Who is Markelle Fultz? Scouting report, bio, analysis of top NBA draft prospect
The Philadelphia 76ers and Boston Celtics swapped draft picks ahead of the 2017 NBA draft with the Sixers moving up from No. 3 overall to No. 1. The Sixers used that pick to select Markelle Fultz.
Fultz played one season with Washington and averaged 23.2 points, 5.9 assists and 5.7 rebounds while shooting 47.6% from the field.
The Sixers worked out Fultz on the same day that reports came out of Philadelphia that the team had an agreement with the Celtics for the top pick.
Sports Illustrated's Andrew Sharp spent a day with Fultz for a profile back in April.
Markelle Fultz scouting report
Stats: 23.2 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 5.9 APG, 47.6% FG, 41.3% 3FG
Bio: Regarded around the league as the consensus No. 1 pick, Fultz was a dominant individual player in his lone season at Washington, although the Huskies, with a relatively thin roster, underperformed as a team. He made first team All-Pac 12 and was a third team All-American. Fultz’s athletic tools and versatile skill set give him the draft’s best blend of star ceiling and consistent floor.
Strengths: Fultz jumps off the page athletically and possesses creative scoring instincts and playmaking skills. He’s an outstanding transition player, solid using ball screens and has the size to play both guard spots thanks to a nearly 6’10” wingspan. Despite how bad the Huskies were, Fultz was proficient in the pick and roll and as a passer. He’s a solid rebounder and developing jump shooter, and all the pieces are there for Fultz to become one of the league’s top guards. He’s an extremely well-rounded offensive player already.
Weaknesses: Although he has the tools to be a good defender, Fultz’s effort level occasionally wanes, and you’d like to see him renew his commitment on that end in the pros in order to maximize his talent. He can shoot, but could use added consistency in that area and might never be a high-end perimeter scorer, although he does enough things well that he may not need to be. He can occasionally come across as overly laid-back on the court, which combined with Washington’s frustrating season has sparked some minor questions about his competitiveness.
- Jeremy Woo
Grade: A
It’s too early to jump to sweeping, dynastic conclusions, but the Sixers finally found the deal they wanted and got their guy. Fultz was the top prospect in the draft in the eyes of many (SI included), and should pair effectively with Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid going forward. We’ll see which draft assets the Sixers wind up losing in the long run, but it felt like the right time for Philly to strike. The Sixers will be one of the league’s most intriguing teams to follow next season, with Fultz at the heart of an all-time extended rebuild. Whatever happens next, it’s a win for today. - Jeremy Woo
Fast facts about Markelle Fultz:
Birthday: May 29, 1998
Position: Point guard
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 190lbs.
Hometown: Upper Marlboro, Maryland
High School: DeMatha
