[autotag]Bruce Pearl[/autotag] will almost certainly have a lot to be proud of when the NBA draft comes around.
A new mock draft from ESPN+ (subscription required) has Auburn’s power forward [autotag]Jabari Smith[/autotag] going first overall to the Orlando Magic and center [autotag]Walker Kessler[/autotag] going 24th overall to the Milwaukee Bucks. Having two first-round picks would do much to prove that Auburn is a potential factory for NBA stars when it comes to recruiting in the future. Here’s a little of what they had to say on both Smith and Kessler:
Smith was arguably the most dynamic shooter in college, converting 42% of his 3-pointers despite standing 6-foot-10. He’s a highly versatile defender who plays with outstanding intensity, switching all over the floor with quick feet and impressive energy, giving the Magic the ability to play in a variety of lineup configurations with their existing players.
Kessler was the best defender in college basketball this season, a force as a rim protector who also brings upside as a pick-and-roll finisher and even as a perimeter shooter.
The tandem of Smith and Kessler was dominant in 2021, leading Auburn to a regular-season SEC championship. Despite disappointments in the SEC and NCAA tournaments, the two played well enough together to get on the radar for high selections in the NBA draft. With Smith as a certain top-three pick and Kessler likely to be picked in the first round, the Tigers will use that leverage as a recruiting tool to bring more five-stars and notable players to The Plains.
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