Current Roster's NBA Potential

[DRBackup]

If Sanogo can't stick in the league I don't see how Reed has a chance.

He's bigger - a LOT bigger.

 

[DRBackup]

Furphy will be interesting in terms of how the staff sees him contributing next year. He’s hasn’t looked to what many thought and does look a tick below what we thought athletically.

Especially in the... three minutes he has played

 

[thekollieman]

Hope you are right. Potential is certainly there. But #1 typically goes to a one and done so I think you are reaching, but hey, why aim low?

I think I’m reaching too, but I’m dying to see UConn get a #1 overall pick under its belt so I’m latching onto it as an outside possibility.

 

[DogMania]

Stewart and Ross have next to no chance. Karaban has a fighting chance. What has Stewart and Ross showed us consistently that would make them NBA players? They are good role players here but probaly headed to Europe at best.

No chance? I'd like to see how they develop by the end of their senior season if they carve out a bigger role at some point. It's tough for them to develop at a faster rate when they're not getting the playing time due to playing behind Mullins and Ball.

Ross is one that seems to have a lot of untapped talent. No chance, seems a bit extreme. I hope you'll own up to this if he finds his way on some NBA roster.

 

[Jaydumo20]

Wait to comment? But isn't that the nature of discussion boards, you don't have to wait and you reserve the right to change your mind as things develop? Wouldn't we run out of things to talk about if we waited until we were sure about everything?

True.
However, last night I said to packers' fan friends "there is no way the bears are coming back, they look terrible!"
My comment was allowed but ill-fated

 

[Mike Honcho]

I would compare Jayden Ross to Tyrese Martin in terms of build, which explains why some see him as having NBA potential. But Ross has a long way to go to show he can do what Martin did at UConn. But with one more year after this, anything is possible. I'm not sure who a good former Husky comp for Jalyn Stewart would be. Maybe Tyler Polley? He plays in Europe which is where I imagine Stew ends up.

Tyrese had 20 pounds on Jayden. 215 to 195. They're not the same build.

 

[DogMania]

First of all, what are we considering an NBA player? If it's anyone who has played minutes in the NBA than I think we have 5 or 6 guys. Tristen already fits into that category (I expect him to turn into a full time NBA bench player.) Daniel Hamilton, Rodney Purvis, Jerome Dyson, Amida Brimah, Sanogo all fit into that category.

There's right around a dozen true 7'0 footers in the NBA, it isn't going to hurt Reibe when he measures less than 7'0 without shoes and it won't hurt Tarris when he measures less than his 6'11 listed height.

In my view-

Mullins is obviously going to be an NBA player.

Reibe is obviously going to be an NBA player.

Karaban- He'll be drafted late first round or early second round so he will get some minutes. If he can guard at all at the NBA level he will carve out a role as a bench player. If he can't he will play very little before he's out of the league.

Silas will be an NBA player. I see him as a backup point guard.

Tarris will get at least a cup of coffee in the league. At worst he's in that Purvis/Daniel Hamilton role of getting some NBA minutes and then out of the league.

Solo has a chance as a microwave scorer if he regains his three point shot and can guard, it's a slim chance. If he does it will be in that Purvis/Daniel Hamilton role of getting some NBA minutes and then out of the league.

I see Mullins as the only for sure high impact NBA player, a starter who makes a name for himself in the league. Reibe has a chance at being an NBA starter someday.

Yes, my questing was at a minimum getting some minutes in the NBA, and not necessarily getting drafted or playing a major role at the next level.

Now I'm not saying that I'm sure all seven of those players I mentioned will make it to the NBA, but thought there's a possibility it could happen. It's surprising how many undrafted and second round players are actually finding their way on the end of some of these benches and some turning into very good ones.

I'm sure many didn't think Spencer had any shot at playing a single minute in the NBA. It would be interesting if anyone can dig up some posts where some definitively said he wouldn't. It's a testament to how hard he worked and how skilled he is to have earned some solid minutes so early in his career.

I was surprised that Tyrese Martin, who was the 51st pick in 2022, found his way on an NBA roster. Maybe I'm wrong, but I think if you put senior Stewart or Ross in place of Martin, getting the playing time he got his final year, either could have done well and positioned themselves to at least find their way on the G-League roster with a chance of getting a 2-way contract and a possible call up. I'm pretty excited to see see how far these two will go, may it takes a few years or so to get there.

Solo is one that I'm a little concerned about due to his size and more 2G skills than lead guard. With that said, despite his struggles on the defensive end, he's starting to show he's a three level scorer and a deadly three-point shooter, albeit a bit streaky. If he can get back to shooting the three at a higher percentage, and continue to show he can score mid-range and driving to the basket, there are NBA teams that have instant offense type of players who aren't the best defenders.

As someone pointed out, it's more about perceived potential than it is numbers put up in college. The one challenge that Ross and Stuart have is their overlap, playing similar positions. Will they get enough playing time to further develop both this year and on next year's roster? They've both had some games where they've demonstrated some promising talent.

 

[DogMania]

I was thinking of Demary as a poor man's Tristan Newton. So if Tristan is having a hard time securing a spot in the NBA, I would think Demary would have an even harder time. But Demary has played so well the past 2 games, I could see reversing that if this continues. Newton becomes a poor man's Demary. But that is saying a lot since Newton was an All-American. But maybe by the time Demary finishes is career at UConn (in 2027!) he has a better chance in the NBA than Newton. But isn't Newton taller?

And everyone raves about Demary's defense, but it seems to me he is not that quick. Guys still get by him. His best trait is his strength. But won't that be negated at the next level?

I loved Newton's game and ability to consistently make plays during winning time, but his lack of athleticism is problematic at the NBA level. I haven't followed him since he left UConn so I'm not sure what his chances are to find his way on an NBA roster and get a few minutes.

As for Demary, I don't think he's as tall but he's a lot more athletic, is a better Defender and has started to show us what he's capable of doing on the offensive end. It's taking him a while to learn to lead UConn's complex motion offense and also learn when to assert his offensive game, which he's shown the past couple of games. I think people are going to begin to realize how talented and special a player he is and his potential at the next level. I remember watching some clips of his games down the stretch at Georgia last year and he was assertive and dominant.

There was a reason why Hurley went after him so hard and why Demery chose to come here. I'm sure for both a big part of it was winning, but also the chance to develop his skills for the next level. He's got two seasons to improve, and he's pretty damn good right now.

 

[Matrim55]

I loved Newton's game and ability to consistently make plays during winning time, but his lack of athleticism is problematic at the NBA level. I haven't followed him since he left UConn so I'm not sure what his chances are to find his way on an NBA roster and get a few minutes.

He's dominated in the G-League and got a two-way deal from Houston because of it. Hasn't played yet for the Rockets first team but it's coming, and hopefully when he gets the chance he makes it count.

I largely agree with you that Demery has a clearer path to a rotation spot because of his superior defense.

 

[DogMania]

He's dominated in the G-League and got a two-way deal from Houston because of it. Hasn't played yet for the Rockets first team but it's coming, and hopefully when he gets the chance he makes it count.

I largely agree with you that Demery has a clearer path to a rotation spot because of his superior defense.

Thanks for the report on Newton. He's one of my favorite former UConn players, and couldn't be happier for him to someday find some minutes in the NBA.

 

[LetsGoUC]

Karaban will for sure find a role based off his shooting from 3.

 

[elmcityboy]

The most NBA players ever on a UCONN squad? No come on, gotta be 04-05

Mek
Ben
Charlie V
Josh B
Hilton
Marcus Williams

If you are going purely off of the "has a Basketball Reference page" metric, then 2022-23 will likely tie the 2004 squad and 2023-24 has a chance to, as well.

'23 had Sanogo, Clingan, Hawkins, Jackson, and Newton (plus Karaban)
'24 had Clingan, Newton, Castle, and Spencer (plus Karaban and the current juniors)

This year, I would wager real money that Karaban, Mullins, Demary, Reed, and Reibe all get minutes at some point in their careers. Wouldn't be shocked if Ball got a look, and Stewart/Ross have an outside shot.

Anyone that doesn't think Karaban plays NBA minutes does not know ball.

 

[3rdbass]

We can't discount the leap that these guys can make in 2.5 months. Sanogo and AJAX exploded in the last 2.5 months of the 23 season.

A sizeable portion of the boneyard said this about Sanogo and AJAX in January of 23

Sanogo- "He is a black hole down there".

Then he learned how to pass out of the post and won tourney mvp

AJAX- in January and even into early February...
"Bench him"
"He is a liability"
"Look! They're sagging off of him every time! Can't make an NBA roster if you can't shoot"

Wait before we comment on two NBA bodies. Especially Ross, our best athlete.

Sanago was already a bonafide scorer in his season before his last and had showed more consistent flashes. Neither of these guys have AJ's ball handling skill and atlecticism. Why do UConn fans love to overrate their own players so much? I remember last year people foolisshly thinking Ball could be gone after the tremendous shooting season he had and disregarding his lack of height and defensive ability as a NBA SG.

 

[RuffRuff]

If you are going purely off of the "has a Basketball Reference page" metric, then 2022-23 will likely tie the 2004 squad and 2023-24 has a chance to, as well.

'23 had Sanogo, Clingan, Hawkins, Jackson, and Newton (plus Karaban)
'24 had Clingan, Newton, Castle, and Spencer (plus Karaban and the current juniors)

This year, I would wager real money that Karaban, Mullins, Demary, Reed, and Reibe all get minutes at some point in their careers. Wouldn't be shocked if Ball got a look, and Stewart/Ross have an outside shot.

Anyone that doesn't think Karaban plays NBA minutes does not know ball.

Not sure "knowing" ball is thinking everyone in the rotation other than Malachi is going get NBA minutes, lol.

You know it's really hard to get minutes in the NBA, right?

 

[TBHreal]

Mullins - 100% - obvious 2 guard
Karaban - 100% - role player

Ball - 0% - too small, horrible defender, will make a handsome living in Europe as an elite scorer
Reed - 0% - no projectable NBA skill, has the size but not the agility, no jump shot, below average rim protection
Stewie - 10% - has the physical tools and size for a 3, can he develop further?
Reibe - 5% - Has a long, loooong way to go, but has the size and projectable nba skill as a stretch 5. Too early to give a fair rating but it’s better than 0.
Ross - 0% - Other than his athleticism, has no NBA level skill

Every fanbase loves to overrate their guys. To me, the most surprising NBA career out of nowhere in UConn history was Kevin Ollie. On the other end, we had guys like Jordan Hawkins, who may have had the 2nd best jump shot in UConn history after Ray Allen, about to wash out of the league and getting DNPs on the Pelicans. You need to have at least 1 elite level NBA skill (AJax had the athleticism, size and defense to make up for his lack of scoring) to have a shot. If you look at a guy like Reed, who I love, he has no NBA level skills. He has a lot of P5 level skills. Same with Demary. Ball could have NBA level shot making but he is far too small and an even worse defender to make it at that level.

 

[elmcityboy]

Not sure "knowing" ball is thinking everyone in the rotation other than Malachi is going get NBA minutes, lol.

You know it's really hard to get minutes in the NBA, right?

At least five players on this team will get NBA minutes. You can book it. I didn't say "will be NBA rotation players", I said "will get NBA minutes."

And yes, I am aware of how difficult it is to make the NBA. Thanks. The team is really good this year. Go Huskies.

 

[Donyell 360]

As for Demary, I don't think he's as tall but he's a lot more athletic, is a better Defender

I seem to recall Newton was a pretty good defender. I haven't noticed Demary's athleticism. He plays mostly below the rim and is not particularly fast. I hear people say what a good defender he is but he has had trouble keeping guys in front of him and not fouling. I'm not saying he is a bad defender, I just don't see him as good as stay Steph Castle or Andre Jackson or from my day, Ricky Moore. I buy that he is our BEST on-ball defender, but that isn't saying much. We don't have a lot of elite athleticism on defense. Maybe Jayden Ross but he has not figured out how to use his athleticism yet. I credit our defense success to better switching and help defense. We are more connected this year and so I credit the coaching staff. Maybe I am just not astute enough to recognize Demary's athletic and defensive greatness, but that's my take for what its worth.

 

[Donyell 360]

I think I’m reaching too, but I’m dying to see UConn get a #1 overall pick under its belt so I’m latching onto it as an outside possibility.

Unless UConn starts recruiting the top NBA prospects, it seems unlikely. It seems either we can't afford their NIL deals or Hurley prefers 4-stars that stay longer.

I like the chances of a UConn player winning the Naismith before being drafted #1 overall. It would be nice if at first our top draftees could actually have a successful NBA career. Our top 4 were all disappointments: Hasheem Thabeet, Emeka Okafor, Ben Gordon, Donyell Marshall. It was nice to see Steph Castle win ROY from the 4 spot. He looks like he could be a good one. Ray Allen certainly didn't disappoint at #5.

 

[HW611]

I seem to recall Newton was a pretty good defender. I haven't noticed Demary's athleticism. He plays mostly below the rim and is not particularly fast. I hear people say what a good defender he is but he has had trouble keeping guys in front of him and not fouling. I'm not saying he is a bad defender, I just don't see him as good as stay Steph Castle or Andre Jackson or from my day, Ricky Moore. I buy that he is our BEST on-ball defender, but that isn't saying much. We don't have a lot of elite athleticism on defense. Maybe Jayden Ross but he has not figured out how to use his athleticism yet. I credit our defense success to better switching and help defense. We are more connected this year and so I credit the coaching staff. Maybe I am just not astute enough to recognize Demary's athletic and defensive greatness, but that's my take for what its worth.

Newton was an okay defender and his offense was a lot of heat checks, open 3s, and trying to draw fouls on drives.

Demary is a much better natural scorer than Newton was and even shooting 47% from the field and 43% from 3. While being more athletic and a better defender.

He's a much better prospect than Newton was.

 

[thekollieman]

Unless UConn starts recruiting the top NBA prospects, it seems unlikely. It seems either we can't afford their NIL deals or Hurley prefers 4-stars that stay longer.

I like the chances of a UConn player winning the Naismith before being drafted #1 overall. It would be nice if at first our top draftees could actually have a successful NBA career. Our top 4 were all disappointments: Hasheem Thabeet, Emeka Okafor, Ben Gordon, Donyell Marshall. It was nice to see Steph Castle win ROY from the 4 spot. He looks like he could be a good one. Ray Allen certainly didn't disappoint at #5.

I think it’s fair to say Okafor and Gordon didn’t reach their utmost potential, but they were both still good (ROY and 6MOY, respectively). Okafor was the face of a franchise until chronic back injuries derailed him and BG was pretty nasty but peaked early and faded. Thabeet was a bona fide draft bust, no disrespect to a great Husky - just a fact. I was an infant when Donyell was drafted so my perspective only goes as far as his wikipedia page.

Edit: did Okafor not get the Naismith award in ‘04?

 

[HW611]

I think it’s fair to say Okafor and Gordon didn’t reach their utmost potential, but they were both still good (ROY and 6MOY, respectively). Okafor was the face of a franchise until chronic back injuries derailed him and BG was pretty nasty but peaked early and faded. Thabeet was a bona fide draft bust, no disrespect to a great Husky - just a fact. I was an infant when Donyell was drafted so my perspective only goes as far as his wikipedia page.

Edit: did Okafor not get the Naismith award in ‘04?

Yeah Gordon and Okafor both got off to pretty good starts to their careers. Gordon both got those pretty big second contracts Calhoun always talked about.

Looking back, Jameer Nelson got the Naismith that year. Him and Okafor were co-BABC NPOYs.

 

[husky429]

Tyrese had 20 pounds on Jayden. 215 to 195. They're not the same build.

He's also just a much more controlled and skilled player on offense.

 

[thekollieman]

Yeah Gordon and Okafor both got off to pretty good starts to their careers. Gordon both got those pretty big second contracts Calhoun always talked about.

Looking back, Jameer Nelson got the Naismith that year. Him and Okafor were co-BABC NPOYs.

Gotcha, that co NPOY definitely just stuck as Naismith for Okafor in my memory. I sometimes forget Kemba “only” got the Cousy award when Jimmer Fredette got Naismith, etc. too.

 

[superjohn]

Gotcha, that co NPOY definitely just stuck as Naismith for Okafor in my memory. I sometimes forget Kemba “only” got the Cousy award when Jimmer Fredette got Naismith, etc. too.

Kemba didn't even get Big East player of the year, that honor went to Tyler Hansbrough's younger brother.

 

[HuskyHawk]

Mullins - 1st round
Reibe - 1st round
Karaban - late 1st early 2nd. Bench piece.
Reed - 2nd round, probably makes a team on D and rebounding
Demary - ?? Which version? Last week's version for sure. Needs consistency
Stewart - wish it was so, not seeing it
Ross - no.

With Alex my question really comes down to what he wants to do. His parents are (I believe) Ukrainian immigrants. His game is well suited to Europe. Even if he's a 7th man on an NBA team he might choose to go be a star in Europe.