2018 NBA Mock Draft: A way-too-early look ahead

Mar 29, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; McDonalds All-American West forward Michael Porter Jr. (1) poses with the trophy after winning the John Wooden Award as the most valuable player for the 40th Annual McDonald's High School All-American Game at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mar 27, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; McDonalds High School All-American guard Collin Sexton (10) dunks during the McDonald’s High School All-American Powerade Jamfest at the Keating Sports Center at Illinois Institute of Technology. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

Collin Sexton’s best 2016-17 comparison may be Kentucky Wildcats point guard De’Aaron Fox. Like Fox, Sexton bases his game off of his elite athleticism and his ability to get into the teeth of a defense and either finish amongst the trees or hit an open man along the perimeter.

Sexton is also a fierce competitor on the defensive end of the floor, which makes the coach he’s going to play for all the more intriguing.

Sexton will spend his freshman season with the Alabama Crimson Tide—a team coached by NBA champion Avery Johnson. Johnson played 14 years in the NBA, earning high praise for his leadership and passing ability.

Johnson also reached the NBA Finals as a head coach, making him the perfect mentor for a prospect whose development rests upon his ability to become a true facilitator.

Sexton’s current projection is based off of just how competitive he becomes during the heat of the moment. He shows no fear when facing players who are said to be better than him, and isn’t afraid to drive and finish against taller defenders.

Sexton won’t have the benefit of playing with elite talent like Fox did, but he has similar potential as far as a pre-draft projection is concerned.