In every draft, there's always a cohort of prospects who go under the radar, often due to their decision to attend a smaller, mid-major school rather than a traditional powerhouse. The 2024 NBA Draft is no exception, showcasing a significant depth of talent and quality, including a commendable list of players from these less-heralded programs who could very well become solid contributors—or even stars—at the professional level.
Despite not attending high-major schools, these athletes have honed their skills, demonstrated exceptional performance, and are ready to take the big stage. This selection process consistently reveals hidden gems, proving that talent and potential can be found in the most unexpected places.
Let's explore the top mid-major prospects for the 2024 NBA Draft, highlighting those skilled players set to defy expectations and make a substantial impact in the NBA.
Dillon Jones
Dillon Jones represents a fascinating dichotomy in this year’s draft. Standing at a modest 6-foot-6, Jones defies traditional positional expectations through his physicality and versatility on the court. His tenure at Weber State is nothing short of remarkable, with a statistical profile that catches the eye—nearly ten rebounds a game, complemented by his consistent ability to notch double-doubles.
What sets Jones apart is not just his scoring ability inside the arc but his relentless toughness and adaptability in playing various roles on the floor. Heading into his third consecutive season averaging a double-double, his development trajectory shows an intriguing increase in assist numbers, signaling his growing understanding and impact on the game's flow.
However, for Jones to optimize his potential at the professional level, refining his 32% three-point shooting will be crucial. His unique style and utility make him a top prospect and a wildcard in the 2024 NBA Draft, poised to bring his hard-nosed, versatile play to the NBA stage.
Ajay Mitchell
Ajay Mitchell is quickly becoming one of the most intriguing guard prospects in the 2024 NBA Draft. At 6-foot-5, this point guard from UCSB has not only captured the attention of scouts with his first-round talent but has also demonstrated a remarkable blend of vision on the court and a significantly improved shooting ability.
Despite a tough loss to Baylor in the first round of the NCAA tournament, Mitchell left a lasting impression, scoring 13 points and dishing out four assists. His performance was a clear indicator of his ability to shine on the large stage. With an exceptional shooting efficiency—51% from the field, 40% from three-point range, and 84% from the free-throw line—Mitchell embodies the modern NBA guard.
His ability to generate offense for himself and others, coupled with a significant jump in three-point shooting efficiency from 26% to 40%, showcases his hard work and readiness to take his game to the next level. Mitchell, with his skilled left-handed play and dynamic shot creation, is poised to be a significant asset to any team looking to bolster its backcourt in the draft.
Adama Bal | Santa Clara
Adama Bal is primed to continue the impressive tradition of Santa Clara prospects making early exits in the NBA Draft, aiming to be the third straight player from the program selected in the top 20. Following in the footsteps of Jalen Williams, who made his mark with the Oklahoma City Thunder, and Brandin Podziemski, who has been productive with the Golden State Warriors, Bal seeks to carve out his own niche.
His collegiate career took a significant turn after transferring from Arizona, where limited playing time had stymied his ability to showcase his talents. Since the move, Bal has flourished, particularly noted for his slashing ability—effectively cutting through defenses to finish at the rim. However, he is not a one-dimensional player; his skills extend beyond penetration.
Bal has demonstrated a competent shooting touch from a distance, boasting a commendable 36% three-point shooting rate. This dual-threat capability makes him a highly intriguing prospect in the 2024 NBA Draft, as teams look for versatile players who can contribute in multiple facets of the game.
Final Thoughts
As the profiles of Dillon Jones, Ajay Mitchell, and Adama Bal illustrate, the 2024 NBA Draft is brimming with hidden talent waiting to leave their mark on the professional stage. These athletes, emerging from mid-major schools, are prime examples of how determination, skill, and the right opportunity can converge to create the next wave of NBA stars.
Betting on Draft, especially with under-the-radar prospects like these, presents an exciting frontier for fans and analysts alike, challenging conventional wisdom and uncovering value where few dare to look. Each season, the draft not only offers a glimpse into the future of the league but also serves as a reminder of the broad, untapped well of talent that exists beyond the traditional powerhouses of college basketball.
