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Phoenix Suns: 5 options for pick No. 32 in 2017 NBA Draft

By Gerald Bourguet

Apr 1, 2017; Glendale, AZ, USA; Oregon Ducks forward Jordan Bell (1) dribbles the ball past North Carolina Tar Heels forward Tony Bradley (5) and Joel Berry II (2) in the semifinals of the 2017 NCAA Men's Final Four at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 1, 2017; Glendale, AZ, USA; Oregon Ducks forward Jordan Bell (1) dribbles the ball past North Carolina Tar Heels forward Tony Bradley (5) and Joel Berry II (2) in the semifinals of the 2017 NCAA Men's Final Four at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /
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Phoenix Suns
Jan 28, 2017; Coral Gables, FL, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels forward Tony Bradley (5) reacts during the second half against the Miami Hurricanes at Watsco Center. Miami won 77-62. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Tony Bradley, C, UNC

A 6’11” center from North Carolina, Tony Bradley is the first one-and-done prospect the Tar Heels have produced in quite some time. Coming off a national championship, he’s a 19-year-old with potential, especially for a Suns team whose two young centers — Alex Len and Alan Williams — are both restricted free agents this summer.

Though he only averaged 7.1 points, 5.1 rebounds and 0.6 blocks per game in his freshman season, Bradley only played 14.6 minutes per game behind Kennedy Meeks and Isaiah Hicks. In a draft class short on talent at the 5-spot, Bradley and his 7’5″ wingspan could be a frontcourt option at No. 32.

In his limited time on the court, Bradley showed flashes of being a solid low-post player, as well as a serviceable rebounder. He’s got soft hands and averaged 19.5 points, 14.1 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per 40 minutes, though he’s a bit foul-prone at 5.0 fouls per 40 and not much of a rim protector.

He’s not the best athlete, but his length helps make up for it. Unfortunately, the momentum from his bench energy during UNC’s title run may push him into the first round. In the second round, there could also be more pressing needs to address over drafting a good but not great center prospect — even if Draft Express’ latest mock draft has him going to Phoenix at No. 32.

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