All Eyes Will Be On Wemby
Photo: Special to the NY Beacon
 
By Matthew Kennedy
 

The build up to the 2023 NBA Draft is one of the most intense in recent history. This is mostly because of the 7 ‘4, 19 year old, French phenom, who has been labeled one of, if not the best, teen basketball players to ever play the sport. Victor “Wemby” Wembanyama is the projected 1st pick in the draft for many reasons – mainly because of his incredible length and coordination that leads to his unmatched defensive dominance and versatility among players in this draft. But he has also shown strong scoring abilities in multiple areas, with other uniquely combined attributes, that make him the most hyped draft pick since some guy from Akron, Ohio. San Antonio has the first pick and will 100% go with the defensive minded center, who they will hope to develop as an elite scorer from multiple levels. 


Scoot Henderson is the other big name in this draft. The flashy slashing point guard is the favorite to be taken 2nd by the Charlotte Hornets. The extremely athletic 6’2 point guard out of the G-League is a fan favorite and is sure to bring a lot of hype and wins, wherever he goes. Will the Hornets scoop him with their second pick, or will they opt for another player?


Perhaps the biggest speculation in this draft is if Charlotte will choose Henderson over the projected 3rd pick, small forward Brandon Miller out of Alabama. There is no question that, on paper, the less ball dominant Miller, will be a better fit alongside star point guard LaMelo Ball.

While most fans and scouts alike are paying almost all their attention to Wemby, and some to Scoot, there are a slew of other players that are worthy of noting. Among this draft are many prospects who are ready to make their place in the league and develop their successful roles as pre-NBA players.  


Deep in the 1st round, some underrated notable players include point guard Colby Jones out of Xavier and Arkansas’ Jalen Wilson. Both have few holes in their game and will translate very well to the big leagues. It will be very interesting to see who performs and does their job.