Auburn men’s basketball is set to host the Ole Miss Rebels on Wednesday night at soon-to-be Neville Arena. Both Walker Kessler and Jabari Smith will look to extend their home winning streak. The last time Kessler faced the Rebels he would lead the way with 20 points and 10 rebounds. Smith added another 15 points.
These two already have plenty of NBA teams looking at them for the next level. As mentioned ad nauseam, Smith and Kessler have been big additions to the team this year. The duo is one of the main reasons for the turnaround from 2020-21.
Recently ESPN released their latest NBA mock (subscription required) with both landing in the top 20. Smith is trending up towards that No. 1 spot.
No. 2: Orlando Magic
What ESPN Says…
Smith leapfrogs Duke’s Paolo Banchero (more to come on him later this week) for the No. 2 spot in our top 100 and, as we wrote in January, has an excellent chance to ultimately be the top pick in the draft if he continues on this trajectory throughout the SEC and NCAA tournaments. With both Givony and me getting live looks at the 18-year-old within the past few weeks, we were yet again blown away by his combination of defense and shooting versatility, as he continues to torch opponents with pull-up 3s, step-backs, turnarounds and on-the-move jumpers thanks to his high release, footwork and feathery touch.
After spending time with Smith in Auburn, Alabama, and breaking down film with him, I believe he’ll only strengthen his case once he gets in front of NBA teams in the interview process. Ask him if he’s the best prospect in the draft, Smith calmly says: “I feel like I am.”
No. 18: San Antonio Spurs
The San Antonio Spurs could use a shot in the arm with new talent. Walker Kessler would help the Spurs immediately, at least as a rim protector and glass cleaner. With the number of picks in the two-rounds for the Spurs Kessler wouldn’t be the only talented player heading to the Alamo City.
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