2024 NBA Mock Draft: Spurs double their luck, Wizards get their next star at 1
By Tyler Watts
The 2024 NBA Draft is eight months away, but teams are already preparing. The G League Ignite has four top prospects in this class and has already played two hyped exhibition games against the Perth Wildcats, an Australian professional team. The NCAA basketball season begins on Nov. 6, and fans are about to learn a lot more about this class. Consider this an early primer of players to watch.
The San Antonio Spurs could have three first-round picks in 2024 and will be searching for young talent to complement Victor Wembanyama. They own the Raptors selection with a top-six protection, and the Hornets pick which only goes to San Antonio if it falls from 15 to 30. Charlotte would have to make the playoff, which seems unlikely, but the Spurs probably have their selection plus one from Toronto.
How is this class shaping up so far? There is no generational talent like Wemby, but plenty of exciting prospects will be entering the league. To set the order, the projections from Tankathon were used. Here is an in-depth look at the lottery and a glance at the rest of the first round.
1. Washington Wizards select Ron Holland
The Wizards traded Bradley Beal and Kristaps Porzingis this offseason to move into a total rebuild. Washington is the favorite to have the worst record in the league and will be searching for the best player available on draft night.
Holland is a 6’8 wing with the potential to be a difference-maker on both ends of the floor. He gets to the rim and finishes with ease at this stage, but needs to improve his jumper. The 18-year-old is playing for G League Ignite and dropped 54 points in his first two exhibition games combined.
Holland has the size and athletic ability NBA teams love. He can guard multiple positions, wreak havoc in transition, and has shown some early playmaking flashes. Holland will be a top-five pick in 2024, but must consistently knock down jumpers and limit his turnovers to go number one overall.
The Washington Wizards would be ecstatic to get the number one overall pick and select Ron Holland.