Throughout the year, NBA scouts engage with college coaches to gain insights on the players they are assessing ahead of the upcoming draft. While a player’s personal coaches can offer valuable evaluations, the most authentic insights come from those who compete against them.
Recently, we followed a similar approach by consulting multiple coaches across all conferences to compile their scouting reports on the top prospects in this draft. We ensured the coaches remained anonymous to encourage honest feedback and synthesized their comments into a cohesive report.
Below, you’ll find scouting assessments for every second-round college prospect mentioned in Sam Vecenie’s latest mock draft, along with additional notable players. Each athlete is listed according to Vecenie’s rankings, numbered by their selection in the mock draft. Coaches also suggested several sleeper prospects, included at the end of the report.
32. Marquette Wing Kam Jones
Kam Jones is evolving into a genuine point guard, having shown notable improvement in his passing this past season. However, his shooting hasn’t met expectations. His elite finishing ability is commendable; he possesses excellent touch, predominantly using his left hand. While his two-point scoring has improved over time, he will face challenges in the NBA due to the increased size of defenders.
33. Arkansas Wing Adou Thiero
Thiero struggles offensively, primarily driving straight to the basket. His scoring leadership negatively impacted his team’s performance, leading to doubts about his NBA potential. He could be compared to Lu Dort as a defensive asset, effectively guarding top scorers. Although he’s an impactful college player, he may find limited success in the NBA, possibly gravitating towards the G-League instead.
35. Penn State Big Yanic Konan Niederhauser
With commendable size and motor, Yanic could serve as a backup big in the NBA. His potential will depend on whether he can develop his decision-making skills in short-roll situations or simply rely on his ability to attack the basket. Questions remain about whether he has reached his ceiling or still has room for growth.
36. Duke Guard Tyrese Proctor
Proctor might be considered undervalued for a Duke player. He has demonstrated solid shooting ability and possesses game management skills. Known for his high basketball IQ, Proctor can drive effectively with his strong right hand and excel at pulling up in the mid-range. He appears to have a legitimate role as a backup guard in the NBA, with a competitive nature that supports his defensive capabilities.
37. Wisconsin Wing John Tonje
Tonje has impressed both on film and in person. His effectiveness diminishes in structured plays, yet he thrives in transition. His athleticism could influence his success in the NBA, but concerns linger over whether he possesses the necessary traits to excel at the professional level.
Deep Sleepers
- Houston Guard LJ Cryer: A prolific scorer with the potential for a bench role.
- St. John’s Wing Aaron Scott: Known for being a better shooter than his percentages suggest.
- Butler Wing Jahmyl Telfort: Possesses versatility but has shown inconsistencies.
- Missouri Guard Caleb Grill: A shooting specialist who can make an impact with his quick release.
- San Francisco Guard Marcus Williams: NBA-ready size and athleticism; capable of making crucial shots.
