Phoenix Suns: 5 options for pick No. 31 in 2018 NBA Draft
2. Donte DiVincenzo, PG/SG — Villanova
Most people will recognize Donte DiVincenzo from his 31-point explosion in the NCAA championship game, but this Villanova draft prospects did big things for the Wildcats all season long, averaging 13.4 points, 4.8 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game on 40.1 percent shooting from downtown.
His draft stock was undoubtedly boosted by his breakthrough performance in March Madness, but he’s been steadily climbing draft boards since then too.
DiVincenzo impressed at the NBA Draft Combine, not only with his stellar play in scrimmages, but also by tying for the best vertical leap (42 inches) and posting eye-popping results in the lane agility drill and three-quarters sprint.
His athleticism wasn’t doubted during his time at Villanova for those who were paying attention, but now the whole world knows how explosive this 21-year-old really is, and even better, he’s been displaying flashes of playmaking as well.
Donte DiVincenzo is a killer. Scores with swagger and can shoot. Was my pick for the Suns at 31 in my latest mock. Quick trigger here. pic.twitter.com/7uaRCMj3o9
— Kellan Olson (@KellanOlson) May 18, 2018
At this point, the 6’5″ DiVincenzo could very well be in play for the Suns’ 16th overall pick, and not just out of fear that he’ll be scooped up before Phoenix is on the clock again at No. 31. (This is definitely a concern though, with ESPN (27th) and The Ringer (29th) projecting him to go just before the Suns kick off the second round.)
In any case, whether it’s with the 16th pick or the 31st pick, DiVincenzo’s confidence, dynamic shooting and yes, his little bit of attitude would be a welcome injection into an already combative group of Suns youngsters. Pairing him with Booker might cause some defensive problems if he’s unable to stay with quicker guards, but he’s always been a solid team defender who competes on that end of the floor.
The Suns have already seen Donte DiVincenzo up close in a pre-draft workout, so whether it’s with the 16th pick (which admittedly feels too high) or the 31st pick, an explosive athlete, knockdown 3-point shooter and playmaking guard with swagger like this has to be on McDonough’s radar.