NBA Draft 2023: Breakout prospect candidates to watch in NCAA Tournament

Reece Beekman – Virginia – Junior – 6’3, 174 lbs

The key to Virginia’s NCAA championship run a few years ago was pro-level guards in Tony Bennett’s system. He will need Beekman to play like an NBA-caliber guard if the Cavaliers are going to make a run. He hasn’t as of late, which is why Virginia’s offense has looked rather pedestrian.

Beekman’s calling card comes on the defensive end, where his elite hands make him a steal magnet. He comfortably guards the opposing team’s best perimeter player and plays more physical than his frame would suggest. Offensively, Beekman is more pass-first but he often makes the right reads in Bennett’s slowed-down half-court offense. But to win a few games, Bennett will need Beekman to find some buckets when things stall.

I admittedly don’t love him as a prospect, but he can certainly open some eyes this week. A potential Sweet Sixteen matchup with Alabama would draw tons of NBA eyes, and be a fascinating clash of styles. How Beekman bodes against their physicality could be a good indication of their NBA future. I’m not optimistic about Virginia’s draw, but if they won a few games, Beekman could solidify himself as a second-round pick.