NCAA Basketball: 10 most important 2024 NBA Draft decisions to watch

4. Johnny Furphy - Kansas Jayhawks

2023-24 season stats: 9.0 ppg and 4.9 rpg

The 6’9 wing had a slow start but a very strong middle of the season once inserted into the starting lineup. Furphy had 11 double-digit scoring games in a 12-game stretch, including 23 points and 11 rebounds against Cincinnati. His frame and “3 and D” potential make him an intriguing NBA Draft prospect.

At the same time, Furphy would also be an All-American breakout candidate if he were to return for his sophomore season. With Kevin McCullar gone, the wing would get plenty of playing time and a large role. Although Kansas has already landed a couple of transfers, Furphy’s return would allow them to be a Final Four contender once again.

3. DaRon Holmes - Dayton Flyers

2023-24 season stats: 20.4 ppg and 8.5 rpg

The big man was the A-10 Player of the Year this past season, leading the Flyers in both scoring/rebounding and eventually to the NCAA Tournament. Holmes showed that he can space the floor as well, making 39% of his three-point shots. 

There’s very little else that Holmes can do to improve his NBA Draft stock so it may be the time for him to leave. That would be a tough blow for the Flyers to lose by far their best player. If he stays, they’re likely a top-25 team again. Without him, Dayton might not be the team to beat in the conference.