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The 2024 NBA draft is scheduled for June 26 and 27. Considered one of the weakest draft classes in history, some of the soon-to-be-pros are yet to leave a mark in fans' minds.
Before the draft, the NBA Combine could make some players return to college. Until then, here are our top five prospects in the Big East conference.
Top five prospects from Big East in the 2024 NBA draft
#1 Donovan Clingan
The sophomore center played a crucial role in UConn's championship win this season. He averaged 13.0 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.5 assists, shooting 63.9%. Clingan is projected as a lottery pick at No. 6 by Bleacher Report.
While Donovan Clingan excels on the defensive end and protects the rim, he doesn't offer much of offense, especially from the 3-point range.
He's a pure low-post player, and that could restrict his role in an NBA team. But if we were to go by the example of some big men, like Nikola Jokić, who grew from a restricted role to an all-rounder, there's still hope for Clingan to grow his game.
#2 Trey Alexander
Creighton Bluejays guard Trey Alexander declared for the draft in 2023 before returning to college for his junior year. He averaged 17.6 points, 5.7 rebounds and 4.7 assists this season.
His offensive talent and wingspan made him a mid-to-late first-round pick last year, and the same is said to happen in this draft as well.
#3 Devin Carter
Providence Friars lost their spot in the NCAA Tournament at the last minute.
A few days later, Carter announced his decision to forgo his college eligibility. He ranks No. 17 in the ESPN draft projections and averaged 19.8 points, 8.7 rebounds and 3.6 assists, shooting 38% from beyond the arc.
While he's just six-foot-three, Carter's wingspan (six-foot-nine) made him a defensive threat. He's an excellent rounder, third in the conference and led the Big East in scoring.
The combination of skills has raised analysts' interest in him as they wait to see who will pick him. Carter's father, Anthony Carter, played in the NBA for 13 years and is now an assistant coach with the Memphis Grizzlies.
#4 Stephon Castle
Freshman Castle is a versatile player who brings his incredible passing, defense, and play-finishing to the table.
He averaged 11.1 points, 4.7 rebounds and 2.9 assists while shooting 47.2%. However, the guard's 3-point shooting is poor coming at 26.9%.
However, Stephon Carter has his height to his advantage and makes a serious case on the defensive end. He's a projected top-10 pick because of his competitiveness and athleticism.
#5 Tyler Kolek
After an impressive season with Marquette, Kolek averaged 15.3 points, 4.9 rebounds and 7.7 assists shooting 49.6%. Although Tyler Kolek's lack of athleticism could affect his chances, he's still a great shooter and passer.
According to mock drafts by ESPN, the Athletic and CBS Sports, Kolek is projected to be an end of the first-round pick.
Who are your favorite picks from the Big East? Let's know in the comments section below.
Also Read: Top 5 prospects from SEC in 2024 NBA draft ft. Rob Dillingham
