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2017 NBA Mock Draft: An Early Look Ahead

By Maxwell Ogden

MAPLE GROVE, MN- MAY 23: Harry Giles #1 from Team CP3 and Wesleyan Christian Academy during Session Four of the Nike EYBL on May 23, 2015 at Maple Grove Community Gym in Maple Grove, Minnesota. (Photo by Brace Hemmelgarn/Getty Images)
MAPLE GROVE, MN- MAY 23: Harry Giles #1 from Team CP3 and Wesleyan Christian Academy during Session Four of the Nike EYBL on May 23, 2015 at Maple Grove Community Gym in Maple Grove, Minnesota. (Photo by Brace Hemmelgarn/Getty Images) /
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Jan 2, 2016; Lincoln, NE, USA; Indiana Hoosiers forward O.G. Anunoby (3) leads a break against the Nebraska Cornhuskers during the second half at Pinnacle Bank Arena. Indiana defeated Nebraska 79-69. Mandatory Credit: Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 2, 2016; Lincoln, NE, USA; Indiana Hoosiers forward O.G. Anunoby (3) leads a break against the Nebraska Cornhuskers during the second half at Pinnacle Bank Arena. Indiana defeated Nebraska 79-69. Mandatory Credit: Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports /

18. Ogugua Anunoby, Indiana Hoosiers

Position: Small Forward
Age: 18 (7/17/1997)
Height & Weight: 6’8″ & 215 pounds
Slash Line: .569/.448/.476
Season Averages: 13.7 MPG, 4.9 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 0.8 SPG, 0.8 BPG

There’s a lot to love about OG Anunoby, and most realized it during the 2016 NCAA Tournament. He’s still raw offensively, but on the defensive end of the floor, Anunoby is tenacious, versatile, and flush with potential.

As his 2015-16 per 40 averages of 7.7 rebounds, 2.3 steals, and 2.2 blocks display, Anunoby has the tools to be a defensive star.

Anunoby is playing for Tom Crean, who coached the likes of Wesley Matthews, Victor Oladipo, and Dwyane Wade. In other words, Crean knows how to take athleticism and turn it into dominant defense.

Anunoby’s calling card happens to already be on the defensive end, where he has the physical gifts to defend players from the 1 to the 4.

It’s generally irresponsible to throw that 1-to-4 label out, but with Anunoby, it’s the truth. He’s one of the most naturally athletic players in the country, loves to play defense, and isn’t afraid to get physical.

If Anunoby improves his handles and becomes more consistent at the free throw line, he’ll achieve draft stardom.

Next: Size Shooting as a PG