2016 NBA Draft: Who Shined on Day 1 of Sweet 16?

Sheldon McClellan, Miami Hurricanes

Opponent: Villanova Wildcats (2)

Result: 92-69, L

Stat Line: 32 minutes, 26 points, 2 rebounds, 8/12 FG, 5/7 3PT, 5/6 FT

Position: Shooting Guard

Age: 23 (12/21/1992)

Height & Weight: 6’5″ & 205 pounds

Analysis

Prior to the 2016 NCAA Tournament, I singled Sheldon McClellan out as one of the prospects who would benefit most from shining in March Madness. McClellan not only played well, but he progressively improved and went out on a high note.

The Miami Hurricanes’ run ended in the Sweet 16, but not before McClellan had a game for scouts to remember.

McClellan finished with 26 points on 8-of-12 shooting from the field, an explosive mark of 5-of-7 from 3-point range, and a tellingly efficient 5-of-6 from the free throw line. He shot off the catch, pulled up off the bounce, drove on multiple defenders, and drew contact when he entered the lane.

All in all, McClellan further established his ability to be an athletic floor-spacing 2 at the next level.

This is the last time we’ll see McClellan, a senior, wearing a college basketball uniform. He may or may not be drafted on June 25, but this game and the two that preceded it have helped McClellan move from under-the-radar to firmly in the view of all draft conversations.

McClellan will have the opportunity go early in Round 2 and earn a consistent role on a main roster with a strong showing in the summer leagues and, if necessary, the NBA D-League in 2016-17.

Next: Doing It All