2019 NBA Draft: Ja Morant headlines top 9 mid-major prospects

6) Charles Bassey, C, Western Kentucky

Bassey was undoubtedly the most highly decorated recruit on this list as a five-star McDonald’s All-American, and he is the lone freshman on this list. He was considered to be a first-round pick but has slid down draft boards due to his inconsistent play at Western Kentucky.

All of the physical tools that made him a five-star prospect is still what intrigues NBA scouts. Bassey already has great size for an NBA big man at 6-11 and 245 pounds with the frame to add on more. He’s also supremely athletic and, when he plays with energy, is the kind of rebounder and shot-blocker that can change games.

The downside is that he doesn’t always play with that consistency, some of which is due to the fact that he’s still raw from a skill standpoint. Outside of his quality mid-range jumper and touch in the paint, Bassey is still working on his post game, ball-handling, and passing.

Given his size, athleticism, and ability to get up and down the court at the speed of the NBA game, someone is bound to take a chance on his upside sooner rather than later. If he doesn’t go late in the first round, expect him to be off the board early in the second.