The 2024 NBA draft is roughly one month away and here at College Sports Wire we are evaluating the college basketball stars who are hoping to hear their name called in June. Today’s installment is on Indiana stretch big Kel’el Ware – who rebounded from a rough freshman season at Oregon to really showcase his tantalizing upside last year with the Hoosiers.
Ware was thought by many to be a one-and-done when he went to Oregon, but he struggled to stay in Dana Altman’s rotation due to consistency issues – often blamed on his motor – which led to him hitting the portal and going to Bloomington to help replace Trayce Jackson-Davis.
Ware quieted the naysayers by averaging about 16 and 10 with Indiana, scoring efficiently around the rim and showing the ability to step out and knock down three pointers – a crucial skill for his long term viability in the league.
Below is a look at Ware’s profile, including his measurements at the combine, strengths and weaknesses as a player, and current projected draft range and team fits in the NBA:
Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports
From: North Little Rock, Ark
Played: Oregon (2022-23) and Indiana (2023-24)
2023-24 Stats: 15.9 points, 9.9 rebounds, 1.9 blocks, 1.5 assists, 60.9% on twos, 42.5% from three
Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports
Height: 6’11.75 (without shoes)
Weight: 230 pounds
Wingspan: 7’4.5
Standing Reach: 9’4.5
Max Vertical Leap: 36 inches
Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports
- High level athlete for a player his size, with good length and rim protecting abilities
- Shot extremely well from three on low volume, but has proven the skill set is there
- Nice footwork and touch around the rim with both hands
- His elite athleticism and discipline allows him to avoid fouls
- Understands his role
- Can be a weapon in the short roll as a rim runner
Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
- Struggles as a switchable big, despite athleticism and footwork
- Strength is a concern, could get pushed around at the next level
- Not a great free throw shooter
- Concerns about his motor and toughness linger
Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports
Draft Range: 17-30
CSW Mock: 21 to New Orleans Pelicans
Team Fits: A team with an established low post big who needs floor spacing. New Orleans, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Boston.
Fitnessnacks – #NBA #draft #profile #Indiana #Hoosiers #center #Kelel #Ware
Courtesy : https://collegesportswire.usatoday.com/lists/2024-nba-draft-profile-for-indiana-big-man-kelel-ware/