NCAA Basketball: Top returning players to watch for 2022 NBA Draft

4. Marcus Bagley – Arizona State – Sophomore – 6’8, 215 lbs – October 2001

Bagley was the highest-rated player on my 2021 Big Board who entered the draft then elected to return to college. He had an odd freshman season, hampered by injuries, and a bizarre team context.

Bagley is another big wing shooter. He’s got a beautiful stroke and is comfortable shooting off the move and over smaller defenders. He shot just 34% from three but had limited open looks. Bagley had some impressive passing flashes when willing, but he’ll need to reconfigure that “shoot first” mindset. Bagley also needs to get better at attacking downhill. He’s not overly quick, but his shooting gravity should create lanes to drive. Granted he played just 12 games last season, but totaling 18 rim attempts is below average.

Bagley impressed me with some of his defensive versatility as his strength allows him to guard up a position at times. He was also an active rebounder, something I didn’t see much of in his high school film.

Expect a fully healthy Bagley to play a bigger role, but also surrounded by teammates that can help enhance his strengths. If the shooting can go from “good” to “great”, Bagley could wind up as a first-round pick.