Donovan Clingan and Zach Edey Rise before Combine

Paul Kane/Getty Images

(Perth Wildcats: Forward, International, 7-1)

Previous rank: 1 (-) / Best rank: 1 / Worst rank: 3

Alex Sarr remains the projected No. 1 pick for the second consecutive edition of the HoopsHype aggregate mock draft, narrowly beating French forward Zaccharie Risacher.

Sarr climbed up draft boards following strong performances against the G League Ignite towards the end of 2023 and hasn’t looked back. Since then, teams have seen an increased motor – his biggest knock coming into this season – along with intriguing shot-blocking skills and long-term potential as a floor spacer beyond the arc. However, multiple NBA talent evaluators believe he could be up to two years away from making a significant impact.

“Sarr disappears on the floor at times,” an NBA scout told HoopsHype. “I don’t know if he’s going to be this crazy rim protector like everyone thinks he is. Maybe that has to do with his body size and not being able to absorb contact. He needs to get stronger. Obviously, everybody is thinking of the pick-and-pop potential with him.”

Currently, Sarr has the physique to guard fours and would struggle against more physical centers in the NBA. If Sarr can hit the weight room diligently, he could become a center years down the line and cause potential mismatch problems on the perimeter offensively while patrolling the paint as a shot blocker and having the foot speed to switch on ball screens defensively.

“There are a lot of bigs that come out, and if you’re not a Top 5 guy at that position, teams like to get bigs on the scrap heap that fill specific rolls they can trust and know what they’ll get from them,” an NBA executive told HoopsHype. “Taking a big at No. 1 in the draft is always a question in this day and age and tough to do.”

More: Alex Sarr: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Ian Langsdon/AFP/Getty Images

(JL Bourg-en-Bresse: Wing, International, 6-8)

Previous rank: 2 (-) / Best rank: 1 / Worst rank: 10

French forward Zaccharie Risacher ranked No. 2 overall for the second straight HoopsHype aggregate mock draft, but it’s essentially been a coin flip between him and Alex Sarr in the polling process.

Risacher offers upside as a 3-and-D wing player whose size and fluidity will allow him to guard three NBA positions. He’s converted 38.7 percent of his threes this season, with the ability to convert catch-and-shoot opportunities, and also uses a slide step to create space beyond the arc.

“Risacher is going to be a high pick, but he could be two years away,” a longtime NBA executive told HoopsHype. “With that said, I think a lot of the prospects in this draft are also in that category.”

Risacher won’t fill the box score with stocks or assists, but his shooting and on-ball defense give him a chance to be a good role player.

More: Zaccharie Risacher: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Ethan Miller/Getty Images

(Ignite: Forward, G League, 6-10)

Previous rank: 4 (+1) / Best rank: 3 / Worst rank: 10

Matas Buzelis handles the ball well for his size, moves fluidly, can make plays for his teammates, and is a shot-blocking presence.

Despite Buzelis’ good form, his shooting was inconsistent with G League Ignite. He’ll need to add strength to his frame if he’s going to play minutes at power forward in the NBA and guard effectively.

“Is Buzelis going to be tough enough?” an NBA executive questioned. “He’s beaten out some high school guys when he was in the system the last couple of years, and he’s done some special stuff at those levels against players his same age. When he started going against grown men it was a different story.”

As for the label from some executives that he’s considered soft, Buzelis pushed back on that narrative at the G League Showcase when chatting with HoopsHype. “They can watch the film and see if that’s true,” Buzelis said. “I don’t think it is.”

Furthermore, Buzelis wants to challenge potential No. 1 pick to a one-on-one during the pre-draft process.

More: Matas Buzelis: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Andy Lyons/Getty Images

(Kentucky: Guard, Freshman, 6-2)

Previous rank: 6 (+2) / Best rank: 2 / Worst rank: 12

Robert Dillingham is a combo guard who many NBA executives believe can be a microwave scorer and can occasionally make plays for his teammates thanks to his ability to break down the defense off the dribble. The 19-year-old guard was also highly efficient from the field (.475) and beyond the arc (.444).

“Dillingham is small in stature and is more of a shooting guard than a point guard,” an NBA executive told HoopsHype. “He’s a volume shooter. When he gets hot, he can win you a quarter if you leave him in. He’s a streaky player who plays off his emotions. They used him well there at Kentucky, where he played somewhat limited minutes, but he was able to do his thing and impact games. He’s shot the ball well this year at over 40 percent from deep, so you can’t argue that. I worry about him and who he guards in the NBA.”

Dillingham’s shot selection, lack of size, and overall effort on defense have been some weaknesses identified by NBA talent evaluators.

Some NBA executives believe he’d be better as a scoring point guard, while others question if he can play point guard as the lead floor general for stretches, but the consensus is he could be a great sixth man similar to Lou Williams.

More: Rob Dillingham: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Altan Gocher/Middle East Images/AFP/Getty Images

(KK Crvena Zvezda: Guard, International, 6-6)

Previous rank: 3 (-2) / Best rank: 1 / Worst rank: 9

Nikola Topic has great height and strength for the NBA point guard position, is a willing passer who thrives in pick-and-rolls and makes his teammates better thanks to his high IQ, and can finish around the rim.

“Topic is a basketball junkie,” an NBA executive told HoopsHype. “His family’s in basketball. He gets the ball up and down the court and makes the right read. He’s shooting in the low 30s from three-point range, and he needs to improve that. He’s a winning player who makes the right play.”

Topic’s most glaring weakness is his three-point shooting, as the executive noted. However, the 88 percent foul shooter gives plausible belief his outside shooting can improve, though it may never mirror his success at the charity stripe.

Despite his size, Topic doesn’t have great length, has average athleticism, and is less inclined to create his shot effectively, which are also questions NBA executives have about his long-term upside.

More: Nikola Topic: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Christian Petersen/Getty Images

(UConn: Center, Sophomore, 7-2)

Previous rank: 11 (+5) / Best rank: 3 / Worst rank: 11

After winning back-to-back championships at UConn, Donovan Clingan’s stock has never been higher.

“Clingan is one of those big guys that can move their feet, run the court, give extra effort or multiple efforts,” a longtime NBA scout told HoopsHype. “Guys like that, when they jump, they can get right back up off the floor. He’s got to work on his shot. That’ll come with time. They want him to be able to stretch the floor a bit because it opens up driving lanes for guys. He covers up the rim, and he’s more athletic than you’d think.”

Clingan is one of the top shot blockers and rebounders in the draft who could thrive in drop coverage defensively. The 20-year-old center can score inside, but the big question among NBA executives is if Clingan can expand his range to the elbow and sink the occasional 15-footer to keep the defense honest and open up more spacing on the court.

“Could Clingan become a young Zydrunas Ilgauskas?” another NBA scout pondered. “He makes jumpers in practice, and I think he can shoot more than he’s shown.”

The questions surrounding Clingan’s range will be answered in private workouts for NBA teams high in the lottery.

In a draft with a lot of uncertainty, Clingan offers executives a solid floor as a strong defensive center who can score adequately around the rim with potentially untapped upside as a shooter.

More: Donovan Clingan: NBA Draft scouting report and intel

Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images

(Kentucky: Guard, Freshman, 6-3)

Previous rank: 8 (+1) / Best rank: 3 / Worst rank: 8

Reed Sheppard is arguably the best shooter in the draft (52.1 percent from downtown), has active hands on defense (2.5 steals), and can make plays for his teammates as a playmaker (4.5 assists).

“Sheppard is going to play point guard in the NBA, and he’s played some of that position with Kentucky,” an NBA executive told HoopsHype. “What will translate is his shooting and that he’s an extremely smart basketball player. He does a good job off the ball in terms of shooting the gaps and getting steals. He’s got really quick hands. Now, he doesn’t move his feet well laterally, so he may struggle there. He’s not a bad passer, either. He could be a backup point guard type of player.”

Sheppard is crafty on both ends of the floor but defensively gambles a bit too much despite his high steal rate, and his size and average lateral quickness are among the concerns for NBA executives.

“If the draft started tomorrow, Reed is going in the lottery,” an NBA scout told HoopsHype. “I don’t think he can guard well as far as his foot speed, but he makes an impact every game and finds a way. He’s got these quick hands and anticipation. He gets it done.”

More: Reed Sheppard: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Christian Petersen/Getty Images

(UConn: Guard, Freshman, 6-6)

Previous rank: 15 (+7) / Best rank: 2 / Worst rank: 9

Stephon Castle and Dalton Knecht made the two biggest jumps in the lottery.

Castle is a stout on-ball defender, drawing some comparisons to Marcus Smart from NBA talent evaluators with more height and similar strength. He rebounds well for a guard, can get downhill off the dribble, and makes a play for his teammates if the defense collapses.

“Castle is strong, quick, and gets guys moving,” an NBA scout told HoopsHype. “He can get downhill, and he can really pass. He can handle the ball, and he doesn’t take sh*t. He’s not a shooter. A comparison for him is Evan Turner, who was a good player in the league for 10 years.”

The scout mentioned the biggest concern among NBA executives – Castle’s shooting woes. Castle shot 26.7 percent beyond the arc. Some also wonder if Castle, considered more of a combo guard, could ever run an offense full-time as a lead floor general.

“I don’t see him as a point guard,” a longtime executive told HoopsHype. “I don’t know if he’s got the skill set to be a point guard. Just because you can handle the ball and pass a little doesn’t mean you’re a point guard.”

More: Stephon Castle: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Ethan Miller/Getty Images

(Ignite: Forward, G League, 6-8)

Previous rank: 10 (+1) / Best rank: 3 / Worst rank: 15

Ron Holland entered the G League season as a candidate to be the No. 1 pick. While the Ignite star has fluctuated between the 9-10 range in consecutive mocks, he’ll be a high lottery pick with a strong floor and potentially significant upside, depending on the situation he ends up in.

“Holland is the kind of player that’s hard for me to see as your lone ball handler,” an NBA executive told HoopsHype. “I think he’s going to have to play the two in a lot of lineups. If that’s the case, you run the risk of him becoming a player like Dejounte Murray, but stronger, where you have to play him with another predominantly good playmaker that’s small. If that’s the case, it’s going to be hard for you to switch as much and be as physical. I think he tries. He’s tough-minded. I don’t know, outside of being a transition player, if he’s going to be a halfcourt player just yet. Maybe he develops some playmaking, and the shooting becomes real. If I were him, I’d go to a team and defend his butt off and see where it goes from there.”

Holland remains one of the most versatile players in the draft who can play the two, three, or small-ball four. He’s at his best attacking downhill, has a high motor, and is always willing to guard the opponent’s top perimeter scorer. His swing skill will be his three-point shooting.

“Ron can get downhill whenever he wants,” his teammate Izan Almansa told HoopsHype at the G League Showcase. “He can change the game going downhill. He can shoot, and he hustles. He plays defense. He’s versatile and does a little bit of everything.”

Holland was also willing to share the spotlight with fellow projected lottery pick Matas Buzelis by choosing to ultimately play for Ignite after initially committing to Texas.

“Ron is a dog,” Buzelis told HoopsHype at the G League Showcase. “He’s super aggressive and will never back down to anybody. He’s got a lot of skill, but he also involves his teammates at the same time.”

MORE: Ron Holland: ‘I feel like I’m the one that stands out because of my motor’

More: Ron Holland: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

(Colorado: Wing, Freshman, 6-8)

Previous rank: 5 (-5) / Best rank: 5 / Worst rank: 13

Cody Williams is a bit of a polarizing player in the lottery as some NBA executives believe he should be in the conversation for the No. 1 overall pick, and others believe he’s closer to the No. 1 overall range.

“I think Cody Williams could be the best player in the draft based on his versatility,” an NBA executive told HoopsHype.

“Williams is very talented and comes from a nice bloodline,” a longtime executive told HoopsHype. “He’s gotten better as the year’s gone on. I just don’t know if he’s an alpha type of player.”

Williams moves fluidly with great size for a wing player, great touch around the rim with either hand, a soft jumper, moves the ball on offense, and can defend several positions on the ball.

Given his athleticism, the 19-year-old forward should produce more stocks, and several executives wonder if his three-point percentage would hold up with more attempts.

Overall, Williams’ versatility checks off enough boxes for executives to take him high in the lottery with the floor of being a solid role player and the upside potential of breaking out into a future star like his brother, Jalen, on the Thunder.

More: Cody Williams: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Gregory Shamus/Getty Images

(Tennessee: Guard, Senior, 6-6)

Previous rank: 18 (+7) / Best rank: 4 / Worst rank: 21

Dalton Knecht and Stephon Castle made the two biggest jumps up the lottery board.

Knecht, the SEC Player of the Year, recently turned 23 and is ready to make an impact immediately as a rookie next season. He can score at all three levels, has a three-point shot (39.7 percent) that should immediately translate quickly, and has underrated athleticism with the ability to dunk in traffic through the lane with a head of steam.

“Knecht is big and can shoot,” an NBA scout told HoopsHype. “I think he’s going to be a guy you can put into an NBA game, and he’ll keep the defense honest. He has a skill that’s coveted (shooting). He’s strong, too.”

Offensively, Knecht isn’t much of a playmaker for his teammates, averaging 1.8 assists and 1.7 turnovers per game. Defensively, Knecht is not a lockdown on-ball defender and doesn’t generate steals or deflections often in the passing lanes.

“Knecht is a lottery pick,” a longtime NBA executive told HoopsHype. “He put up big numbers this year. I think it helped him by going to Tennessee, where Rick Barnes has tried to instill some defensive abilities. He can shoot and score in a multitude of ways.”

More: Dalton Knecht: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports

(Baylor: Wing, Freshman, 6-5)

Previous rank: 7 (-5) / Best rank: 11 / Worst rank: 19

Ja’Kobe Walter is considered one of the top shooters in the draft, with the potential to be a 3-and-D wing player with his size, length, and active hands.

On open catch-and-shoot three-pointers, Walter shot 44.8 percent from behind the arc and 42.1 percent on off-ball screens.

However, Walter struggles with a lack of burst and creativity to get his shot off while dribbling in isolation along the perimeter, leading to tough contested jumpers. Speeding up his release is one area NBA executives believe could help Walter at the NBA level. He also struggled to finish around the rim, shooting 46 percent on layup attempts.

More: Ja’Kobe Walter: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

(USC: Guard, Freshman, 6-5)

Previous rank: 14 (+1) / Best rank: 10 / Worst rank: 18

After being projected as the No. 1 overall pick in our HoopsHype September aggregate mock draft edition, Isaiah Collier has settled into the back end of the lottery in consecutive mocks.

Collier has an NBA physique at 6-foot-5, 210 pounds, which allows him to attack the paint with force, get to the foul line (5.8 attempts), play good on-ball defense, and generate steals (1.5).

“Collier is a good player, but in high school, he was able to bully everybody because of his strength,” a longtime NBA scout told HoopsHype. “Now, guys are going to be able to stay in front of him that are just as strong. What can he do that’s going to separate and be a difference maker for somebody?”

Heading into the NBA, where spacing is crucial, Collier will need to become more efficient from beyond the arc (.338) and improve his foul shooting (.673) if he’s going to be relied upon in crunch time.

While Collier is one of the best passers in the draft class, he’s turnover-prone (3.3) and needs to be more secure with the ball.

“Collier needs to clean up his shot,” an NBA executive told HoopsHype. “He’s in the low 30s from three. He has a physically strong body for a college player who should project to the NBA, but he needs to work on his shooting to keep defenses honest beyond the perimeter. His assist-to-turnover ratio isn’t great either.”

More: Isaiah Collier: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Basketball Champions League

(Cholet Basket France: Forward, International, 6-9)

Previous rank: 13 (-1) / Best rank: 10 / Worst rank: 25

Tidjane Salaun began the mock draft process as a second-round pick in September, vaulted into the early 20s by the end of the year, and has now maintained a lottery projection in consecutive mocks.

“Salaun was one of my sleepers earlier this year, but now people have caught on, and he’s risen too much to be a sleeper,” a veteran NBA scout told HoopsHype.

The French forward was voted Best Young Player of the Basketball Champions League overseas and has shown great flashes of shooting and skill mixed with inconsistent play as one of the younger prospects in the draft.

For a team looking for an upside swing to hit a few years down the road, Salaun has a chance to succeed if he can put all of his tools together consistently.

More: Tidjane Salaun: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

(Duke: Center, Sophomore, 7-0)

Previous rank: 9 (-6) / Best rank: 12 / Worst rank: 27

Kyle Filipowski has essentially been entrenched in the lottery in the 9-15 range through four HoopsHype aggregate mock drafts.

Filipowski can stretch the defense beyond the arc (35 percent), put the ball on the floor, create off the dribble against opposing big men, and is one of the top passing big men in this year’s draft class.

Despite blocking 1.5 shots per game in college, several NBA executives question if Filipowski can be a rim protector in the pros due to his negative wingspan and lack of vertical pop.

Filipowski has drawn comparisons to Kelly Olynyk from NBA executives, which appears to be his floor. His basement would be more along the lines of Frank Kaminsky.

More: Kyle Filipowski: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports

(Duke: Guard, Freshman, 6-3)

Previous rank: 20 (+4) / Best rank: 12 / Worst rank: 30

Jared McCain is a three-point sniper (41.4 percent) drawing comparisons to Seth Curry and has steadily risen in the past three HoopsHype aggregate mock drafts.

McCain is more of a willing rebounder (5.0 per game) than Curry, but NBA executives question if he can defend point guards in the league and be a lead guard for stretches or merely an off-ball shooter.

“McCain is built and jacked, and he reminds me of Saquon Barkley’s stature,” an NBA scout told HoopsHype.

More: Jared McCain: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

(Providence: Guard, Junior, 6-3)

Previous rank: 17 (-) / Best rank: 14 / Worst rank: 28

After struggling as a perimeter threat in his first two collegiate seasons, Devin Carter became a viable 3-and-D guard by nailing 37.7 percent of his threes on 2.5 attempts per game.

Devin, the son of former NBA guard Anthony Carter, is an excellent rebounder for his position (8.7) and a strong on-ball defender who can lock up either guard spot defensively, averaging 4.5 stocks per 100 possessions. Carter can navigate screens well and recovers quickly to contest shots as a help defender when the ball is swung across the court. With Carter on the court, Providence had an outstanding defensive rating of 91.5.

If Carter’s three-point shot last season at Providence wasn’t a fluke, he has a chance to be a rotation player in the NBA for years to come.

Stacy Revere/Getty Images

(Baylor: Center, Freshman, 6-10)

Previous rank: 12 (-6) / Best rank: 11 / Worst rank: 26

Yves Missi is a freak athlete who’s played organized basketball for less than three years, giving him significant long-term upside.

Missi thrives as a pick-and-roll finisher and lob threat with a wide catch radius, but he’s also been able to create his own shot while attacking off the dribble from the perimeter occasionally. He’s also considered one of the top shot blockers in this year’s draft class.

“Yves is somebody that’s capable of being on SportsCenter each and every night,” Baylor coach Scott Drew has said.

Missi was born in Belgium and grew up in Cameroon playing soccer, which has aided his high motor and fluidity as a big man on both ends of the court. Missi, who will turn 20 during the combine, has drawn comparisons to Clint Capela by various NBA executives.

“I’d be a little worried about his stature at the center position,” an NBA executive told HoopsHype. “He’s going to have to make up for it with his motor and outrun and outwork opposing centers.”

More: Yves Missi: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

(Colorado: Forward, Senior, 6-9)

Previous rank: 33 (+14) / Best rank: 15 / Worst rank: NR

Tristan Da Silva went from an early second-round pick in the previous two HoopsHype aggregate mock drafts to a Top 20 selection in this edition.

The former Colorado standout will turn 23 before the draft and is a combo forward who can fill the stat sheet across the board. Over the past two seasons, he’s shot 39.5 percent from three-point range, giving NBA talent evaluators confidence he can carve out a role as a stretch-four.

Ethan Miller/Getty Images

(Ignite: Forward, G League, 6-11)

Previous rank: 19 (-1) / Best rank: 9 / Worst rank: 28

Tyler Smith has the talent to be an NBA rotation player for a decade if he’s focused between the ears and keeps a good head on his shoulders, according to multiple NBA executives who’ve scouted and done intel background work on him.

Smith’s left-handed three-point shot has gained significant interest from NBA talent evaluators, but they caution he’ll need to use his 7-foot-1 wingspan more defensively to avoid becoming a situational big man off the bench.

“I can see why people like Smith,” an NBA executive told HoopsHype. “He’s a tall lefty who can shoot the ball and stretch the floor. I don’t know if he has a position to guard. They’ve been playing him at center. I think he’d probably rather play as a stretch four.”

One interesting comparison for Smith from multiple NBA scouts was Minnesota Timberwolves Sixth Man of the Year Naz Reid.

More: Tyler Smith: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Jamie Squire/Getty Images

(Purdue: Center, Senior, 7-4)

Previous rank: 27 (+6) / Best rank: 15 / Worst rank: NR

Zach Edey became the first player in NCAA history with 800 points, 400 rebounds, 50 blocks, and 50 assists in a single season.

“If Zach Edey is not a lottery pick and a tremendous NBA player, then there’s something wrong with the NBA,” UConn coach Dan Hurley said on The Herd. “Then they’re maybe not playing the right game at that level. This guy has been dominant and brings you back to Ralph Sampson, Patrick Ewing, and David Robinson types of performances. The kid’s a special player. Special players, when they go to the next level, add new skills quickly. I think he’s going to get to the NBA and increase his range in his shooting, his passing, and dribbling, and he’ll adapt. That’s what special players do.”

Edey thrives in the low post, scoring with a hook shot from either hand, and can sink free throws when he’s fouled by smaller defenders. Edey’s foul shooting also gives some executives hope that he can eventually extend his shooting range.

You won’t find many shot blockers better than Edey down low, but his size and strength are also a liability in pick-and-roll coverage on the perimeter, where smaller and quicker guards can expose his lack of foot speed.

Edey’s No. 21 overall projection is his highest ranking in the HoopsHype aggregate mock draft to date, and – despite his old-school style of play that’s made him somewhat of a polarizing prospect – there are enough NBA talent evaluators who believe he can be an NBA role player at worst, which could make him a first-round pick in this weak overall draft class.

“You look at Clingan and Edey among the traditional bigs in this draft,” an NBA executive told HoopsHype. “At the same age as Clingan, Edey was averaging the same production and looked the same way in terms of how he moved. Over the next two years, Edey developed and got stronger while playing more physically. He made more shots in the paint and knew where his outlets were.”

More: Zach Edey: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Gabriel Mayberry-USA TODAY Sports

(Kansas: Guard, Freshman, 6-9)

Previous rank: 29 (+7) / Best rank: 18 / Worst rank: 37

Johnny Furphy had an up-and-down freshman season at Kansas, where he began as a reserve, climbed the depth chart to become a starter, but then finished the final seven games of his season struggling from the field (.310) and beyond the arc (.226).

Furphy hasn’t ruled out a return to Kansas for another season, according to his dad, Richard, recently told The Kansas City Star.

However, Furphy’s potential due to his size for the wing position, three-point shooting overall, sneaky athleticism, and age (19), he’s been projected in the 20s in consecutive HoopsHype aggregate mock drafts.

Furphy’s performance at the combine and meetings with interested teams will help determine if he stays in the draft or returns to school.

More: Johnny Furphy: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

(Miami: Guard, Freshman, 6-8)

Previous rank: 32 (+9) / Best rank: 18 / Worst rank: NR

Kyshawn George could be a home run swing for an NBA team willing to invest in him long-term.

George has deep three-point range, excelling on catch-and-shoot looks, and is an effective penetrator and lob thrower as a passer. He has the size of a small forward and the handle of a point guard. Defensively, George has all the physical tools to be an above-average on-ball defender.

“I think Kyshawn is pretty good,” a veteran NBA scout told HoopsHype. “He’s young and skilled. He’s big at 6-foot-8, can shoot, and can handle it. He’s going to need some years, but you’d invest in him. I’d pick him higher than a lot of other guys because of his age. He’s impressed me.”

More: Kyshawn George: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports

(Indiana: Center, Sophomore, 7-0)

Previous rank: 24 (-) / Best rank: 11 / Worst rank: NR

Coming off an underwhelming freshman season at Oregon after being one of the top recruits of his class, Kel’el Ware’s intangibles were heavily questioned by NBA executives.

“Ware has all the tools, but the questions were always if he’s tough enough and if he has a good enough motor?” an NBA scout told HoopsHype.

In his sophomore season at Indiana, Ware changed those narratives by averaging 16 points (nearly 10 more than last season), 10 rebounds (over double last season’s production), and two blocks (half a block more per game).

Ware was lethal in the post, ranking in the 87th percentile as a scorer thanks, predominantly, to his right-handed hook shot and a turnaround fadeaway jumper over his right shoulder on the block.

“He’s talented, but I don’t know how long it’ll take,” one NBA scout told HoopsHype. “He shies away from contact at times.”

Throughout his sophomore season, Ware has drawn comparisons to Christian Wood and Willie Cauley-Stein from NBA scouts and executives.

Through four HoopsHype aggregate mock drafts, Ware has been projected steadily in the 23-27 range.

More: Kel’el Ware: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

(Kansas: Guard, Senior, 6-7)

Previous rank: 16 (-9) / Best rank: 18 / Worst rank: NR

Kevin McCullar has the physique of an NBA swingman, consistently active hands-on defense generating turnovers (1.6 college career steals per game), and the collegiate experience to potentially be an immediate contributor as a role player in the league.

The primary concern for McCullar offensively is his shooting form and the results, as he’s shot 30.9 percent from downtown in five college seasons.

“I like everything about his game but his shot,” an NBA executive told HoopsHype. “With younger players, you’ll say their shot may improve. He’s been in college long enough where it should’ve improved.”

The 23-year-old wing is perceived to have limited upside, given his age, lack of overall statistical progress shooting from three-point range, and dealing with injuries.

“I think McCullar is outside the top 20 picks,” an NBA scout told HoopsHype. “The basketball guys don’t get that hopped up on his age, even though the analytics guys do. The draft has gotten to the point where guys are getting drafted and shouldn’t be. You’re drafting a person for how fast you can get them ready in two years. They’ll spend most of their time in the G League.”

More: Kevin McCullar: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Kelly Defina/Getty Images/NBL

(Cairns Taipans: Forward, International, 6-10)

Previous rank: 23 (-3) / Best rank: 17 / Worst rank: NR

Bobi Klintman has maintained a first-round projection throughout the entire HoopsHype aggregate mock draft process since September and would make history as the first Swedish-born player selected in the first round of the NBA Draft.

Klintman’s size, 7-foot wingspan, and versatility intrigues NBA executives. Defensively, Klintman has enough foot speed to cover ground if he’s switched onto guards on the perimeter. Offensively, Klintman can handle the ball well for his size and is improving as a three-point shooter.

Over the years, Klintman has studied Paul George because of their similar frames.

More: Bobi Klintman: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Amber Searls-USA TODAY Sports

(Pittsburgh: Guard, Freshman, 6-5)

Previous rank: 52 (+25) / Best rank: 21 / Worst rank: NR

Carlton Carrington was the highest riser of this HoopsHype aggregate mock draft by vaulting up 25 spots into the late first round.

The 18-year-old combo guard earned ACC All-Freshman honors. His three-point shooting will need work to become more consistent and he must improve as an on-ball defender.

Several executives who spoke with HoopsHype believe Carrington could land in the 15-30 range by draft night.

“I think he can handle the ball and has good size,” a longtime NBA executive told HoopsHype. “I don’t know if he can guard anybody on our level at his position. He didn’t showcase an ability to create shots for himself. He did a good job of passing the ball.”

Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

(Marquette: Guard, Senior, 6-3)

Previous rank: 30 (+2) / Best rank: 23 / Worst rank: 49

Tyler Kolek is solidifying himself as a late first-round pick in consecutive HoopsHype aggregate mock drafts.

The 23-year-old point guard led all college basketball in assists per game (7.7) and shot 39.3 percent from three-point range over the past two seasons combined. Kolek’s playmaking and shooting should translate to the NBA, but his lack of a strong first step, defensive lateral quickness, and ability to score in traffic are weaknesses in his game. 

David Becker/Getty Images

(California: Guard, Junior, 6-7)

Previous rank: 35 (+6) / Best rank: 20 / Worst rank: NR

The third school was the charm in as many years for Jaylon Tyson, who earned All-Pac-12 First Team honors.

Tyson handles the ball well and can change pace while having the size of a wing, which allows him to use a floater when he attacks with drives off handoffs and pick-and-rolls. He can also stretch the floor and converted 40 percent of his ball screen three-pointers and 38 percent of his spot-up threes.

Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports

(Kentucky: Wing, Freshman, 6-8)

Previous rank: 51 (+21) / Best rank: 25 / Worst rank: NR

Justin Edwards had the second-highest rise among prospects in our latest HoopsHype aggregate mock draft, vaulting up 21 spots on the board.

Edwards entered his freshman season with sky-high expectations as a potential high lottery pick and ended up being a good role player for the Wildcats, shooting 36.5 percent beyond the arc and 48.6 percent overall.

“I liked what I saw from him in the summer when he was in EYBL,” an NBA scout told HoopsHype. “He just hasn’t figured it out. Kentucky might not have been the place for him. He’ll probably go in the draft unless he goes somewhere that’s giving him a bunch of NIL money.”

As the scout hinted, Edwards only got seven shots per game and averaged 21.4 minutes.

Should Edwards remain in the draft, who are some NBA comparisons?

“Edwards is a little older for a freshman (20) and isn’t the most in-shape guy,” an NBA scout told HoopsHype. “There’s a Shabazz Muhammad comparison with Edwards that some people may not want to hear. When he’s on, there’s a Rodney Hood comparison to be made. He’s fine. I think you can win basketball games with him as a role player.”

Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports

(Dayton: Forward, Junior, 6-10)

Previous rank: 50 (+19) / Best rank: 22 / Worst rank: NR

DaRon Holmes had the third-highest jump of any prospect in our latest HoopsHype aggregate mock draft.

Several NBA executives are high on Holmes and believe he could be off the board as a late first-round pick.

It should come as no surprise after Holmes dominated at Dayton after returning for his junior season by winning the A-10 Co-Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year awards.

With the NBA featuring heavy pick-and-roll actions against big men, Holmes can hold his own defensively with his length and foot speed to hold his own on the perimeter and block shots around the rim.

During his junior season at Dayton, Holmes became a floor spacer and potential pick-and-pop threat at the NBA level by shooting 38.6 percent on 2.5 three-point attempts.

Michael Hickey/Getty Images

(Virginia: Guard, Sophomore, 6-8)

Previous rank: 21 (-11) / Best rank: 21 / Worst rank: NR

Ryan Dunn is one of the most versatile defenders entering the draft and is arguably the top defender in the draft overall as an on-ball defender and shot blocker (2.3).

Offensively, Dunn can cut and screen well, but his outside shot is a glaring hole in his game that needs to improve mightily if he’s ever going to become a 3-and-D NBA player.

“I think it’s hard to say whether or not he can be an offensive player in the NBA because of the system he’s in where there’s no offense whatsoever,” a longtime NBA executive told HoopsHype. “I don’t think he can shoot the ball very well. I don’t know if he can put it on the floor to create shots because that’s not their system.”

More: Ryan Dunn: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Justin Casterline/Getty Images

(Illinois: Wing, Senior, 6-6)

Previous rank: 43 (+10) / Best rank: 15 / Worst rank: NR

In December, Terrence Shannon Jr. was charged with rape for an alleged incident that took place three months earlier. His attorneys say there is no DNA evidence from him and have motioned for a Daubert Hearing and to exclude expert testimony.

This new information could be a reason why he rose 10 spots in the aggregate mock draft. The case will continue to be closely monitored by NBA executives.

As for Shannon’s play on the basketball court, the 23-year-old swingman has an NBA frame and can guard three positions. After talent evaluators questioned his outside shot, Shannon shot 36.2 percent during the season.

FIBA.com

(NBA Academy Africa: Forward, International, 6-11)

Previous rank: 37 (+3) / Best rank: 17 / Worst rank: NR

Ulrich Chomche won’t turn 19 until December 30 and is a potential draft riser to monitor closely, given his athleticism for his size, 7-foot-4 wingspan, and defensive switchability. Chomche impressed at the NBA Academy of Africa and could make his way into the first round if he impresses in workouts similarly to how he did at the academy.

FIBA.basketball

(Saint-Quentin Basketball: Forward, International, 6-7)

Previous rank: 31 (-4) / Best rank: 27 / Worst rank: NR

Melvin Ajinca comes from an NBA pedigree as the cousin of former NBA veteran Alexis Ajinca. He’ll turn 20 years old on draft night and intrigues NBA executives with his sturdy frame and high motor.

Despite his high motor, Ajinca doesn’t generate steals at a high rate nor gets to the foul line often. The lefty wing also has a streaky three-point shot that needs to become more consistent.

Ajinca has consistently remained a selection in the early 30s range in three straight aggregate mock drafts.

Big Sky Conference

(Weber State: Forward, Junior, 6-6)

Previous rank: 28 (-8) / Best rank: 28 / Worst rank: NR

Dillon Jones is a tweener forward with the strength to guard NBA players in the post at 235 pounds but is undersized to play forward, and it’s unclear if he’ll have the athleticism and foot speed to guard opposing NBA wing players on the perimeter.

The 22-year-old forward was a consistent scorer and rebounder on his way to becoming the Big Sky Conference Player of the Year. However, NBA talent evaluators question whether Jones will be able to make the NBA transition, given his average three-point shooting and lack of shot-blocking, if he plays as a small-ball power forward.

Through three aggregate mock drafts, Jones has fluctuated roughly in the mid to late 30s range on average.

Ethan Miller/Getty Images

(Ignite: Forward, G League, 6-10)

Previous rank: 25 (-12) / Best rank: 30 / Worst rank: NR

Izan Almansa is a polarizing player in the eyes of NBA talent evaluators. Almansa profiles as more of a traditional big man compared to today’s modern NBA big man who spreads the floor or is a stout defender and lob threat.

Almansa was one of the most accomplished Spanish prospects overseas before joining G League Ignite. He thrives in pick-and-roll sets, faking dribble handoffs and using a right-handed hook shot against smaller defenders on switches in the post.

If Almansa can show improved range on his jumper and athleticism on workouts, it could improve his draft stock.

More: Izan Almansa: NBA draft scouting report and intel

More: Izan Almansa looks up to Al Horford and Domantas Sabonis

Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports

(Creighton: Guard, Senior, 6-7)

Previous rank: 48 (+10) / Best rank: 35 / Worst rank: NR

Baylor Scheierman is a versatile three-point shooter who can stretch the floor coming off screens, finding open space away from the ball for catch-and-shoot jumpers and the occasional step-back jumper. If called upon, Scheierman can finish around the rim and find open teammates off penetration.

The 23-year-old became the first Division-I men’s player in NCAA history to surpass 2,000 points, 1,000 rebounds, 500 assists, and 300 three-pointers.

Defensively, however, Scheierman is not nearly as accomplished as the other side of the court and is routinely beaten off the dribble by opponents who take advantage of his lack of foot speed and overall athleticism.

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

(North Carolina: Forward, Sophomore, 6-7)

Previous rank: 44 (+5) / Best rank: 27 / Worst rank: NR

Harrison Ingram is a tweener forward at 6-foot-7, 230 pounds, with an all-around game but no definitive standout skill that directly translates to the NBA.

After transferring to North Carolina, Ingram made strides as a three-point shooter (.385) and rebounder (8.8). However, Ingram won’t break a defender down off the dribble nor jump off the charts athletically.

Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

(UConn: Forward, Sophomore, 6-8)

Previous rank: 49 (+9) / Best rank: 38 / Worst rank: NR

Through three straight HoopsHype aggregate mock drafts, Alex Karaban has projected in the 40s.

The UConn stretch forward has shot 38.9 percent from downtown in back-to-back championship seasons with the Huskies. Karaban also occasionally posts up smaller defenders.

Karaban struggles to create his shot and keep up with quicker perimeter players due to his average athleticism.

Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

(Wake Forest: Guard, Junior, 6-5)

Previous rank: 57 (+16) / Best rank: 24 / Worst rank: NR

Hunter Sallis is one of the top breakout players of this draft class who emerged as an All-ACC First Team member with Wake Forest after two seasons as a bench player in limited minutes at Gonzaga.

“I think Sallis had confidence at Gonzaga but wasn’t able to showcase it,” a longtime NBA executive told HoopsHype. “Now, he was the man at Wake Forest after being a fourth option at Gonzaga.”

Sallis – a late addition to the early-entry list for the draft – scores off the dribble with his mid-range pull-up jumper and by attacking the rim. He can also nail catch-and-shoot threes when playing away from the ball. Sallis is a disruptive defender and plays with energy despite his slender frame.

Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

(Marquette: Forward, Senior, 6-11)

Previous rank: 34 (-8) / Best rank: 29 / Worst rank: NR

Oso Ighodaro is one of the best passers in this year’s draft class and can hit cutters out of the post and execute dribble hand-offs. Despite his gifted passing ability, Ighodaro is a limited shooter outside of the paint and a poor foul shooter who may need to be surrounded by four shooters to space the floor and be effective. Defensively, Ighodaro is a good shot blocker and adequate rebounder for his position.

Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

(Creighton: Guard, Junior, 6-4)

Previous rank: 54 (+11) / Best rank: 32 / Worst rank: NR

Last year, heading into the combine, Trey Alexander was considered a combo guard, with some NBA executives questioning if he could be a playmaker as a primary ball handler to complement his three-point shooting.

After a junior season at Creighton, where Alexander showed improvement as a floor general, leading the team in assists (4.7), he appeared to answer some of those questions.

Michael Ciaglo-USA TODAY Sports

(UC Santa Barbara: Guard, Junior, 6-5)

Previous rank: 39 (-5) / Best rank: 25 / Worst rank: NR

Ajay Mitchell took his game to another level in his junior season at UC Santa Barbara by becoming a consistent knockdown three-point shooter for the first time in his collegiate career at 39.3 percent.

Mitchell isn’t considered a great athlete, but he gets to the rim and draws contact (5.9 free throw attempts the past two seasons), is an elite foul shooter (.858) with decent size for his position.

Mitchell has fluctuated between the late 30s and early 40s but could be a candidate to rise leading up to the draft. 

Christian Kaspar-Bartke/Getty Images

(Ratiopharm Ulm: Guard, International, 6-3)

Previous rank: NR / Best rank: 26 / Worst rank: NR

Spanish point guard Juan Nuñez has spent the past two seasons with Ratiopharm Ulm in Germany after beginning his professional career with Real Madrid. The floor general won a Spanish League title with Real Madrid in 2022 and a German League title with Ratiopharm Ulm in 2023 while playing meaningful minutes.

Nuñez is an elite pick-and-roll ball-handler with great court vision, but his defense needs work, and his jump shot is streaky.

Previously, Nuñez was featured as one of the top breakout players at the 2023 FIBA World Cup by HoopsHype’s Alberto De Roa and had one of the highest global ratings among younger players in the tournament.

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

(Arizona: Guard, Senior, 6-5)

Previous rank: 41 (-5) / Best rank: 39 / Worst rank: NR

Pelle Larsson is a knockdown off-ball shooter beyond the arc (.426) and can handle well enough to beat his defender on drives and create space for jumpers against taller or slower defenders. When afforded the opportunity at Arizona, the Swedish guard also thrived in pick-and-roll action, which is a staple of today’s NBA game.

Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

(Colorado: Guard, Junior, 6-2)

Previous rank: 45 (-2) / Best rank: 33 / Worst rank: NR

KJ Simpson has positioned himself as a mid-second-round pick based on the previous two HoopsHype aggregate mock drafts as a potential backup point guard option for teams looking for rotational depth.

Despite being a little undersized compared to today’s NBA point guard, Simpson finished well around the rim with body control and worked on a floater in the lane that will need continued development. Defensively, Simpson is a pesky on-ball defender who can generate steals.

Simpson’s swing skill is his three-point shooting, which skyrocketed to a blister 43.4 percent after shooting a combined 26.9 percent in his first two years at Colorado. Simpson must prove to NBA talent evaluators that his breakout efficiency beyond the arc wasn’t a fluke.

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

(UCLA: Forward, Sophomore, 6-10)

Previous rank: 36 (-12) / Best rank: 22 / Worst rank: NR

Adem Bona is widely viewed by NBA executives as a rotational NBA frontcourt role player due to his defensive prowess as an athletic shot blocker and rebounder with an accompanying high motor, which helped him win the Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year award.

Offensively, Bona is not a floor spacer or reliable foul shooter, but he’s a lob threat and can score around the rim with his drop step and hook shot.

Andy Lyons/Getty Images

(Arkansas: Forward, Sophomore, 6-10)

Previous rank: 26 (-23) / Best rank: 44 / Worst rank: NR

Trevon Brazile recently entered the transfer portal, but he’s expected to remain in the NBA Draft, barring a freak injury during the pre-draft process, a league source told HoopsHype.

After returning from an ACL injury during the 2022-23 season, Brazile reminded NBA talent evaluators why he could be a potential rotational frontcourt player thanks to his athleticism and ability to stretch the floor beyond the arc as a 35.3 percent three-point shooter.

FIBA.com

(Ratiopharm Ulm: Forward, International, 6-8)

Previous rank: 56 (+6) / Best rank: 36 / Worst rank: NR

Pacome Dadiet’s stock is rising as he cracks the Top 50 prospects in the HoopsHype aggregate mock draft for the first time.

Dadiet can guard four positions, except center, thanks to his strong frame, lateral quickness, and wingspan. While he can stay in front of his man as an on-ball defender, Dadiet must improve his rebounding and use his hands more to generate steals.

Offensively, Dadiet’s swing skill will be if he can develop a consistent three-point shot (.328). Some executives question whether he can make plays for others as he did at Basketball Without Borders Global Camp last year.

The French forward will still be 18 on draft night, making him an intriguing long-term play and a potential draft-and-stash option for a team.

Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports

(Iowa: Forward, Junior, 6-7)

Previous rank: NR / Best rank: 35 / Worst rank: NR

Payton Sandfort has the size (6-foot-7) and three-point shooting ability (.379 on 7.3 attempts this season at Iowa) to become a potential NBA player. Sandfort is more than a standstill shooter. He moves well on off-ball screens, has a quick release that should translate well, and is a willing swing passer.

Defensively, it’s unclear which position Sandfort would guard at the NBA level. Offensively, he’s limited as a ball handler and can’t create consistently off the dribble.

Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

(Houston: Guard, Senior, 6-1)

Previous rank: NR / Best rank: 33 / Worst rank: NR

Jamal Shead makes his debut on the HoopsHype aggregate mock draft after becoming the first player in Big 12 history to win Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year in the same season.

Shead is a ferocious on-ball defender and has great instincts with active hands, which helped him average 2.2 steals per game. Offensively, Shead is strong, with a soft touch to finish around the rim, and a good passer who averaged 6.3 assists per game. However, he must improve his three-point shot (.296 for his career).

Can Shead make an impact defensively in the NBA similar to other undersized backup guards like Jose Alvarado and Jevon Carter? That’ll likely be the question NBA executives ask themselves ahead of the draft.

Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

(Clemson: Center, Senior, 6-10)

Previous rank: 42 (-11) / Best rank: 45 / Worst rank: NR

PJ Hall was a two-time All-ACC honoree at Clemson and one of just four players in college basketball to average 18.5 points, 7.0 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.5 blocks per game this season.

Hall has been a consistent shot blocker since becoming a starter in his sophomore season. During his junior season, Hall displayed the potential to stretch the floor in pick-and-pop situations. After a stellar junior season from beyond the arc (.398), Hall’s three-point efficiency declined this season (.316). Hall’s consistent foul shooting (.780) during his collegiate career offers hope that he can become a more consistent stretch-big as he showed as a junior.

Grace Hollars/IndyStar /USA TODAY Network

(Minnesota: Guard, Freshman, 6-6)

Previous rank: NR / Best rank: 28 / Worst rank: NR

Cam Christie, the younger brother of Max Christie on the Lakers, earned Big Ten All-Freshman honors this season at Minnesota. Christie has NBA-ready size at 6-foot-6 to play shooting guard but will need to bulk up significantly. His NBA calling card is his three-point shot (39.1 percent).

Christie is entering the NCAA transfer portal and will be listed as “do not contact,” as he’s currently focused primarily on the draft process, per ESPN.

Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports

(Baylor: Forward, Senior, 6-9)

Previous rank: NR / Best rank: 29 / Worst rank: NR

Bridges, who turns 23 ahead of the draft, earned All-Big 12 honors this season for Baylor. The biggest stride in his game was his vastly improved three-point shooting at a career-high 41.2 percent on a career-high 5.1 attempts per game.

Bridges excels as an off-ball wing who can become a 3-and-D role player if his outside shooting translates. He moves well without the ball, is a good cutter, and can finish in the lane. Defensively, Bridges can guard either guard spot and small forwards. Occasionally, Bridges can guard smaller fours.

Chris Coduto/Getty Images

(Arizona: Forward, Senior, 6-7)

Previous rank: 40 (-16) / Best rank: 44 / Worst rank: NR

Keshad Johnson is a strong defensive wing who can tag a rolling big and rotate effectively across the court. Thanks to his 225-pound frame, Johnson can also crash the boards effectively.

The swing skill for Johnson will be his three-point shooting on offense, where he shot 38.7 percent last season, which was an outlier after shooting a paltry 24.6 percent from beyond the arc during his first four college seasons.

Johnson will turn 23 by the draft and must prove his outside shooting was no fluke this season during team workouts.

Patrick Breen/The Republic/USA TODAY Network

(Alabama: Guard, Senior, 6-1)

Previous rank: NR / Best rank: 28 / Worst rank: NR

During the NCAA Tournament, Mark Sears was one of the best players, averaging 24.2 points on 53.2 percent shooting from the field and 45.5 percent from beyond the arc, 5.2 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.2 steals.

Sears is an undersized guard and lacks athleticism but holds his own thanks to his 185-pound sturdy frame and solid body control when penetrating by slowing down to keep his defender on his hip as he attempts to finish in the paint.

Fiona Goodall/Getty Images

(Illawarra Hawks: Guard, International, 6-5)

Previous rank: NR / Best rank: 40 / Worst rank: NR

AJ Johnson was a Top 50 recruit coming out of high school before joining the Illawarra Hawks of the NBL. The 19-year-old combo guard has good size, length, athleticism, and quickness as one of the fastest prospects in the draft. Johnson struggled, however, with an inconsistent role overseas, leading to underwhelming stats in one of the most physical leagues in the world.

Any team that selects Johnson in the draft is banking on his physical tools and that he’ll realize his long-term potential in their developmental system.

Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

(UConn: Guard, Senior, 6-5)

Previous rank: NR / Best rank: 30 / Worst rank: NR

Tristen Newton helped UConn win consecutive championships after transferring from East Carolina. In his second season as a Huskie, Newton showed improved playmaking skills as the lead guard, averaging a career-high 6.2 assists and is a good rebounder for his position (6.2 boards per game).

The 23-year-old guard will have to improve his perimeter shooting, but his career 83 percent shooting from the foul line suggests he could eventually.

Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

(UConn: Guard, Senior, 6-4)

Previous rank: NR / Best rank: 47 / Worst rank: NR

Cam Spencer helped UConn win the national championship as a sniper, shooting 44 percent from three-point range on his way to All-Big East honors this season. Despite being 24 years old, shooting is always in demand at the NBA level and is Spencer’s best chance at earning a potential roster spot.

You can follow Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) on X, formerly known as Twitter.