What is Keyontae Johnson' draft projection? Exploring 6’6” Kansas forward's chances to make it into NBA
Kansas State forward Keyontae Johnson has been sensational throughout the 2022-23 NCAA season. After a strong senior year, Johnson is now catching the intrigue of NBA scouts ahead of the 2023 draft.
Johnson has been one of the best stories in college basketball this season. The 6-foot-6 forward was one of the top recruits in the country entering his freshman year at Florida. But a terrible accident saw Johnson collapse during a game in December 2020.
Years later, after finally being cleared to play, Johnson transferred to Kansas State for his senior year. He's become a star with the Wildcats (25-9) and has them one win away from a spot in the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament.
After a bump in the road, Keyontae Johnson is looking like a name to watch out for in the 2023 NBA draft.
Keyontae Johnson's draft projection
Kansas State forward Keyontae Johnson has become one of the top sleepers heading into the 2023 NBA draft. Offering an intriguing set of versatility on both sides of the ball, Johnson could intrigue teams as a valued selection.
Projections have pointed at Johnson being a prospect who will be targeted at some point in the second round. Johnson's age will draw the question of how much upside he has remaining in his game. Johnson is 22 years old and will be turning 23 right before this year's draft.
Listed at 6-foot-6, 230 pounds, Johnson has been a dynamic force for the Wildcats this year. He's averaging 17.5 points, 7.0 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.1 steals per game. Johnson is also shooting 51.4%, including an impressive 40.5% from 3-point range.
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Johnson has the tools to be a physical presence on the perimeter. He's shown an improved ability to score at multiple levels, especially the midrange game. If Johnson can continue to improve throughout the predraft process, he could be a name that buzzes in NBA circles.
For now, the Kansas State senior will have his eyes set on their upcoming game in the Sweet 16. The Wildcats, the No. 3 seed take on the No. 7-seeded Michigan State Spartans (21-12) at 6:30 p.m. ET on Thursday on TBS.
If Kansas State advances, the Wildcats will take on the winner of the matchup between No. 9 Florida Atlantic (33-3) and No. 4 Tennessee (25-10).