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The rise of Justin Powell from an assumed role player to star hasn’t taken long. The reigning SEC Freshman of the Week leads Auburn in points (16.5), rebounds (6.5) and assists (3.8) per game.
It has caught the attention of some NBA writers including Jonathan Wasserman of the Bleacher Report who has Powell currently ranked the No 34 overall prospect for the 2021 NBA Draft.
Sharife Cooper’s absence has created an opportunity for Powell, who’s capitalizing on an expanded role as the team’s primary ball-handler. He lacks speed and burst, but at 6’6″, he’s proved a capable ball-handler, smart passer, crafty scorer and lethal shooter by making 17 of his first 34 three-point attempts.
Powell won’t be looked at as a lead guard at the next level, but teams are bound to show interest in his potential to play the wing based on his size, playmaking IQ and persuasive three-ball.
Cooper, who has yet to play a game, is listed at No. 42.
Powell has definitely been the glue for this young Auburn team so far this season. The Tigers (4-2) return to the court on Friday when they host Troy.