Top 3 ACC players who could be drafted in the NBA
Despite the consequences of conference extensions looming, the ACC remains one of the best conferences in Division I basketball. Its programs consistently play on a high-level non-conference schedule, which helps sharpen them until the NCAA arrives. Last season, ACC institutions went 8-1 in the first week of NCAA, with an average victory margin of 18.4 points, the most of all conferences.
That has enabled ACC to produce players like Zion Williamson, Kyrie Irving, Paolo Banchero, Jayson Tatum and more. With that, as the 2024 Draft nears, let's look at the top three players the ACC might have generated for the NBA.
ACC players who could make it to the NBA in 2024 Draft
#1 Jared McCain - Duke Blue Devils
Jared McCain is probably the best two-way dynamic guard out of ACC who harbors a shooter's touch and defensive knack in the coming talent pool.
Not only can McCain space the floor but is easily coachable. He can move without the ball while maintaining space, rotating timely, reading defenses and finding open spots beyond the arc.
Moreover, he can power through physicality, drive to the lane, find tough angles and erupt for early transition three-pointers. Defensively, McCain is a good rebounder, and his core strength enables him to hold his own and fight screens.
However, Jared McCain’s lack of athleticism and six-foot-two frame can restrict him in the NBA. It could pose offensive difficulties against experienced players and limit him around the arc on defense. Nevertheless, his shooting and grit make him an immediate fit on many NBA rosters.
#2 Carlton Carrington - Pittsburgh Panthers
Carlton Carrington brings plenty in his offensive arsenal. Even though he lacks a quick first step, his handles and footwork enable him to lose defenders and launch jumpers. Like a traditional guard, he's not yet the master of a spot. He has great form on his pull-ups but lacks consistency around the rim and the arc.
Nevertheless, Carrington is a great facilitator who can stop on a dime, has good pass IQ, is patient in PnR and has adequate quick to keep the defenders doubting.
However, Carrington’s six-foot-five 190-lb frame can easily get bullied in the NBA. He could face difficulties in getting out of traps offensively and could become a liability on defense.
Nevertheless, due to his skinny frame, Carrington has more options for modeling his build as per his choice, something he could work towards after gaining big-league experience.
#3 Kyle Filipowski - Duke Blue Devils
With a seven-foot and 248-pound build, the All-ACC first-team member Kyle Filipowski already has the build to make an impact on an NBA roster. He can damage defenses with a run-up but prefers misdirection and footwork when settled, where he has plenty of moves to get to the basket.
Filipowski can anchor the offense, thanks to his towering height, and can read high-level passing openings. Moreover, his dependable shooting touch makes him a floor stretcher and a moving threat.
However, Flipowski’s speed can make him struggle against power forwards or quicker centers. Moreover, it could also affect his production with his back against the basket.
He's yet to learn the art of blocking shots. However, there were enough instances during his collegiate run where he would disrupt an opposing player’s flow, which was enough to gain a headstart for his team.