NBA Draft Scouting Report: Kansas State's Nae'Qwan Tomlin
Nae'Qwan Tomlin
Forward | Kansas State
Height: 6'10” | Weight: 210 lbs
2024 Draft Age: 23.53
Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
Prospect Profile
One of the more interesting prospects in this class, Tomlin didn’t play organized basketball until high school. He’s 6-foot-10 with great athleticism and really popped as a senior at Kansas State. Prior to that, he spent his first three seasons at the junior college level with Monroe Community College (2019-20) and Chipola College (2020-22).
In the Big 12 with an increased level of competition and more of a spotlight, Tomlin played better than anyone could have expected. He helped lead Kansas State to a deep run in the NCAA Tournament and showcased his NBA upside.
Tomlin did step out and space the floor last season on nearly two attempts per game but only converted on 27.5% of those triples. He has good mechanics and a smooth stroke for his size and is also a reliable free throw shooter. When looking at his form and four years of college film, there’s reason for optimism that he can be a floor spacer at the next level.
Not only can Tomlin shoot the ball, but he can also put it on the deck. He has a solid handle for a big and uses his size to generate shots in the paint on the move. He’s also a quality lob threat, which should translate in the NBA both in halfcourt sets and in transition. Tomlin is also an underrated passer, notching 42 assists last season.
If there’s one major knock on Tomlin, it’s that he could be a better rebounder. If he’s going to be a high energy double-double type of player moving forward, he’ll need to clean the glass better.
On the defensive end, Tomlin still needs to improve but is at minimum disruptive. He produced 2.2 stocks per game last season and flashed signs of being very versatile in who he can defend.
Tomlin is still super raw given he hasn’t played organized basketball for long, which makes him fascinating. A the rate he’s developed in a short time, it’s clear his ceiling could be very high. Kansas State coach Jerome Tang has has mentioned in past that Tomlin is one of the most talented players he’s ever coached.
As a high ceiling project pick in the second round, Tomlin could be an underrated selection in the 2024 NBA Draft.
Highlights
Draft Projection
Potential Second-Round Pick in 2024 NBA Draft.
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