It’s a known fact that the top of the 2020 NBA draft isn’t particularly talented. However, I do believe that international class this year is absolutely fantastic.
Last year, I only had two international players (Sekou Doumbouya at 10 and Goga Bitadze at 12) in my top 60. This year, I’ll probably end up having five guys with first round grades.
Here are some quick-hitters on the top guys 2020 international class. I’m not considering LaMelo Ball and RJ Hampton International prospects for the purpose of this exercise:
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Killian Hayes-G-ratiopharm Ulm
Hayes has been my #1 overall prospect since mid-January. He’s a 6’5” Point Guard who runs the pick-and-roll like a seasoned veteran and has a projectable jump shot.
Deni Avdija-F-Maccabi Tel Aviv
Avdija is a fairly advanced ball-handler and can pass the rock like a guard. He’s a solid team defender who’s willing to do the little things. However, if his wildly inconsistent jump shot never develops, it’s hard to see him being more than just a role player
Leandro Bolmaro-G-Barcelona
Bolmaro is unbelievably crafty, and he may have the best handle in this entire class. Bolmaro’s ability to get to the rim off the dribble will serve him well.
Aleksej Pokusevski-C-Olympiacos
Pokusevski is the ultimate wildcard. At 7’0” 200 lbs., Pokusevski’s body is not even close to NBA ready, but flashes of movement shooting and playmaking in transition will intrigue any NBA team.
Theo Maledon-G-ASVEL
Maledon received significant minutes in the Euro League, and he did a very nice job. He is a very well-rounded basketball player, but he may not have a go-to translatable skill.
Carlos Alocén-G-Tecnyconta Zaragoza
Alocén is flashy playmaker who’s elite in the pick-and-roll. Once he gains more consistency with his long-range jumper, he could become an important rotational piece on any team.
Abdoulaye N’Doye-G/F-Cholet
N’Doye put together a really nice season for Cholet in France. He even played some PG at 6’7”, but due to his ball-handling woes, he’ll likely play on the wing at the next level. He has lots of defensive potential that needs to be harnessed.
Other Definite Top 100 Guys:
Paul Eboua-F
Amar Sylla-F
Rokas Jokubaitis-G
Yam Madar-G
Marko Simonovic-C
Photo: Bleacher Report
