Anton Watson, Gonzaga’s cherished basketball star, left an indelible mark on the hearts of Spokane’s fervent fans. After five remarkable seasons with the Bulldogs, Watson is poised to take his shot at the professional stage, aiming for the NBA or potentially exploring overseas opportunities. This local hero’s journey is a tale of determination and resilience.
Anton Watson: The Gonzaga Legend’s Rocky Road to NBA Stardom
Despite his impressive college tenure, the path ahead for Watson is fraught with challenges. The Spokane native isn’t making waves in major NBA mock drafts, ranking within the top 100 players but not high enough to secure a surefire draft pick. ESPN.com lists him at 87th, while NBAdraftroom.com places him at 78th, and NBAdraft.net ranks him 62nd. Among power forwards, he’s pegged at 19th out of 22 by ESPN. The harsh reality is that Watson might not hear his name called during the NBA Draft on June 26 and 27 in Brooklyn, NY, which boasts only two rounds and 58 picks.
However, all hope is not lost. If Watson goes undrafted, he can still clinch an NBA roster spot next season through one of two undrafted free agent contracts: a two-way contract or an Exhibit 10 deal. The two-way contract is the more coveted option, allowing players to oscillate between an NBA team and its G League affiliate for up to 50 regular-season games. Each NBA team can offer up to three of these contracts at a time.
An Exhibit 10 contract, while less glamorous, offers a one-year deal at minimum salary, with potential conversion to a two-way contract before the season begins. Watson’s former teammate, Drew Timme, signed a two-way contract with the Milwaukee Bucks last season, though he didn’t see NBA action.
With his blend of skill, size, and stats, Watson stands a solid chance of snagging a two-way deal. The 6-foot-8 forward concluded his final season at Gonzaga averaging 14.5 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game. Gonzaga’s head coach, Mark Few, showered him with praise post-season, highlighting his contributions to the team’s numerous victories and deep tournament runs. Few emphasized Watson’s potential to thrive at the professional level, underscoring his complete player profile and invaluable presence on the court.
Unfortunately, Watson faced a setback at the G League Elite Combine, injuring his ankle during the first scrimmage. This injury sidelined him for the rest of the event, hindering his ability to showcase his skills in front of NBA scouts. Nevertheless, he demonstrated improved agility and speed, hinting at his readiness for the next level.
If the NBA doesn’t come calling, Watson has another viable route: playing professionally overseas. Many former Zags have found long, fruitful careers abroad, and Watson could follow in their footsteps, continuing to shine on an international stage.
Watson’s journey is a testament to his perseverance and passion for the game. Whether he secures an NBA spot or ventures overseas, his story will continue to inspire fans and aspiring athletes alike. The next chapter for this Gonzaga hero is about to unfold, and it promises to be as thrilling as his unforgettable college career.
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