NBA Draft: Top 10 Prospects Entering College Basketball Season

It’s way too early to put together any type of NBA mock draft, or probably even the following list, for that matter. But ESPN did it, so we decided to write one, too.

Without further adieu, here’s our list of the top 10 draft prospects entering the 2024-24 college basketball season, which tips off early next month:

1. Cooper Flagg, SF/PF, Duke
   Height: 6-9 | Age: 17
   Flagg is a force, folks. At Duke, he’s proving why he’s the top prospect with his defensive tenacity and impressive versatility. He showcased his skills in practice, going 3-0 against some seasoned players. While his shot creation needs polishing, his summer with the USA Basketball Select Team has left a lasting impression on scouts. If he can keep this momentum going, he’s poised to cement his status as the No. 1 pick in June.
2. Dylan Harper, PG/SG, Rutgers
   Height: 6-6 | Age: 18
   Harper is stepping into a huge role at Rutgers as the starting point guard, giving him the chance to really shine. His size and court vision are impressive, and if he can navigate the Big Ten defenses effectively, he might just challenge Flagg for that top spot. Expect him to showcase his playmaking alongside his scoring.
3. VJ Edgecombe, SG, Baylor
   Height: 6-5 | Age: 19
   Edgecombe is the sleeper to watch. After a standout summer with the Bahamian national team, he’s ready to take on more of a playmaking role at Baylor. His explosive athleticism allows him to thrive in transition, and if he can prove he’s more than just a wing player, don’t be surprised if his name rises significantly come draft day.
4. Nolan Traore, PG, Saint-Quentin
   Height: 6-5 | Age: 18
   Traore has been turning heads with his dynamic scoring and playmaking in France. With a couple of standout performances under his belt, he’s showing that he can handle the pressure at a young age. Keep an eye on how he navigates the tougher competition this season; it could elevate his draft stock even higher.
5. Kon Knueppel, SG/SF, Duke
   Height: 6-7 | Age: 19
   Knueppel is making waves at Duke, and rightfully so. His scoring prowess and shooting efficiency have him on the radar of NBA scouts. Duke coaches have raved about his performance in practices, and if he can translate that into game action, he’s set for a breakout year.
6. Drake Powell, SG/SF, North Carolina
   Height: 6-6 | Age: 19
   Powell’s growth over the summer has positioned him as a key player for North Carolina. He has the potential to be a high-level defender, and as he refines his offensive skills, expect him to be a versatile asset for the Tar Heels.
7. Khaman Maluach, C, Duke
   Height: 7-2 | Age: 18
   Maluach is a project worth monitoring. At 7-2, his shot-blocking ability is impressive, and he’s shown flashes of offensive potential. With more experience and development, he could emerge as a valuable player in the NBA draft.
8. Liam McNeeley, SG/SF, UConn
   Height: 6-7 | Age: 18
   McNeeley is a smart, competitive player who fits perfectly into UConn’s system. His ability to contribute in multiple areas, combined with his shooting, gives him a solid chance to climb up draft boards.
9. Egor Demin, SG/SF, BYU
   Height: 6-9 | Age: 18
   Demin’s versatility makes him intriguing, especially with his background playing point guard in Europe. But he needs to prove himself defensively to really boost his draft status.
10. Brayden Johnson, PF/C, Texas
    Height: 6-10 | Age: 19
    Johnson is flying under the radar but has the tools to make a name for himself at Texas. His combination of size and skill could pay off big come NBA draft time.