2023 NBA Draft: Top Prospects Currently Testing Draft Waters
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There’s still a lot of top talent remaining in the 2023 NBA Draft pool that have big decisions to make regarding their future. It’s a tough decision for some, as they have the ability to return to college but also have the NBA knocking on their door.
Let’s dive into the top prospects that are testing the waters:
Brice Sensabaugh | Ohio State
It’s highly anticipated that Sensabaugh will remain in the draft, but it’s a bit odd to see a prospect of his caliber testing the waters at this point.
The Ohio State wing is one of the best scorers in the entire draft as he has unreal shot-making ability and scoring instincts. I believe Sensabaugh will remain in the draft but it’s definitely something to monitor.
Andre Jackson | Connecticut
Jackson is coming off a national championship with the Huskies, as he was one of the most important pieces to that championship run.
From what I’ve heard, Jackson is likely to remain in the draft. It’s worth noting that the Connecticut wing really enjoyed his time in college and is considering a return. But you should expect Jackson to remain in the draft.
Adem Bona | UCLA
Bona is the big name that I’ve had a tough time getting a read on regarding his situation.
The high-level defensive big was able to anchor the UCLA defense effectively, but is still quite raw in most areas of his game. Another year in college could be very beneficial. But with that being said I anticipate a team taking a chance on him in the second round.
Kobe Brown | Missouri
Brown’s name has been very hot recently as a potential transfer portal entrant, but he has said his main focus is the NBA.
Teams are high on his shooting ability at 6-foot-8 with size and length, but there’s a real chance we see Brown return to college, potentially as a transfer. The skilled big has a big decision to make and has the most options here.
Terrence Shannon Jr | Illinois
Shannon is an athletic wing with defensive tools, explosive athleticism, and skill. The versatile wing would be a huge return for Illinois due to the two-way versatility he brings to the table. On the other hand he has been on NBA radars for a couple years now so it may be time for him to move on to the next level.
Judah Mintz | Syracuse
Mintz didn’t measure well at the NBA Draft Combine and some believe he hurt his stock more than helped it. The scoring guard is pretty impressive with the way he can create his shot and score the ball.
It’s believed that he’ll remain in the draft, but do not be shocked if he returns to team up with incoming transfer JJ Starling.
Julian Phillips | Tennessee
Phillips is currently in the transfer portal while testing the waters, so the door is open just about everywhere for him.
The athletic forward recorded one of the highest vertical jumps at the NBA Draft Combine. The stock is slowly rising for Phillips despite not playing in the scrimmage, but with almost every top school calling for him and how much weaker next year’s draft is, I imagine we see Phillips return to college.
Jordan Walsh | Arkansas
Walsh is an athletic forward that showed some flashes defensively during the scrimmages at the NBA Draft Combine and he has some tools that you simply can’t teach. The defensive forward still has a lot to work on offensively. The big question is whether or not he believes he’s better off developing his offense at college for a second year or the NBA
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