2023 NBA Draft: January’s Draft Risers
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With the NCAA tournament fast approaching, NBA Draft prospects are nearing the final stretch of their collegiate careers, and have just a few short months to make the most of their time and raise their draft stock.
Some players saw tough January’s, with teams hitting the scouting reports more and more. Others are just finding their footing and getting in a groove.
Here are some of January’s hottest risers regarding the 2023 NBA Draft:
Cam Whitmore, Villanova
After suffering a preseason thumb injury that required thumb surgery, Whitmore likely got off to a slower start than he would’ve liked. But in January, he took major strides in getting back on track.
In 7 games in January, Whitmore averaged 14.4 points on 46 percent shooting, nabbing 2.0 steals per game in the process. Most importantly, he saw the far-and-away his most impressive and consistent shooting stretch: 42 percent from beyond the arc on 5.0 attempts per game.
With continually consistent performances, Whitmore could play himself into top-five consideration and beyond.
Brandon Miller, Alabama
His February didn’t get off to the hottest start, but Alabama’s Brandon Miller inserted himself into the No. 3 conversation in January.
He averaged 19.1 points on 52 percent shooting, and continued his blazing outside season by shooting 44 percent from three on 7.0 attempts per game.
Most notably, Miller markedly improved his at the rim numbers, something draft experts were worried about.
Jarace Walker, Houston
Thought of to be one of the better defensive prospects in the entire class, Houston forward Jarace Walker showcased his offensive prowess in the month of January.
He averaged just shy of 17 points per game and brought down 7.8 rebounds and dished out 1.2 assists in the process.
He shot 54 percent overall and a respectable 36 percent from beyond the arc.
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