March Madness Draft Prospects To Watch: Sweet 16 Part Two

Highlighting the top prospects remaining in the NCAA tournament.

In part one of this series, we highlighted four of the top draft prospects to keep an eye out during the rest of the NCAA tournament. But there are far more future pros still dancing, so without further adieu, let’s discuss them:

Nick Smith Jr., Arkansas

Nick Smith Jr. is commonly regarded as the most coveted guy amongst Coach Eric Musselman’s four NBA prospects, and it’s easy to see why. The 6-foot-4 combo guard has been an offensive spark when healthy. The Arkansas native racks up points with his slick handle, deadly pull-up shooting, and soft touch on floaters. The freshman will likely need to record some big scoring performances to continue the eighth-seeded Razorbacks run. In the process, Smith Jr. could stake his claim as a potential top-five pick come June.

Anthony Black, Arkansas

On the other hand, many argue that fellow freshman Anthony Black is actually Arkansas’ top prospect. The 6-foot-7 point guard is a jumbo creator in its truest form. He’s a savvy pick-and-roll operator, averaging four assists per game. Despite his inconsistent shooting, the Razorbacks stud tallies points at the line by being a foul-drawing machine. Additionally, his active hands headline impressive defensive impact. Black could enter top-five conversations himself if he can channel his best all-around impact over the next couple weeks.

Jordan Walsh, Arkansas

Jordan Walsh rounds out the Razorbacks’ trio of freshman prospects. He isn’t a lock to be a lottery pick like his two teammates, but he should still be a first round pick. There is an argument to be made that the 6-foot-8 forward is the best non-Wembenyama defensive player in the draft, and it’s a good one. He combines a 7-foot-3 wingspan with quick feet and a sturdy frame to make life miserable for offensive players. His offense is more of a work in progress, but he has his moments as a handler and driver despite an inconsistent jump shot. The Link Academy alumni has already made a big impact on Arkansas’ wins in this tournament. If he can keep this up, Walsh’s draft stock will surge.

Ricky Council IV, Arkansas

Junior Ricky Council IV finally concludes Arkansas’ crop of prospects. The Wichita State transfer was the squad’s leading scorer this year, and staked his own claim as a potential first-round pick. His primary appeal comes from what he can do as a slasher. The 6-foot-6 wing is explosive attacking the rim and pairs this ability with impressive finishing. He also mixes in some pull-up jumpers from the mid-range. His 27% outside shooting is far from ideal, but Council IV could still lock himself into first-round territory with some big games amidst the Razorbacks title chase.

Colby Jones, Xavier

Shifting gears to the Big East, Xavier’s Colby Jones has been a big riser this draft cycle. His 3-point shot has really progressed, adding to his unique profile. The big guard is a shrewd passer, strong driver, active defender, prideful rebounder, and possesses a lethal floater. However, as a whole, he doesn’t excel in any particular on-ball role. The upperclassman lacks top-end speed, strength, and shot-making, making it difficult to confidently project him as a volume creator. Jones will likely find an NBA role as more of a hybrid connector-type guard, and has the chance to display his skillset and first-round candidacy during Xavier’s title quest.

Other Names To Keep An Eye Out For:

Jaden Bradley, Alabama

Arthur Kaluma, Creighton

Julian Strawther, Gonzaga

Marcus Sasser, Houston

Keyontae Johnson, Kansas State

Nae’Qwan Tomlin, Kansas State

Isaiah Wong, Miami

Julian Phillips, Tennessee

Dylan Disu, Texas

Tyrese Hunter, Texas

Dillon Mitchell, Texas

Amari Bailey, UCLA

Adem Bona, UCLA

Jamie Jaquez Jr., UCLA

Andre Jackson, UConn

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