Arizona Wildcats Athletics
2005 | 6-8 | 7-0 WS | 214 LBS
Best rank: 12 / Worst rank: 25
Agent: Wasserman
2024-25 stats: 6.5 ppg, 4.1 rpg, 1.0 apg, 0.9 spg, 1.0 bpg, 46.0% FG, 37.1% 3P in 37 games
If the Spurs keep both lottery picks they could look to draft a safe, high-floor contributor with the upside to grow into a premium role player here. Carter Bryant is one of the “3-and-D” prospects, an ideal modern forward build (6-foot-8, 7-foot wingspan) and two-way efficiency that should translate immediately. After a slow start at Arizona, the freshman showcased his value as a low-usage, high-impact contributor – shooting 37.1% from deep while demonstrating elite defensive playmaking (2.8 steals + 2.9 blocks per 100 possessions). His combination of length, quick-twitch closing speed, and defensive versatility allowed him to match up against elite wings like Cooper Flagg, though his tendency to foul remains an area for improvement.
Offensively, Bryant’s game is currently limited – his handle restricts self-creation, and he’ll need to expand his shot diet beyond spot-ups and cuts. However, his smooth shooting stroke, high basketball IQ, and underrated passing suggest he can thrive as a connector in an NBA rotation. While he may never develop into a high-usage scorer, his archetype – a switchable wing with size, shooting, and defensive instincts – is among the most coveted in the league.
An NBA exec told HoopsHype: “Bryant’s the perfect late-lottery flier for a playoff team. Six-eight, 40% from three, with defensive versatility. He’s not a full-time four yet, but he’s got PJ Washington potential: stretch the floor in small lineups, attack closeouts, and grow into a combo forward. OKC at 15? Ideal. Let him thrive off the bench like he did at Arizona, where his minutes spike coincided with their mid-season turnaround.”
More: Carter Bryant: NBA draft scouting report and intel
