NBA Draft 2019: 10 best prospects from Big Ten Basketball

DES MOINES, IOWA - MARCH 23: Charles Matthews #1 of the Michigan Wolverines celebrates a basket against the Florida Gators during the second half in the second round game of the 2019 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Wells Fargo Arena on March 23, 2019 in Des Moines, Iowa. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) /

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LINCOLN, NE – FEBRUARY 6: Head coach Tim Miles of the Nebraska Cornhuskers talks with Isaiah Roby #15 during a break in the game against the Maryland Terrapins at Pinnacle Bank Arena on February 6, 2019 in Lincoln, Nebraska. (Photo by Steven Branscombe/Getty Images) /

4. Isaiah Roby – Nebraska – 6’8, 21 years old

While he didn’t have the gaudiest stats, Roby had a strong season for the Nebraska Cornhuskers. At first glance he may not look like an NBA player, but those who have watched him consistently see the tools that have the NBA scouts clamoring.

Roby certainly has an NBA caliber body. He stands at 6’8 with a 7’1 wingspan, but is agile on his feet for someone of that size. His body movements are fluid and he showed some sneaky athleticism to finish in traffic.

Offensively, he showcased an all-around game. He posted up smaller defenders when asked, continued to improve his three-point shot and was a willing passer who showed a good feel for the game. The lack of stats can be attributed to playing with two ball-dominant guards, but Roby was often a bit passive.

Defensively is where Roby has the most upside. His quick feet would allow him to be someone who can switch on pick-and-rolls at the next level. He was a proficient shot blocker in college using his long arms and good timing to block two shots per game. Adding strength to his lanky frame will help him guard power forwards and potentially centers.

Roby’s biggest issue is his positional fit at the next level. At 6’8 he is too short to be a post player, but his outside game is not quite refined enough to be a forward. An ideal fit is playing with a center that could stretch the floor like Karl Anthony-Towns ort Nikola Jokic. His jumper will have to improve but I doubt he ever gets to be an above average three-point shooter in the NBA.

Roby’s current draft projection is around the early to mid second round. He would be a good fit for teams in the late 30’s. His tweener status and lack of shooting will hold him back, but his size and natural feel for the game make him a good pick to be a solid role player.

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