Top Returning College Prospects For 2024 NBA Draft

The NBA early entry deadline has just passed by and we now have a great idea of how the returning prospects are looking next year. There’s a ton of talented prospects returning, but who are they?

We now know every prospect that has entered the 2023 NBA Draft, whether they’re just testing the waters or set on staying in. Next year’s draft is considered much weaker than this year’s draft, which is a big appeal for prospects to return to college in hopes of increasing their odds of being a first round pick. Here are some of the most notable prospects returning to college:

Kyle Filipowski | Duke

Filipowski was a potential top-20 pick in the 2023 NBA draft before electing to return to Duke for his sophomore year.

The skill level he possesses on the offensive end is very intriguing for a player at his size. The 7-foot big man has the size to finish over defenders, the skill to handle the ball and has shown great feel as a passer. We’re waiting for him to become a more consistent defender and shooter, but the flashes are there.

As we look towards the 2024 NBA draft, I wouldn’t be surprised if we end up seeing him as a lottery pick.

Riley Kugel | Florida

Kugel jumped onto the scene kind of late but showcased that he’s one of the most skilled shot-creators and shot-makers in the draft next year.

He’s an NBA-level athlete that can score it at all three levels. He has a smooth pull-up jumper and is able to create space with his shifty handle.

The Florida guard could be a top ten pick if everything hits for him next season. He still needs to improve as a playmaker as he’s a bit too focused on scoring at times, but the flashes are there to be a reliable secondary playmaker.

Kel’el Ware | Indiana

Ware had a pretty rough freshman season as he struggled to see consistent minutes on the floor due to playing behind experienced bigs. But now that the former McDonald's All-American is at a different school, we could very well see him as someone who could break out.

He's a skilled 7-footer that can finish at the rim and space the floor. The Hoosier has good touch from all over the floor and is an offensive minded big. He’ll need to improve his motor and consistency on defense, but playing under Mike Woodson could help him improve upon those things.

Terrance Arceneaux | Houston

Arceneaux showed flashes of two-way ability at Houston, but due to him playing behind experienced guards, he struggled to find big minutes for the team.

His defensive ability and tools are the most intriguing thing about him as he has the upside to be an elite defensive wing at the next level. The next step for the Houston wing is to develop on the offensive end this off-season. He needs to improve as an outside shooter and his creation skills.

Arceneaux will likely take on a bigger role next year so it’ll be vital for him to polish up his offensive game.

Donovan Clingan | Connecticut

Clingan was a key piece to UConn’s tournament success and was statistically one of the best defenders in all of college basketball. He’s a massive center as he stands at 7-foot-2 with long arms which helps him anchor a defense and alter everything inside the paint.

His interior defense could be the best in the draft next year which would be valuable enough for a team to take him in the lottery. He still needs to round out his offensive game but I’ve heard the big man plans to extend his range to three-point land next season.

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