The NBA Draft is often dominated by young, one-and-done players looking to make their mark. However, experience can be a valuable asset in the league, and the 2024 NBA Draft class is brimming with talented upperclassmen ready to contribute from day one. These players honed their skills in the college ranks, developing into seasoned veterans with a deep understanding of the game. Let’s delve into some of the most promising upperclassmen projected to make an immediate impact in the upcoming draft:
Experienced Players Poised for Success
Dalton Knecht: A Scoring Threat Ready to Shine
Age: 23 | CBS Sports Big Board Ranking: 6
Dalton Knecht’s journey from a mid-major standout at Northern Colorado to a first-team All-American at Tennessee speaks volumes about his work ethic and dedication. Knecht is a skilled shooter with the size and versatility to play both shooting guard and small forward. His ability to create his own shot and score in a variety of ways makes him a plug-and-play offensive weapon for any NBA team. Knecht’s impressive 38.3% shooting on transition 3-pointers, as per Synergy Sports, highlights his ability to thrive in an up-tempo NBA game. While opinions on his ceiling vary, Knecht’s high floor makes him a safe bet to be a significant contributor right away.
Devin Carter: A Lockdown Defender with Offensive Upside
Age: 22 | CBS Sports Big Board Ranking: 12
Devin Carter’s calling card is his tenacious defense. A lockdown defender with the ability to guard multiple positions, Carter can immediately bolster any NBA team’s defensive identity. However, his offensive game shouldn’t be overlooked. Carter showcased a career-high 37.7% shooting from beyond the arc last season, demonstrating his potential as a two-way threat. His impressive shooting numbers, ranking in the 80th percentile for both long 3-pointers and jumpers, solidify his offensive potential. Carter’s well-rounded game and strong NBA Combine performance have positioned him as a potential lottery pick.
DaRon Holmes II: The Modern Big Man
Age: 21 | CBS Sports Big Board Ranking: 20
DaRon Holmes II embodies the modern NBA big man with his unique blend of rim protection and floor-spacing ability. While slightly undersized for a traditional center, Holmes’s versatility allows him to thrive as a stretch four or a small-ball five. His defensive consistency needs refinement, but his potential is undeniable. Holmes is projected to be a mid-to-late first-round pick.
Intriguing Prospects with High Potential
Zach Edey: A Dominant Force Navigating a Changing Landscape
Age: 22 | CBS Sports Big Board Ranking: 23
Zach Edey’s draft stock is a subject of debate, with projections ranging from the lottery to the late first round. As one of the most dominant college players in recent memory, Edey’s size and post-up prowess demand attention. However, the NBA’s evolution towards a perimeter-oriented game raises questions about his fit. Edey’s ability to adapt to defending pick-and-roll situations will be crucial. Despite the uncertainty, his sheer dominance in college warrants consideration, particularly in a draft class with several unknowns.
Tristan da Silva: A Versatile Forward with All-Around Skills
Age: 23 | CBS Sports Big Board Ranking: 24
Tristan da Silva is the quintessential glue guy every contender covets. He possesses a well-rounded skillset with size, shooting ability, experience, and a high basketball IQ. Da Silva’s versatility allows him to contribute in various ways, making him an ideal fit for teams seeking a plug-and-play option. His ability to cut to the basket and exploit mismatches makes him a valuable offensive weapon.
Baylor Scheierman: A Sharpshooting Specialist
Age: 23 | CBS Sports Big Board Ranking: 28
Baylor Scheierman’s sharpshooting prowess is reminiscent of top prospects like Reed Sheppard and Jared McCain. His ability to knock down 3-pointers at a high clip (38.1%) and create shots off the dribble makes him a threat from the perimeter. Scheierman’s size and versatility allow him to play both shooting guard and small forward, adding another layer to his game.
Hidden Gems with Intriguing Potential
Dillon Jones: A Stat-Sheet Stuffer
Age: 22 | CBS Sports Big Board Ranking: 34
Dillon Jones is a unique talent who excels in multiple facets of the game. His impressive college career, where he amassed over 1,500 points, 1,000 rebounds, 400 assists, and 200 steals, speaks volumes about his all-around game. Jones’s versatility and playmaking abilities make him a potential steal for teams searching for a high-IQ player.
Jamal Shead: A Defensive Dynamo
Age: 21 | CBS Sports Big Board Ranking: 41
Jamal Shead may not possess the flashy offensive game of other point guard prospects, but his defensive prowess is undeniable. A lockdown defender with exceptional on-ball skills, Shead can be a difference-maker on that end of the floor. His defensive intensity and ability to disrupt opposing offenses will be invaluable assets at the next level.
The Value of Experience in a Young Man’s Game
While youth and upside often dominate NBA Draft discussions, experience should not be overlooked. This year’s class of upperclassmen offers a compelling blend of talent, polish, and readiness. These players’ journeys through the college ranks have equipped them with the skills and maturity to make a seamless transition to the demanding world of professional basketball.
Keep an eye on these seasoned prospects as they look to prove that experience can be a recipe for immediate success in the NBA.
