The 2024 NBA Draft Combine at Wintrust Arena in Chicago showcased several standout performers whose impressive displays significantly boosted their draft stock. Here are the key players who emerged as the biggest stock-risers:
Reed Sheppard, Kentucky
Reed Sheppard was a revelation, showcasing remarkable athleticism with the highest vertical leap at the combine. His performance added to an already impressive freshman season at Kentucky, characterized by excellent shooting splits and strong defensive metrics. Sheppard’s continued rise on draft boards is supported by these latest achievements, marking him as a promising prospect.
Devin Carter, Providence
Known for his competitive nature and defensive prowess, Devin Carter excelled in the athletic tests. He matched Sheppard’s 42-inch max vertical and set a combined record with a 2.87-second three-quarter sprint. Despite measuring 6-foot-2.25 without shoes, his +6.5-inch wingspan compensates for his height. Carter’s performance solidifies his position as a potential lottery pick.
Zach Edey, Purdue
Zach Edey, the towering center from Purdue, dispelled doubts about his mobility compared to Donovan Clingan by outperforming him in several key metrics, including lane agility, three-quarter sprint, and vertical leaps. Edey’s immense size (7-foot-3.75 without shoes, 7-foot-10.75 wingspan) combined with newfound shooting touch makes him a compelling prospect. Initially projected at No. 25 in mock drafts, his stock is likely to rise.
KJ Simpson, Colorado
KJ Simpson distinguished himself in the scrimmages, scoring 16 points on Day 1 and 11 points with seven rebounds and four assists on Day 2. His aggressive play style and impressive interviews have made him a notable prospect. While his size and shooting consistency remain areas of concern, his overall performance has generated positive buzz.
Jamal Shead, Houston
Jamal Shead, despite being undersized, impressed with his defensive tenacity and leadership. He scored 14 points with four assists in the first game and 13 points with six assists in the second. Although his shooting remains a question mark, Shead’s ability to make an impact could push him towards the first round if he demonstrates shooting consistency in private workouts.
Baylor Scheierman, Creighton
Baylor Scheierman excelled during the scrimmages, scoring 17 points and demonstrating his spot-up shooting and decision-making abilities. His defensive activity and rebounding added to his profile as a complementary player. Scheierman’s potential as a court-spacer and smart player against scrambling defences makes him an intriguing prospect.
Jonathan Mogbo, San Francisco
Despite measuring only 6-foot-6.25, Jonathan Mogbo showcased a 9-foot-0.5 standing reach and +6.5 wingspan. He demonstrated his ability to translate his dominant college play to the NBA level by effectively handling the ball and starting breaks from the glass. Mogbo’s physicality and skill set make him an interesting mid-major prospect.
Adem Bona, UCLA
Adem Bona, although undersized for a center, was impressed with his athleticism and functional size (7-foot-3.75 wingspan, 9-foot-0 standing reach). In scrimmages, Bona displayed a keen understanding of his potential NBA role by sprinting the floor, rebounding aggressively, defending the rim, and finishing plays efficiently. His comprehensive athletic performance makes him a standout prospect.
These players used the 2024 NBA Draft Combine to significantly enhance their draft prospects, demonstrating their skills and athleticism in a highly competitive environment.
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