Cason Wallace, Chris Livingston Projected as First Rounders in 2023 NBA Draft

The pair of freshmen are poised for big seasons in Lexington, and potentially beyond

Four Kentucky Wildcats have been projected as NBA draft picks in ESPN's latest 2023 mock. 

Cason Wallace leads the way at No. 13, as Jonathan Givony projects the freshman guard to land with the New Orleans Pelicans. Fellow freshman Chris Livingston is next down at No. 27 with the Memphis Grizzlies, calling for a potential partnership with superstar Ja Morant. 

In the second round, that's where Givony currently has the reigning unanimous National Player of the Year, Oscar Tshiebwe. At No. 39, the big man would land with the Denver Nuggets, which on paper, would provide a stellar frontcourt combination alongside two-time MVP Nikola Jokic. Givony also has sophomore Daimion Collins being taken in the second round at No. 42 via the Boston Celtics. 

Of all the storylines, Tshiebwe's is the most interesting. Despite his dominance in college last season, his draft stock never rose significantly, teetering around the same spot where he's currently projected. Say he has another mammoth, record-breaking season in Lexington, will that even do anything for scouts? It's clear that they would love to see a better jump shot, and sure Tshiebwe's size maybe isn't as big as he needs to be to excel as a forward in the NBA, but the talent and heart is obviously there. 

The Kentucky superstar's stock is one to watch over the course of this season. 

Kentucky Basketball News

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Wildcats Today will have updates on scheduling, injuries, updates and more on Kentucky Basketball as the Cats near the start of their 2022-23 season.

Want the latest on national football and basketball recruiting, including Cats targets? Head over to SI All-American for the latest news, blogs, and updates about the nation's best prospects.