While most eyes are on the Chicago Bulls’ #7 overall pick, it’s important not to forget that the Bulls have another first-round pick. Let’s take a look at potential draft target Donte DiVincenzo.
After an impressive season for the Wildcats, the standout guard from Villanova made a huge splash in the NCAA Tournament.
DiVincenzo averaged 13.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game while shooting over 40 percent from three last season. Those are impressive numbers for anyone but DiVincenzo did this primarily off the bench while sharing the spotlight with guys like Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, and Omari Spellman.
Most thought DiVincenzo would return to Villanova next season and take on the primary role that was once Jalen Brunson’s. But after the NCAA Tournament, DiVincenzo decided to test the draft waters and it’s looking more than ever like he’ll be a first-round pick in this years NBA draft – not next years.
During the NCAA Tournament, DiVincenzo averaged 15 points, 3.8 assists, and 5.5 rebounds in 27.5 minutes per game. He capped off his nice tournament run with an incredible 31 point, 5 rebound, and 3 assist performance in the National Championship game. DiVincenzo shot 10-15 from the field including 5-7 from behind the arc. He also added two nasty blocks to his National Title resume.
One of DiVincenzo’s most underrated assets is his ability to defend extremely well – especially for his position. His insane athleticism allows him to switch onto any guard/wing and also allows him to make some improbable blocks. Here are some of his highlights from the National Championship game, including those two aforementioned nasty blocks:
https://twitter.com/marchmadness/status/981275144655134722
Fit with the Chicago Bulls
Donte DiVincenzo is considered by many to be a fringe first-round pick currently. That means he should be available when the Chicago Bulls are selecting at #22 if they wish to take him.
Many people have applauded DiVincenzo for not just sitting on his incredible National Championship game as he goes into the draft process but actually choosing to participate in the NBA Draft Combine.
It was clearly a good choice for DiVincenzo as he’s had one of the most impressive combine performances that we’ve seen this year. His standing vertical (34.5″) was the best at the combine, and his max vertical (42.0″) was tied for the best. His off-the-charts athleticism would make for an exciting pairing next to freak athlete and 2x Slam Dunk Champion, Zach LaVine. Can you imagine those two running the fast break together?
Sure, DiVincenzo doesn’t really fill either of the two obvious holes that the Bulls have right now (Small Forward and Center), but it’s hard to imagine a better selection at #22 than DiVincenzo. If the Bulls take a Center with the #7 pick, I can especially get on board with this.
If the Bulls wanted to go with a small and athletic lineup at certain junctures of the game, they could roll out a lineup consisting of Kris Dunn, Zach LaVine, and Donte DiVincenzo. The defensive ability of Dunn and DiVincenzo would make up for LaVine’s defensive deficiencies.
Not to mention, his nickname is “The Michael Jordan from Delaware.”
How can the Bulls not take a guy with that nickname?