21. Charles Bassey, Center
Current Team: Western Kentucky
An NBA prospect that once received lottery pick discussions for a time last season that could work his way back into that realm is the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers 6-foot-10 center Charles Bassey. It was a draft scouting process that didn’t take to the ideal path combined with rather pedestrian play down the stretch last season that pushed Bassey out of the first round pick conversation.
But a solid start to this college basketball regular season and more consistent scouting results down the stretch prior to NBA Draft 2020 night next June could be exactly what Bassey needs this year. At least there is a clear path for how Bassey can be a solidified first round pick in next year’s draft.
As one of the most polished prospects in this draft class, Bassey has the opportunity to draw a lot of national recognition and respect his way late in the season. Get Western Kentucky into the NCAA Tournament, and the skill set of Bassey could start to gain traction with the media and fans just like former Murray State Racers point guard Ja Morant did in the “Big Dance” last season.
The reigning Conference-USA Rookie of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year is posting 14.8 points per game, 10.3 rebounds, and 1.3 assists. His stout athleticism, defense, and shot making abilities will set a high floor for Bassey if he actually winds up declaring for NBA Draft 2020 and sticking to that decision all the way through.