2023 NBA Mock Draft V.4
The No Ceilings crew put together V.4 of their Mock Draft for the 2023 NBA Draft cycle.
The 2022-23 NBA season is about to reach the All-Star break. There’s excitement in the air for two major reasons. On one side, fan bases are eying the potential for their favorite organizations to make a run at contending for the NBA Playoffs.
But then there’s the other side of the fence: you DRAFT MANIACS who are foaming at the mouth to get to the night of the 2023 NBA Draft Lottery. Yesterday we dropped a “BIG” one with our latest installment of the No Ceilings Composite BIG Board rankings.
Today, we are back with another monster.
Draft season is starting to take a turn for the serious. Before you know it, March Madness will be upon us. That means that we are officially reaching the time of the year when prospects could start to generate some momentum in NBA Draft circles.
With that being said, it’s time for the latest No Ceilings NBA Mock Draft.
**IMPORTANT: The order of our latest Mock Draft installment was from the NBA standings on February 11th.**
Enjoy, Draft Maniacs.
1. HOUSTON ROCKETS - Victor Wembanyama | Center | Metropolitans 92
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
22.2 PTS | 9.0 REB | 2.0 AST | 0.8 STL | 3.0 BLK
47.7 FG% | 28.9 3P% | 81.1 FT%
Tyler Rucker: Houston Rockets fans continue to say their prayers to the Lottery gods as the season progresses. Adding Wembanyama to the mix in Houston would be a potentially momentum-changing opportunity for the organization. The impressive step forward from big man Alperen Sengun in his second year is a welcomed development for the franchise. Pairing the defensive upside of Wembanyama with the offensive weaponry of Sengun would establish a dangerous frontcourt duo for years to come. If there’s a team in the lottery that could flourish from the opportunity to land a freakish talent like Wembanyama, it’s the Houston Rockets. Regardless of any outcome, Rockets fans will hope that their team finds itself landing in the first two selections of the draft when it comes to the after-effects of lotto night. For now, adding the lengthy Wembanyama with his horrifying upside would have Rockets fans popping champagne bottles.
2. SAN ANTONIO SPURS - Scoot Henderson | Guard | G League Ignite
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
18.9 PTS | 4.4 REB | 5.8 AST | 1.5 STL | 0.4 BLK
46.3 FG% | 35.7 3P% | 74.1 FT%
Stephen Gillaspie: Many people will say that Victor is the prize of this year’s draft class–and they would be correct. However, Scoot would certainly be a heck of a consolation for any team that lands at the #2 spot in the draft. The Spurs have a number of players on their roster in Keldon Johnson, Devin Vassell, and Jeremy Sochan that are tremendous young building blocks, but they do not have anyone on their team that can organize the offense at a high level. Scoot can not only organize an offense, but he can also take over games with his combination of athleticism, high level of feel, and dynamic scoring. For a young player that has neck-breaking speed, Scoot plays through different paces and angles that make him such a difficult cover. When he’s not getting to the rim or pulling up at the elbow, Scoot can whip passes all along the perimeter, or execute a Nash dribble-through-the-lane and find the cutter. While San Antonio misses on Wemby–and will have to play him within their division–them landing a player that went right at him during their exhibition matches is a far cry from a disappointment.
3. CHARLOTTE HORNETS - Brandon Miller | Wing | Alabama
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
18.8 PTS | 8.2 REB | 2.0 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.8 BLK
45.5 FG% | 42.7 3P% | 81.8 FT%
Nick Agar-Johnson: With the clear Top 2 players off the board, the 2023 NBA Draft really starts here with the Charlotte Hornets. They opt to take one of, if not the, most impressive players in college basketball this season in Brandon Miller. Miller brings exceptional three-point shooting at a high volume to help space out the Charlotte offense, and his improved finishing inside the arc in conference play has mitigated many of the concerns around his finishing from earlier on in the season. Miller will need to continue to improve his handle and self-creation, but his floor spacing, solid defense, and size on the wing make him one of the more prized prospects in this class and a huge pickup for the Hornets.
4. DETROIT PISTONS - Ausar Thompson | Wing | Overtime Elite
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
16.3 PTS | 7.1 REB | 6.1 AST | 2.4 STL | 1.1 BLK
48.1 FG% | 29.8 3P% | 66.2 FT%
Nathan Grubel: Especially after trading away Saddiq Bey, the Detroit Pistons need depth on the wing with starter upside. Ausar Thompson fits that bill as a steady off-ball option with plenty of potential as an on-ball scorer. His speed combined with his 6’7” size and length could give the Pistons another athlete in the realm of Jaden Ivey, meaning double the rim pressure. If Thompson can continue developing as a jump shooter and show more flashes of his passing and defensive playmaking, he could blossom into an excellent complementary option to not only Ivey and the big men but to Cade Cunningham as well.
5. ORLANDO MAGIC - Amen Thompson | Wing | Overtime Elite
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
16.4 PTS | 5.9 REB | 5.9 AST | 2.3 STL | 0.9 BLK
56.6 FG% | 25.0 3P% | 65.6 FT%
Maxwell Baumbach: The Orlando Magic have faced a familiar struggle for young, building organizations—they need a lead playmaker. While Paolo Banchero could still grow into that role and Franz Wagner profiles to be a high-end starter, adding a high-ceiling prospect like Amen Thompson to the equation could take them to the next level. Right now, the Magic are 27th in the league in assists and 25th in turnovers. Amen Thompson would add a playmaking punch. He’s going to enter the league as one of the best athletes in the association. Thompson is a walking paint touch, boasting a blinding first step and violent bounce off the floor. He’s also exceptionally creative, able to deliver the ball to his teammates in ways that defenses fail to anticipate. Thompson does an exceptional job of staying in front of quick guards and could over versatility on that end as he adds strength. Simply put, he’s the highest upside player on the board who could be an additional jumbo playmaker for the Magic.
6. INDIANA PACERS - Jarace Walker | Forward | Houston
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
11.5 PTS | 6.5 REB | 1.7 AST | 1.0 STL | 0.9 BLK
49.3 FG% | 40.7 3P% | 63.6 FT%
Tyler Metcalf: Jarace Walker continues to show the two-way versatility that could make him a Top 5 pick in this draft. Walker’s calling card as a freshman has been his defensive versatility. Going back to his high school days, Walker has shown that he can guard almost anyone on the court. On top of that, he regularly patrols the weak side on his own, playing some of the best team defense in the country. Offensively, Walker doesn’t regularly fill up the stat sheet, but that doesn’t mean that he’s incapable of doing so. Walker’s jump shot, especially off the catch, continues to improve. Walker also has so much more to his offensive game that is slowly revealing itself. Whether he’s attacking the rim, making the extra pass, attacking closeouts, or operating in the pick-and-roll, Walker consistently makes the right decision for what is best for the offense. Putting Walker’s size, athleticism, skill, and defense on a young roster with Tyrese Haliburton and Benedict Mathurin gives the Pacers one of the more intriguing young cores in the league. Even better, Walker is a great fit next to Myles Turner, if he sticks around. When factoring in value and fit, Walker is a no-brainer and a potential steal with the sixth pick.
7. NEW ORLEANS PELICANS (via Lakers) - Keyonte George | Guard | Baylor
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
16.5 PTS | 4.5 REB | 3.1 AST | 1.2 STL | 0.2 BLK
38.6 FG% | 33.7 3P% | 80.6 FT%
Tyler Rucker: New Orleans will find itself in another fascinating position to add another piece of the puzzle for years to come. New Orleans will do their homework, as they have the ability to go in a number of different directions when it comes to this Top 10 selection. With a roster that is oozing with depth, the Pelicans could look to make a play here with their eyes on the future. Baylor freshman combo guard Keyonte George has shown some fantastic versatility on the offensive side of the floor during the 2022-23 season. George has the ability to be a lethal shooting asset on the perimeter and he’s a much stronger floor spacer than his percentages might show. The most welcomed development from George this season has been his playmaking upside. Adding him into the rotation, while allowing Keyonte to pick the mind of a seasoned star like CJ McCollum, seems like too awesome of an opportunity for the Pelicans to pass up here.
8. TORONTO RAPTORS - Nick Smith Jr. | Guard | Arkansas
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
11.5 PTS | 1.7 REB | 1.7 AST | 0.5 STL | 0.2 BLK
37.7 FG% | 29.2 3P% | 80.0 FT%
Stephen Gillaspie: Nick Smith Jr. has had an up-and-down season. That’s not dissimilar to the Toronto organization. Fred VanVleet may go elsewhere during the offseason but, even if he doesn’t, adding a player like Smith Jr. is still a smart move. With the halfcourt woes that have plagued the Raptors, he offers a top-notch floor spacer and ball-handler. Smith has the ability to snake his way into floater range and can finish with consistency. Listed at 6’5”, he can play either guard spot and is a fiery competitor on the defensive end. Should FVV and NSJ be teammates, they would be able to split the point-of-attack responsibilities between themselves. With the high level of passing that exists from the forward position, along with the pressure that Pascal Siakam can put on the rim, Nick Smith Jr. is just what the doctor ordered for a team that is looking to rise back to relevancy.
9. WASHINGTON WIZARDS - Cam Whitmore | Forward | Villanova
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
12.4 PTS | 5.4 REB | 0.8 AST | 1.6 STL | 0.4 BLK
46.6 FG% | 35.4 3P% | 71.4 FT%
Nick Agar-Johnson: The shine has faded a bit from Cam Whitmore after his dominating performances this past summer in FIBA U19 play, but Whitmore still has one of the highest upsides of anyone in this class. The Washington Wizards are in need of a talent infusion, and Whitmore’s elite athleticism and bully-ball style would be welcome additions to their roster. The flashes of superstar upside have been there for Whitmore, even in the midst of a somewhat disappointing season, and he could be the kind of game-changing prospect that the Wizards desperately need if everything breaks right for him.
10. ORLANDO MAGIC (via Bulls) - Jett Howard | Wing | Michigan
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
14.6 PTS | 2.6 REB | 2.2 AST | 0.4 STL | 0.7 BLK
42.1 FG% | 37.8 3P% | 80.3 FT%
Nathan Grubel: The Jett Howard and Orlando Magic fit is one I’m selfishly rooting for on draft night. What does a team need that seemingly has size, athleticism, and shooting everywhere? MORE size and shooting of course! Howard still has plenty of room to fill out his large frame, meaning he can continue to get stronger to punish mismatches more effectively. Howard has the handle and shake off the bounce to lose bigger defenders, and with continued physical development, he could grow into a bully-ball game against guards and smaller wings; factor that in with his flamethrower shooting ability both as a spot-up option as well as off movement, and you have an enticing floor. If Howard takes a few jumps as a playmaker, though, there is star upside that would slot in well next to Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. If Amen Thompson is the first pick for Orlando in this draft, he’s going to need shooters to kick out to, and Howard fits that bill.
11. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS - Anthony Black | Guard | Arkansas
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
13.2 PTS | 5.2 REB | 4.1 AST | 1.9 STL | 0.6 BLK
46.2 FG% | 31.0 3P% | 71.7 FT%
Maxwell Baumbach: The Trail Blazers have shown a willingness to surround Damian Lillard with young, high-upside talent as they build for their future. Adding Anthony Black into that mix with Shaedon Sharpe and Anfernee Simons would serve to further elevate their ceiling going forward. The 6’7” guard offers defensive versatility, boasting the ability to stay in front of a multitude of players with exceptionally fast hands to rack up steals. Offensively, he’s a smart, modern-day connector who can put the ball on the floor and sling the ball out of a live dribble when attacking. He’ll still make the right read and simple pass, but he’s capable of much more. His jump shot is a major question mark, but if he can get it to stick, he could be a wonderful part of Portland’s young core going forward.
12. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER - Taylor Hendricks | Forward | UCF
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
14.8 PTS | 6.9 REB | 1.5 AST | 0.8 STL | 1.8 BLK
48.3 FG% | 39.3 3P% | 79.5 FT%
Tyler Metcalf: The Thunder have shown their hand in recent drafts in terms of the players they prefer. Size, IQ, versatility, and character are requirements, not just preferences, to be drafted by the Thunder. The Thunder are in a really good spot as a young team and can afford to take a swing on a young player who has a relatively safe floor and a fascinating ceiling. Hendricks has only shown flashes of being able to create on-ball, but his off-ball shooting should translate almost immediately. Given the playmakers the Thunder already have, Hendricks provides a reliable option from outside. Defensively, Hendricks is an excellent shot blocker and continues to show development with his on-ball defense.
13. UTAH JAZZ - Cason Wallace | Guard | Kentucky
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
12.0 PTS | 3.5 REB | 3.7 AST | 2.0 STL | 0.6 BLK
47.8 FG% | 39.2 3P% | 70.5 FT%
Tyler Rucker: The Utah Jazz are trending toward having two valued selections in the lottery. Danny Ainge has been in charge of attempting to “speed up” the rebuilding process for the Jazz. So far, it’s been a strong start for Ainge and Utah’s front office. If the Jazz can add two impressive pieces in the lottery range of the 2023 NBA Draft class, it’s going to allow the organization to take another step forward. Kentucky freshman guard Cason Wallace has the tools to be one of the “safer” prospects that should hear his name called in the lottery. Wallace has proved everything that evaluators wanted to see this year at Kentucky. He’s showcased an impressive shooting touch from the perimeter and is one of the top on-ball defenders in this class. While Wallace might not be the biggest swing of the lottery, he might become an asset that projects to have a lengthy career in the NBA. If he’s on the board, Utah should be sprinting to the podium to add another important piece to their future.
14. UTAH JAZZ (via Timberwolves) - Gradey Dick | Wing | Kansas
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
14.4 PTS | 4.9 REB | 1.6 AST | 1.5 STL | 0.2 BLK
45.6 FG% | 42.1 3P% | 84.6 FT%
Stephen Gillaspie: After selecting the player that is arguably the best defensive playmaker in the draft, the Jazz get a player that has a real case to be the best shooter among his peers. Though he doesn’t have the highest three-point percentage, Gradey Dick takes shots off of movement and is typically well-contested when he rises up. He is a capable shot-maker off of the bounce as well as the catch. It’s also worth mentioning that he is more than a shooter. Gradey has shown outstanding growth as a team defender, with a frame that can support additional strength that would help him in individual matchups. He competes for rebounds and shows the connective passing that will help him on nights when his shot isn’t falling. Adding players with elite skills within their class is generally a good bet, so the Jazz closing the lottery with back-to-back picks that fit that philosophy is a massive step in the winning direction.
15. ATLANTA HAWKS - Jalen Hood-Schifino | Guard | Indiana
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
12.6 PTS | 3.9 REB | 4.2 AST | 1.0 STL | 0.1 BLK
42.2 FG% | 39.2 3P% | 73.1 FT%
Nick Agar-Johnson: Jalen Hood-Schifino has been one of the hottest names in draft circles in recent weeks, and the Atlanta Hawks should be ecstatic if he falls to them here with the 15th pick. Hood-Schifino is one of the best playmakers in this class, and his shooting—somewhat of a concern heading into the season—has been very impressive for Indiana. Hood-Schifino is also a dogged defender with excellent size at the point of attack, and he’s got enough size to potentially play in three-guard lineups with Dejounte Murray and Trae Young.
16. LOS ANGELES LAKERS (via Pelicans) - Kris Murray | Forward | Iowa
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
21.0 PTS | 8.5 REB | 1.8 AST | 0.9 STL | 1.2 BLK
50.3 FG% | 35.6 3P% | 75.3 FT%
Stephen Gillaspie: It’s widely believed based on the history of LeBron James teams that whoever the Lakers select here will either be traded or see limited playing time. If there is one player that’s available that could shake that notion, it’s Kris Murray. Murray fits the bill of a player that was Mr. Everything for his college team and who can scale down into becoming a coveted role player—something he proved he could be last season playing alongside his brother. He is an older, instant-impact player that can guard multiple positions and is a consistent floor spacer. His weak side rim protection will be a welcomed addition next to Anthony Davis and the newly-acquired Jarred Vanderbilt. If there is one player-type that is believed to be the player-type that you have to surround LeBron with, Kris Murray checks all of those boxes.
17. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS - Rayan Rupert | Wing | NZ Breakers
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
6.8 PTS | 2.6 REB | 1.0 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.1 BLK
36.8 FG% | 25.5 3P% | 69.0 FT%
Maxwell Baumbach: With the selection of Rayan Rupert, the Warriors would add another high-ceiling young prospect into their organization. Rupert, playing for the New Zealand Breakers in Australia’s NBL, is exceptionally long. The 6’7” wing has a 7’3” wingspan, quick feet, and a good defensive stance. As a result, he’s preposterously difficult to get around at the point of attack. Offensively, he has a decent handle and good vision, and he’s converted 36.7% of his catch-and-shoot threes. He’ll bring a level of pro experience to the table at 19 years old, paired with upside as a dribble-pass-shoot offensive player and high-end defender.
18. HOUSTON ROCKETS (via Clippers) - Max Lewis | Wing | Pepperdine
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
17.6 PTS | 5.8 REB | 2.8 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.8 BLK
48.3 FG% | 35.3 3P% | 80.7 FT%
Tyler Metcalf: Despite some of his impressive numbers, Max Lewis is still incredibly raw. He came to basketball later than most, but Lewis continues to prove that he has some tantalizing offensive upside. Lewis will help provide legitimate off-ball shooting and has the potential to grow into more of a second-side creator down the line. Lewis’s shooting numbers have dropped off from earlier in the year, but this is largely a symptom of defenses focusing on him and him trying more advanced moves that he may not be ready for just yet. Regardless, Lewis continues to show that there could be a monster of a player lurking, waiting to be unleashed. As he continues to develop and if his handle tightens up, Lewis could grow into a really dynamic offensive option. Defensively, Lewis has a lot of work to do, but a lot of his issues could be covered up by Jabari Smith Jr. and Tari Eason. If you can get an offensive dynamo in the mid to late first round, that’s a swing you have to take.
19. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS (via Knicks) - Gregory “GG” Jackson | Forward | South Carolina
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
15.2 PTS | 6.0 REB | 0.8 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.7 BLK
38.9 FG% | 33.1 3P% | 62.9 FT%
Tyler Rucker: The Portland Trail Blazers are going to find themselves in a position to have two selections in the first round, thanks to a trade with the New York Knicks. That could be a strategic move, as the Trail Blazers could have their eyes set on targeting a couple of “developmental” pieces with one of the selections. Good front offices know how to let the board come to them and that’s just what Portland could see here. South Carolina freshman Gregory “GG” Jackson is one of the youngest prospects in this class. While Jackson has had his fair share of ups and downs throughout the 2022-23 season, it doesn’t take long to see how special the tools are. GG has the raw tools offensively to be a high-upside talent in this class. With Portland already allowing rookie wing Shaedon Sharpe to get on a promising developmental curve, the Trail Blazers look to add another long-term star in Jackson here with the 19th overall selection.
20. BROOKLYN NETS (via Suns) - Brice Sensabaugh | Wing | Ohio State
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
16.4 PTS | 5.2 REB | 0.9 AST | 0.6 STL | 0.4 BLK
47.7 FG% | 43.0 3P% | 80.5 FT%
Nathan Grubel: Let the Brooklyn Nets COOK! Putting Brice Sensabaugh next to Cam Thomas could be a massive win for the team’s offensive output, as Sensabaugh has plenty to offer as a secondary option away from the ball as well. One of the best shooting outlooks in this class by the numbers, Sensabaugh has proven he is a lethal threat off the catch, and I still believe there’s more to tap into as a movement shooter. His knack for shaking defenders up top to create a mid-range pull-up should show up more often in the NBA given the amount of space he’ll have to work with, and there are few guys who are better at taking advantage of space once they’ve acquired it than Sensabaugh. Defensive concerns aside, Sensabaugh has the potential to grow into a primary or secondary option worthy of a much higher draft slot than 20, meaning this could be tremendous value for Brooklyn a few years from now.
21. NEW YORK KNICKS (via Mavericks) - Dariq Whitehead | Wing | Duke
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
8.5 PTS | 2.4 REB | 1.2 AST | 0.6 STL | 0.2 BLK
39.4 FG% | 40.3 3P% | 93.3 FT%
Nick Agar-Johnson: Dariq Whitehead has fallen quite a ways since being the #1 player in his high school class, per RSCI, but the talent and the high school tape are both strong enough for the Knicks to take him here. He’s also up to 40% on the season from three-point range following Duke’s win over Notre Dame on Tuesday, and he will have an opportunity down the stretch run of the season to show that his early poor form was not the true tale of his talent. He could very well be the AJ Griffin of this season, with health concerns dropping his stock out of the lottery only to have his elite-level shooting earn him a starting spot sooner than many anticipated.
22. MIAMI HEAT - Jordan Hawkins | Guard | UConn
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
16.2 PTS | 4.0 REB | 1.3 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.6 BLK
41.5 FG% | 40.0 3P% | 86.5 FT%
Nathan Grubel: While Jordan Hawkins is still growing as an all-around offensive talent, there’s zero denying his special shooting touch at this point. Not only does Hawkins take a ton of threes at high volume, but he’s also continued to scorch the net and make a lion’s share of them as the season has gone on. Despite UConn’s struggles in Big East play compared to how the team was performing out of conference, Hawkins has shined even brighter as we approach March. The Miami Heat could always use knockdown guys to slot alongside Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo, and Hawkins could easily play off of more established stars. And really, that’s the pitch with taking him inside the Top 25. Getting true role player value with a pick in this range vs. taking a swing on a project would be too good to pass up for a team like the Heat.
23. SACRAMENTO KINGS - Julian Phillips | Wing | Tennessee
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
9.0 PTS | 4.8 REB | 1.6 AST | 0.7 STL | 0.6 BLK
41.7 FG% | 27.0 3P% | 81.6 FT%
Maxwell Baumbach: It’s an upside swing here for the Sacramento Kings, but it’s one that makes sense for a multitude of reasons. Julian Phillips has good size at 6’8”, and if he can get his jumper to fall consistently, his defense will make him the type of player that every NBA organization craves. Phillips also brings good cutting instincts and strong vertical pop to the table, making him an ideal fit for Sacramento’s movement-heavy offensive system. He’s also a steady, reliable decision-maker as a passer. For a Kings organization on the way up, Phillips is the type of prospect they should be targeting—one who has upside, but also a complementary skill set that translates well to playoff basketball if it all comes together.
24. BROOKLYN NETS - DaRon Holmes II | Center | Dayton
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
17.5 PTS | 7.9 REB | 1.5 AST | 0.7 STL | 1.9 BLK
58.5 FG% | 35.7 3P% | 65.7 FT%
Tyler Metcalf: Holmes continues to impress this season through his rock-solid play. As a defender, there may not be a better shot blocker in the country. What makes Holmes’s shot blocking so impressive is the number of jumpers he blocks. Holmes has great instincts, maximizes his length, and has highly functional athleticism that shows up in his footwork and hip flexibility. Offensively, Holmes is a bit more limited, but he has grown significantly since last season. His back-to-the-basket game has taken meaningful leaps forward, and he’s proven to be one of the best passing big men in the country. Whether he’s passing out of the short roll or the post, Holmes does a great job of finding open weak side shooters.
25. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES - Colby Jones | Guard | Xavier
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
15.0 PTS | 5.0 REB | 4.8 AST | 1.5 STL | 0.7 BLK
51.7 FG% | 41.8 3P% | 67.5 FT%
Tyler Rucker: Memphis has done a sensational job over the years of understanding when to target value in the draft. While the Grizzlies continue to add to their roster depth over the years, they are never going to be afraid to add another potential versatile asset to their rotation. Insert Xavier guard Colby Jones, who has impressed throughout the 2022-23 season with his versatility. Jones came into the year needing to prove his worth as a potential floor spacer. He’s done that and more for Xavier this season. Jones stands out with his basketball IQ and ability to impact the game in a variety of ways on a nightly basis. He would be a fantastic addition for an organization like the Grizzlies, who are looking for hoopers that are willing to play winning basketball.
26. INDIANA PACERS - Terquavion Smith | Guard | NC State
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
18.3 PTS | 3.4 REB | 4.6 AST | 1.6 STL | 0.4 BLK
37.9 FG% | 34.3 3P% | 69.4 FT%
Stephen Gillaspie: The Pacers do have a number of players that fit into their scheme nicely. The scheme is very egalitarian in the sense that a bucket can come from a number of directions. Adding a pure bucket-getter into the mix will give Indiana some interesting lineup versatility. Terquavion Smith has shown the ability to be a great floor spacer–capable of playing off either Tyrese Haliburton or Ben Mathurin. Smith gives the option of another pure scorer if/when Tyrese or Mathurin need a spell. The improvement of strength has granted Terq the ability to finish in the paint more while improving on defense. This selection will give Coach Carlisle another guard weapon to unleash on the league.
27. UTAH JAZZ (via 76ers) - Noah Clowney | Forward | Alabama
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
9.8 PTS | 8.0 REB | 0.8 AST | 0.5 STL | 1.0 BLK
49.1 FG% | 26.9 3P% | 62.2 FT%
Nick Agar-Johnson: After taking Cason Wallace and Gradey Dick in the lottery, the Utah Jazz complete their freshman trio by drafting Noah Clowney out of Alabama. Clowney is still raw, but he has been much more productive than expected in his freshman year for an Alabama squad that recently became the #1 team in the country for the first time in 20 years (although that likely won’t last for long after their recent loss to Tennessee). Clowney is a potential long-term stretch big man with solid touch around the basket. He could stand to improve as a rim protector, and his long-term positional fit between the 4 and the 5 is still unclear, but Clowney is one of the best bets as a project big man in the 2023 NBA Draft class.
28. CHARLOTTE HORNETS (via Nuggets) - Marcus Sasser | Guard | Houston
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
16.4 PTS | 2.7 REB | 3.2 AST | 1.7 STL | 0.2 BLK
42.9 FG% | 36.9 3P% | 82.4 FT%
Nathan Grubel: I’ve been saying this in every mock draft exercise we’ve done at No Ceilings so far, but the Charlotte Hornets can’t take any chances in this draft. This squad just needs damn good basketball players. And Marcus Sasser is just that. There’s an argument to be made he shouldn’t fall this far come June because he has a complementary game tailor-made for today’s NBA. A hellish defender as a guard, along with pick-and-roll playmaking and pull-up shooting ability from deep for days, he’d be an excellent answer as Terry Rozier’s long-term replacement in Charlotte. LaMelo Ball could have an excellent kick-out option along with someone who could spell him ball-handling duties on a few possessions. Hell, pick-and-rolls between those two could be incredibly interesting and bring something unique back to the offense. Sasser is mature as a leader, he has swagger, and he knows how to play the right way. Bring all of THAT to the Hornets!
29. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS (via Bucks) - Mike Miles Jr. | Guard | TCU
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
18.1 PTS | 2.8 REB | 3.0 AST | 1.4 STL | 0.2 BLK
53.2 FG% | 31.3 3P% | 73.1 FT%
Maxwell Baumbach: The Clippers have been turning over their backup point guard spot as of late. With Mike Miles, they could potentially find a long-term solution. Miles is strong and stout; he’s the type of smaller guard that tends to stick in the modern NBA, as he’s less of a bullying target. Offensively, he pressures the rim at a high frequency and is an elite finisher, with a better percentage at the rim than many of college basketball’s top big men. His burst and strength enable him to collapse defenses, and the fact that he’s finishing at such a high level on a cramped floor at TCU bodes well for that skill translating to the NBA level. As a playmaker, he’ll need to make more advanced reads. His three-point shot has been inconsistent, but he can hit from deep range and shoot off the dribble, which are both encouraging. He’s hit 37.2% of his triples off the catch this season, too, a meaningful mark given his likely role at the next level, especially on a loaded Clippers squad.
30. INDIANA PACERS (via Celtics) - Dereck Lively II | Center | Duke
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
4.3 PTS | 3.3 REB | 0.9 AST | 0.5 STL | 2.2 BLK
58.1 FG% | 11.1 3P% | 61.9 FT%
Tyler Metcalf: This hasn’t been an ideal year for Lively, but he’s starting to turn things around at the right time. Offensively, Lively is really limited and has been allowed to do almost nothing this season. He’s been limited to purely offensive rebounds and lobs, where he’s found some success. He’s also shown some encouraging passing flashes. Unfortunately, Lively has shown almost no ability to create his own shot, and the ball often sticks when it gets to him. It’s not all doom and gloom, though, as Lively’s defense is really coming into its own. Lively has been one of the best rim protectors in the country this year. He has great timing as a weak side rim protector, and his positioning in drop coverage continues to improve. Lively also has the athleticism to occasionally switch on the perimeter when needed. As a long-term replacement for Miles Turner or just a backup big, Lively is still very much worthy of taking a swing on at the end of the first.
SECOND ROUND
31. INDIANA PACERS (via Rockets) - Bilal Coulibaly | Wing | Metropolitans 92
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
13.0 PTS | 4.5 REB | 1.5 AST | 1.7 STL | 0.7 BLK
53.8 FG% | 35.1 3P% | 71.8 FT%
32. SAN ANTONIO SPURS - Nikola Durisic | Wing | Mega Basket
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
12.2 PTS | 2.6 REB | 3.3 AST | 1.1 STL | 0.1 BLK
38.9 FG% | 16.4 3P% | 68.6 FT%
33. DETROIT PISTONS - Jalen Wilson | Wing | Kansas
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
21.1 PTS | 8.2 REB | 2.6 AST | 1.0 STL | 0.5 BLK
42.8 FG% | 36.0 3P% | 77.0 FT%
34. CHARLOTTE HORNETS (via 76ers) - Kyle Filipowski | Center | Duke
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
15.4 PTS | 9.1 REB | 1.4 AST | 1.1 STL | 1.0 BLK
43.0 FG% | 27.6 3P% | 76.6 FT%
35. ORLANDO MAGIC - Julian Strawther | Wing | Gonzaga
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
14.6 PTS | 6.6 REB | 1.0 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.3 BLK
47.6 FG% | 41.5 3P% | 75.0 FT%
36. SACRAMENTO KINGS (via Pacers) - Azuolas Tubelis | Forward | Arizona
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
20.2 PTS | 9.3 REB | 2.1 AST | 1.2 STL | 0.8 BLK
58.2 FG% | 39.1 3P% | 76.2 FT%
37. LOS ANGELES LAKERS - Trayce Jackson-Davis | Center | Indiana
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
20.2 PTS | 11.3 REB | 3.5 AST | 0.5 STL | 3.0 BLK
56.8 FG% | N/A 3P% | 68.6 FT%
38. SAN ANTONIO SPURS (via Raptors) - Adem Bona | Center | UCLA
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
8.1 PTS | 5.1 REB | 0.8 AST | 0.7 STL | 1.5 BLK
66.1 FG% | N/A 3P% | 61.9 FT%
39. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (via Wizards) - Kel’el Ware | Center | Oregon
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
7.2 PTS | 4.2 REB | 0.6 AST | 0.3 STL | 1.4 BLK
44.4 FG% | 27.9 3P% | 72.4 FT%
40. WASHINGTON WIZARDS (via Bulls) - Jaylen Clark | Wing | UCLA
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
13.2 PTS | 6.5 REB | 1.9 AST | 2.7 STL | 0.3 BLK
47.4 FG% | 33.9 3P% | 69.1 FT%
41. BOSTON CELTICS - Kobe Bufkin | Guard | Michigan
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
12.7 PTS | 4.1 REB | 2.9 AST | 1.3 STL | 0.7 BLK
47.4 FG% | 32.9 3P% | 82.5 FT%
42. DENVER NUGGETS (via Thunder) - Leonard Miller | Forward | G League Ignite
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
15.3 PTS | 8.8 REB | 1.3 AST | 1.0 STL | 0.6 BLK
52.5 FG% | 29.9 3P% | 75.5 FT%
43. CHARLOTTE HORNETS (via Jazz) - Jaime Jaquez Jr. | Wing | UCLA
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
16.3 PTS | 8.0 REB | 2.5 AST | 1.6 STL | 0.8 BLK
48.0 FG% | 34.4 3P% | 73.3 FT%
44. ATLANTA HAWKS - Andre Jackson Jr. | Wing | UConn
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
5.8 PTS | 6.2 REB | 4.2 AST | 1.1 STL | 0.6 BLK
35.7 FG% | 27.4 3P% | 68.0 FT%
45. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES (via Timberwolves) - Baba Miller | Forward | Florida State
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
3.6 PTS | 3.6 REB | 0.7 AST | 0.3 STL | 0.4 BLK
45.2 FG% | 14.3 3P% | 33.3 FT%
46. ATLANTA HAWKS (via Pelicans) - Dillon Mitchell | Forward | Texas
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
5.6 PTS | 4.4 REB | 0.5 AST | 0.7 STL | 0.2 BLK
61.8 FG% | N/A 3P% | 45.5 FT%
47. CLEVELAND CAVALIERS (via Warriors) - Kevin McCullar | Guard | Kansas
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
10.6 PTS | 7.6 REB | 2.5 AST | 2.3 STL | 0.6 BLK
43.1 FG% | 29.2 3P% | 76.6 FT%
48. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS - Arthur Kaluma | Forward | Creighton
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
12.2 PTS | 6.3 REB | 1.4 AST | 0.7 STL | 0.6 BLK
41.7 FG% | 30.4 3P% | 73.0 FT%
49. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES - Tyrese Proctor | Guard | Duke
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
9.0 PTS | 3.4 REB | 3.0 AST | 0.5 STL | 0.2 BLK
37.1 FG% | 28.4 3P% | 87.2 FT%
50. PHOENIX SUNS - Trevon Brazile | Forward | Arkansas
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
11.8 PTS | 6.0 REB | 1.0 AST | 1.0 STL | 1.2 BLK
48.1 FG% | 37.9 3P% | 67.7 FT%
51. DENVER NUGGETS (via Mavericks) - Keyontae Johnson | Forward | Kansas State
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
17.5 PTS | 7.5 REB | 2.2 AST | 1.2 STL | 0.2 BLK
51.4 FG% | 40.8 3P% | 72.8 FT%
52. BOSTON CELTICS (via Heat) - Brandin Podziemski | Guard | Santa Clara
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
19.4 PTS | 8.0 REB | 3.2 AST | 1.9 STL | 0.5 BLK
47.1 FG% | 43.2 3P% | 80.0 FT%
53. SACRAMENTO KINGS - Sidy Cissoko | Wing | G League Ignite
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
10.0 PTS | 2.7 REB | 2.8 AST | 1.0 STL | 0.9 BLK
43.3 FG% | 31.4 3P% | 68.1 FT%
54. BROOKLYN NETS - James Nnaji | Center | FC Barcelona
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
4.1 PTS | 2.2 REB | 0.3 AST | 0.1 STL | 0.5 BLK
70.4 FG% | N/A 3P% | 59.4 FT%
55. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES - Emoni Bates | Wing | Eastern Michigan
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
20.2 PTS | 5.6 REB | 1.5 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.5 BLK
41.9 FG% | 34.6 3P% | 80.2 FT%
56. MILWAUKEE BUCKS (via Cavaliers) - K.J. Adams Jr. | Forward | Kansas
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
10.6 PTS | 4.2 REB | 1.9 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.9 BLK
64.5 FG% | 0.0 3P% | 59.2 FT%
57. FORFEITED (Philadelphia 76ers)
58. FORFEITED (Chicago Bulls via Nuggets)
59. MILWAUKEE BUCKS - Terrence Shannon Jr. | Wing | Illinois
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
17.0 PTS | 5.0 REB | 3.0 AST | 1.4 STL | 0.5 BLK
43.7 FG% | 32.3 3P% | 79.4 FT%
60. BOSTON CELTICS - Coleman Hawkins | Forward | Illinois
Stats (as of 2/15/23):
9.8 PTS | 6.5 REB | 3.2 AST | 0.9 STL | 1.2 BLK
43.4 FG% | 28.2 3P% | 65.5 FT%
No biggie but Pacers C Miles turner is actually spelled "Myles". Great content and love the pod guys