1. Jay Scrubb
He likely isn’t a name uttered by many outside of tapped-in basketball circles. After all, discussions around second-rounders aren’t on the tip of anyone’s tongue at this point in the process. But Jayden (Jay) Scrubb is quickly building buzz in the NBA blogosphere. What makes Scrubb’s story even more intriguing? He’s a JUCO player attempting to jump to the NBA.
That’s right, he originally committed to Louisville after spending two seasons at John A. Logan Community College but opted to enter the NBA draft instead. It’s a rare feat, indeed, but the number-one ranked JUCO prospect put on for his school and tantalized scouts with his play.
Really enjoyed today’s ESPN Film Session with JUCO standout Jay Scrubb. Talented 6-5 guard with some sizzle off the bounce and explosiveness in the paint. Talked with Jay about his game, background, matchups with Obi Toppin, challenging Jarrett Allen at the rim, and much more. pic.twitter.com/Z8iFB7PNSx
— Mike Schmitz (@Mike_Schmitz) June 11, 2020
A lefty with a smooth game, Scrubb reportedly stands 6’6” with a 6’9” wingspan. He averaged 20.2 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 1.5 assists for the Volunteers as a freshman and 21.9/6.8/2.7 last season. He slashed .501/.333/.727 as a sophomore but shot over 46 percent from deep as a frosh.
Even if he lands in the middle of those figures from range he lands at 39.8 percent; that would’ve been good for second on the Bulls last season.
It isn’t just the numbers that excite, either. Scrubb is a terrific athlete with a 40 inch vertical; something many assume isn’t the case with lower-level players. Before being deemed ineligible due to academic reasons, Scrubb had multiple offers from big schools. Scouts have also raved about the bag of tricks he possesses from jabs to his electric first step.
He’s also made an impact as a defender, swiping 1.27 steals and swatting 1.23 shots over his career.
John A. Logan is in Carterville down in southern Illinois. It makes sense for the Bulls to research a player in their backyard. But other teams have an interest as well. He’s already had a video interview with the New York Knicks and spoke to those who might doubt him because he’s a JUCO guy.
"“There’s talent everywhere. JUCO level, high school level, NAIA, DIII, anywhere, and I don’t want people to sleep on JUCO talent just because it’s JUCO. I feel like I can dominate wherever.” – via Fresh Focus Sports"
A two-way wing with size, athleticism, skill, and a chip on his shoulder? Scrubb is a guy who could surprise many coming out of the second round, and maybe (just maybe) he can sneak into the back end of the first.
The Bulls should have a shot at Scrubb no matter what. Our next player has been building an even bigger buzz and already has some calling for him to move into the mid-20’s in the draft.