By: David Kay
Every week The Sports Bank’s David Kay breaks down which players in college hoops are helping or hurting their NBA Draft stock. You can check out my complete 2010 Mock Draft and if you are as nerdy as I am, a 2011 Mock Draft as well.
BUY:
John Wall, PG, Kentucky, Fr.
It is hard for someone’s stock to go up when he is the unanimous choice for the top overall pick in the 2010 Draft, but Wall has lived up to the hype thus far. He hit a game-winner in his first collegiate game and put together a 21 point, 11 assist outing against Rider. His ability to drive to the basket is truly Derrick Rose-esque which also earns him a great amount of trips to the free throw line. His only flaw thus far is his high number of turnovers (18 in five games.) But he is the real deal, folks.
Yancy Gates, PF, Cincinnati, So.
Gates was a beast in the Maui Invite as Cincy finished runner-up to Gonzaga. He was very physical and active inside as he posted double-doubles against Vandy and Maryland. Gates forced a few shots against the Zags and still needs to work on his face-up game on the offensive end, but has the potential to be a first round pick in a year or two.
Omar Semhan, C, St. Mary’s, Sr.
Semhan is a big body who has helped the Gaels successfully transition to life post-Patty Mills and Diamin Simpson. Semhan had 17 points and 16 boards in a win against San Diego State and followed that by owning Vandy’s A.J. Ogilvy (a legit NBA center prospect) to the tune of 25 points and 18 boards. Semhan wasn’t done as he dropped 33 and 12 his next game. He is not the greatest athlete, but is physical and crafty around the basket which could get him some second round looks.
Quincy Pondexter, F, Washington, Sr.
After three years of not living up to expectations at Washington, Pondexter is coming into his own as a senior. He is averaging 24 points and 12 boards a game including a 30 point, 15 rebound (both career-highs) performance against San Jose State. Pondexter is only 6-6 and has been playing a lot of the four for the Huskies this season, but will need to be a wing player at the next level. His mid-range game is effective, but until he proves he can knock it down from deep, he will remain a second round pick.
SELL:
I am selling a pair of Big Ten players draft stock. Click here to check out who.