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The 2024 NBA draft is less than two weeks away and here at College Sports Wire we are evaluating the college basketball stars who are hoping to hear their name called in late June.
Today we discuss Marquette point guard Tyler Kolek, who led college basketball with 7.7 assists per game last season. Kolek is a veteran point guard who looks the part after an incredibly productive three year run with the Golden Eagles – and has begun getting buzz as a potential first round pick.
The Phoenix Suns, who pick at No. 22, are considering him to help facilitate an offense with superstar talent in Kevin Durant and Devin Booker, and many other teams in the late first or early second could use a backup point guard who is ready to contribute on Day 1.
Kolek is limited athletically, and his age and size caps his potential at the NBA level, but he is a cerebral passer and developing outside shooter who should have a lengthy career in the association.
Below is a look at Kolek’s draft profile, including his measurements at the combine, strengths and weaknesses as a player, and current projected draft range and team fits in the NBA:
Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports
From: Cumberland, RI
Played: George Mason (2020-21) Marquette (2021-2024)
2023-24 Stats: 15.3 points, 7.7 assists, 4.9 rebounds, 1.6 steals, 55.2% on twos, 38.8% from three
Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Height: 6’1.25
Weight: 196.6 pounds
Wingspan: 6’2.75
Standing Reach: 7’11
Max Vertical Leap: 34 inches
Syndication: Journal Sentinel
- A true floor general, Kolek led the NCAA in assists per game and is widely considered a leader on the court and a cerebral player who gets the ball to his teammates in positions to score
- Crafty guard with a high basketball IQ who makes the right read with the ball and doesn’t get flustered by pressure
- Operates fluidly out of ball screen actions, whether it’s making a pass or driving to the hoop where he is a quality finisher and adept at getting to the line
- A great catch-and-shoot specialist who showed promise as a three point shooter in his final season at Marquette, and should be able to space the floor at the next level
Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
- Limited by a lack of burst athletically, as well as limited vertical athleticism and lateral movement
- Defense is unlikely to be a strong suit thanks to size and lateral mobility, will get pushed around by bigger and faster point guards
- Scoring in traffic won’t be as easy in the NBA, especially with his 6’1 height and small frame
- Doesn’t possess much midrange game, limiting him to either shooting from three or trying to get all the way to the rim. The lack of a midrange will hinder ability to drive and dish
Alex Martin/Journal and Courier / USA TODAY NETWORK
Draft Range: 22-35
CSW Mock: No. 27 to Minnesota Timberwolves
Team Fits: Teams competing now in need of an NBA ready backup point guard. Minnesota, Phoenix, Oklahoma City, Sacramento, Milwaukee all make sense.
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Courtesy : https://collegesportswire.usatoday.com/lists/tyler-kolek-nba-draft-profile-marquette-basketball/