The NBA draft withdrawal deadline has passed, and teams are now aware of the official field of NCAA prospects. Among the notable names to stay in the draft, Bronny James has made headlines, confidently securing a spot in our second-round projections for the first time this year.
Big Names to Watch in 2024 NBA Mock Draft
Other prominent prospects who have decided to stay include:
- Jonathan Mogbo from San Francisco
- Johnny Furphy from Kansas
- Jaylen Wells from Washington State
- Cam Christie from Minnesota
However, several top-ranked players like Alex Karaban, Payton Sandfort, Hunter Sallis, Coleman Hawkins, and Jaxson Robinson have withdrawn, opening up new opportunities in the second round.
Top Draft Picks
Atlanta Hawks: Zaccharie Risacher
- Position: SG/SF
- Size: 6’8″, 204 lbs
- Nationality: French
- Pro Comparison: Harrison Barnes
Zaccharie Risacher, currently playing for JL Bourg-en-Bresse, has been delivering standout performances, scoring a combined 39 points with five threes against AS Monaco. His off-ball shot-making and athleticism make him a perfect fit for the Atlanta Hawks, who already have creators in Trae Young and Dejounte Murray.
Washington Wizards: Alex Sarr
- Position: PF/C
- Size: 7’0″, 224 lbs
- Nationality: French
- Pro Comparison: Evan Mobley
Alex Sarr from Perth Wildcats is an ideal pick for the Washington Wizards, who are looking for a patient rebuild. Sarr’s defensive versatility and evolving skill set make him a promising prospect, fitting well into the Wizards’ long-term plans.
Houston Rockets: Reed Sheppard
- Position: PG/SG
- Size: 6’2″, 182 lbs
- Nationality: American
- Pro Comparison: Donte DiVincenzo
Reed Sheppard from Kentucky brings elite shooting, passing, and intangibles praised by scouts. His fit alongside a creator like Amen Thompson makes him an attractive pick for the Houston Rockets.
San Antonio Spurs: Nikola Topić
- Position: PG
- Size: 6’6″, 198 lbs
- Nationality: Serbian
- Pro Comparison: Goran Dragić
Nikola Topić, despite a recent knee injury, has shown enough playmaking and rim pressure to be a top pick for the San Antonio Spurs. His potential to operate as a big playmaker makes him an enticing prospect for the Spurs’ future.
Detroit Pistons: Cody Williams
- Position: SF/PF
- Size: 6’7″, 178 lbs
- Nationality: American
- Pro Comparison: Jaden McDaniels
Cody Williams from Colorado has been trending in NBA conversations, and his defensive tools and efficient off-ball scoring make him a valuable addition to the Detroit Pistons.
Charlotte Hornets: Donovan Clingan
- Position: C
- Size: 7’2″, 282 lbs
- Nationality: American
- Pro Comparison: Rudy Gobert
Donovan Clingan from Connecticut could provide the Charlotte Hornets with formidable rim protection. His ability to shoot the three during workouts has increased his draft stock significantly.
— Bronny (@BronnyJamesJr) June 1, 2024
Mid-First Round Picks
Portland Trail Blazers: Dalton Knecht
- Position: SG/SF
- Size: 6’5″, 212 lbs
- Nationality: American
- Pro Comparison: Wally Szczerbiak
Dalton Knecht from Tennessee brings shot-making ability and a competitive edge, making him a valuable pick for the Portland Trail Blazers.
San Antonio Spurs: Stephon Castle
- Position: SG
- Size: 6’6″, 210 lbs
- Nationality: American
- Pro Comparison: Anthony Black
Stephon Castle from Connecticut is known for his versatility and defensive prowess. His ability to impact games with physical rim pressure and passing makes him a strong pick for the Spurs.
Memphis Grizzlies: Rob Dillingham
- Position: PG/SG
- Size: 6’1″, 164 lbs
- Nationality: American
- Pro Comparison: Darius Garland
Rob Dillingham from Kentucky brings offensive firepower with his creation and shot-making, making him a valuable asset for the Memphis Grizzlies.
Utah Jazz: Ron Holland
- Position: SF
- Size: 6’7″, 197 lbs
- Nationality: American
- Pro Comparison: Cam Whitmore
Ron Holland from G League Ignite is an explosive wing with potential despite some concerns about his shooting and decision-making.
Chicago Bulls: Matas Buzelis
- Position: SF
- Size: 6’9″, 197 lbs
- Nationality: American/Lithuanian
- Pro Comparison: Hedo Türkoğlu
Matas Buzelis from G League Ignite has a coveted archetype with his scoring versatility and defensive playmaking, making him an intriguing pick for the Chicago Bulls.
Second Round Gems
Los Angeles Lakers: Bronny James
- Position: SG
- Size: 6’2″, 210 lbs
- Nationality: American
- Pro Comparison: Miles McBride
Bronny James has impressed with his shooting and defensive quickness at USC. Although he might spend next year in the G League, his shot-making, foot speed, and IQ make him a viable three-and-D prospect for the Lakers.
Philadelphia 76ers: Jonathan Mogbo
- Position: PF
- Size: 6’6″, 217 lbs
- Nationality: American
- Pro Comparison: Kenneth Faried
Jonathan Mogbo from San Francisco has shown his ability to handle the ball in the open floor and process quickly as a passer, making him an enticing second-round pick for the 76ers.
Looking Ahead
The 2024 NBA Draft is filled with promising prospects, each bringing unique skills and potential to the table. From top picks like Zaccharie Risacher and Alex Sarr to second-round gems like Bronny James and Jonathan Mogbo, teams have a plethora of talent to choose from, ensuring an exciting and competitive future for the NBA.
