Top Players to Watch in the 2024 NBA Draft

June 26, 2024, 10:30 p.m. Sports

Read time estimation: 7 minutes. NBA Draft 2024

**Top Players to Watch in the 2024 NBA Draft**

The landscape of the NBA is constantly changing, with new talent emerging each year in the college and international ranks. The 2024 NBA Draft promises to be no different, with a crop of talented players poised to make their mark in the professional ranks. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the top players to watch in the 2024 NBA Draft.

1. **Jaden Harris - Guard - Duke University**
Jaden Harris has been turning heads since his freshman year at Duke University. A dynamic guard with exceptional ball-handling skills and a deadly shooting touch, Harris has the ability to take over a game at any moment. His speed and quickness make him a nightmare for defenders, and his ability to create his own shot sets him apart from his peers. Look for Harris to be a top pick in the 2024 NBA Draft.

2. **Avery Thompson - Forward - UCLA**
Avery Thompson is a versatile forward who can score from anywhere on the court. With a silky smooth shooting stroke and a knack for getting to the rim, Thompson has the ability to score in bunches. His length and athleticism make him a force on the defensive end as well, as he can guard multiple positions effectively. NBA scouts have been keeping a close eye on Thompson, and it wouldn't be a surprise to see him selected early in the draft.

3. **Isaiah Johnson - Center - University of Kansas**
Isaiah Johnson is a dominant force in the paint, standing at 7 feet tall with a massive wingspan. Johnson is a rim protector who alters shots and cleans up the glass with ease. On the offensive end, he has a soft touch around the rim and can finish through contact. Johnson's combination of size, strength, and skill make him an intriguing prospect for NBA teams looking to bolster their frontcourt.

4. **Samantha Lee - Point Guard - University of Connecticut**
Samantha Lee is a playmaking point guard with exceptional court vision and passing ability. Lee has a high basketball IQ and a natural feel for the game, making her a true floor general on the court. Despite her slight frame, Lee is a tenacious defender who can disrupt passing lanes and create turnovers. With her leadership qualities and scoring prowess, Lee is a player to keep an eye on in the 2024 NBA Draft.

5. **Ethan Ramirez - Shooting Guard - Gonzaga University**
Ethan Ramirez is a smooth-shooting guard with unlimited range. Ramirez has a quick release and can knock down shots from beyond the arc with ease. His scoring ability stretches defenses and opens up driving lanes for his teammates. Ramirez is also an underrated defender who can hold his own against bigger guards. Look for Ramirez to be a valuable asset for any team looking to add outside shooting.

6. **Sophia Nguyen - Small Forward - Stanford University**
Sophia Nguyen is a versatile wing player with a well-rounded skill set. Nguyen can score in a variety of ways, whether it's slashing to the basket, hitting mid-range jumpers, or knocking down threes. Her length and athleticism make her a disruptive force on defense, as she can rack up steals and blocks with ease. Nguyen's ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor will make her an attractive prospect in the 2024 NBA Draft.

7. **Marcus Bennett - Power Forward - University of Michigan**
Marcus Bennett is a power forward with a rare blend of size, strength, and skill. Bennett is a load in the paint, able to bully his way to the basket and finish through contact. His mid-range shooting touch makes him a threat outside the paint as well. Bennett is also a strong rebounder and shot blocker, giving his team a defensive presence in the paint. NBA teams will be eager to add a player of Bennett's caliber to their frontcourt rotations.

8. **Natalia Rodriguez - Center - University of Louisville**
Natalia Rodriguez is a dominant force in the paint, standing at 6'10" with incredible strength and athleticism. Rodriguez is a ferocious shot blocker and rebounder, cleaning up the glass and protecting the rim with authority. On offense, she can score with a variety of post moves and finishes around the basket. Rodriguez's size and skill set make her a highly sought-after prospect in the 2024 NBA Draft.

9. **Cameron White - Shooting Guard - University of Kentucky**
Cameron White is a dynamic shooting guard with a scorer's mentality. White can create his shot off the dribble and knock down shots from deep. His quick first step and explosiveness allow him to blow by defenders and finish at the rim with authority. White is also a pesky defender who can hound opposing guards and create turnovers. NBA teams will be intrigued by White's scoring prowess and defensive tenacity in the 2024 NBA Draft.

10. **Olivia Smith - Point Guard - Baylor University**
Olivia Smith is a floor general with elite ball-handling skills and court vision. Smith can break down defenses with her dribble penetration and create open looks for her teammates. Her basketball IQ allows her to make the right decision in crunch time, whether it's scoring herself or setting up a teammate for an easy bucket. Smith's leadership qualities and playmaking ability will make her a valuable addition to any NBA team in the 2024 draft.

In conclusion, the 2024 NBA Draft is shaping up to be one of the most talented and intriguing drafts in recent memory. With a mix of guards, forwards, and centers showcasing their skills on the college and international stages, NBA teams will have a plethora of options to choose from come draft night. Keep an eye on these top players mentioned above, as they have the potential to make a significant impact in the NBA for years to come.