his shooting, particularly as spot-up shooter and in distance shooting; he shot 30.1% from 3 and rated in the 34th percentile in spot-up shooting situations
  • Rarely put in isolation situations at Arkansas, but in the instances he was, he averaged .375 points per possession, which was in the fifth percentile among all college players last season, per Synergy. His creation ability and talents to create space one-on-one need improvement.

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
34.3 12.8 5.1 3.9 45.3
11 Gradey Dick SF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Gradey Dick | 2023 NBA Draft

Dick is arguably the best shooter in this draft, one who made 40.3% of the 5.7 3-pointers he attempted per game in his one season at Kansas. The wing would be a welcomed addition to an Orlando franchise that finished 25th in the NBA in 3-point field goal percentage this season.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

One of the best knockdown shooters in the 2023 NBA Draft, Dick brings both size, skill and scoring to the wing position as a multi-talented bucket-getter who can fill it up in a variety of ways. He's a heady off-ball player who has the IQ to be a smart cutter and slasher and thrives in transition, where he can use his athleticism to be a finisher.

Pro comparison: Kevin Huerter

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 10 overall (No. 5 SF)

Height: 6'6 ¼" | Weight: 204 pounds | Wingspan: 6'8 ¾" | Vertical: 34"

Facts and stats

  • 58% of his spot-up attempts at KU were no-dribble jumpers, per Synergy data
  • Shot 40.3% from 3-point range on 206 total attempts


Strengths

  • Dead-eye shooter from anywhere on the court with a quick release
  • Cannot be left open; knockdown 3-point shooter in catch-and-shoot situations and has the ability to attack closeouts and create off the dribble
  • Very good 1-on-1 defender; plays physical and uses his length to gain advantage. Doens't have the quickest feet or agility but can hold his own when matched up one-on-one


Weaknesses

  • Can struggle to defend at the point of attack; quicker guards give him fits and may require he need backup help. Projects as secondary-level defender who will not be tasked with defending 1s, but rather, 2s, 3s and in some situations, 4s
  • Needs to improve as playmaker and passer; more turnovers than assists at KU

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32.6 14.1 5.1 1.7 44.2
12 Bilal Coulibaly SF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Bilal Coulibaly | 2023 NBA Draft

Coulibaly emerged as a legitimate first-round option during a deep playoff run alongside Wembanyama in France. He's still just 18 years old but already viewed as a wing with a 7-3 wingspan who can be a versatile defender on one end of the court and an explosive rim-attacker on the other.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Coulibaly draws the Nassir Little comparison on the grounds of his athleticism and length. His wingspan is reportedly over 7 feet, though he wasn't tested at the combine. The French prospect is green from a skill perspective but full of tools and promise.

Pro comparison: Nassir Little

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 19 overall (No. 7 SF)

Height: 6'8" | Weight: 194 pounds

Facts and stats

  • Teaming with this year's top NBA Draft prospect Victor Wembanyama, led Metropolitans 92 to a finals appearance in the top pro league in France
  • Averaged 4.9 PPG and 3.0 RPG in 28 regular-season games
  • Before joining Mets 92 late in the season for its playoff push, averaged 21.9 PPG, 6.4 RPG and 2.6 SPG in 16 games with its under-21 team


Strengths

  • Projects as a high-impact defender because of length and athleticism
  • Highlight-reel finisher who draws help defense when he drives
  • Can generate his own shot off the dribble


Weaknesses

  • Needs to improve his 3-point shooting consistency
  • Mediocre free-throw shooting suggests his shot won't come naturally
  • His assist-to-turnover ratio will need work
13 Jett Howard SG
Full Prospect Breakdown: Jett Howard | 2023 NBA Draft

The Raptors ranked 28th this season in 3-point field goal percentage, which is among the reasons Howard makes sense here. He can play multiple positions, reliably make shots from the perimeter and is just, broadly speaking, a good-sized player with a well-rounded skill set, in part because he's the son of a former NBA player and high-major college coach.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

The son of Michigan coach Juwan Howard played one season for the Wolverines after entering college as the 45th-ranked prospect in the Class of 2022. He seemed undervalued heading into college, and that wound up being the case. Michigan (18-16) had a forgettable season, but Howard showed poise and promise throughout most of his freshman campaign. In addition to having NBA DNA, Howard has so much room to grow.

Pro comparison: Nicolas Batum

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 23 overall (No. 6 SG)

Height: 6'8" | Weight: 215 pounds

Facts and stats

  • Averaged 14.2 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 2.0 APG


Strengths

  • A quality shooter who is a quick study with spacing and how to utilize screens.
  • His range already looks to be NBA-ready. Will not be a surprise if he's hitting 25-footers with confidence and regularity in his rookie season
  • Does not hunt his shots. Howard can be relied upon to help move the ball and is a slightly above-average distributor for his size and position


Weaknesses

  • Not an outright negative, but there is some softness to his game, and that can sometimes be used against him
  • Lacks tenaciousness on defense. Would have a chance at being a firm NBA starter if he can change his game to be more competent one-on-one
  • Tends to want to go right much more than left, but lacks the elite-level explosiveness to overcome this habit

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
31.7 14.2 2.8 2 41.4
14 Kobe Bufkin SG
Full Prospect Breakdown: Kobe Bufkin | 2023 NBA Draft

Bufkin's pre-draft workouts have garnered rave reviews, so much so that the guard with a 6-8 wingspan is now expected to be a lottery pick. He made 35.5% of the 3.7 3-pointers he attempted per game this season and would provide backcourt depth for a New Orleans franchise capable of contending in the West if Williamson finds a way to get in shape and stay healthy, provided, of course, the former No. 1 pick isn't moved in advance of, or during, the draft.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Ranked as a fringe top-50 prospect out of high school, Bufkin blossomed into a second-year standout at Michigan in 2022-23 while showing off immense improvement as a combo guard and creator. He hit 36% of his 3-pointers and became the No. 1 option for the Wolverines down the stretch while acting as a creator and facilitator, making him an appealing two-way talent who has the physical tools to be a dynamic threat on both ends.

Pro comparison: TyTy Washington

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 18 overall (No. 4 SG)

Height: 6'4 ¼" | Weight: 187 pounds | Wingspan: 6'7 ¾" | Vertical: 36"

Facts and stats

  • Finished in 92nd percentile as at-rim finisher last season, per Synergy data
  • Jumped from 22.2% 3-point shooter to 35.5% 3-point shooter at Michigan


Strengths

  • Silky scorer who plays with effort and is a great finisher around the rim
  • Good defensive tools and instincts who seems to be in the right place at the right time; can be a playmaker who impacts winning and loves to do glue-guy things
  • Really difficult to defend with a head of steam; running off screens or driving downhill is when he is at his best


Weaknesses

  • Good scorer, good playmaker, but can be a "master of none" prospect because he does many things well but nothing at an elite level
  • Small, slender frame brings concerns about how he will physically match up in the NBA

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33.9 14 4.5 2.9 48.2
15 Dereck Lively II C
Full Prospect Breakdown: Dereck Lively II | 2023 NBA Draft

Having a real and young rim-protector to grow with Trae Young would be a move in the right direction for an Atlanta franchise that's stalled. Lively's one season at Duke got off to a rough start and was statistically unimpressive, but he showed enough down the stretch as an impactful defender to solidify himself as a top-20 pick.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Lively was the No. 2 overall prospect in the Class of 2022, per 247Sports. He had something of a quiet one-and-done season at Duke, which was impacted by injury. The 19-year-old is a high-ceiling prospect due to his bounciness, rim protection, galloping frame and long-term shooting potential. He's considered one of the best bargains and potential boom picks outside of the top 10.

Pro comparison: A blend of Brook Lopez and Jaxson Hayes

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 14 overall (No. 2 C)

Height: 7'1" | Weight: 230 pounds

Facts and stats

  • Averaged 5.2 PPG, 5.4 RPG and 2.4 BPG with 72.1 two-point percentage
  • Named to All-ACC Freshman Team and All-Defensive Team


Strengths

  • Rim-running big who is well-conditioned and eats up space quickly
  • Good help-defense instincts and a defender who has the capacity to guard 2-5 if he puts all his tools together
  • Look out up top! Lively is an alley-oop threat at almost all times


Weaknesses

  • For as good as the shooting stroke is, the results still have a long way to go. Not a proven knock-down shooter, but his potential to be one is why he's projected so high
  • Vision and decision-making in passing situations is pedestrian at this stage for how he'll be used in the NBA
  • Needs more discipline as a defender; gets into foul trouble too frequently

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
20.5 5.2 5.4 1.1 65.8
16 Jordan Hawkins SG
Full Prospect Breakdown: Jordan Hawkins | 2023 NBA Draft

Assuming Zion Williamson is ever healthy enough to play consistently, the Pelicans will need to surround him with shooting. Hawkins made more than 38% of the 7.6 3-pointers he attempted per game this season while helping UConn win the national championship.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Hawkins is widely viewed as one of the best shooters in the 2023 NBA Draft. He's a 6-foot-4 guard with a 6-foot-7 wingspan who made 38.8% of the 7.6 3-pointers he attempted per game this season while helping UConn win the national title.

Pro comparison: Devin Vassell

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 16 overall (No. 2 SG)

Height: 6'4 ¼" | Weight: 186 pounds | Wingspan: 6'6 ¾" | Vertical: N/A

Facts and stats

  • Finished as UConn's second-leading scorer (16.2) and sixth-leading rebounder (3.8) while earning first-team All-Big East honors in 2022-23


Strengths

  • Elite shooter with a quick release
  • Great motor that allows him to move constantly without the ball
  • Solid defender both on and off the ball


Weaknesses

  • Doesn't really have the handle to provide minutes at lead guard
  • Slender frame allows him to get pushed around sometimes

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
29.3 16.2 3.8 1.3 40.9
17 Cason Wallace PG
NBA Draft Grades: Oklahoma City Thunder Select Cason Wallace No. 10 Overall

The Lakers could stand to add a point guard who can be impactful on both ends of the court as a rookie. Wallace checks those boxes and should be an above-average point-of-attack defender the moment he enters the NBA after one season at Kentucky in which he finished fourth in the SEC in steals per game.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

The best on-ball defensive menace in the 2023 class, Wallace is a playmaking defensive prospect who channels energy and enthusiasm to the point guard position. He's a long-strider with good passing instincts who can facilitate and create and has shown improvement as a shooter the last few seasons.

Pro comparison: DeAnthony Melton

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 12 overall (No. 4 PG)

Height: 6'2 ½" | Weight: 195 pounds | Wingspan: 6'8 ½" | Vertical: 36"

Facts and stats

  • Top 90th percentile finisher in around-the-rim looks at Kentucky on floaters, runners, layups


Strengths

  • Strong, muscled-up prospect who plays physical for his size; at 6-foot-3, he is a smaller guard but plays bigger than that with physicality and smart technique
  • Hustle and energy is his game; he is a great assignment defender but can be an impactful help defender and knows when and when not to take chances doing so
  • Good shooter, particularly projecting well as role player given efficiency as spot-up and catch-and-shoot threat


Weaknesses

  • Good athlete but relies more on smarts than athleticism to create separation; doesn't have a quick 0-60 get-off-the-line
  • Audacious attacker who isn't afraid to go inside, but can be too willing to go right at bigs to show off finishing ability
  • Needs to show improvement as a shooter off the dribble

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
32 11.7 3.7 4.3 44.6
18 Leonard Miller SF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Leonard Miller | 2023 NBA Draft

Miller had a nice season with the G-League Ignite, averaging 16.9 points and 10.1 rebounds as a 19 year-old playing against professionals. There's still a lot of development that needs to be done, but the physical tools to make it are all in place and ideal for a Miami franchise in need of the type of length Miller possesses.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Miller emerged as a legitimate first-round prospect after deciding to skip college and play for the G-League Ignite. He's a 6-foot-9 forward with a 7-foot-2 wingspan who shot 57.5% on 2-pointers this season.

Pro comparison: Paul Millsap

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 15 overall (No. 6 SF)

Height: 6'9 ¼" | Weight: 213 pounds | Wingspan: 7'2" | Vertical: 37 ½"

Facts and stats

  • Won a silver medal with Canada at the 2019 FIBA Under-16 Americas Championship before signing with the G-League Ignite
  • Averaged 15.1 points and 8.6 rebounds in 14 games this season


Strengths

  • Nice athlete who can rebound out of his area
  • Comfortable finishing around the rim with either hand
  • Can attack closeouts to create scoring opportunities


Weaknesses

  • Has never shown he can be a reliable 3-point shooter
  • Often loses focus on the defensive end of the court
19 Nick Smith Jr. SG
Full Prospect Breakdown: Nick Smith Jr. | 2023 NBA Draft

Smith dealt with a less-than-perfect knee all season that limited him to just 17 games, most of which he struggled in relative to the expectations that accompanied him to Arkansas. That's among the reasons he won't be selected where most projected he'd go a year ago, but the 6-4 combo guard is still super-talented and could fill a need now that Golden State has traded Jordan Poole to Washington.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

The former top-ranked prospect from the 2022 recruiting cycle by 247Sports dealt with a right knee injury that forced him to miss significant time this past season. The 6-foot-5 combo guard showed flashes in the limited action he played in on why he was the No. 1 recruit in America before stepping foot on campus. His shot-making ability should translate to the next level and it is considered one of if not his greatest abilities as a player.

Pro comparison: Tyler Herro

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 17 overall (No. 3 SG)

Height: 6'5" | Weight: 185 pounds

Facts and stats

  • Averaged 12.5 points, 1.7 assists and 1.6 rebounds in 17 games (14 starts)


Strengths

  • Elite shotmaker who scores in a variety of ways including on contested mid-range jumpers and floaters
  • Lethal catch-and-shoot threat with fluid shooting mechanics
  • Can impact the game on both sides of the ball with his wingspan and showed flashes of being a two-way player


Weaknesses

  • Has a long-and-lean frame and would benefit tremendously from added weight to handle the physicality of the NBA
  • Finishing around the rim was an issue and a right knee injury that forced him to miss over half the season limited the explosiveness he showed in high school
  • Playmaking and facilitating was something Smith didn't show a ton of at Arkansas and will need to improve to be a true guard at the next level

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
25.8 12.5 1.6 1.7 37.6
20 Keyonte George SG
Full Prospect Breakdown: Keyonte George | 2023 NBA Draft

If the Rockets use the fourth pick on Whitmore, they could look to add a guard with this pick. George would be a reasonable option if he's available given his ability to navigate pick-and-rolls, put pressure on defenses and score in bunches.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

A nagging ankle injury sapped some of George's sensational skill set in his one-and-done season at Baylor, but he has made a strong impression on NBA teams during the pre-draft process both with his athleticism and his polished scoring ability. George led all Big 12 freshmen in scoring last season and showed growth as a playmaker, making him an appealing two-way guard whose offensive versatility is his biggest selling point.

Pro comparison: Bradley Beal

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 13 overall (No. 1 SG)

Height: 6'4" | Weight: 185 pounds

Facts and stats

  • Led all freshmen in Big 12 in PPG (15.8) and finished second among all Big 12 freshmen in APG (2.8)
  • Ranked as the No. 1 shooting guard prospect in the 2022 class by 247Sports and was a consensus five-star, top-10 national recruit


Strengths

  • Dynamic shot-maker and shot-creator who can function as an offensive hub
  • Lots of untapped potential as facilitator and playmaker with good passing and vision
  • Microwave scoring option who can play on and off the ball


Weaknesses

  • Can be streaky at times as a shooter; needs to improve consistency with which he scores
  • Shows playmaking promise, but needs to cut down on turnovers; turnover rate and assist rate were virtually identical during freshman season at Baylor
  • Needs to improve defensive discipline; has tools to be multi-positional defender but has tendency to stand upright and out of stance, and frequently bites on pump fakes

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
28.6 15.3 4.2 2.8 37.6
21 Jaime Jaquez Jr. SG
Full Prospect Breakdown: Jaime Jaquez Jr. | 2023 NBA Draft

Jaquez will enter the NBA at the age of 22 and would be ready to contribute in Brooklyn immediately. I've been a big believer for a while and assume he'll be, at worst, a role player who positively impacts winning in a variety of ways.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

A four-year college player who had an illustrious career at UCLA, Jaquez brings major credentials to the NBA as a three-time All-Pac-12 player and a consensus All-American who starred for the Bruins. Jaquez isn't a flashy athlete, and he'll turn 23 years old during his rookie season, but he's one of the most savvy prospects in the class who can score anywhere and has the smarts to be a sound wing defender who helps in a rotation for years to come.

Pro comparison: Glenn Robinson Jr.

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 25 overall (No. 7 SG)

Height: 6'6" | Weight: 226 pounds | Wingspan: 6'9 ½" | Vertical: 39"

Facts and stats

  • Averaged 17.8 PPG, 8.2 RPG and 2.4 APG


Strengths

  • Multi-functional game. Can penetrate, can hit floaters, shoot from mid-range and deep. One of the best prospects outside the top 20
  • A long battery life and a good dose of athleticism will serve him well in being a long-term role player
  • Good in the clutch. Doesn't shy away from wanting the ball in tough situations


Weaknesses

  • The shiftiness he shows on offense does not translate to defensive prowess
  • Stock is lower because he is not a poised defender for long stretches

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
33.3 17.8 8.2 2.4 48.1
22 Noah Clowney PF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Noah Clowney | 2023 NBA Draft

Defensive versatility is a desired skill set these days, and it also happens to be Clowney's strongest attribute. The forward has a 7-2 wingspan and the necessary enthusiasm to guard different types of players all over the court.

Draft prospect outlook

Pro comparison: Jaden McDaniels

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 41 overall (No. 6 PF)

Height: 6'10" | Weight: 210 pounds 

Facts and stats

  • Named to SEC All-Freshman Team


Strengths

  • Long and rangy, capable of playing the four or five
  • Coordinated enough to defend on perimeter
  • Budding offensive arsenal that includes impressive efficiency at the rim and in the paint


Weaknesses

  • His 3-point shot remains a work in progress
  • Needs to add muscle in order to deal with physicality of NBA bigs
  • Seems uncomfortable off the dribble when defenders close out

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
25.3 9.8 7.9 0.8 48.6
23 Kris Murray PF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Kris Murray | 2023 NBA Draft

Much like his brother who plays for the Kings, Murray projects as a combo forward who can stretch the floor on offense and guard multiple positions on defense. The Iowa alum won't be a top-five pick like his twin was last year, but he should comfortably go somewhere in the first round.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

The twin brother of former Iowa star Keegan Murray, Kris, also hailing from the Hawkeyes, brings similar scoring instincts and upside after a breakout season at Iowa last season. He's a gifted scorer inside and out with great size and skill who can run in transition, pick apart defenders in iso situations and score in the mid-range. He also hit 33.5% of his 3-pointers last season.

Pro comparison: Jalen Johnson

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 20 overall (No. 3 PF)

Height: 6'7 ¾" | Weight: 213 pounds | Wingspan: 6'11 ¾ " | Vertical: 35"

Facts and stats

  • Rated in 91st percentile as post-up scorer at Iowa last season, per Synergy data, particularly thriving on the left block with his strong hand being a finisher
  • Career 34.8% 3-point shooter across three seasons on 313 attempts


Strengths

  • Jumbo forward who can defend and present length as a specialized wing with major defensive upside
  • Crafty scorer who can get his own but doesn't force the action; plays smart and moves the ball within the flow of things without being too pushy
  • Really good scorer whose talents extend beyond the 3-point line; can be a deadeye shooter from distance in catch-and-shoot/spot-up situations


Weaknesses

  • One of the older prospects in the class; set to turn 23 before rookie season begins
  • Not the most athletic or agile athlete; more of a silky scorer and finisher than a sudden one, winning often with smarts. His lack of separation may be a difficult transition for him in the NBA

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
34.7 20.2 7.9 2 47.6
24 Brice Sensabaugh SF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Brice Sensabaugh | 2023 NBA Draft

Sensabaugh, like Hendricks, was a sub-80 prospect in the Class of 2022 who was surprisingly great in his one year at Ohio State. If he improves as a perimeter defender, the wing with a reliable 3-point shot could get on the floor early and help Sacramento become real contenders in the West.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Ohio State has made something of a habit of producing one-and-done players; Sensabaugh is the latest in that fraternity. The Buckeyes are coming off their worst season in 25 years, but it wasn't because of Sensabaugh. The 6-foot-6 wing out of Orlando shot 52.5% from 2-point range and 83.5% from the foul line in addition to his sweet 3-point numbers up top. He took a total of 509 shots in 33 games, making him one of the highest-volume freshmen in the nation. It was a big jump for the 93rd-ranked player coming out of high school.

Pro comparison: Jared Dudley

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 22 overall (No. 8 SF)

Height: 6'6" | Weight: 235 pounds

Facts and stats

  • Averaged 16.3 PPG, 5.4 RPG and shot 40.5 3-pt%
  • Named to All-Big Ten Freshman Team


Strengths

  • Confident shooting stroke, good knack for knowing which shot is the right shot, can make from mid-range and deep without needing a dribble
  • At 6-foot-6 and approximately 235 pounds, Sensabaugh is one of the best combos in the '23 draft of brawn and velvety play
  • Among the best defensive rebounding guards/wings in this year's crop


Weaknesses

  • Can sometimes squeeze the orange too much; will need to ditch his slight ball hog tendencies
  • Is not where he should be as an on-ball, one-on-one defender --particularly given his size
  • Will need to be a deep study on team defensive concepts with elaborate switching

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
24.4 16.3 5.4 1.2 48.2
25 Brandin Podziemski
Santa ClaraMOCK TRADE from BOS
SG
Full Prospect Breakdown: Brandin Podziemski | 2023 NBA Draft

Mock Trade from: BOS

The Celtics are in the market for a guard after trading Marcus Smart to Memphis. Podziemski is among the best shooters in this draft and could be a nice fit after making 43.8% of the 5.8 3-pointers he attempted this season while averaging 19.9 points per game for Santa Clara.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Podziemski burst onto the scene at Santa Clara in the 2022-23 season after barely playing as a true freshman at Illinois. He's a combo guard with a trusty 3-point shot and natural distribution skills who plays excellent defense. He hit an absurd 52.1% of his 3-point attempts in conference games on 5.7 attempts per contest.

Pro comparison: John Konchar

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 28 overall (No. 9 SG)

Height: 6'3 ¾" | Weight: 204 pounds | Wingspan: 6'5 ½" | Vertical: 39"

Facts and stats

  • Named 2022-23 West Coast Conference Co-Player of the Year


Strengths

  • One of the best 3-point shooters in the draft class
  • Can play on or off the ball, slotting in as a facilitator or primarily as a shooter
  • Great collegiate defender with the athleticism and instincts to be a good defender in the NBA


Weaknesses

  • Average lateral quickness could be a problem against shifty guards
  • Could be a liability defensively when switched onto bigger wings
  • Relatively poor competition at Santa Clara casts collegiate credentials into doubt

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
36 19.9 8.8 3.7 48.3
26 Rayan Rupert SF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Rayan Rupert | 2023 NBA Draft

Rupert remains unreliable offensively and very much a project. But he's a wing with a 7-3 wingspan who has all the prerequisites to be a great perimeter defender if his shooting comes around enough to make him playable at the NBA level.

Draft prospect outlook

Pro comparison: Terrance Ferguson

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 31 overall (No. 12 SF)

Height: 6'6" | Weight: 193 pounds | Wingspan: 7'2" | Vertical: 32 ½"

Facts and stats

  • Averaged 5.9 PPG, 2.1 RPG and 0.7 SPG for the New Zealand Breakers of the National Basketball League as part of the Next Stars Program, which produced LaMelo Ball, Ousmane Dieng, Josh Giddey and R.J. Hampton
  • Helped lead the prestigious INSEP Academy in Paris to the 2021-22 EuroLeague Basketball Adidas Next Generation Tournament Finals 


Strengths

  • Great on-ball defender because of his size and length
  • Should be able to switch and guard 1-5 with fluidity
  • Coordinated and shifty ball-handler with knack for creating space and angles


Weaknesses

  • 3-point shooting needs to improve for long-term NBA success
  • Needs to build out his frame to withstand NBA rigors
  • Remains an inefficient shooter due to limited scoring skillset outside of transition scenarios
27 Olivier-Maxence Prosper SF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Olivier-Maxence Prosper | 2023 NBA Draft

Prosper emerged as a real first-round option after a wonderful performance at the combine. He's a forward with a 7-1 wingspan who can be a versatile defender thanks to a motor that runs full-speed.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Prosper solidified himself as a real first-round option with an impressive showing at the NBA Draft Combine. He's a top-shelf athlete who plays hard on both sides of the ball and should be a nice role player, at worst.

Pro comparison: P.J. Tucker

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 30 overall (No. 11 SF)

Height: 6'6 ¾" | Weight: 212 pounds | Wingspan: 7'1" | Vertical: 40 ½"

Facts and stats

  • Attended an NBA academy in Mexico City before spending one season at Clemson and two more at Marquette
  • Averaged 12.5 PPG and 4.7 RPG this season while helping the Golden Eagles win the Big East


Strengths

  • Explosive athlete who moves well laterally and jumps out of the gym
  • Switchable defender
  • Great motor


Weaknesses

  • Doesn't yet have the skills to be much of a playmaker
  • Has never consistently made 3-pointers

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
29.2 12.5 4.7 0.7 51.2
28 Jalen Wilson SF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Jalen Wilson | 2023 NBA Draft

Wilson is the latest Kansas alum to develop into a legitimate NBA player after spending multiple years under Bill Self. He made a huge leap from his third season to his fourth season with the Jayhawks while earning Big 12 Player of the Year honors.

Draft prospect outlook

Pro comparison: DeMarre Carroll

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 45 overall (No. 15 SF)

Height: 6'5 ½" | Weight: 230 pounds | Wingspan: 6'8" | Vertical: 35"

Facts and stats

  • Played three full seasons at Kansas, where he averaged 20.1 PPG and 8.3 RPG as a senior while earning Big 12 Player of the Year honors


Strengths

  • Tough matchup who is too quick for bigs and too strong for littles
  • Nice rebounder for his size
  • Solid playing in pick-and-rolls


Weaknesses

  • Only shot 31.6% from 3-point range while at Kansas
  • Not an ideal athlete

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
35.3 20.1 8.3 2.2 43.0
29 Marcus Sasser SG
Full Prospect Breakdown: Marcus Sasser | 2023 NBA Draft

Sasser is a combo guard who played a big role in helping Houston secure a No. 1 seed in the 2023 NCAA Tournament. His ability to be a playmaker and reliably make jumpers will give him a chance to stick in the NBA even if he is a little on the small side.

Draft prospect outlook

Pro comparison: Mo Williams

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 49 overall (No. 17 SG)

Height: 6'1 ¼" | Weight: 196 pounds | Wingspan: 6'7" | Vertical: 35"

Facts and stats

  • Averaged 16.8 PPG, 3.1 APG and 2.8 RPG
  • Consensus 2022-23 first-team All-American


Strengths

  • Leader, winner, someone who makes a roster more complete due to his mindset and competency
  • Toughness is never a question
  • Has the shooting mechanics to be a 35% or better 3-point shooter


Weaknesses

  • Lacks size
  • Isn't going to be much of a penetration threat against NBA-level guards and wings
  • Sometimes keeps the ball in his hands too long

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
30.8 16.8 2.8 3.1 43.8
30 Dariq Whitehead SF
Full Prospect Breakdown: Dariq Whitehead | 2023 NBA Draft

Whitehead's one not-so-great year at Duke is the main reason he might still be available at the bottom of the first round. But a bet on him is one worth making considering he has good positional size and shot 42.4% from 3-point range this season.

Draft prospect outlook


Summary

Whitehead's freshman season with the Blue Devils got off to a rocky start when he had to have surgery months before the start of the season to repair a fracture in his right foot. Whitehead is a former five-star prospect who came into the season with a ton of hype around his name. He was considered a very explosive and athletic wing coming out of high school, and you have to assume that injury played a part in him not looking like himself in that department during the start of the season. He is still one of the top wing prospects in this year's draft.

Pro comparison: Ochai Agbaji

CBS Sports prospect ranking: No. 24 overall (No. 9 SF)

Height: 6'-5 ¾" | Weight: 217 | Wingspan: 6'-10 ¼" | Vertical: N/A

Facts and stats

  • Averaged 8.3 points and 2.4 rebounds in 20.7 minutes of action in 28 games
  • Missed the first four games of the season because of the foot fracture


Strengths

  • Fluid shooting motion with a high release point that helped him average over 43% on over three attempts per game from distance
  • Versatile defender with a lengthy wingspan that will help him guard multiple positions at the next level
  • Showed flashes as an isolation scorer with an ability to finish around the basket with a soft touch floater


Weaknesses

  • Drawing foul attempts and getting to the free-throw line is something he didn't show much of during his freshman season; only averaged one free-throw attempt per game
  • Poor screen navigator and occasionally got lost on the defensive end during switches
  • Multiple foot surgeries limited the athleticism and explosiveness he showed in high school, and it hasn't been the same post-surgery

2022 College Stats

MPG PPG RPG APG FG%
20.5 8.3 2.4 1 42.1