UConn 2024 NBA Draft Picks: Full list of players drafted from the Huskies
Coming off back-to-back national titles, the 2024 NBA draft was highly likely to be UConn-heavy. The Huskies indeed sent four players to the NBA via the draft, with picks ranging from two in the draft lottery to another pair in the second round.
Here's the rundown on where the former UConn players have landed.
Complete list of UConn players drafted in 2024 NBA draft
Round 1 picks
#1. Stephon Castle, San Antonio Spurs, No. 4 pick
The outstanding 6-foot-6 guard was a one-and-done with the Huskies. Castle averaged 11.1 points per game last year, adding 4.7 rebounds per game and 2.9 assists per game. Castle's size and athleticism drew plaudits from most NBA observers.
As the No. 4 overall pick by the Spurs, Castle was just the second college player taken in the draft, trailing only Kentucky's Reed Sheppard. Castle's size, ball handling and defensive acumen are impressive, but he'll need to improve on his 27% 3-point shooting to keep defenses from sagging on Victor Wembanyama.
#2. Donovan Clingan, Portland Trail Blazers, No. 7 pick
Clingan was rumored as a possible top pick, but he slid to the No. 7 overall pick. The developing 7-foot-2 center averaged 13.0 ppg and 7.4 rpg en route to the national title. Clingan battled Purdue big man Zach Edey, who went No. 9 overall in the draft, in the national championship game.
Clingan is an excellent defender and has gained valuable experience as a team player on offense. Portland won't have to run plays for him but can rather let him defend, roam the paint and hustle for easy baskets inside. On a guard-heavy Portland team, Clingan's selection was an inspired choice.
Round 2 picks
#3. Tristen Newton, Indiana Pacers, No. 49 pick
A transfer from East Carolina, Newton won titles in each of his two seasons at UConn. The 6-foot-5 guard is a glue guy and a stat sheet stuffer. He averaged 15.1 ppg, 6.6 rpg and 6.2 apg for the Huskies. Newton's acumen was demonstrated in a triple-double against Villanova in February.
Indiana made a calculated choice in Newton. He's a winner, a good rebounder from the guard position and a player used to the team concept. He won't steal the spotlight from Tyrese Haliburton or Pascal Siakim, but Indiana won't need him to do that.
#4. Cam Spencer, Memphis Grizzlies, No. 53 pick
A three-year player at Loyola who then played at Rutgers and UConn, Spencer's perimeter shooting is the skill that has kept him grinding. A 42% 3-point shooter for his career, Spencer averaged 14.3 ppg, 4.9 rpg and 3.6 apg with the Huskies last year.
Memphis can use his perimeter scoring and a team-first approach. Spencer was picked late, but he could still have a substantial NBA impact.
Which UConn Huskies are you looking forward to watching in the NBA? Weigh in with your thoughts in the comments section below.