27. Julian Phillips – Tennessee Volunteers
2022-23 season stats: 8.7 ppg and 4.7 rpg
The former five-star prospect had his ups and downs as a freshman for the Vols on offense. And shooting under 25% from three-point range is a definite concern. However, Phillips is one of the younger players in the NBA Draft and already is one of the top individual defenders in the entire pool. His ceiling will depend on his scoring development but Phillips defense alone gives him a shot.
26. GG Jackson – South Carolina Gamecocks
2022-23 season stats: 15.4 ppg and 5.9 rpg
Speaking of “youth”, Jackson is by far the youngest player in the entire NBA Draft. He’s a 6’9 power forward who had 11 games of at least 20 points this past season, including 30 against Auburn. The problem is that he shot under 40% from the field and wasn’t much of a defender. His age and size give him real potential long-term.
25. Seth Lundy – Penn State Nittany Lions
2022-23 season stats: 14.2 ppg and 6.3 rpg
The 6’6 forward developed over four years into an All-Big Ten caliber player, making 40% of his three-point shots at over six attempts a game. Lundy proved to be a capable athlete and overall floor spacer and has the potential to be a hidden gem, depending on where he gets drafted.