Olivier-Maxence Prosper emerged as a versatile defender at Marquette and is now viewed as a first-round prospect in the NBA draft this year, largely because of that ability.
Prosper, who was born in Canada, averaged 12.5 points, 4.7 rebounds and nearly one steal on 51.2% shooting from the field in 36 games this past season. He recorded four 20-point games, including a career-high 31 points on Nov. 17 in a win over LIU.
The 6-foot-8 forward brings substantial versatility with him to the next level and seems to be a good fit with virtually any team. He boasts a 7-foot, 1-inch wingspan and has tremendous athleticism after dazzling at the draft combine last month.
He explained what he is looking to showcase to teams.
“I just want to show that I can come to a team and bring a spark, especially defensively,” Prosper said Tuesday after working out with the Indiana Pacers. “Help teams defensively with my ability to guard multiple positions and, on offense, just be another wing that can shoot, play in transition and rebound. A guy that brings a lot of energy on the floor that brings the team up.”
Prosper played one season at Clemson as a freshman and then spent the past two years at Marquette. He was able to showcase his versatility more in their system and that resulted in a productive run with the Golden Eagles on both ends of the court.
The 20-year-old recently described his game as electric on the court. He relished the opportunity to impact games on the defensive end and is looking to bring that ability with him to the next level
We switched 1-5 and for a guy like me, I take a lot of pride in switching, especially onto smaller guards and chasing smaller guards off screens. I enjoy that stuff. It pumps me up to guard people. It is very valuable, especially in this league that is becoming positionless. You want to have a guy who can guard multiple positions.
Certainly, Prosper has had a great run ahead of the draft and firmly has himself in a position to hear his name called in the first round on June 22, as a result.
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