The 2023 NBA Draft remains unpredictable without a clear No. 1 pick, making it a difficult class to predict. Players are grouped into a similar tier, leading to uncertainty and unexpected outcomes. Our mock draft projects the first round with players like Ja’Kobe Walter, Nikola Topic and Isaiah Collier expected to be high picks.
In numbers
- Baylor’s Ja’Kobe Walter projects well at the next level due to his versatility as a move shooter and defender, making half of his corner 3-pointers.
- Nikola Topic, a 6-foot-7 guard from Serbia, was named MVP of the FIBA European Under-18 Championships and is among the most prolific pick-and-roll scorers in the Adriatic League.
- Naismith Prep and Morgan Wootten National Player of the Year Isaiah Collier showcases an ability to create on his own off the dribble, averaging 3.9 unassisted 2-pointers per game.
- Frenchman Zaccharie Risacher makes 46.9% of his 3-point shots with just over three attempts per game, making him a promising international prospect.
- UConn’s Stephon Castle, despite missing time due to knee injury, shows smooth play and impact in victory, with the Huskies outscoring opponents by the highest adjusted team efficiency margin when he’s on the ground.
State of play
- The 2023 NBA Draft remains unpredictable with no clear No. 1 pick.
- Players grouped together in a similar tier, which led to uncertainty and unexpected results.
- Ja’Kobe Walter, Nikola Topic and Isaiah Collier should be big picks based on their performance and potential.
And after
As the college basketball season continues, the competition will likely highlight the potential of top prospects and their position in the draft.
