Conference play has begun, and the 2024 NBA draft still features approximately six No. 1 overall candidates.
That number may actually rise, with little distinguishing the presumed Tier 2 prospects from Tier 1.
International names are gaining traction at the top of the charts. We may not even see the first NCAA player selected until No. 4, 5, or 6.
Parity is still a theme in this class. Scouts are emphasizing high floors in a field with fewer obvious high-ceiling prospects, and they’re going above and above this year to locate hidden gems in unexpected locations.
Without an obvious answer for best prospect in the draft, fit and needs could play a larger role than normal at No. 1. Aside fromJalen Durenlooking capable of plugging into the 4 position between Jalen Duren and Ausar Thompson, his size, athleticism and translatable defensive versatility create a level of certainty that other prospects aren’t offering.
Even if his development stalls early, there is still safety tied to 7’1″ height and quick, light feet for surefire finishing, shot-blocking and switching. But flashes of open-floor ball-handling and shotmaking also create a path to more offensive upside.
The most eye-opening statistic so far is that he’s 10-for-22 on pull-up jumpers. He’s also made 15 three-pointers and been successful in putting the ball down and attacking closeouts. When combined with his rim protection and defensive movement, the face-up flashes that generate those perimeter scoring stats have some scouts predicting No. 1 overall potential.
