Donovan Clingan NBA draft projection: Where will the UConn star get drafted?
On the eve of the NBA draft, 7-foot-2 UConn center Donovan Clingan has a very uncertain future. The two-time NCAA title winner is one of the known qualities in an uncertain draft. While Clingan's overall game is still developing, he's a defensive difference-maker and a solid winner.
After coming off the bench as a freshman, Clingan was a solid part of UConn's title team in 2024. He averaged 13.0 points and 7.4 rebounds per game, and his 2.5 blocked shots per game attest to his defensive strength. Clingan did a solid job on Purdue star Zach Edey in the NCAA title game.
Here are the top three possibilities for Clingan's NBA draft position.
Donovan Clingan NBA draft projection
#1, Atlanta Hawks
The most exciting possibility for Clingan would be topping the draft. The Atlanta Hawks hold the pick, and their decision remains deeply uncertain. Early thinking was that French product Alex Sarr, a 7-footer, would be the top pick. But Sarr's offensive game is less developed than Clingan's.
Most recently, Clingan was rumored to be Atlanta's top possibility. While a multitude of possibilities, including trades, still apply, the Hawks could end up choosing Clingan. In a draft of unknowns, he's perhaps the most complete player available at the top spot.
#2, Detroit Pistons
The Pistons choose fifth and could end up with Clingan if the Hawks pass on him. Guards Reed Sheppard and Stephon Castle will likely be chosen in the top handful of picks, and Sarr is unlikely to fall far. The wild card could be French teenager Zaccharie Risacher, a promising wing, but an incredibly inexperienced prospect.
Detroit, picking fifth, seems like a likely landing spot for Clingan, if the Hawks pass on him. A year ago, Detroit posted the league's worst record at 14-68. Clingan would be an upgrade on Jalen Duren, who started for Detroit a year ago.
#3, Portland Trail Blazers
The Blazers draft seventh, and it's hard to imagine Clingan sliding below their spot. The Blazers have a slew of talented young guards, and Clingan would be a logical pick to enhance an inexperienced Blazers squad.
The 21-61 Blazers started Deandre Ayton at center, and Donovan Clingan would likely be an improvement in quality and also economy as Ayton is slated to earn nearly $100 million over the next three seasons.
Which team do you think will draft Donovan Clingan tonight in the NBA Draft? Weigh in with your thoughts below in our comments section!