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2019 NBA Draft: R.J. Barrett headlines first top 30 big board

By Connor Harr

PORTLAND, OR - APRIL 13: R.J. Barrett #5 of Team World claps from the bench during the game against Team USA during the Nike Hoop Summit on April 13, 2018 at the MODA Center Arena in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Sam Forencich/NBAE via Getty Images)
PORTLAND, OR - APRIL 13: R.J. Barrett #5 of Team World claps from the bench during the game against Team USA during the Nike Hoop Summit on April 13, 2018 at the MODA Center Arena in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Sam Forencich/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Photo by Patrick Albertini/EB via Getty Images
Photo by Patrick Albertini/EB via Getty Images /

5. Sekou Doumbouya, PF — France 

The 6’9″ French Forward is an extremely raw but versatile prospect. I do not think he lived up to the lofty expectations people had of him during the Basketball Without Borders event. However, Doumbouya still has shown elite athleticism to go along with defensive versatility at a relatively young age. Doumbouya played in the French Pro B league last season and put up somewhat underwhelming shooting numbers offensively. On the bright side, he did attempt 2.9 3-point shots per game and his 79 percent free throw percentage, hinting that he may be developing some shooting touch. Doumbouya is definitely one of the more intriguing prospects in this class and I am excited to see how he grows as a player.

4. Nassir Little, SF — North Carolina 

Nassir Little is another prospect who really made a name for himself during the high school All-Star games. Another one of the few incoming freshman that competed his heart out during these events. Little could be an impressive point of attack defender in college with plenty of versatility to guard at least three, most likely four positions at North Carolina. His offensive game continues to grow as Little has established himself as a legitimate scoring threat with an improving handle.

3. Zion Williamson, PF — Duke

Possibly the most heralded social media prospect ever, Williamson is so much more than a highlight film. The way he handles the ball at his size and his quickness make for an extremely rare combination. He still has to make tremendous strides shooting the ball. However, if he showcases his passing ability and adds some additional muscle to his frame, it may not even hurt his draft stock if he does not shoot well at Duke.

2. Cam Reddish, SF — Duke 

Reddish has been the most underwhelming prospects during the high school All-Star season. Most of the gripes coming from incredibly low effort levels. However, there is no denying that Reddish is the most talented prospect in this class. His combination of physical and athletic tools to go along with his talent do not come around very often. He has improved his jump shot and handles the ball extremely well for a player his size. With a great season at Duke, Reddish could easily be the unanimous No. 1.

Next: Full two-round 2018 NBA Mock Draft

1. R.J. Barrett, SF — Duke

Barrett has been no stranger to the spotlight throughout his high school career. He absolutely destroyed all of his competition playing for Canada at the FIBA U19 World Championships last summer. Barrett is a elite driver that can find lanes on almost any defense. He is a constant competitor and a quality playmaker at the forward position. Barrett may not have all the athletic gifts that Cam Reddish and Zion Williamson have. However, he is easily the most polished prospect of any elite player in this draft class.