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Following Potential 2025 Draftees



Probably plenty of 'mostly white' (i.e. more white than Obama) like Blake Griffin, that are equally comfortable in either cultural paradigm and can 'context switch' easily, but get identified as 'black' in American culture. No particular reason logically (genetically speaking rather than culturally) to classify them as more 'black' than 'white' though, since many are likely more than 50% white.
Also Tom Chambers came to mind, he wasn't especially 'dominant' but he was an elite athlete- chatgpt summary of him:

Tom Chambers, a 6'10", 220 lb power forward, was known for his exceptional athleticism, agility, and shooting range, making him a unique and effective player in the NBA, particularly in the 1980s.

Here's a more detailed look at his athletic prowess:
  • Uncommon Blend of Skills:
    Chambers possessed a rare combination of size, speed, and shooting ability for a big man, allowing him to excel as a "stretch four" before the term became commonplace.

  • Elite Dunker:
    He was known for his explosive dunking ability, often showcasing impressive athleticism with highlight-reel dunks.

  • Agility and Court Movement:
    Despite his size, Chambers demonstrated surprising agility and court movement, allowing him to play effectively both inside and outside the paint.

  • All-Star Recognition:
    His athleticism and skill led to four NBA All-Star selections, highlighting his impact on the league.

  • Versatile Offensive Player:
    Chambers was a skilled scorer, known for his mid-range jumper and ability to hit three-pointers, a rare skill for a big man in his era.

  • 20,000 Point Club:
    He was a member of the 20,000 point club, further cementing his status as a prolific scorer.
 
I think Demin feels really disappointing when you consider during preseason he had top 3/5 hype and looked like it when playing against future enterprise agents. But when you let go of that disappointment I still think he has enough intrigue to be a late lotto pick. I think he has a great physical profile and is a great passer, not just for his size but compared to all prospects. His handle is so bad he could hardly dribble against high D1 competition, but maybe if he improves the handle he can hit on a high potential outcome.

I would love him with our second pick, but we'll likely need to trade up to get him.

Yeah, if he works hard on his handle he could end up being a bargain, which is exactly why he won't fall too far- I'd be surprised if he's still there when the Jazz pick. His floor is pretty good and his ceiling is very high.
 
On Walter Clayton Jr.....I think it's really easy to overrate guys on a tournament run or having the "clutch gene". Having said that, he probably should have already been getting more attention than he did, and that goes back to his Iona days. Great shooting prospect and also a good stocks guy as well. I don't think it indicates he will be a great defender at the next level, but it's a good indicator for making winning plays across the board. Anyone who can shoot it the way he does is an NBA prospect alone, but there's a little bit more depth to him and I think that should make him worthy of a first.
 
It's an extreme risk to go back to school as a top 20 player, I would never recommend it. You can improve a ton and not really even improve your draft position much. Poetl was this way, you could argue CMB is this way/could end up this way. With that said, some players do love the college experience and NIL makes it less risky. I'm pretty sure CMB stayed to be with his gf at Soutch Carolina, there are these rare cases but it's definitely not the best way to go when prioritizing their careers and financials. NIL makes it closer, green room invites are probably still safe enough to go NBA. NIL has changed the game, not that much....yet.

If you're not a green room invite and you don't have a promised 1st round pick or contract it gets more interesting.
 
Phoenix owes us a favor - I would love to trade up for Demin if he's there at 14. Less so if we draft Harper at #2 but if we land Flagg Demin would be great.
What favor does Phoenix owe us? Their pick is currently at 10 and they owe it to Houston anyways.
 
Are you saying he won’t be option? Because that’s giving the HH guarantee that he’ll be drafted before us ;)
I actually feel comfortable giving that guarantee this year lol. Tough to jump Cooper Flagg.
 
Adou Thiero did declare for the draft and it looks like he’s committed to staying in the draft. I kinda like him despite the obvious shooting flaw. Kind of reminds me of Jamie Jacquez as a prospect….though Jaimie has really fallen out of favor so maybe that’s not the most glowing endorsement.

I’m not big on drafting for need or trying to build the perfect roster when we’re so far away….but it couldn’t hurt to get some more athletes/def defensive minded prospects in our program.
 
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