This year’s NBA Draft has been labeled as the weakest since the Cleveland Cavaliers selected Anthony Bennett with the first overall pick. There is no clear standout player or catchy tanking strategy. The Detroit Pistons, San Antonio Spurs, Washington Wizards, and Portland Trail Blazers are all competing to see who can have the most disappointing season. However, there is one overlooked storyline that hasn’t occurred in 50 years.
If Dalton Knecht and Reed Sheppard are chosen in the top five, it would be the first time two white Americans were selected in the top five since Bill Walton and Bobby Jones in 1974.
According to NBADraft.net, the top source for non-paywalled mock drafts, Knecht and Sheppard are ranked fourth and fifth in this draft class. Knecht led Tennessee to their first outright SEC title since 2008, while Sheppard captured the hearts of Kentucky fans with his impressive skills.
Knecht, a fifth-year player, transferred between schools before landing at UT for his final season. Standing at 6-foot-6, he has shown improvement and is a key player for the team.
Sheppard, a freshman from Kentucky, is living out his dreams at Kentucky and is expected to declare for the draft. With impressive stats and skills, he is a promising prospect.
Both players have their strengths and weaknesses, but they are considered solid prospects for the draft. It remains to be seen how they will perform at the next level.
Despite the doubts surrounding this draft class, Knecht and Sheppard are seen as reliable players who could make an impact in the NBA. It will be interesting to see how they fare in the league and if they can defy expectations.
