If you’re reading this, you’ve probably heard of LaMelo Ball, Anthony Edwards, and the rest of the names that occupy the top of any draft board.
However, if you’ve been following the draft more closely this year, Aleksej Pokusevski and Kira Lewis Jr. might ring a bell. Who knows? Maybe you’ve even stumbled upon the likes of Robert Woodard or Paul Reed.
All the guys I listed above will hear their names called on draft day. In this article, I will discuss two players that will likely go undrafted but can become impactful NBA players.
Trent Forrest-G-Florida State
Florida State’s Point Guard is well known amongst ACC basketball fans, but that’s about it. The senior only averaged 11 points per game. However, Forrest is a borderline elite point of attack defender who makes plays on the defensive end. He is solid in the pick and roll, displaying a crafty snake dribble move, and the ability change speeds off a screen.
Forrest isn’t being taken seriously as a prospect simply due to the fact that he struggles to shoot. This season, he hit just 28% of his threes on extremely low volume. His 82% free throw percentage is a sign a clear potential with his shot.
If Forrest can manage to develop into at least a reliable catch-and-shoot threat, he’s an NBA player.
Jordan Ford-G-St. Mary’s
Ford has been one of the West Coast Conference’s best players for the last two seasons. He put up 21.9 points per game this year, hitting 41% of his three-point attempts.
He can hit shots off the dribble and has some serious shake. He isn’t a high-level passer by any means, and only averaged 2.3 assists per game. However, he does a good job taking care of the ball.
At 6’1” 175 lbs., it’s going be hard for Ford to both get to the rim and finish against NBA length and athleticism. He’ll definitely be a considerable minus on the defensive end.
Regardless, he’s significantly more talented than many consensus top 60 players.
Photo: Ethan Miller
