Duke freshman Paolo Banchero, a projected top-three pick, on Wednesday announced he will declare for the 2022 NBA draft and forgo his remaining collegiate eligibility.
Banchero, who was a consensus second-team All-American, averaged 17.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 1.1 steals in 39 games. He led all true freshmen in the country in scoring and ranked sixth in rebounding and fifth in field-goal percentage (47.8).
The 6-foot-10 forward helped lead the Blue Devils to the Final Four, averaging 18.8 points, 7.6 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 1.2 blocked shots and one steal in five tournament games. He was named the Most Outstanding Player in the West Region.
He had until April 24 to declare as an early entry draft candidate.
— Paolo Banchero🇮🇹 (@Pp_doesit) April 20, 2022
Banchero is in the conversation to be the top pick in the draft this year.
The 19-year-old made a living in the post, but was also effective in the mid-range by creating space with his patented jab-step. He was a solid 3-point shooter, converting on 33.8% of his 3.3 attempts, and he has a nice form that should enable him to improve with more reps.
Banchero possesses the size and physicality that should translate well to the next level, but he will need to improve as a defender. As a result, many believe he should fall in line behind Gonzaga center Chet Holmgren and Auburn forward Jabari Smith Jr. in some order on draft night.
The NBA draft will take place on June 23.
This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
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