NCAA Basketball: 5 biggest “hit or miss” prospects in 2019 NBA Draft

F Brandon Clarke – Gonzaga

2018-19 stats: 16.9 ppg 8.6 rpg 1.9 apg 3.2 bpg

If Zion Williamson is the best athlete in this draft, Brandon Clarke is the second best. He dominated the combine tests and plays much bigger than his 6’8 height. He had more blocks than missed shots on the season and reached double figures in scoring in all 37 games played for Gonzaga. His program-record 36 points against Baylor in the NCAA Tournament solidified his status as a top-half pick in the draft.

Clarke made nearly 70% of his total shot attempts and despite not being a prototypical back-to-the-basket big man. And he wasn’t just a shot-blocking defender, the WCC Newcomer of the Year was outstanding on the weakside and perimeter as well.

What Clarke can’t help is his measurables, which ranks low among the top forwards. He only made four three-point attempts this past season, although it makes sense that the coaching staff would want him more in the paint. But how he creates his own offense in the NBA is a big question for now. He also needs to work on his ball handling skills, as modern-day forwards have more required of them besides scoring in the paint on offense.

Among all projected lottery picks, Clarke’s ceiling may be the lowest. At the same time, his respective floor could also be the highest. His great defense, especially his ability to switch is vital in today’s NBA. He also plays hard all the time and does have a good shot, even if he doesn’t take it much.

At the very least, Clarke could be an effective rotation player, which could take a team slotted 10-14 into playoff contention of things go right. But there’s also a chance that he’s an ineffective offensive player that can’t be played in crunch time. A safe pick with limitations, Clarke’s impact will serve as a future litmus test for college players with similar styles.