Bleacher Report's Latest Mock Draft Sends Terrence Shannon Jr. To Oklahoma City Thunder
The Illinois Fighting Illini's season was recently ended by the UConn Huskies in the Elite Eight, meaning much attention turns to guard Terrence Shannon Jr.'s position in the 2024 NBA Draft.
Bleacher Report's latest mock draft has the Oklahoma City Thunder selecting Shannon with the No. 12 pick via the Houston Rockets. B/R's pro comparison for the Illini standout is Philadelphia 76ers' Kelly Oubre Jr., with the Chicago Bulls drafting guard Jared McCain (Duke) one pick prior.
"Between the Big Ten and NCAA tournaments, Terrence Shannon Jr. is now averaging 31.6 points, having seemingly figured out how to consistently optimize his speed and physicality," Bleacher Report's Jonathan Wasserman wrote of Shannon. "Despite missing games, he's also now up to 73 made threes to go with 115 half-court field goals at the basket and 212 made free throws—numbers that reflect his potent combination of confident shotmaking and rim pressure."
Shannon would join arguably the league's top backcourt, containing superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Luguentz Dort, and Josh Giddey. The selection is not the most logical for Oklahoma City's front office due to the crowded guard room, but allowing him time to develop could benefit them long-term. Not to mention, Shannon would have an opportunity to compete for an NBA championship in his rookie season.
A team like the Bulls may give Shannon a greater chance to shine next to Most Improved Player candidate Coby White. Veteran stars Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan are premier players to see a change of scenery prior to next year's trade deadline.
Anthony Pasciolla is a contributor to Illini Now. He can be reached at ampasciolla@gmail.com
ANTHONY PASCIOLLA