Former LSU Tigers basketball star Skylar Mays heard his name called on Wednesday night in the 2020 NBA draft as he was selected No. 50 overall by the Atlanta Hawks.
At LSU, Mays averaged 16.7 points per game in 2019-20, which led the team. In 34.4 minutes per game, the senior guard shot 49.1% from the floor, 39.4% from the three point line and 85.4% at the free throw line.
Mays provides the Hawks with a leadership role at the shooting guard position. Atlanta was in need of a versatile, up and down guard, and Mays gives the team that and much more.
For his career in Baton Rouge, Mays averaged 16.7 points per game, five rebounds and 3.2 assists. He shot 49.1% from the floor throughout his four seasons with the Tigers.
Mays ranked in the top 10 in college basketball for steals among the NBA draft prospects.
While he never led the team to a national championship, Mays quickly became the team’s leader. He was their top scorer last season.
The Hawks are getting a player that can shoot from the outside or drive inside the paint and get to the basket. Mays will quickly become a fan favorite in Atlanta.
The former Tigers star was projected as a late second round pick, and was selected No. 50.
His skill set will fit the NBA well. Mays becomes the first Tigers player selected in this year’s NBA draft.
His on-ball defense and versatile offensive game could see him become a contributor to the Hawks sooner than expected.
Atlanta has missed the playoffs three straight seasons and finished 20-47 in 2019-20.
Adding Mays gives the team a new outlook at the shooting guard position; However, he can also play point guard to switch things up on offense.
His 6-foot-4, 205 pound frame allows Mays to have quick feet and a long wingspan.