NBA Draft Scouting Report: Arkansas’ Jordan Walsh
Jordan Walsh
Wing | Arkansas
Height: 6’7” | Weight: 200 lbs
2023 Draft Age: 19.30
Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports
Prospect Profile
As an overall prospect, Walsh has the potential to be one of the most versatile players in the upcoming draft. He’s got the skills and intangibles to do nearly everything effectively. If he’s able to improve in just a few areas, he’ll be one of those players that can impact the game in any way.
Walsh is currently more of a stretch four, but we project he’ll be a wing longer term. For now, being a combo forward isn’t a bad place to be.
A disruptive defender, the five-star prospect has a 7-foot-3 wingspan which allows him to effectually guard three to four positions. As a whole, that side of the floor is a real strength for him.
Walsh played at Arkansas on one of the best young rosters in the country this season. There’s three players outside of Walsh in Nick Smith Jr., Anthony Black and Ricky Council IV that have legitimate first-round upside.
On the offensive end, Walsh is best in transition where he can play above the rim. Given the type of defender he is, the 6-foot-7 wing is often running the break.
While Walsh has a smooth jumper with a high release and good mechanics, he’s got a long way to go as a shooter. The shot looks good, but doesn’t fall at efficient rate from deep. Shooting consistency is what he will need to prove to teams most leading up to the 2023 NBA Draft.
The freshman is a solid free throw shooter, which is promising as it relates to his 3-point shot long-term.
Walsh is a good slasher and is comfortable operating in the post. If he’s got an undersized defender on him, he’s able to be effective in utilizing his size to get a bucket. He has a high IQ and is a good passer for his position, but does have moments in which he turns the ball over at a high rate. Walsh also projects to be a quality rebounder for a perimeter oriented player.
He's an energy guy that can truly impact the momentum of a game.
Overall, he was one of the better two-way players in the country last season. As a senior at Link Academy, he led the team to the finals of the GEICO Nationals, playing alongside another first-round talent in Julian Phillips (Tennessee).
The Texas native often flirted with double-doubles on the EYBL circuit. Although overshadowed at Arkansas, he should be a great contributor on both ends at the next level.
Highlights
Draft Projection
Late First or Early Second-Round Pick in 2023 NBA Draft.
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