NBA Draft Scouting Report: Kansas’ Jalen Wilson
Jalen Wilson
Forward | Kansas
Height: 6’8” | Weight: 225 lbs
2023 Draft Age: 22.63
Marc Lebryk-USA TODAY Sports
Prospect Profile
Coming off of an NCAA Championship, Wilson took on even more of an important role in this recent college season. He proved to be up for the challenge and has elevated his game.
After entering the NBA Draft process the past two years, Wilson has ultimately ended up coming back to school both times, and now had a great fourth season.
Although he didn’t play much as a freshman, he’s grown into a veteran player that is a three-year starter. When looking at his production across the board, he's one of the most impactful players in the entire country. Wilson is the perfect example of a player developing over a full four years at the college level.
With that in mind, he is an older prospect and will be 23 years old during most of the upcoming NBA season. That's not to say he's already reached his ceiling and can't continue to improve, but generally players of that age are more of a second-round selection. Either way, he's got the talent and skillset to impact the game at the next level immediately.
A dominant rebounder, the 6-foot-8 forward led Kansas on the boards the last season. As a senior on his way to Big 12 Player of the Year honors, he nearly averaged a 20-point double-double.
As an offensive player, Wilson often exploits mismatches. When traditional bigs defend him, he's got the quickness to blow by. He's also got solid post moves and is crafty in the paint. When smaller players defend him, he's got the strength and size to bully his way into the paint for an easy bucket.
Especially if the 3-point shot continues to improve, he’ll have the tools to be a fantastic player at the next level. Emerging as a prospect that can knock down even 35% of his triples at a consistent rate would really make it hard to pass on Wilson in the second round of the 2023 NBA Draft. He's got the size and production that can't be denied. He shot a career-high 33.7% from deep on nearly six attempts per game last season.
Defensively, Wilson is fundamentally sound, but certainly not a stopper. He can defend upwards of three positions depending on the matchup on a given night. It will be fascinating to see whether he ends up being more of a wing or power forward at the next level.
Even playing alongside standout freshman Gradey Dick, Wilson maintained his level of production which is impressive.
Highlights
Draft Projection
Second-Round Pick in 2023 NBA Draft.
2023 Big Board
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