March Madness is finally here as college basketball's top players will enter the spotlight over the next few weeks.
NBA scouts will get one last look at many draft prospects competing for the final time before spring combines. The top of the 2024 draft class has been occupied most of the season by international prospects Alex Sarr and Zacharie Rischessier. Still, they won't have a platform like the NCAA tournament to showcase their skills the way Kentucky's Reed Sheppard and Rob Dillingham have access to starting on Thursday.
ESPN NBA draft insiders Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo provide their list of the top 50 prospects to watch during the NCAA tournament.
50. Johnell Davis | PG/SG | Florida Atlantic
6-4 | Age: 22.8 | Senior
When: No. 8 Florida Atlantic vs. No. 9 Northwestern | Friday | 12:15 p.m. ET | CBS
The key spark plug behind FAU's 2023 Cinderella run, Davis and the Owls are back for another run, although they won't surprise anyone this time. Asked to shoulder quite a bit of offense, Davis shot the ball markedly better from distance this season (up from 36% to 42% on 4.1 attempts), a development that helps his chances of finding a niche as a role player. While possessing average size and tools, Davis displays toughness and versatility on and off the ball that give him a selling point on a two-way contract. After earning an invite to the G-League Elite Camp last year, he should get an opportunity to build on that in the pre-draft process. -- Jeremy Woo
49. Caleb Love | SG | Arizona
6-4 | Age: 22.4 | Senior
When: No. 2 Arizona vs. No. 15 Long Beach State | Thursday | 2 p.m. ET | TBS
Love is no stranger to the NCAA tournament, as the author of some memorable moments leading North Carolina to the 2022 championship game. After an efficient senior season by his standards at Arizona, Love has been in a major slump for three consecutive highly visible games -- shooting 7-for-34 from the field with 11 turnovers -- reminding scouts of the poor shot selection and questionable decision-making that plagued his time at UNC. Love's microwave scoring and shot-making prowess could make him attractive to NBA teams as a two-way candidate, but finding a way to finish his career on a positive note and not revert to old, bad habits would surely help his cause going into the pre-draft process. -- Jonathan Givony
48. Tristen Newton | PG/SG | UConn
6-5 | Age: 22.8 | Senior
When: No. 1 Connecticut vs. No. 16 Stetson | Friday | 2:45 p.m. ET | CBS
While not the first name that comes to mind when rifling through UConn's talented prospects, Newton has been a key performer for the Huskies the past two seasons, finding ways to contribute as a scorer and playmaker within a system-driven, high-quality offensive attack. He was much better from an efficiency standpoint this season and will see a good amount of the ball during what could be a deep tourney run. While Newton is in the two-way mix at best at this point, his major role on last year's title team as well as this year's iteration of the Huskies will likely help when it comes to finding opportunities on the fringes of the NBA. -- Woo
47. Johni Broome | C | Auburn
6-10 | Age: 21.6 | Senior
When: No. 4 Auburn vs. No. 13 Yale | Friday | 4:15 p.m. ET | TNT
Broome is one of the most productive players in college basketball, a stout rim-protector who plays with impressive physicality while also showing offensive versatility. He does a good amount of shot creation for Auburn, has made 27 3s in 34 games this season, is powerful operating with his back to the basket, and is an excellent rebounder and a much-improved passer. Broome doesn't have great size, length or explosiveness for a center and has some questions to answer about his footspeed defensively and how his bully-ball style and unorthodox shooting mechanics translate to the NBA game. The NCAA tournament platform could help remind scouts how good of a season Broome is having and why his productivity might be worth betting on despite his aesthetically unique style of play. -- Givony
46. Isaiah Stevens | PG | Colorado St.
6-0 | Age: 23.3 | Senior
When: No. 10 Colorado State vs. No. 10 Virginia | Tuesday | 9:10 p.m. ET | truTV
While undersized and older for a point guard prospect, Stevens has become a rock-solid player over five years at Colorado State, relying on change of pace to attack defenders and making plays for teammates. His profile long term is likely capped due to his size and defensive limitations -- if he's going to stick, it's likely as a third point guard -- but he's the type of guard who can win a game or two in the NCAA tournament. -- Woo
45. RJ Davis | PG | North Carolina
6-0 | Age: 22.4 | Senior
When: No. 1 North Carolina vs. No. 16 Howard/No. 16 Wagner | Thursday | 2:45 p.m. ET | CBS
The ACC Player of the Year and first-team All-American is one of the most prolific shot-makers in college basketball, draining 41% of his 3-pointers on nearly eight attempts per game. He hunts pull-up jumpers aggressively inside and outside the arc and has improved his ability to facilitate for teammates and keep turnovers to a minimum. Standing just 6-foot, Davis has an uphill battle defensively to hang on an NBA court and may be tempted to utilize his fifth year of college eligibility, as he'll surely have lucrative NIL offers. -- Givony
44. Jalen Bridges | SF | Baylor
6-8 | Age: 22.8 | Senior
When: No. 3 Baylor vs. No. 14 Colgate | Friday | 12:40 p.m. ET | truTV
Bridges combines above-average size for a wing with improved 3-point shooting (40.6% on 5.2 attempts), giving him the framework as a potential 3-and-D guy at the NBA level. While not much of a creator, he's settled into a good role at Baylor, where he knocks down shots but isn't overstretched as a scorer. While the pathway for him to stick is somewhat limited and he's not a defensive stopper by trade despite his length and tools, the things he does could easily translate if he continues developing and limiting mistakes. He'll likely be in the two-way contract mix, and a hot March could help. -- Woo
43. Kam Jones | SG | Marquette
6-4 | Age: 22.0 | Junior
When: No. 2 Marquette vs. No. 15 Western Kentucky | Friday | 2 p.m. ET | TBS
Jones helped keep Marquette afloat with injured starting point guard Tyler Kolek out for three weeks, showing his shooting and scoring prowess while taking on significant usage and helping the Golden Eagles make the Big East tournament championship game. Jones' ability to make shots with his feet set and off the dribble is his calling card at the NBA level -- he hit 41% of his 3s this season. He's smart and competitive, giving him a chance to carve out a niche as a two-way candidate, but has another year of college eligibility at his disposal should he choose. -- Givony
42. Coleman Hawkins | PF | Illinois
6-10 | Age: 22.2 | Senior
When: No. 3 Illinois vs. No. 14 Morehead State | Thursday | 3:10 p.m. ET | truTV
Hawkins' versatility at his size has always made him intriguing from an NBA perspective, but he has never been the most consistent contributor, prone to floating through games and often leaving scouts wanting more. The Illini have leaned on him as the primary big in fast, perimeter-oriented lineups, a setup that's helped showcase what makes Hawkins a viable two-way contract candidate. Few bigs can space the floor (37% from 3), defend and move the way he does, which will likely earn him a chance to make a roster. The tournament could be an important opportunity for him to leave a good impression, but teams are familiar with his ups and downs by now, and finding ways to separate himself in the pre-draft process will be critical. -- Woo
41. Ryan Kalkbrenner | C | Creighton
7-2 | Age: 22.1 | Senior
When: No. 3 Creighton vs. No. 14 Akron | Thursday | 1:30 p.m. ET | TNT
A three-time Big East Defensive Player of the Year, Kalkbrenner's appeal is obvious at 7-2 with a 7-5 wingspan and 9-4 standing reach. He has outstanding timing and technique as a rim-protector, excelling as a drop defender, but also being capable of hedging and switching on the perimeter, too. He's begun to experiment with shooting 3-pointers more this season (14-for-51 in 32 games), but still lacks a degree of consistency there as well as physicality as a rebounder and post defender. Kalkbrenner has some attributes that will be attractive to NBA teams as a third-string center, likely on a two-way contract to start, but also has the option to return to Creighton for a fifth year, where a hefty NIL paycheck will likely await him. -- Givony
40. Dillon Mitchell | SF/PF | Texas
6-8 | Age: 20.4 | Sophomore
When: No. 7 Texas vs. No. 10 Colorado State/No. 10 Virginia | Thursday | 6:50 p.m. ET | TNT
Though Mitchell's star has dimmed a bit, his athletic gifts, particularly on the defensive end, have kept him in the picture as a draft project teams will consider investing. A high-flying, agile forward who can stay with smaller guards as well as bigger wings, Mitchell has the potential to be a switchable energy forward. He will have to flesh out his offensive skill set to find NBA minutes, but has made strides as a cutter and rebounder, which makes him an important player for a Longhorns team that primarily relies on ball-dominant guards to drive the offense. The more he can impact the game without needing touches, the better. If he can ever add a 3-point shot, it could go a long way. There's a case for him in the second round, but Mitchell will need more time, whether in college or the G League. -- Woo
39. Tyrese Proctor | PG | Duke
6-5 | Age: 19.9 | Sophomore
When: No. 4 Duke vs. No. 13 Vermont | Friday | 7:10 p.m. ET | CBS
Proctor started the season as a projected lottery pick after an encouraging end to his freshman season, but he hasn't looked anywhere close to that for much of 2023-24. He's lacked aggressiveness turning the corner out of pick-and-rolls, has been inconsistent with his shooting, defense and decision-making and has generally looked like someone needing additional seasoning in college -- not the worst thing you can say about a 19-year-old. How Proctor's season finishes will likely play a big role in what the Australian decides to do next, as well as how he's viewed in NBA circles. -- Givony
38. Milan Momcilovic | SF/PF | Iowa St.
6-9 | Age: 19.4 | Freshman
When: No. 2 Iowa State vs. No. 15 South Dakota State | Thursday | 7:35 p.m. ET | truTV
Momcilovic's ability to shoot on the move at his size made him a surprise player of interest for NBA teams as a freshman. The rest of his game still needs fleshing out: He needs time to work on his body, become a more effective rebounder for his size and expand his offensive game before contributing in the pros. However, he's been a factor in Iowa State's surprisingly strong season and could wind up with a case to at least test the draft waters, particularly if he's able to turn some heads with hot shooting in the tournament. He's most likely a multiyear college prospect but should also be a popular candidate to leap as a sophomore. -- Woo
37. Jaxson Robinson | SG/SF | BYU
6-7 | Age: 22.4 | Senior
When: No. 6 BYU vs. No. 11 Duquesne | Thursday | 12:40 p.m. ET | truTV
Robinson had a scorching start, hitting 44% of his 3-pointers on 8.1 attempts in BYU's first 10 games, but he has made just 29% of his attempts in 22 games since. There are still things to like about the 6-7 wing with a lengthy wingspan and dynamic shot-making prowess, as he shows some real versatility with the way he gets into his jumper. But he is an inconsistent defender and decision-maker who doesn't quite make as many shots as you might hope. NBA teams will take a closer look at Robinson, but he's a very young senior who could return to BYU for his final year of eligibility. -- Givony
36. Reece Beekman | PG | Virginia
6-3 | Age: 22.4 | Senior
When: No. 10 Colorado State vs. No. 10 Virginia | Tuesday | 9:10 p.m. ET | truTV
One of the better defensive guards in the college game, Beekman was more efficient this season but has plateaued a bit offensively in college, which has kept him on the fringes of the draft conversation. He'll ultimately hang his hat on the defensive end if he's going to stick in the NBA, with strong instincts, quick hands and feet and decent length for his size. However, his jump shooting and playmaking acumen remain subpar for a potential backup point guard, issues he'll have to work through to find a niche. A hot game or two in the tourney won't change that element of his evaluation, and he may have to work through those challenges in the G League on a two-way contract. -- Woo
35. Kylan Boswell | PG | Arizona
6-2 | Age: 18.9 | Sophomore
When: No. 2 Arizona vs. No. 15 Long Beach State | Thursday | 2 p.m. ET | TBS
Arizona's starting point guard brings a high level of defensive intensity on 39% from 3 this season. He's still coming into his own as a playmaker and decision-maker since Boswell is very inconsistent, which makes sense considering he's 18 years old. He rarely gets to the free throw line, and he's shooting 42% inside the arc this season. Barring something extraordinary happening in the next three weeks, Boswell has looked like a player who could surely benefit from another year in college. He's not blessed with elite skills and doesn't look particularly close to helping an NBA team. -- Givony
34. Trey Alexander | PG/SG | Creighton
6-4 | Age: 20.8 | Junior
When: No. 3 Creighton vs. No. 14 Akron | Thursday | 1:30 p.m. ET | TNT
Alexander plays a key scoring role for Creighton and certainly looks the part, with good length and fluid athleticism that helps compensate for his lack of foot speed. While not elite in any area, Alexander has been mostly effective, relying a little too much on his midrange game at times, but also putting together some impressive showings. He'll need to gain strength and expand his perimeter shooting (32% from 3, albeit on solid volume) to have a better chance of sticking in the pros long term, factors that could ultimately lead him to return to school if the pre-draft process doesn't work in his favor. -- Woo
33. Zvonimir Ivisic | PF/C | Kentucky
7-2 | Age: 20.6 | Freshman
When: No. 3 Kentucky vs. No. 14 Oakland | Thursday | 7:10 p.m. ET | CBS
Ivisic missed 18 games due to NCAA eligibility issues before finally being cleared in late January, putting him behind the eight ball on a deep Kentucky team that has three 7-footers. He's shown glimpses of what makes him interesting with his ability to protect the rim (4.9 blocks per 40 minutes) and stretch the floor (38% from 3), but also has had no shortage of inconsistent moments on both ends of the floor, reminding scouts why he gained little traction upon entering the NBA draft in each of the past two years. The next time Ivisic enters the draft (possibly this spring), he'll be unable to withdraw due to NBA rules, which makes for a tougher decision than most considering how inconsistent he's been this season. A signature performance or two in the NCAA tournament might sway the tide. -- Givony
32. Antonio Reeves | SG/SF | Kentucky
6-6 | Age: 23.3 | Senior
When: No. 3 Kentucky vs. No. 14 Oakland | Thursday | 7:10 p.m. ET | CBS
NBA scouts viewed Reeves as a fringe prospect last year. He's forced the issue this season in a big way, shooting 44% from 3 on 5.6 attempts per game, becoming an indispensable piece for Kentucky and leading the team in minutes. He's likely in the two-way contract mix at this point, with shooting always in high demand. The rest of his game is limited by NBA standards, but Reeves will have to make big shots while spacing the floor for the Wildcats to mount a run. He'll presumably earn a combine invite and have a chance to keep putting himself in the draft conversation. -- Woo
31. Jamal Shead | PG | Houston
6-1 | Age: 21.6 | Senior
When: No. 1 Houston vs. No. 16 Longwood | Friday | 9:20 p.m. ET | TNT
The Big 12 Player of the Year and first-team All-American emerged as arguably the best point guard in college basketball, leading Houston to a conference championship and No. 1 tournament seed. He's a whirlwind defender who plays with nonstop toughness and intensity and ranks as one of the best passers in this class, but has some questions regarding his lack of size and inconsistent perimeter shooting, which he can best alleviate with a deep NCAA tournament run showing off his leadership skills, intangibles and hopefully providing timely scoring for a Houston team built on its defense. -- Givony
30. Cam Spencer | SG | UConn
6-4 | Age: 23.9 | Senior
When: No. 1 Connecticut vs. No. 16 Stetson | Friday | 2:45 p.m. ET | CBS
While Spencer wasn't on the team for UConn's 2023 title run, he figures to be one of the key players in a repeat chance, emerging after his transfer from Rutgers as one of the most competitive and toughest shot-makers in college basketball. He's continued to build a legitimate case as a second-round pick despite lacking NBA tools, with a viable complementary skill set driven by his passing ability and smarts that should allow him to keep defenses honest off the ball. Spencer likely isn't going to convince anyone he'll be a great defender in the long run, but he could very well be one of the top performers in the tournament. That type of platform on a title contender tends to be meaningful in the eyes of NBA scouts. -- Woo
29. PJ Hall | PF/C | Clemson
6-9 | Age: 22.0 | Senior
When: No. 6 Clemson vs. No. 11 New Mexico | Friday | 3:10 p.m. ET | truTV
Hall emerged as one of the ACC's best players and an All-American candidate as a senior, helping solidify his pro prospects after a strong showing at last year's NBA combine. Hall's ability to stretch the floor, score with his back to the basket and bring physicality and intensity has endeared him to scouts despite not being a great rebounder or defender. Hall started the season with a bang, but came down to earth somewhat, especially as a shooter, so finding a way to finish strong would be helpful going into the pre-draft process. -- Givony
28. DaRon Holmes II | PF/C | Dayton
6-10 | Age: 21.5 | Junior
When: No. 7 Dayton vs. No. 10 Nevada | Thursday | 4:30 p.m. ET | TBS
Holmes' bruising productivity has lent itself to a strong college career at Dayton, as a strong, high-energy interior scorer. How that style translates to the NBA game is a fair question, as he's not an elite athlete or skills guy, doesn't space the floor consistently and lacks an obvious role off the bench. The tournament can be a useful platform for him if the Flyers can string together wins with a potential matchup against Arizona's big frontline awaiting in the second round. -- Woo
27. Alex Karaban | PF | UConn
6-6 | Age: 21.3 | Sophomore
When: No. 1 Connecticut vs. No. 16 Stetson | Friday | 2:45 p.m. ET | CBS
Karaban plays an underrated role for the No. 1 overall seed in the NCAA tournament, despite not even making the All-Big East honorable mention team. He shoots 40% from 3, is an essential cog in their No. 1 rated offense with his intelligent passing and cutting, never turns the ball over and makes more plays defensively than you'd think due to his timing and activity -- giving him intriguing role-playing versatility at 6-8. Not blessed with much speed, explosiveness, or the best frame, Karaban's physical skills won't jump off the page for NBA teams, which is why winning and producing are his best tickets to emerging as an attractive prospect, something he's done quite a bit of the past two seasons at UConn. -- Givony
26. Harrison Ingram | SF/PF | North Carolina
6-7 | Age: 21.3 | Junior
When: No. 1 North Carolina vs. No. 16 Howard/No. 16 Wagner | Thursday | 2:45 p.m. ET | CBS
After transferring from Stanford, Ingram improved his frame and became an essential piece for North Carolina, contributing in a wide range of areas as a rebounder, scorer and defender. While somewhat of a jack-of-all-trades, master-of-none by nature, Ingram's versatility at both forward spots and improved perimeter shooting (37% from 3) gives him a solid chance to carve out an NBA role. The Tar Heels aren't particularly deep in the frontcourt and rely heavily on him as a steadying force, putting him in position to be one of the faces of a potential Final Four run and state his case as a draftable prospect and useful two-way contributor. -- Woo
25. Ugonna Onyenso | C | Kentucky
7-0 | Age: 19.4 | Sophomore
When: No. 3 Kentucky vs. No. 14 Oakland | Thursday | 7:10 p.m. ET | CBS
Onyenso ranks last by a wide margin in usage among Kentucky's 10 rotation players, but could prove to be their most important player in the NCAA tournament due to his defensive impact. He's the top shot-blocker in the field at 5.7 blocks per 40 minutes, which plays an outsized importance on a team that has struggled to get stops. Onyenso is extremely limited offensively, not the rebounder you might expect relative to his skills and can be pretty mistake-prone -- even defensively at times -- which is why he's fairly polarizing among NBA teams. There's no better platform to show how his timing, length, mobility and quickness getting off the ground can impact winning, so finishing the season on a strong note could give him strong momentum going into the pre-draft process. -- Givony
24. Baylor Scheierman | SG/SF | Creighton
6-7 | Age: 23.4 | Senior
When: No. 3 Creighton vs. No. 14 Akron | Thursday | 1:30 p.m. ET | TNT
Scheierman made strides in his final college season, improving his frame as well as his production and showcasing a good range of skills at his size. He can create offense when needed, is a good passer, can rebound well and has enough size defensively to help cover for average athleticism. That type of perimeter skill set tends to be in high demand in the NBA, putting him in the mix for this draft despite being one of the older eligible prospects. Creighton needs its trio of Scheierman, Trey Alexander and Ryan Kalkbrenner playing well to make a run. (The same group led an Elite Eight trip last year.) All three players stand to gain from added March exposure, currently projected in the second round/two-way contract range. -- Woo
23. KJ Simpson | PG | Colorado
6-2 | Age: 21.6 | Junior
When: No. 10 Colorado vs. No. 10 Boise State | Wednesday | 9:10 p.m. ET | truTV
Simpson is one of college basketball's most improved players, making a huge jump with his perimeter shooting (45% from 3) and playmaking ability, turning himself into a Pac-12 player of the year and All-America candidate while emerging as a serious NBA draft prospect. He was instrumental in Colorado's eight-game winning streak that eventually earned the Buffaloes an NCAA tournament berth and will likely need to continue that momentum against Boise State for his team to have any chance of advancing into the Round of 64. NBA teams have questions about Simpson's lack of size, length and strength that he won't be able to answer during the NCAA tournament, so showing he can be productive in every setting he competes in despite his average physical tools is his best bet to help win scouts over. -- Givony
22. Pelle Larsson | SG | Arizona
6-6 | Age: 23.0 | Senior
When: No. 2 Arizona vs. No. 15 Long Beach State | Thursday | 2 p.m. ET | TBS
While Larsson's scoring has dipped a bit of late, he remains a critical stabilizing factor for Arizona, functioning as a secondary playmaker, floor spacer, defender and tone-setter for the Wildcats. When Larsson is aggressive and making positive decisions with the ball, it's a massive help for a backcourt that can otherwise be far too reliant on Caleb Love's scoring. Stepping up when the moment calls for it would certainly help to solidify Larsson's draft standing. His positional size and feel create a pretty solid floor, but his offensive consistency ultimately has to improve. -- Woo
21. Oso Ighodaro | PF/C | Marquette
6-11 | Age: 21.6 | Senior
When: No. 2 Marquette vs. No. 15 Western Kentucky | Friday | 2 p.m. ET | TBS
Ighodaro had a productive season for Marquette, earning All-Big East second-team honors, but didn't quite make the jump scouts hoped to solidify himself as a first-round prospect. Ighodaro's defensive versatility and passing give him a solid foundation to build off, but his poor rebounding, lack of shooting range, and reliance on unorthodox free throw line floaters likely make him a somewhat situational fit positionally for many NBA teams. He did an admirable job of stepping into the void left by Tyler Kolek's absence the past few weeks, but appeared to be dealing with his own knee injury late in the Big East championship, which is something to monitor. -- Givony
20. Keshad Johnson | PF | Arizona
6-7 | Age: 22.7 | Senior
When: No. 2 Arizona vs. No. 15 Long Beach State | Thursday | 2 p.m. ET | TBS
Johnson has been an impactful transfer since arriving at Arizona from San Diego State, where he played a role on last year's Aztecs team that lost to UConn in the final. A versatile, physical defender in the frontcourt, Johnson gives the Wildcats some matchup versatility and has chipped in on offense with his energy. NBA scouts have mixed opinions surrounding his upside, due to his age and his limitations as a scorer, though he has shot the ball acceptably from 3 this season. Everyone knows what to expect from Johnson at this point, and if he can contribute to another Final Four run, his winning credentials should help in his pursuit of a guaranteed NBA deal. -- Woo
19. D.J. Wagner | PG/SG | Kentucky
6-3 | Age: 18.8 | Freshman
When: No. 3 Kentucky vs. No. 14 Oakland | Thursday | 7:10 p.m. ET | CBS
A top-10 recruit coming out of high school, Wagner has struggled with the weight of expectations as well as the fact that Kentucky has been better with backups -- Reed Sheppard and Rob Dillingham. Kentucky is just plus-five in Wagner's 731 minutes this season, and plus-342 and plus-228 with Sheppard and Dillingham respectively, a huge disparity that coach John Calipari is surely aware of going into his team's most important games of the season. Wagner has flashed intriguing shot-creation prowess and scoring instincts, but his inconsistent decision-making, finishing and perimeter shooting will be put under the microscope in tight games as scouts weigh what to do with the 18-year-old's body of work. How he finishes will likely go a long way in helping determine his candidacy as a first-round prospect. -- Givony
18. Terrence Shannon Jr. | SG/SF | Illinois
6-7 | Age: 23.6 | Senior
When: No. 3 Illinois vs. No. 14 Morehead State | Thursday | 3:10 p.m. ET | truTV
After opting to return to college, Shannon put together the best season of his five-year college career, helping lead Illinois to a Big Ten tournament title with 102 points in three games. The athletic swingman is playing his best basketball at the right time, and while he doesn't project as much of a creator at the NBA level, his ability to play in transition and attack the rim in space makes him a tough cover in college. The biggest questions for Shannon moving forward are off the court: while a judge overruled a school-instated suspension, allowing him to return to the court, Shannon is facing rape charges in Kansas following an alleged offseason incident. NBA teams will investigate the situation, the outcome of which will play a major role in whether he's drafted and how high. -- Woo
17. Tyler Kolek | PG | Marquette
6-3 | Age: 22.9 | Senior
When: No. 2 Marquette vs. No. 15 Western Kentucky | Friday | 2 p.m. ET | TBS
Kolek has been out since late February due to an oblique injury, though he's expected to return on Friday. The best pick-and-roll playmaker in college basketball, Kolek's ballhandling, pace, creativity, and perimeter shooting give him a tailor-made role as a backup point guard in the NBA. Scouts have likely seen enough of him this season to know what he looks like at full strength, but it will be interesting to see how he's moving, defending and operating inside the paint in what could very well be the final games of his college career. -- Givony
16. Johnny Furphy | SG/SF | Kansas
6-9 | Age: 19.2 | Freshman
When: No. 4 Kansas vs. No. 13 Samford | Thursday | 9:55 p.m. ET | TBS
Following a mini-breakout in January and February, some of Furphy's limitations have been on display of late as Kansas has been without the injured Kevin McCullar Jr. and Hunter Dickinson. Furphy plays with energy on the wing, can catch and shoot pretty capably, and has good size for his position, but struggles at this stage of his career to create shots for himself, and profiles as a low-usage complementary player for the foreseeable future. He has work to do on the defensive end, where he's been a touch inconsistent while getting his sea legs at the college level. This draft class is uncertain enough that there's a case for Furphy to enter, but his decision isn't clear-cut yet. With the Jayhawks looking undermanned, they'll need Furphy at his best to make it out of the first weekend after blowout losses to Houston and Cincinnati. -- Woo
15. Ryan Dunn | SF/PF | Virginia
6-8 | Age: 21.1 | Sophomore
When: No. 10 Colorado State vs. No. 10 Virginia | Tuesday | 9:10 p.m. ET | truTV
Dunn and UVA sneaked in the First Four after a poor end to the season, relegating them to Dayton where they'll try to win their first NCAA tournament game since the national championship game in 2019. Dunn is the best defender in college basketball but has only scored in double figures once in his past 13 games, leaving serious questions among scouts about whether he has enough of an offensive game to stay on the court in today's hyper-scoring NBA. His jumper is a particular concern, as he's shooting 21% for 3 and 53% from the free throw line while posting more turnovers than assists. It's unlikely Dunn can do much to alleviate those concerns right now, so showing some glimpses of hope in that department during the pre-draft process is likely the surest way for Dunn to shore up his standing as a first-round pick. -- Givony
14. Tristan da Silva | SF/PF | Colorado
6-9 | Age: 22.8 | Senior
When: No. Colorado vs. No. 10 Boise State | Wednesday | 9:10 p.m. ET | truTV
Da Silva played quite well in the Pac-12 tournament, helping Colorado sneak into the NCAA tourney with wins over Utah and Washington State and showcasing his growth as a jump shooter. His size and mobility make him a potential schematic asset in the NBA on the defensive end, where he can switch on the perimeter capably. He's a knowledgeable offensive player and has become quite reliable, appealing to teams as a potential plug-and-play draft pick who can contribute off the bench. While not the most physical or strongest player, da Silva checks plenty of boxes as a long-term pro and potential back end first-rounder. -- Woo
13. Justin Edwards | SG/SF | Kentucky
6-7 | Age: 20.2 | Freshman
When: No. 3 Kentucky vs. No. 14 Oakland | Thursday | 7:10 p.m. ET | CBS
Edwards started the season as a projected top-10 pick, but saw his stock crater amid poor play in the first three months of Kentucky's campaign. Since February, Edwards has rebounded in a major way, shooting 47% for 3 and looking like the game has slowed down for him. It will be interesting to see what version we will get this weekend after a lackluster performance in the SEC tournament. Edwards' ballhandling, defense and overall feel for the game are still concerns, and he doesn't have extreme youth to fall back on like many freshmen (he turned 20 in December), so finding a way to finish the season on a positive note will be important to build momentum going into the pre-draft process. -- Givony
12. Jared McCain | PG | Duke
6-3 | Age: 20.0 | Freshman
When: No. 4 Duke vs. No. 13 Vermont | Friday | 7:10 p.m. ET | CBS
McCain emerged as Duke's best guard throughout the season and faces a major task as a true freshman navigating the NCAA tournament. A quality shooter who can play on and off the ball, McCain still has questions, particularly on the defensive end, and can prove his mettle a bit with good showings under the March spotlight. The Blue Devils enter the tourney having dropped two games in a row and have very little in the way of depth with guard Caleb Foster injured, so McCain figures to be thrown into the figurative deep end as Jon Scheyer looks to reach the tournament's second weekend for the first time as coach. McCain's one-and-done case could be helped or hindered by what happens. -- Woo
11. Kevin McCullar Jr. | SF | Kansas
6-7 | Age: 23.0 | Senior
When: No. 4 Kansas vs. No. 13 Samford | Thursday | 9:55 p.m. ET | TBS
McCullar was ruled out for the duration of the NCAA tournament due to a bone bruise in his knee that has hampered him for the better part of the past two months, Kansas coach Bill Self announced Tuesday, a significant blow for the Jayhawks' chances. McCullar was playing at an All-American level before getting hurt in late January, shooting 3s as well as he ever has while providing outstanding versatility as a passer and defender. He was clearly not the same player while being shuffled in and out of the lineup in February and March while barely practicing. It will be interesting to see how NBA scouts view the context of McCullar's overall season considering his struggles in Big 12 play, and how much on-court activity he'll be able to conduct in the pre-draft process as he recoveries from injury. -- Givony
10. Yves Missi | C | Baylor
6-11 | Age: 19.8 | Freshman
When: No. 3 Baylor vs. No. 14 Colgate | Friday | 12:40 p.m. ET | truTV
Missi enjoyed a solid freshman season that helped establish him as a potential first-round pick, playing an important role for a Baylor team where six different players average double figures. While still very much a long-term project, Missi's physical skills, powerful dunks and flashes of shot-blocking portend NBA upside. However, he can also be very mistake-prone, leaving points on the table at times on offense, and struggling a bit with defensive awareness. The matchup-driven nature of the NCAA tournament will put him under an interesting microscope, particularly if a methodical, system-driven team such as Colgate can slow the game and give Baylor problems. Missi could be part of the solution for the Bears, or part of the reason they exit. -- Woo
9. Stephon Castle | PG/SG | UConn
6-6 | Age: 19.3 | Freshman
When: No. 1 Connecticut vs. No. 16 Stetson | Friday | 2:45 p.m. ET | CBS
Castle is one of the most polarizing prospects in this class and his lukewarm showing in the Big East tournament last weekend did not help alleviate concerns about his struggles against high-level competition. Castle passes the eye test at first glance and is an excellent defender, but he has had a difficulty scoring efficiently against the better teams UConn has faced, shooting 43.5% for 2 and 26% for 3 with a high turnover rate in 16 games against top-50 opponents, per Bart Torvik. Teams hoping to consider him in the lottery will want to see him make a bigger impact with the significant platform he'll have on the No. 1-seeded team in the NCAA tournament. -- Givony
8. Zach Edey | C | Purdue
7-4 | Age: 21.8 | Senior
When: No. 1 Purdue vs. No. 16 Grambling/Montana State | Friday | 7:25 p.m. ET | TBS
There's little argument that the 7-4 Edey is college basketball's most dominant player. He's in line to win back-to-back Wooden Awards, having led Purdue to another No. 1 seed. The Boilermakers have Final Four expectations, but he will first have to overcome the specter of last year's shocking first-round loss to No. 16 seed Fairleigh Dickinson. The odds are Edey is up for the challenge, as scouts have seen him come out of his shell even more as a competitor this season, with his size, motor, rebounding ability and good touch around the basket, creating unique problems for opponents. While still an acquired taste for some -- his defensive concerns as a slower-footed big are legitimate -- he's established himself as a lottery candidate at this point and has little left to prove. Anchoring a deep March run and helping shake the stigma around his team in the tournament would be the cherry on top. -- Woo
7. Kyle Filipowski | PF/C | Duke
7-0 | Age: 20.3 | Sophomore
When: No. 4 Duke vs. No. 13 Vermont | Friday | 7:10 p.m. ET | CBS
For Duke to mount a run into the second weekend of the tournament, Filipowski will have to be at his best, as much of what the Blue Devils run goes through him. While extremely productive due to the massive role he plays, he's been a mixed bag this season, demonstrating important individual growth defensively, but still leaving something to be desired with his consistency and toughness. There aren't a lot of college players who can match Filipowski's skill level at his size, making him a potential tourney star. A series of good performances would help remind teams of what he can do, particularly if he can hit shots from outside the arc (35% from 3) and protect the basket (2.0 blocks per 40) at better clips. -- Woo
6. Cody Williams | SG/SF | Colorado
6-8 | Age: 19.3 | Freshman
When: No. Colorado vs. No. 10 Boise State | Wednesday | 9:10 p.m. ET | truTV
Williams' individual play has tapered off in recent weeks, and he's also dealt with minor injuries, slowing to some extent his momentum as a lottery pick. He projects as a plus defender, and there's a lot to like about his size, feel and room to develop as a big playmaker, but he's still a ways from impacting the game at the NBA level. Since his return from injury on March 14, Williams has been coming off the bench as the sixth man for a Colorado team that will have to win its First Four game versus Boise State on Wednesday night. While not a focal point on the Buffaloes, whatever contributions Williams can make could help to stabilize his stock. Some teams are still bullish on his upside while others are concerned with his dovetailing play and the leap he'll need to make as a ball handler and shooter to have long-term success. The tourney is a big platform for him to assuage some of that, although it may be a tall order considering his somewhat limited offensive role. -- Woo
5. Ja'Kobe Walter | SG/SF | Baylor
6-5 | Age: 19.5 | Freshman
When: No. 3 Baylor vs. No. 14 Colgate | Friday | 12:40 p.m. ET | truTV
Walter looked like one of the best freshman shooters in the country in the first two months of the season, hitting 3s in dynamic fashion running off screens and pulling up off the dribble. However, he has struggled to score efficiently in conference play -- shooting 37% for 2 and 30% for 3 over his past 20 Big 12 games. With more turnovers than assists, it's led to some questions regarding how he impacts the game on nights his jumper isn't falling, as his defense has also been inconsistent. Baylor's high-powered offense needs Walter to rediscover his scoring touch to advance in the NCAA tournament, and scouts will be hoping to be reminded of why Walter was viewed as a potential top-five pick earlier in the season, something that looks to be in serious doubt. -- Givony
4. Dalton Knecht | SF | Tennessee
6-6 | Age: 22.9 | Senior
When: No. 2 Tennessee vs. No. 15 Saint Peter's | Thursday | 9:20 p.m. ET | TNT
Knecht says Vols plan to 'go put on a show for the world'Dalton Knecht describes his excitement for his first March Madness experience and explains how Tennessee will be using its SEC tourney loss as fuel during the postseason.
Knecht emerged as Tennessee's go-to scorer after transferring from Northern Colorado, putting himself on the map as a first-round pick while carrying the Volunteers. He was not on the radar this time a year ago but legitimized himself with three-level scoring instincts and the ability to shoot off screens as well as off the bounce. His ability to efficiently shoulder a heavy volume has made him one of the most dangerous players in the country. On the defensive end, Knecht is often targeted by opponents due to his below-average awareness and slow foot speed, something NBA scouts have scrutinized and a trend that should continue in high-level tournament games. For as much as he has the ball, Knecht also isn't a great playmaker (2.3 assists per 40). If opposing teams can slow him down, the Volunteers can be vulnerable due to the lack of quality shooting around him, something we saw happen against Mississippi State in the SEC tournament. The tourney is a big platform for Knecht to make a statement. -- Woo
3. Donovan Clingan | C | UConn
7-2 | Age: 20.0 | Sophomore
When: No. 1 Connecticut vs. No. 16 Stetson | Friday | 2:45 p.m. ET | CBS
Clingan battled injuries to start the season but has played some of his best basketball in March, especially when he has been able to stay out of foul trouble. He's the most impactful defensive big man in college basketball, putting a lid on the rim with his 7-foot-7 wingspan and tremendous timing as a shot-blocker. He also plays a significant role for the nation's top-ranked offense, as UConn runs many of its half-court sets through him in the low, mid or high post. He sets bruising screens, can facilitate out of dribble handoffs and finishes skillfully with polished footwork using both hands around the basket. However, Clingan doesn't always play above the rim as frequently as scouts might hope and has some questions he has to answer long term regarding his ability to defend in space. Clingan had some excellent moments in last year's NCAA tournament and will have a huge platform to continue to make his case as a potential top-five pick if he can help UConn make another deep run. -- Givony
2. Reed Sheppard | PG/SG | Kentucky
6-2 | Age: 19.7 | Freshman
When: No. 3 Kentucky vs. No. 14 Oakland | Thursday | 7:10 p.m. ET | CBS
Reed Sheppard hits the trey vs. Texas A&M AggiesReed Sheppard hits the trey vs. Texas A&M Aggies
Sheppard has wowed NBA scouts all season with his shooting prowess, playmaking acumen, defensive instincts, productivity and never-ending poise and confidence. No one thought of him as a one-and-done candidate entering college, but he's continued to state his case as the best freshman in college basketball, winning over skeptics who express concern about his limited physical skills. While exceptionally efficient, Sheppard has one of the lowest usage rates of any player projected to be drafted. Scouts will want to see Sheppard continue to be aggressive seeking out opportunities to create offense for himself and others, while holding his own as a one-on-one defender. -- Givony
1. Rob Dillingham | PG | Kentucky
6-2 | Age: 19.2 | Freshman
When: No. 3 Kentucky vs. No. 14 Oakland | Thursday | 7:10 p.m. ET | CBS
Dillingham is the type of explosive, dynamic guard capable of lighting up an NCAA tournament game. His scoring instincts and sheer star power give him a huge platform to state his case as a potential No. 1 pick if Kentucky can make the Final Four. He gets anywhere he wants on the floor with his electric ballhandling and change of pace, has unlimited confidence pulling up off the dribble and is a creative passer and finisher with a huge amount of swagger who won't shy away from pressure-packed situations. Scouts will be watching to see how he handles physicality on both ends of the floor and if he can find a way to make good decisions and not be a liability defensively, as has been the case in some games this season. -- Givony
