Big Ten Basketball: Top 10 prospects for 2020 NBA Draft

Who are the top prospects from Big Ten Basketball in the 2020 NBA Draft and when are they projected to be drafted?

After taking a look at the NBA potential in the 2020 NBA Draft from the ACC, Big East, and Mid Majors, we now take a look at the talent from Big Ten Basketball. Thanks to Luke Garza staying back this draft isn’t fantastic when it comes to NBA talent depth from the conference, but there are a few players worth noting. Up first, a guard out of Nebraska.

10. Dachon Burke Jr., G, Nebraska

DOB:

• November 25, 1997 (22)

SIZE:

• 6’4″, 180 lbs

PROS:

• Length
• Has on-ball defensive potential
• Active hands

CONS:

• Not a good shooter
• Not a real threat to score the basketball
• Not a great playmaker
• Too aggressive defensive at times

DRAFT GRADE:

• Late 2nd Round – Undrafted

Don’t get me wrong – I think there’s some potential with Dachon Burke Jr., as he is long and can play a combo guard position with the right training program. However, the lack of offensive upside is what makes Burke Jr. unappealing to most teams in terms of spending a draft pick on him. He will most definitely sign on with a G League team or an overseas club but expect Burke Jr. to go undrafted.

9. Zavier Simpson, G, Michigan

DOB:

• February 11, 1997 (23)

SIZE:

• 6’0″, 190 lbs

PROS:

• Good playmaker
• Decent scorer off the dribble

CONS:

• Not a great or consistent shooter
• Too passive
• Lacks athleticism

DRAFT GRADE:

• Late 2nd Round – Undrafted

Before his senior year, Zavier Simpson probably would not have been anywhere near this list. However, he showed a bit of promise in his fourth season, proving to be a solid playmaker who gives it his all on both ends. With that being said, Simpson lacks the shooting ability and athleticism to be a difference-maker at the next level. I expect Simpson to go undrafted, but the playmaking ability could appeal to a team.

8. Anthony Cowan, G, Maryland

DOB:

• October 7, 1997 (23)

SIZE:

• 6’0″, 17O lbs

PROS:

• Draws contact incredibly well
• Above-average athleticism
• Good all-around scorer

CONS:

• Struggles with shooting consistency
• Too aggressive on offense
• Undersized
• Not a fantastic defender

DRAFT GRADE:

• Late 2nd Round – Undrafted

I was always a big fan of Anthony Cowan whenever I watched him play at Maryland. He does a lot well, as he can score the basketball pretty well and has above average quickness. The major knocks on Cowan going forward in his career will be if his body can handle bigger and faster players, as he is only 170 lbs. and has already proven to struggle at times.

As well, Cowan lacks consistency with his shooting. With all this being said I can see Cowan being looked at late in round two but, but ultimately I see him going undrafted with the opportunity to shine in Summer League.