Gonzaga Bulldogs star big man Chet Holmgren is a polarizing NBA draft prospect, but there are plenty of reasons to believe he will succeed.
Holmgren, 19, is a 7-footer who offers a unique skill set for someone his size. Not only can he block shots, but he can shoot three-pointers as well. He also can handle the ball and take it up the floor, which is especially exciting for a prospect his height.
As he continues to impress during action in March Madness, scouts around the league who have spoken to HoopsHype are continuing to fall more and more in love with the Gonzaga standout.
One scout who spoke to HoopsHype on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly on behalf of their team said they have moved Holmgren to their No. 1 overall spot on their big board after the opening weekend of the tournament.
The scout remarked that in addition to his size and length and other on-court skills the big man has showcased, Holmgren also had a fantastic “disposition and demeanor” on display.
Learn why @ZagMBB star Chet Holmgren is the first player @BryanKalbrosky has getting picked in his latest mock draft: pic.twitter.com/ycjOm0v6HE
— For The Win (@ForTheWin) February 17, 2022
Holmgren, who ranked No. 2 overall on our latest aggregate mock draft, is playing well under the bright lights and big stage of the NCAA tournament.
Although no prospect is a sure thing to succeed in the NBA, and there are valid concerns about how his game might translate, it is a good time to start buying into his long-term potential.
As the tournament continues and Holmgren has helped Gonzaga punch a ticket into the Sweet Sixteen, here are a few facts you need to know about his game: