https://cdn.basketballnews.com/images/nba-logos/tor.png

Raptors

Izaiah Brockington couldn&rsquo;t help but lick his chops.&nbsp;
On Dec. 9, 2021, highly-touted 2022 NBA Draft prospect Keegan Murray and his Iowa Hawkeyes were traveling to Ames for an in-state rivalry game. The 6-foot-8, 225-pound forward was leading the nation in scoring with an average of just under 24 points per game (on a scorching 59.3% clip from the field), and the Hawkeyes were averaging over 90 points per contest at that point.
Through rigorous film study, Brockington observed Murray&rsquo;s favorite spots on the court, where he liked to catch the ball and how he got his buckets. And from the tip, the 6-foot-4, 200-pound guard followed through. He denied post-entry to Murray time and time again, helped the helper and put pressure on the Hawkeyes on the perimeter.
By the end of the night, Brockington outscored and outrebounded Murray while holding him to the worst game of his season by far (9 points on 4-of-17 from the field), while simultaneously delivering the game's most efficient performance with 29 points, 10 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals.
&ldquo;I feel like that was definitely one of my best games of the season. I really came into that game wanting to shut him down,&rdquo; Brockington told BasketballNews.com in a phone interview. &ldquo;I went out there and really tried to take away his strengths and mainly speed him up. I feel like he was really good when he was allowed to play at his pace and when guys were giving him space to work and see what was going on on the floor. So, I really came into that game wanting to lock him down on defense. And then, the 29 points, that was a bonus really.&rdquo;
<iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VgRmWk5NwCc" width="100%" height="325" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Unlike Murray, who&rsquo;s projected to be a lottery pick in most mock drafts (including <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/2022-nba-mock-draft/players/keegan-murray" target="_blank" rel="noopener">No. 6 overall</a> in <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft" target="_blank" rel="noopener">BasketballNews.com&rsquo;s latest</a>), you surprisingly won&rsquo;t find Brockington&rsquo;s name anywhere on those big boards. And no, you won&rsquo;t find him partaking in this week&rsquo;s NBA Draft Combine nor the G League Elite Camp. Considering his size at the guard position coupled with his ability to rebound, make <a href="https://twitter.com/SynergySST/status/1507061353076383744?s=20&amp;t=bJGYe1FEeuLkx9hLdfQYuQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener">high-difficulty shots</a> and, most importantly, defend at a high level, it&rsquo;s a head-scratcher.
Take into account that Brockington spearheaded a 22-win Iowa State program that won just two games the season before, an NCAA-record turnaround, and it just seems like a downright mistake. So, he&rsquo;ll just have to prove that he stands out and find other ways to turn heads &mdash; just like he did last December.
&ldquo;I feel like my work ethic allows me to catch guys that a lot of people deem 'better' or would rank higher [than me]," Brockington said. "I feel like I have the intangibles that other people don't. I have athleticism, and I have the dog mentality &mdash; somebody who just loves to compete and loves to win and isn't gonna let somebody just walk all over them.
&ldquo;I love to compete. I attribute it to being from Philly. We just never back down from a challenge. The intangibles, I feel like, set me apart. And then, with my work ethic, all of these things that people say I don't have, I'm working every day and I'm ready to show everybody that I do [have them].&rdquo;
Having just worked out for the Atlanta Hawks, Brockington&rsquo;s list of interested teams is growing. According to sources, the Toronto Raptors, Phoenix Suns, Los Angeles Clippers, New Orleans Pelicans, Los Angeles Lakers, Indiana Pacers, Sacramento Kings, Utah Jazz and Brooklyn Nets are lined up next &mdash; and he has five other teams who asked to schedule workouts at Tandem&rsquo;s Pro Day on Friday.
<div class="mceNonEditable"><spike>&nbsp;</spike></div>
Brockington&rsquo;s lone season at Iowa State went down as the best of his college career, and he considers it the most fun he had playing basketball at the collegiate level because the roster was brand-new and had something to prove.
As a senior, he averaged 16.9 points and 6.8 rebounds per game, was named to the All-Big 12 First Team and earned the 2021-22 midseason John Wooden award. Boasting the Cyclones&rsquo; highest usage rate (27.5%), he took on the most responsibility he had to that point and ran with the opportunity.
Defensively, Brockington attributes much of his success (93.2 Defensive Rating) to the players he had to guard along the way. Starting in the Big 12, a conference he refers to as &ldquo;ridiculous&rdquo; in regards to talent, match-ups against Kansas standout Ochai Agbaji and Baylor&rsquo;s Jeremy Sochan and James Akinjo helped iron sharpen iron. The nights were intense and featured high-level basketball.
This past season, Brockington was adept at cutting off catch-and-drives (0.47 points per possession, per InStat) and defending pick-and-roll ball-handlers (0.54 PPP). It&rsquo;s something that he believes carried over his time at Penn State, where he spent two seasons prior to transferring.
&ldquo;We were really big on defense, so it was really about angles over there. And then, going to Iowa State, Coach TJ [Otzelberger] and our whole defensive scheme was non-stop pressure and to get guys to go into our help,&rdquo; Brockington said. &ldquo;But I feel like... you can push guys to your help, but it's better to be able to guard somebody and not need the help. I feel like, yeah, I definitely would try to cut guys off so that it's not forcing us to rotate and create long closeouts. Little things like that just help you stay more compact on defense and just stay more locked on your man.
&ldquo;So at Iowa State, we would drill things like [pick-and-roll defense] &mdash; getting over screens, being able to communicate and getting over and under, and just sticking on the ball-handler, making it tough for them. But, I also feel like I can thrive in an all-switching situation because I have strength and I have explosiveness. I feel like when I get caught down in the post, I can front or just make it tough for bigger guys to get easy position. I feel like I can thrive in either system, for sure."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-theme="dark">
The Work Gonna Show🖤✍🏾&hellip;<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/iPromise?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#iPromise</a>🙏🏾 <a href="https://t.co/K23fSy995m">pic.twitter.com/K23fSy995m</a>
&mdash; Izaiah Brockington (@TheOnlyiZB) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheOnlyiZB/status/1527033907014684682?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2022</a></blockquote>

<script src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>

During his two years with the Nittany Lions, he took on different roles and began to blossom under Pat Chambers. Again, there was plenty of talent to face-off against in the Big Ten, such as current Chicago Bulls guard Ayo Dosunmu at Illinois, San Antonio Spurs forward Joe Wieskamp at Iowa, Indiana Pacers guard Duane Washington and future NBA Draft pick Johnny Davis at Wisconsin. Stylistically, Brockington believes the Big Ten&rsquo;s physicality helped prepare him too.&nbsp;
At Penn State, Brockington reconnected with his longtime friend Lamar Stevens. The now-Cleveland Cavaliers forward performed night-in and night-out for the team, showing Brockington the consistency and hard work it takes to be successful. Stevens has been in his ear throughout the pre-draft process, sharing what needs to be done and how to stick in the league. Brockington appreciates the support and encouragement, and he's taking every bit of that advice.
(Brockington&rsquo;s collegiate basketball odyssey actually began at St. Bonaventure, the first of three schools he&rsquo;d attend. Playing for Mark Schmidt for one year, he and the Bonnies had a solid season led by seniors Jaylen Adams and Matt Mobley. Brockington ultimately transferred to Penn State to be closer to home and ended up sitting out a season, by rule, before suiting up).
As far as translatable skills go at the next level, Brockington states that his defense and rebounding top the list, along with his athleticism and ability to get downhill.&nbsp;
<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://cdn.basketballnews.com/images/story/body/t4t4_lg.jpg" alt="" width="680" height="394" />
In addition, Brockington takes pride in being well-versed in any kind of role. At St. Bonaventure and early on at Penn State, he did a bit of everything &mdash; serving as a spot-up shooter, a slasher, a rebounding specialist and a sixth man. He even played spot minutes off the bench at one point.
At Iowa State, he was a go-to guy, a star player and a leader for the first time in his college career, so opposing defenses threw everything but the kitchen sink at him.
&ldquo;Against certain teams &mdash; Texas comes to mind specifically &mdash; [they were], like, face-guarding me. [Texas] Tech would have a guy pressure and they would have dudes sit in gaps and essentially try to force me off of the ball. Seeing double-teams and all of that was new," Brockington said with a laugh. "It was just crazy being guarded like that in college 'cause I'd never had to deal with things like that before. I feel like those things really pushed me to be able to adapt and really try to just make smart decisions."
On the offensive end, Brockington has an appetite for the mid-range. The sly southpaw is able to get to his spots quickly off the ball and fire away with his leaping lefty jumper, and he likes to attack off the catch (with fireworks often following). Though he admits that is the area where he&rsquo;s most comfortable at the moment, Brockington understands the importance of being a three-level scorer.
&ldquo;I've been working on really being a combo guard &mdash; a guy that can use pick-and-rolls and make reads and just really making the right decision every time, a lot of basketball IQ things,&rdquo; Brockington said. &ldquo;And then, just knocking down threes... I've been working a ton and I'm looking to show everybody that I can knock down threes off the kick-out and off the pick-and-roll and off the dribble. I've been working extremely hard on that, and it's been going great.
&ldquo;I mean, [the mid-range] is an underappreciated part of the game. But a lot of analytics guys will tell you that it's inefficient, and that's probably true for most guys. That's just not the case with me. I feel like when I take mid-rangers, I create enough space horizontally and vertically to be able to get a clean look off.&rdquo;
<div class="mceNonEditable"><spike>&nbsp;</spike></div>
Despite spending five years in college, Brockington is only 22 years old because he graduated from high school early. Possessing that much experience at his age, he considers it an advantage. At the same time, Brockington says age doesn&rsquo;t have to do with his ability to play the game, pick up new information and improve as a player.
&ldquo;My experience in college has really taught me about consistency and taught me what hard work can do, and it's really about the preparation leading into everything,&rdquo; Brockington said. &ldquo;Games are won way before that time comes. Games are won in the offseason. Games are won in the film room. Games are won in pregame shootaround. So those are things I'll always have with me.&nbsp;
&ldquo;It hasn't been a typical college journey, but one thing that's remained the same is everywhere I go, I put my head down and work. I went out there, I produced and I was out there trying to win."
For Brockington, growing up in Philadelphia, he&rsquo;d always attend his father Antoine&rsquo;s rec-league games and hear stories about him. Antoine was a hell of a pro in his own right, achieving tremendous success overseas after an impressive career at Coppin State, where he won the 1997-98 MEAC Player of the Year award &mdash; and Izaiah looked up to him proudly.
Now, as the pre-draft process begins, it&rsquo;s Izaiah Brockington&rsquo;s time to carve his own path and make him proud.
<div class="mceNonEditable"><spike>&nbsp;</spike></div>
Looking to go to the hottest concerts, sports, theater &amp; family shows near you? Get 100% guaranteed tickets to more than 125,000 live events from TicketSmarter, the official ticket marketplace of BasketballNews.com.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ticketsmarter.com/?utm_source=basketballnewscom&amp;utm_medium=tsaff&amp;utm_campaign=referral" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Order online now</a>!

Spencer Davies speaks with Izaiah Brockington about his breakout season at Iowa State, unique path and next-level aspirations.

Izaiah Brockington hopes his unique journey culminates in NBA success

The NBA sent four teams home from its Play-In Tournament after Friday night, but all four are poised to contend next season.
Though the Charlotte Hornets, Cleveland Cavaliers and San Antonio Spurs exited early, their trio of All-Star guards and exciting young cores mean all three should be back in the hunt &mdash; provided they beef up their rosters in the offseason. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Clippers weren't supposed to make it this far without their franchise cornerstones; that only creates more buzz surrounding a 2022-23 championship contender.
What can these franchises do this offseason to set themselves up for success? I've written up some summer plans for all four squads, including draft assets (via Tankathon), potential free agents (via Spotrac) and a central team-building question (via my deranged mind). If you missed last week, I did the same for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/stories/summer-plans-for-the-nbas-nonplayoff-teams" target="_blank" rel="noopener">10 teams who did not crack the NBA postseason</a>.
<div class="mceNonEditable"><spike>&nbsp;</spike></div>
Let's dive in.
CHARLOTTE HORNETS
Draft assets:&nbsp;First-round pick, First-round pick via Pelicans, Second-round pick, Second-round pick via Toronto (if 55-60)
Potential free agents:&nbsp;Montrezl Harrell, Isaiah Thomas, Miles Bridges (restricted), Cody Martin (restricted), Arnoldas Kulboka (restricted), Scottie Lewis (restricted)
Central question:&nbsp;How can the Hornets construct an interior defense?
Charlotte's bottom-10 defense doomed the franchise several times in the regular season and, ultimately, in the Play-In loss to Atlanta. The Hornets gave up boatloads of at-rim attempts and three-pointers, and simply looked like turnstiles at times. Improvement is necessary across the board, but an on-paper view highlights a clear need for upgrades inside.
Mason Plumlee is a fine basketball player, but he's not anchoring a high-level NBA defense. Neither is Montrezl Harrell, and 2021 first-round pick Kai Jones barely touched the floor in Charlotte. The Hornets don't have a whole lot of salary flexibility with big-money deals in place for Gordon Hayward and Terry Rozier. Miles Bridges' restricted free agency is also a key offseason focal point.&nbsp;
Though the Hornets likely can't throw outright money at a Deandre Ayton-level restricted free agent, perhaps they could work a sign-and-trade for a lesser-known young talent. Maybe Mo Bamba fits the bill from Orlando? Charlotte was tied to trade rumors surrounding Myles Turner before the trade deadline, and the front office could also elect to sign a veteran at a mid-level exception.
Regardless of the pathway, the Hornets have needed to address the center position for years now. With a playoff leap now the expectation in 2022-23, they can't afford to let another summer slip away.
CLEVELAND CAVALIERS
Draft assets:&nbsp;First-round pick, Second-round pick via Spurs, Second-round pick via Heat
Potential free agents:&nbsp;Ed Davis, Rajon Rondo, Brandon Goodwin, Collin Sexton (restricted), Moses Brown (restricted), RJ Nembhard (restricted), Dean Wade (team option)
Central question:&nbsp;What is Collin Sexton's future in Cleveland?
The Cavaliers may have slid out of the playoffs, but this was a banner year for the franchise's long-term trajectory. Darius Garland emerged as a cornerstone point guard, Evan Mobley might win Rookie of the Year, and the frontcourt pairing with Jarrett Allen looks to be a mainstay in the Eastern Conference. Injuries ultimately derailed what was a top-four seed. Most of the rotation is under contract and under 30, hinting at continued growth.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-theme="dark">
Darius Garland -&gt; Jarrett Allen -&gt; Evan Mobley (Lob) <a href="https://t.co/nDQz7tkxbs">pic.twitter.com/nDQz7tkxbs</a>
&mdash; Jackson Lloyd (@JacksonLloydNBA) <a href="https://twitter.com/JacksonLloydNBA/status/1515354588353728522?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2022</a></blockquote>

<script src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>

This seaon's leap makes the situation with Sexton... difficult. Let's not forget that the combo guard is a season removed from a 24-point-per-game season as an efficient primary scorer, and that the Cavs were 19th in Offensive Rating this year. Sexton can meaningfully boost Cleveland simply as a bucket-getter, nevermind if he keeps improving as a playmaker.
What kind of contract do the Cavs offer to a 23-year-old who missed nearly a full season with a knee injury though? If a desperate team decides to throw money at Sexton to force the franchise to match, is there a limit to the front office's willingness? What would an extension mean for Isaac Okoro and Caris LeVert?&nbsp;
Sexton is one of the biggest dominoes in the upcoming offseason, and arguably the most unpredictable.
LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS
Draft assets:&nbsp;Second-round pick
Potential free agents: Robert Covington, Rodney Hood, Isaiah Hartenstein, Amir Coffey (restricted), Xavier Moon (restricted), Ivica Zubac (team option), Nic Batum (player option)
Central question:&nbsp;What does a fully-healthy 10-man rotation look like?
Nobody expected the Clippers to be a playoff contender without Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, and they still almost cracked the postseason with the supporting cast chipping in. L.A. made a splash at the trade deadline by adding Norman Powell and Robert Covington, two players who conceivably make sense next to the franchise's two stars.
This roster is deep. It's a great problem to have, but it's still a problem with several rotation options potentially hitting free agency. Covington will likely command a solid new deal as one of the league's more reliable two-way complements, and Batum could easily decline his $3.3 million team option in search of a raise. Ivica Zubac and Isaiah Hartenstein may both hit free agency; what would happen to the center rotation in that case?
The Clippers have Leonard, George, Powell, Reggie Jackson, Luke Kennard, Terance Mann and Marcus Morris locked down for next season. That's already seven rotation-caliber players, and it doesn't account for leaps from young talents like Brandon Boston Jr., Jason Preston or Amir Coffey. A roster crunch is inbound, and the organization can't let a quality addition slip away as it positions itself for title contention next season.
SAN ANTONIO SPURS
Draft assets:&nbsp;First-round pick, first-round pick via Raptors, first-round pick via Celtics, second-round pick via Lakers
Potential free agents:&nbsp;Lonnie Walker IV (restricted), Devontae Cacok (restricted), Joe Wieskamp (restricted), DJ Stewart Jr. (restricted), Robert Woodard II (restricted)
Central question:&nbsp;How do the Spurs toe the line between developmental patience and consolidation?
San Antonio valiantly fought to get to the Play-In Tournament before losing to New Orleans, but also had one of the more underrated developmental seasons across the roster. Dejounte Murray made his All-Star leap and Jakob Poeltl established himself as <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/stories/jakob-poeltl-san-antonios-newest-watchful-protector" target="_blank" rel="noopener">one of the league's better rim-protectors</a>; the Spurs collectively were just a tick under league-average on both ends of the floor, per Cleaning the Glass.
One of the NBA's youngest rosters is well on track and about to receive another influx of potential. San Antonio could use its three first-rounders (including its own lottery pick) to add to the frontcourt or find another lead guard. However, the Spurs already have 12 players locked down for next season under at least partial guarantees, and 11 of them are under 30. They have a pathway to over $24 million in salary cap space this summer should they move on from restricted free agents like Walker.&nbsp;
There's an avenue, with draft picks, young players and cap space, for San Antonio to make a serious splash. Is that in the programming for this franchise, though? San Antonio hasn't acquired a star via trade in several years, unless you want to count adding DeMar DeRozan in the Kawhi Leonard blockbuster. At the same time, there are only so many minutes to go around for the young guns, especially if the Spurs think they can compete for the playoffs.
<div class="mceNonEditable"><spike>&nbsp;</spike></div>
Looking to go to the hottest concerts, sports, theater &amp; family shows near you? Get 100% guaranteed tickets to more than 125,000 live events from TicketSmarter, the official ticket marketplace of BasketballNews.com.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ticketsmarter.com/?utm_source=basketballnewscom&amp;utm_medium=tsaff&amp;utm_campaign=referral" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Order online now</a>!

Ethan Fuller sets the stage for the NBA's four Play-In exits approaching the offseason.

Summer plans for the Spurs, Hornets, Cavaliers and Clippers

SAN ANTONIO (AP) — Jonathan Kuminga and Jordan Poole each had 18 points and the Golden State Warriors won their fourth straight, beating the San Antonio Spurs 100-94 on Saturday night and strengthen their hopes for a top-three seed. 
Golden State is a game ahead of Dallas in the Western Conference and can secure the third seed with a victory Sunday at New Orleans in the season finale. If the Warriors lose, and the Mavericks beat the Spurs on Sunday, Dallas will finish third after going 3-1 in its season series with Golden State.
San Antonio will finish 10th in the Western Conference and must travel to ninth-seeded New Orleans for the opener of the play-in tournament Wednesday.
Lonnie Walker IV had 24 points to lead the Spurs. Walker was the only San Antonio player in double figures through the first 39 minutes. Tre Jones finished with 15 points, Josh Primo had 14 and Josh Richardson added 10.
After the Spurs pulled within two points with two minutes remaining, Poole made a pair of free throws with 47.9 seconds to put Golden State up 98-94 remaining after Jones missed a running layup.
Andrew Wiggins finished with 15 points and Draymond Green added 12 points and 13 rebounds for Golden State.
The Warriors were without Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson. The Spurs were without their entire starting lineup of Dejounte Murray, Keldon Johnson, Jakob Poeltl, Devin Vassell and Doug McDermott. 
Those absences led to a low-scoring affair with the teams combining to score 44 points in the opening quarter. The Spurs scored 36 points in the first quarter of each of their three previous games against the Warriors.
After trailing by as many as 17 points, the Spurs closed to 78-71 on a 3-pointer by Primo as time expired in the third quarter. A 3-pointer by rookie forward Joe Wieskamp and a 15-foot jumper by Primo cut the Warriors’ lead to 86-84 with 6 1/2 minutes remaining.
San Antonio outscored Golden State 17-12 in the opening seven minutes of the fourth quarter.
The Warriors were able to maintain their lead down the stretch with veterans Green and Wiggins leading the way.
TIP-INS
Warriors: Golden State sat Thompson for the fourth straight game as part of the injury management for his right Achilles’ tendon, which he had surgery on in November 2020. Thompson was crisply working out and shooting prior to the game with no discomfort. … Curry remains out with a sprained left foot. The two-time MVP has not played since suffering the injury March 16 against Boston. … 
Spurs: San Antonio honored former owner Red McCombs during the game’s first time out. McCombs was member of the original ownership that bought the ABA’s Dallas Chapparals and brought them to San Antonio in 1973. He sold his interest in the Spurs in 1978 and later owned the Denver Nuggets from 1982 to 1985. McCombs returned to the Spurs in 1988 to become the team’s majority owner at a time when the franchise’s future in San Antonio was in question. … Murray sat out for reconditioning after missing four consecutive games with a non-Covid upper respiratory illness.
UP NEXT
Warriors: At New Orleans on Sunday night.
Spurs: At Dallas on Sunday night.

The Golden State Warriors maintained their hold on the three-seed with a win over San Antonio.

Warriors hold off Spurs and maintain hold on third seed

TORONTO (AP) — Fred VanVleet scored 33 points, Pascal Siakam had 18 points and 12 rebounds, and the Toronto Raptors extended their winning streak to three by beating the San Antonio Spurs 129-104 on Tuesday night.
Gary Trent Jr. scored 21 points as the Raptors evened their record at 17-17, reaching the .500 mark for the first time since they were 7-7 after a Nov. 13 home loss to Detroit.
The Raptors have won eight of their past 10 at home.
Toronto’s OG Anunoby scored 14 points and rookie Scottie Barnes had 11 points and a career-best eight assists. Justin Champagnie scored a career-high 14 for the Raptors, who matched their season-high point total.
VanVleet topped 30 points for the third straight game and fourth time in his past five. He’s the first Raptors player to score 30 or more in three straight games since Kawhi Leonard did it in four straight from Jan. 13-27, 2019.
“You recognize when you’re in rhythm and you just try to hold on as long as possible, because it’s not always like that,” VanVleet said. “I try to keep my floor a little higher but when you’re hot, you’ve just got to be aggressive and ride it out as long as you can.”
VanVleet shot 12 for 23 and matched his season highs with seven made 3-pointers and 14 attempts from distance. He also had seven assists.
Raptors coach Nick Nurse said VanVleet’s recent string of solid performances have burnished his All-Star credentials, but acknowledged that more Toronto wins would help strengthen the guard’s case.
“I think he’s got to be in the conversation,” Nurse said. “We’ve got to climb the standings some. I just think that’s part of it. If we do, then he certainly will deserve it.”
Toronto set a season high with 30 assists and shot 18 for 44 from outside the arc, matching its season best for made 3-pointers.
Former Raptors center Jakob Poeltl scored 19 points and Devin Vassell and rookie Josh Primo each had 15 as the slumping Spurs lost their fourth straight. Joe Wieskamp scored 13 points and Derrick White had 12 for San Antonio.
“I thought Jakob was great tonight,” Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said. “I was really glad to see Jakob be as assertive as he was on offense. With two G-League guys, Josh and Joe, I thought they were fantastic. Devin was fairly solid but we didn’t get much from anybody else.”
Toronto led 30-29 after one, and extended its lead with a 14-1 run in the second. The Raptors shot 7 for 14 from 3-point range in the second quarter and led 68-53 at halftime.
Toronto took a 97-81 lead to the fourth.
SIX PACK
VanVleet has scored 30 or more six times this season, matching the number of times he did so in 52 games last season.
HOME ‘CROWD’
For the third straight game, only family and friends of the players were allowed inside the arena. Toronto native Primo had expected to have a group of “hundreds” on hand for his first professional game in Canada, but had to reduce that to about 20 people.
“It’s great being able to come out here and be in my hometown, play in front of some family and friends,” Primo said. “Playing in this arena brings back memories of coming into the Air Canada Centre at the time, watching games and wanting to be on that stage. Now being here, it’s a moment I’m just grateful to have.”
BACK IN ACTION
F Keita Bates-Diop came off the bench for the Spurs after missing Saturday’s overtime loss at Detroit because of a sore right hamstring. He scored seven points in 16 minutes.
TIP-INS
Spurs: F Devontae Cacok, F Doug McDermott, and G Lonnie Walker IV were all unavailable (health and safety protocols) while G Dejounte Murray (conditioning) did not play. … Matched a season high with 20 turnovers.
Raptors: F Svi Mykhailiuk and F Yuta Watanabe entered the health and safety protocols. … F Isaac Bonga returned after missing the previous four games. Bonga was in the health and safety protocols for three games, then sat out Sunday for conditioning. … Toronto also scored 129 points and made 18 3-pointers in an overtime loss at Brooklyn on Dec. 14.
UP NEXT
Spurs: Visit Boston on Wednesday.
Raptors: Visit Milwaukee on Wednesday.
___
More AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/NBA and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports

Fred VanVleet scored 33 points and the Toronto Raptors beat the San Antonio Spurs, 129-104.

VanVleet tops 30 for third straight game, Raptors rout Spurs

The 2021 NBA Draft is in the books. Now that we know where the prospects have landed, our NBA Draft experts Matt Babcock and Derek Murray are sharing their thoughts about the results.
Obviously, it&rsquo;s too early to definitively assess these picks (since we won&rsquo;t know the true winners and losers for a few years). Still, we still wanted to get their snap judgement on what unfolded.
Who are your biggest winners (and why)?
Matt Babcock: In my opinion, the Charlotte Hornets were the big winners last night. First of all, selecting <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/james-bouknight" target="_blank" rel="noopener">James Bouknight</a> at No. 11 was an excellent value pick (considering we had him mocked at No. 6 prior to the draft). The Hornets&rsquo; backcourt of LaMelo Ball and Bouknight should prove to be an exciting duo moving forward. The Hornets also added <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/kai-jones" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kai Jones</a> at No. 19, which was a great pick as well. We had projected that the Hornets would select Jones at No. 11 for a while before the draft, so to move back and get him at No. 19 was impressive. Lastly, trading up to snag <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/jt-thor" target="_blank" rel="noopener">JT Thor</a>, a <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/stories/jt-thor-could-be-2021-nba-draft-diamond-in-the-rough-auburn-tigers-prospect" target="_blank" rel="noopener">super high-upside</a> prospect, at No. 37 was another smart move. All in all, they added Bouknight, who I think will be able to contribute at a high level right away, and two players in Jones and Thor who possess significant potential. I think the Hornets deserve an &lsquo;A&rsquo; grade for their picks.
<iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VZ5YkxWV-vs" width="100%" height="325" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Derek Murray: Charlotte and Houston. The Hornets added incredible athleticism across the board in guys who have crazy high upside. It may take a while for the group to develop as a whole, but the sky's the limit for them. I really loved Houston&rsquo;s draft too (possibly the most), as they added four first-rounders: <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/jalen-green" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jalen Green</a> (No. 2), <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/alperen-sengun" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Alperen Sengun</a> (No. 16), <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/usman-garuba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Usman Garuba</a> (No. 23) and <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/josh-christopher" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Josh Christopher</a> (No. 24). They addressed multiple positions, roles and archetypes in the same first round, which is usually impossible to do. They also did it with youth across the board, so I think Houston fans should be ecstatic.&nbsp;
Who are your biggest losers (and why)?
Matt Babcock: I don&rsquo;t know if I&rsquo;d go as far to say they were my &ldquo;biggest loser,&rdquo; but I will say that I was surprised that the Memphis Grizzlies traded up to No. 10 to select <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/ziaire-williams" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ziaire Williams</a> and moved up to No. 30 to select <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/santi-aldama" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Santi Aldama</a>. Although there were some whispers that Williams had drawn some interest from teams as high as the Orlando Magic at No. 8, I wasn&rsquo;t totally convinced he was going to be selected in the lottery. Therefore, I think they would have had a pretty good chance of picking him later on in the draft. I was even more surprised by Memphis trading up to No. 30 to select Aldama, as I was not expecting him to be selected anywhere near the first round. (We had him mocked at No. 55 prior to the draft).
Derek Murray: I don&rsquo;t like to call any team a &ldquo;loser&rdquo; immediately following draft night because it truly takes three years to make that call. That being said, I&rsquo;m very curious about the decision-making in San Antonio. It feels like they have a log jam at the guard/combo-guard positions with Dejounte Murray, Derrick White, Lonnie Walker, Keldon Johnson and Tre Jones under contract, and then they took <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/joshua-primo" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Josh Primo</a> at No. 12 and <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/joe-wieskamp" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Joe Wieskamp</a> at No. 41. I really like both of these players, and I do think Wiekamp at 41st is good value, but I envisioned them addressing the front-court concerns at No. 12 with either <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/alperen-sengun" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Alperen Sengun</a> or <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/kai-jones" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kai Jones</a>.&nbsp;
Which pick surprised you the most?
Matt Babcock: There were a number of picks that surprised me: <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/joshua-giddey" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Josh Giddey</a> to Oklahoma City at No.6, <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/ziaire-williams" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ziaire Williams</a> to Memphis at No. 10, and <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/joshua-primo" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Josh Primo</a> to San Antonio at No. 12, for sure. However, the biggest surprise of the night for me was Memphis selecting <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/santi-aldama" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Santi Aldama</a> at No. 30.
Derek Murray: <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/joshua-primo" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Joshua Primo</a> at No. 12 stands alone for me as the biggest surprise reach, but <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/santi-aldama" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Santi Aldama</a> at No. 30 is up there. Both are great players, I just imagined them each going 10-15 spots later than they did. <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/sharife-cooper" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sharife Cooper</a> also surprised me; we knew he would slip to the second round so that part wasn&rsquo;t a shock, but to fall all the way to No. 48 is wild.
<iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/l4a6osxv3q4" width="100%" height="325" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Who were some of the best value picks?
Matt Babcock: <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/james-bouknight" target="_blank" rel="noopener">James Bouknight</a> at No. 11 to Charlotte, <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/miles-mcbride" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Miles McBride</a> at No. 36 to New York and <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/jared-butler" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jared Butler</a> at No. 40 to Utah.
Derek Murray: <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/jaden-springer" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jaden Springer</a> at No. 26, <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/miles-mcbride" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Miles McBride</a>e at No. 36 and <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/sandro-mamukelashvili" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sandro Mamukelashvili</a> at No. 54.&nbsp;
Were you surprised that there weren&rsquo;t more trades? Why didn&rsquo;t we see more?
Matt Babcock: Yeah, I think everyone expected a more dramatic night in regards to trades. There were certainly a lot of trades discussed among teams behind the scenes. I think some of the early picks that surprised some of us changed the course of the entire draft.
Derek Murray: I imagined another move or two within the lottery, but with <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/joshua-giddey" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Josh Giddey</a> being taken at No. 6, which nobody predicted, it pushed some players down one slot to the teams that wanted them. At that point, there was no rush or need to move up.&nbsp;
<iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PzmXn974ZRU" width="100%" height="325" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
Any parting thoughts?
Matt Babcock: Considering that there was no Summer League last year due to COVID-19, draft picks from the 2020 NBA Draft will be joining this year&rsquo;s class in Las Vegas for their first Summer-League action, which should make for a uniquely competitive and exciting tournament this year. Also, I&rsquo;m excited to start our rookie coverage, which will begin at Summer League in Las Vegas and carry on into the 2021-22 NBA season.
Derek Murray: I&rsquo;m fascinated with what comes from this draft for the Memphis Grizzlies. <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/ziaire-williams">Ziaire Williams</a> and <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/santi-aldama">Santi Aldama</a> will be considered &ldquo;reaches&rdquo; by many, but these are two supremely talented players. It may be a few years before it clicks for them, but they could end up really, really good.
<a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft">Check out all of BasketballNews.com&rsquo;s coverage of the 2021 NBA Draft (including interviews, highlight videos, analysis and more) here.</a>

Matt Babcock and Derek Murray share their winners and losers, biggest surprises, favorite steals and more from the 2021 NBA Draft.

2021 NBA Draft Recap: Winners and losers, steals, biggest surprises

With the 2021 NBA Draft just days away, BasketballNews.com's Lead NBA Draft Analyst Matt Babcock has put together a list of the top available prospects by position. He recently listed the draft's top&nbsp;<a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/stories/2021-nba-draft-top-point-guards-in-this-class" target="_blank" rel="noopener">point guards</a>, <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/stories/2021-nba-draft-top-shooting-guards-in-this-class" target="_blank" rel="noopener">shooting guards</a>, <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/stories/2021-nba-draft-top-power-forwards-in-this-class" target="_blank" rel="noopener">power forwards</a> and <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/stories/2021-nba-draft-top-centers-in-this-class" target="_blank" rel="noopener">centers</a>.
Here are the best small forwards in this year's class:
<iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0gSGPvCG29Q" width="100%" height="325" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/jonathan-kuminga" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jonathan Kuminga, G League Ignite&nbsp;</a>
While he will need to polish his overall game to maximize his potential, Jonathan Kuminga&rsquo;s impressive physique, athleticism, and offensive potential are undeniable. Kuminga&rsquo;s performance this past season for the G League Ignite have given promise that he could become a versatile and effective scoring forward in the NBA. (Check out our <a href="https://youtu.be/47rPLYIsVKE" target="_blank" rel="noopener">behind-the-scenes look at Kuminga's pre-draft training</a>).
<iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HSnaSkbmRqM" width="100%" height="325" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/scottie-barnes" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Scottie Barnes, Florida State&nbsp;</a>
At 6-foot-9, Scottie Barnes is an effective defender, facilitator, and finisher at the rim, giving him extremely unique versatility on both ends of the court. Although his footwork and outside shooting are certainly swing skills at this point, Barnes has a ton of upside nonetheless. Don&rsquo;t expect him to remain on the board very long come draft night.
<iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-jytAz_1_Tg" width="100%" height="325" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/franz-wagner" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Franz Wagner, Michigan&nbsp;</a>
An intelligent player who has been playing high-level basketball for years, Franz Wagner, a 6-foot-9 wing, was one of the best defenders in all of college basketball this season while also doing a little bit of everything. That includes initiating Michigan&rsquo;s offense. If he is able to become a more reliable shooter from outside, he could become one of the more valuable role players in all of the NBA.
<iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JBJRN6D-j30" width="100%" height="325" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/corey-kispert" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Corey Kispert, Gonzaga&nbsp;</a>
Perhaps the best shooter in the country this past season, Corey Kispert is a more than viable plug-and-play option for NBA teams in this year&rsquo;s draft. Possessing a high IQ, Kispert understands how to space the floor properly while being able to make shots off the move or standstill at a high clip. He should provide good value as a floor spacer and be a seamless fit for just about any team right off the bat.
<div class="mceNonEditable"><spike>&nbsp;</spike></div>
<iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cd4xw1iHgZo" width="100%" height="325" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/ziaire-williams" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ziaire Williams, Stanford</a>
Having struggled with his consistency at Stanford, Ziaire Williams has become a somewhat polarizing prospect. Overall, his freshman season was underwhelming. Although his slim build and ability to finish at the rim have drawn concerns, his upside is worth noting. A 6-foot-8 wing who is capable of creating space and hitting tough, contested shots, Williams has the potential to be a versatile scoring wing at the next level.
<iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9z9lEp9f-Bg" width="100%" height="325" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/chris-smith" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chris Smith, UCLA</a>
Despite missing the bulk of the 2020-21 season due to injury, Chris Smith's body of work at UCLA should prove to be enough to allow him to be selected somewhere in the second round. In eight games this past season, Smith, a 6-foot-9 forward, averaged 12.6 points and 6.4 rebounds per game while shooting 50% from three-point range.
<iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fYqRSMygN7Q" width="100%" height="325" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/joe-wieskamp" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Joe Wieskamp, Iowa</a>
At 6-foot-6, Joe Wieskamp is one of the best shooters in this draft class. This season, he shot 46.2% from three-point range on 5.1 attempts per game. With shooting at a premium in today's game, Wieskamp is a viable second-round option for teams in need of a scoring punch off the bench.
<iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MPKOXaVM6ZQ" width="100%" height="325" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/aaron-henry" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Aaron Henry, Michigan State</a>
In his third year for the Spartans, Aaron Henry averaged career-highs in points (15.4), rebounds (5.6), assists (3.6), steals (1.3) and blocks (1.3). With good size and athleticism, he's been largely known for his on-ball defense, but he improved as a scorer this year. He is an inconsistent shooter from deep, but his value on defense may outweigh the lack of scoring punch in the NBA. He is a viable option for a team that's looking for a wing defender this July.
<iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/md0EojkRrjE" width="100%" height="325" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/vrenz-bleijenbergh" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Vrenz Bleijenbergh, Antwerp&nbsp;</a>
Coming into his own in 2021, Vrenz Bleijenbergh has really improved as both a playmaker and passer. At 6-foot-10, he's comfortable handling the pick-and-roll and has shown tremendous vision as a facilitator. In his 10 Eurocup games, he averaged 9.4 points and hit 37.5% from three. His 52.6% from the free throw line is a concern, but there is a lot to like about his game.
<iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YwtR-xBF8jQ" width="100%" height="325" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
<a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Herb Jones, Alabama</a>
A 6-foot-8 wing with a 7-foot wingspan, Herb Jones did a little bit of everything during his senior year with the Alabama Crimson Tide, averaging 11.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 1.7 steals and 1.1 blocks per game. A versatile player, who has even played some point guard, Jones has a good opportunity to get selected in the 2021 NBA Draft.
To see BasketballNews.com's latest 2021 NBA Mock Draft, <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft" target="_blank" rel="noopener">click here</a>.

BasketballNews.com's NBA Draft Analyst Matt Babcock put together a list of the top available small forwards in the 2021 NBA Draft.

2021 NBA Draft: Top small forwards in this class

With the 2021 NBA Draft Combine wrapped up and the NBA Draft coming up on July 29, Matt Babcock shares his thoughts on which players' stocks have risen stemming from the event, and where things stand with their draft status going into the pre-draft process.
<a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/josh-christopher" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Josh Christopher, Arizona State</a> 
After being one of the top-ranked players in the country out of high school, Josh Christopher had an up-and-down freshman season at Arizona State, leaving scouts all over the place in regards to their evaluations of him. I have been a bit higher on Christopher than most other evaluators all season long, and I was hoping to be able to see him perform well to give me more confidence in my initial evaluation. I was happy to see Christopher bet on himself by taking part in 5-on-5 play this week in Chicago, while many other players elected to sit out for various reasons.
It was a decision that clearly paid off, as Christopher took care of business, scoring 16 points and grabbing 8 rebounds, controlling the game and leading his team to victory. And in the process, he gave me what I needed to see to increase my confidence level in him. During live play, Christopher displayed his powerful explosiveness, the ability to create his own shot and the overall potential to be a high-level offensive weapon at the next level. If he is able to become more consistent as an outside shooter, I think he has a chance to be a very good NBA player. At this point, I can safely say that I think Christopher is worthy of being a solid first-round pick, and maybe even as high as a mid-first-round selection.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/joshua-primo" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Josh Primo, Alabama</a> 
When thinking of Josh Primo, one key word comes to mind: Upside. One of the youngest players in the draft at only 18 years old, Primo, from the Alabama Crimson Tide, is a smooth shooting guard with good positional size (6-foot-4 without shoes). He is far from being a finished product, but he showed enough for me to think that he has a chance to develop into being a starting-caliber player at the next level.
Talking to NBA scouts and executives this past week, the league as a whole generally seemed to be equally as excited about Primo&rsquo;s potential. I even spoke to one front-office executive who said that he had Primo rated as high as a late-lottery pick. Although I&rsquo;m not sure he should or will go quite that high in the draft, one thing is for sure, Primo is trending up.
<div class="mceNonEditable"><spike>&nbsp;</spike></div>
<a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/nah-shon-hyland" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Nah&rsquo;Shon Hyland, VCU</a> 
In the first game of live 5-on-5 play on day one, Nah&rsquo;Shon &ldquo;Bones&rdquo; Hyland stole the show, scoring 17 points and dishing out 4 assists. An ultra-confident, crafty scoring combo guard, Hyland dazzled by utilizing his shiftiness, routinely shaking his opponents out of their shoes off the dribble and showing an ability to score from all over the floor. I know that he had some supporters prior to the Combine already, but for me personally, he helped himself a lot. Although the shooting guard crop is deep this year, Hyland has proved to me that he belongs in the conversation for teams selecting in the first round. His potential to be a microwave scorer and produce instant offense at the next level has me excited about his future.
<a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/miles-mcbride" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Miles McBride, West Virginia</a> 
The knock on McBride has been that he&rsquo;s not considered to be a pure point guard and lacks some offensive polish. I have been somewhat hesitant with McBride because of those reasons; however, after watching him the last few days, the tide is turning for me and I have become more of a believer. Many have described McBride as a &ldquo;typical Bob Huggins guy," which I interpret as a tough, no-nonsense, competitive fighter who will defend his tail off. And that is an accurate description of McBride. I&rsquo;ve heard mixed information on whether McBride will remain in the draft or return back to West Virginia for another season. Regardless of whether it&rsquo;s now or later, I think McBride has a chance to have a solid NBA career.
<a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/sandro-mamukelashvili" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sandro Mamukelashvili, Seton Hall</a> 
A versatile lefty big man who can initiate the break, make plays for his teammates and shoot the ball from outside -- in addition to being able to handle typical big-man responsibilities -- I&rsquo;m not sure I have talked to one person who doesn&rsquo;t like &ldquo;Mamu&rdquo; on some level or another. Although it&rsquo;s been said regularly that the center position is easily replaceable, there is no denying that floor spacing, ball movement and pace are extremely valued in today&rsquo;s game. And Mamu can be a legitimate contributor to those things.
<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://cdn.basketballnews.com/images/story/body/usatsi_16297935_lg.jpg" alt="" width="289" height="440" />
I&rsquo;m still trying to get a grip of exactly what his market value is in regards to the 2021 NBA Draft, but I will say that I do believe he is trending in the right direction and fully expect to hear his name come draft night.
<a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/stories/quentin-grimes-looking-to-take-draft-combine-momentum-to-the-nba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Quentin Grimes, Houston</a> 
In 2018, Quentin Grimes was Texas' Mr. Basketball, a McDonald&rsquo;s All-American and one of the top-rated high school players in the country. Prior to his freshman season at Kansas, most would have expected Grimes to be a one-and-done and a likely lottery pick. However, that&rsquo;s not how things played out for Grimes. Instead, he had a rocky freshman season that led him to transfer to Houston. There, Grimes reinvented himself with the help of head coach Kelvin Sampson. Now 21 years old, Grimes was able to show that he has <a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/stories/quentin-grimes-looking-to-take-draft-combine-momentum-to-the-nba" target="_blank" rel="noopener">matured and developed</a> under Sampson&rsquo;s tutelage. A strong 6-foot-5 wing with a high basketball IQ, strong defensive abilities and a much-improved outside shot, Grimes has gone from being a high-profile prospect, to being written off, to now being right back on everyone&rsquo;s radar.
<a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft/big-board/players/joe-wieskamp" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Joe Wieskamp, Iowa</a> 
After measuring at 6-foot, 5.75 inches without shoes with a 6-foot-11 wingspan, and recording an incredible 42-inch max vertical, Joe Wieskamp from the Iowa Hawkeyes can easily be considered one of the winners of the physical testing at the NBA Draft Combine. However, his success wasn&rsquo;t limited there, as he was terrific on the court as well.
In one game, he scored 26 points and grabbed 10 rebounds while shooting 6-for-7 from three-point range. Prior to the Combine, he was considered a fringe draft pick; now, I&rsquo;d consider him likely to be drafted. At this point, I don&rsquo;t think anyone would question that a shooter like Wieskamp -- who is capable of shooting at a high rate on the move and has positional size and athleticism -- has a place in the NBA.
<a href="https://www.basketballnews.com/draft" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Check out Matt Babcock's 2021 NBA Mock Draft (with a full scouting report on each player) here.</a>

Matt Babcock shares his thoughts on which prospects' stocks have risen stemming from the 2021 NBA Draft Combine.