Jabari Smith and Walker Kessler accept invites to NBA draft combine

Will Jabari Smith be able to separate himself as the top prospect?

[autotag]Jabari Smith[/autotag] and [autotag]Walker Kessler[/autotag] will be among the prospects trying to boost their draft stock at the NBA combine ahead of the draft.

The duo, both projected first-rounders, are among the 76 prospects who will attend the event in Chicago. It will take place from May 16-22 with the draft on June 23.

Smith, who was the Freshman of the Year, is a contender for the No. 1 overall pick. Kessler, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, is expected to be selected late in the first round.

Smith exceeded the hype ahead of his freshman season, he averaged 16.9 points and 7.4 rebounds per game. He was Auburn’s most efficient scorer, making 42.9 percent of his shots and 42.0% of his three-point shots. He also showed his defensive value, using his size and mobility to guard multiple positions.

Kessler, a transfer from Noth Carolina, averaged 11.4 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 4.6 blocks per game. He was a historic shot-blocker for the Tigers. His 155 blocks led the nation and set a program record, while his 19.1% block rate led all Division I players.

Allen Flannigan was not on the original list of participants, but he is attending the G League Elite Camp in Chicago. A strong showing at the G League camp could see Flannigan earn an invite to the combine.

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