NBA Draft Scouting Report: UConn's Alex Karaban
Alex Karaban
Forward | UConn
Height: 6'8” | Weight: 210 lbs
2024 Draft Age: 21.78
Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports
Prospect Profile
After winning a championship last season, Karaban will have the chance to run it back with another talented UConn squad. While the team did lose key pieces, several top talents are returning for a chance to defend the crown. Although it’s his third year with the Huskies, Karaban was a redshirt in the 2021-22 season. Last season was really his first chance at getting minutes and he played extremely well, starting in nearly every single game for the champs.
He took less than two attempts per contest, but the 6-foot-8 prospect’s ability to convert on more than 40% of his triples last season was crucial for the team’s spacing. This will be a highly translatable skill at the NBA level, especially if he can be that efficient on more attempts. Not only can he shoot it from deep, but Karaban also has post moves and interior scoring upside. He’s a quality free throw shooter and good positional rebounder as well.
It will be interesting to see how aggressive he is this season and what type of role he plays. Despite being effective from all three levels as a scorer last season, Karaban averaged less than 10 points per game due to a lack of shot attempts. While he is a good mover of the ball and ensures the offense runs smooth, being more assertive in scoring the ball for himself ahead of the 2024 NBA Draft will be key.
The biggest swing in Karaban’s draft stock will likely hinge on how versatile he can be. Given he lacks elite athleticism, it’s unclear if he could truly play on the wing against NBA talent. If he’s forced into solely playing at the power forward spot, it could limit his suitors. Regardless, he’s very skilled and has the floor spacing and size that teams seek.
Karaban will spend a lot of time in the frontcourt this season with 7-footer Donovan Clingan, who has the chance to be a lottery pick Futhermore, freshman guard Stephon Castle could be a top selection in the 2024 NBA Draft and will be a key facilitator of the offense. As such, Karaban will have plenty of opportunity to shine on the big stage in front of NBA scouts all season.
Highlights
Draft Projection
Second-Round Pick in 2024 NBA Draft.
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