NBA Draft 2023: Jarace Walker drafted by Washington Wizards, traded to Pacers

The 6-foot-8 Walker was drafted No. 8 overall

Jarace Walker is just one year removed from a dominant senior season at national high school powerhouse IMG Academy in Florida. 

A former five-star recruit and the No. 1 power forward in the country in 2022, Walker racked up a ton of awards at IMG. As a senior he was named a McDonald’s All-American and a Naismith Second Team All-American. He also helped lead IMG Academy to a GEICO National championship as a freshman. 

After an impressive freshman season at Houston, Walker was drafted No. 8 overall in the 2023 NBA Draft by the Washington Wizards. The Wizards then traded Walker to the Indiana Pacers.

Walker’s defensive versatility and offensive upside make him very attractive to NBA scouts and executives. 

Jarace Walker, Houston  / Photo Courtesy of Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports

In his freshman season with Houston, Walker averaged 11.2 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1.3 blocks and shot 34.7% from three-point range. 

The Pacers are a great fit for Walker. They need forward depth and a prospect that can be a big contributor on both ends of the floor. Walker can also make an impact rolling to the rim in pick-and-roll situations with guard Tyrese Haliburton. 

Here's a look at where Walker was projected to be picked in the 2023 NBA Draft:

• The Sporting News had Walker being drafted No. 5 overall to the Detroit Pistons. 

• The Ringer had Walker being drafted No. 5 overall to the Detroit Pistons.  

• Yahoo! Sports had Walker being drafted No. 7 overall to the Indiana Pacers. 

• Bleacher Report had Walker being drafted No. 7 overall to the Indiana Pacers.   

Jarace Walker Houston Highlights 

Jarace Walker High School Highlights 

Photo Courtesy of Landon Bost/Naples Daily News/USA TODAY Network-Florida / USA TODAY NETWORK