UCLA Basketball: New NBA Mock Draft Projects 2 Bruins as First-Round Picks

Could these Bruins go in the first round of next year's NBA Draft?

The UCLA Bruins have kicked off their season with a promising start, securing their first victory against Saint Francis. While they may not have a current national ranking, the team boasts a wealth of talent, and as the season unfolds, that ranking could undoubtedly change.

The team is filled with talent, including two underclassmen who could make serious noise that could benefit the team and themselves. In Bleacher Report's latest NBA Mock Draft, two standout Bruins are predicted to hear their names called in the first round of next year's NBA Draft. Those players are freshman center Aday Mara and sophomore center Adem Bona. Let's start with Mara:

13. New Orleans Pelicans: Aday Mara (UCLA, C, Freshman)

Mara should instantly operate as a featured option with 7'3" size and skill that college defenders aren't used to matching up against. UCLA can bank on instant easy baskets, low-post buckets and shot-blocking. Flashes of touch and slick passing will have scouts salivating, though a lack of defensive switchability and lateral foot speed may also have them second-guessing Mara's NBA fit/upside.

Now as for Bona's fit:

24. Philadelphia 76ers:

Adem Bona (UCLA, C, Sophomore)

We aren't likely to learn anything new about Bona this year, but after a second season cutting down on fouls and ideally making more free throws, he should be more prepared for NBA minutes by 2024-25. Teams will know exactly what they're getting (and what they're not) with his outstanding physical tools, athleticism and motor for finishing, offensive rebounding and rim protection.

Mara, an 18-year-old prodigy from Spain, made a significant impact overseas before joining UCLA. Standing tall at 7-foot-3, this promising young center put up impressive numbers, averaging 14 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks during the FIBA U18 European Championship in the summer. 

While Mara didn't see extensive playing time in his first college game, the potential he brings to the table is undeniable. If given the opportunity to shine, he will make a name for himself and climb up the draft boards.

Bona, on the other hand, is already off to an impressive start in the 2023-2024 season. In the game against Saint Francis, he emerged as the leading scorer for the Bruins, dropping an astounding 28 points in 31 minutes of play. 

The sophomore also contributed with nine rebounds, two assists, and four blocks, demonstrating his prowess on both ends of the court. If he continues to perform at this level throughout the season, there's no doubt that his draft stock will rise significantly.

UCLA has a rich history of producing top-tier talent, and these two international stars appear to be next in line for potential first-round selections.