NBA Mock Draft 2021: Updated mock draft after combine and key deadline
By William Cash
30. Scouting Report. Gonzaga. Joel Ayayi. player. 118. Pick Analysis. Shooting Guard
In the last mock draft, I had Ayayi going to Utah and I believe he is still the best fit for Utah here. The Jazz is in win-now mode and could use a player that could come off the bench and contribute right away. Ayayi has a good IQ and can fit in any offense, his three-point shooting and defense will allow him to help Utah right away. I do not think Ayayi’s ceiling is high but this is a nice value for Utah at this stage in the draft.
Scouting Report. Day'Ron Sharpe. 29. player. 66. Pick Analysis. Center. North Carolina
Sharpe fell a little bit from the last mock draft. But Phoenix is in dire need of some backup center help, as Frank Kaminsky is simply just not getting the job done. Sharpe is very raw, but he is good in the low post, a solid rebounder, and plays with a nice motor when on the floor. He has some limitations, and I don’t think he will be able to develop a jump shot. But his upside and skills he brings are enough for Phoenix to take him here at the end of the first round.
player. 93. Center. Western Kentucky. Charles Bassey. 28. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis
Bassey the former five-star recruit took an unorthodox route from college. Bassey chose to go to the smaller Western Kentucky and averaged 17 points, 11 rebounds, and three blocks in the 2021 season. With backup center Dwight Howard a free agent next season, the Sixers could draft Bassey, and he could easily fill Howard’s role.
Bassey is a good rebounder, can score when at the basket, and is an excellent shot blocker. He does have upside and at least helps contribute on defense. Bassey also would have the potential to learn under Joel Embiid who is one of the league’s best players.