3. Friday at 12:30 p.m: Texas Tech vs Northern Kentucky
Prospect to watch: Jarrett Culver, wing, Texas Tech
Projected draft position: 4 (Tankathon), 6 (The Athletic), 6 (Draft Site)
Jarrett Culver is a lengthy 6’6” sophomore wing out of Texas Tech who has taken a leap this year for the Red Raiders. He’s averaging 18 points, six rebounds and a bit under four assists a game.
One of the big things scouts like about Culver is the progress he’s already demonstrated in his second year at Texas Tech. Culver has reworked his jump shot and added a pull-up game to his arsenal this season. He’s only shooting 32.3% from three, but he looks capable of improving to an NBA level.
Keep an eye out for his improved handle. Culver has made himself into a capable playmaker and has a variety of moves he can use to score when he gets inside, although he still has a lot of straight-line driving in his game. His game is blossoming and he should have the opportunity to go to work against the Vikings.
On defense, watch for his ability to switch onto different positions. Texas Tech is an elite defensive team, but Culver isn’t the focal point within the system. He’s a positive on that end of the court but is only scratching the potential that his frame hints at.
Getting his official measurements at the combine could be a big boost to Culver’s draft stock, as some online scouts believe he might be taller than his listed height, and that he is potentially still growing. Culver does look bigger than 6’6” when you watch him play, and that potential size along with his skillset is what might set him apart in this draft.
When you watch Culver play against Northern Kentucky, take note of just how much his game resembles that of an NBA wing. His ability to shoot, put the ball on the floor, rebound and use his size and length to guard multiple positions makes him the perfect prospect for the Bulls to add to their wing rotation.