Prospects Climbing Into The Late-1st Round
Averages of 6 points and 7 rebounds won't normally generate much buzz on the NBA Draft prospects, but Duke's Miles Plumlee, is garnering plenty of late-first round attention after workouts in Minnesota. He fantastically in the lane agility drill, beating almost all of the bigs and even guards in attendance with a 10.49 second time. Wowing front office personnel even further, Plumee proved to be more of a top-notch athlete, just like his younger brother Mason, when Miles showed off a 41-inch vertical leap. At 6'10", 250 pounds, Miles also has the big, physical frame that have drawn comparisons to long-time NBA big, Jeff Foster. Miles will never be one to post-up and draw much help defense, but his energy and motor make him a successful candidate to come off the bench for production.
Kyle O'Quinn, the fiery big from 2012 Cinderella Norfolk State, has been garnering late-first-round attention ever since that monumental of Missouri in the second-round of the NCAA Tournament. He's only helped himself since, measuring in with a tremendous 7'4" wingspan and a strong, husky frame. O'Quinn, a senior, produced some very solid numbers that largely went under-the-radar this season up until the Spartans' upset in the 2012 field.
Orlando Johnson, is a wing prospect that certainly has the frame, skills and athleticism to contribute at the next level. Johnson hit the radar last summer when he blew up playing at various camps and eventually made the US roster at the World University Games. On top of it, he had another great season of across-the-board production playing for UCSB out west. Only helping the cause now is his great measurables throughout the draft process- he has a 6'11" wingspan and a 39-inch vertical leap.
Scott Machado, the nation's assist leader playing for the up-tempo Gaels of Iona, has the general consensus as the highest-rated player on this list. In a draft void of lots of point guard talent, Machado showed off excellent court vision, quickness and athleticism. He has a high basketball IQ to make the right play, get his teammates involved and this past season, as a senior, Machado showed off improved scoring instincts, including a much better looking perimeter jumper.
By NBA-DRAFT.com Staff Writer - 6-7-12
