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Who’s The Third-Best NBA Prospect This Season?

By Michael Whitlow

Mar 19, 2015; Columbus, OH, USA; Providence Friars guard Kris Dunn speaks during a press conference before the second round of the 2015 NCAA Tournament at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Greg Bartram-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 19, 2015; Columbus, OH, USA; Providence Friars guard Kris Dunn speaks during a press conference before the second round of the 2015 NCAA Tournament at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Greg Bartram-USA TODAY Sports /
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Joel Embiid hasn't played a NBA game, but Cheick Diallo will soon be playing a ton of them.
Mar 28, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; McDonalds High School All American athlete Cheick Diallo (13) poses for pictures during portrait day at the Westin Hotel. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

Cheick Diallo, Kansas

Before I get started with Cheick Diallo, there haven’t been any new updates as to whether or not Diallo will be eligible to play for Kansas this season.

But, if Diallo is eligible for the Jayhawks this season, he definitely could become the next Joel Embiid in terms of NBA stock that shoots to the moon in a short span. Embiid has yet to play a game in the NBA due to foot issues, but during his time in Lawrence, he showed that all-star potential on both ends of the floor.

Diallo, a 6’9″ forward with a 7’4″ wingspan(!), was the MVP of this year’s McDonald’s All-American Game, scoring 18 points and pulling down 11 rebounds in a 111-91 East victory. He followed that up with 26 points and 11 rebounds in the Jordan Brand Classic in Brooklyn.

Obviously the concern with Diallo is whether or not he’ll be able to suit up for Kansas, but the size and potential are there for Diallo to become a big-time prospect with Bill Self and Jayhawks. Could he rise to No. 3 on big boards? If — and it’s an interesting if — Diallo is eligible, it may not take him too look to get there.

Next: Top 5 SEC Freshmen Not Named Ben Simmons

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