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 26, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; McDonalds High School All-American center Mohamed Bamba (11) poses for a photo during the 2017 McDonalds All American Game Portrait Day at Chicago Marriott. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

When all is said and done, Mohamed Bamba could be the best prospect to emerge from the 2017 NBA Draft. His physical tools are almost incomparable and his offensive skill set fits the player that he’ll likely be asked to become in the Association.

Shaka Smart has been actively looking for a big man to be the anchor to his defense, and Bamba will have a chance to be exactly that in 2017-18.

Bamba is a 7’0″ power forward with a colossal 7’9″ wingspan and an equally as impressive 9’6″ standing reach. For perspective: Rudy Gobert boasts a 7’8.5″ wingspan and a 9’7″ standing reach, giving Bamba almost equal measurements.

Gobert has become one of the NBA’s premier defensive players and rebounders, and Bamba has the potential to impact the game in the same way.

Offensively, Bamba will need to bulk up in order to be able to play from the post on a consistent basis. He has solid range on his jump shot, however, and could excel in a less physically taxing role as a stretch 4 in the NBA.

Bamba will be facing high expectations as Smart attempts to turn the Texas men’s basketball program back into a contender.