NCAA Basketball: 6 biggest winners from 2019 NBA Draft Combine
By Brian Rauf
Nic Claxton, PF/SF, Georgia
Claxton has helped himself more than anyone through the pre-draft process so far, and his play at the combine made every team take notice.
A sophomore who tested the waters following a solid season at Georgia in which he averaged 13.0 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game, Claxton was still “50-50” about whether he would return to school or stay in the draft a week ago. He was a projected second-round pick then but, now, it would be a surprise to many if he was available after the first round.
Claxton’s athleticism and versatility intrigued NBA teams enough, with many believing he was on the verge of a breakout year. However, he put all of his skills on display during Thursday’s and Friday’s scrimmages.
The bouncy 6-11, 220-pounder blocked seven shots in his first 10 minutes of action at the combine, denying opposing big men and slashers at seemingly every turn. Claxton also showed off his shooting ability by making a couple of perimeter shots and unexpectedly displayed some very effective post moves.
His performance created excitement from NBA teams about his potential as a floor-spacing big man who can also attack the rim, rebound, and serve as a legitimate rim protector on the defensive end. Essentially, Claxton showed all the skills teams look for in a big man in today’s NBA.
Tom Crean and Georgia are hoping that he’ll get a chance to really put it all together on a consistent basis for them next year. If he does, many think he’ll be a lottery pick in the 2020 draft. But, if he decides to keep his name in the draft, he may end up going late in the first round.