The 2024 NBA Draft is fast approaching, and one thing is clear – there is no clear-cut No. 1 overall pick. This year’s draft class features several talented centers who have been dominating college hoops, but it’s difficult to predict where they will fall in the draft and how they will stack up against their peers.

Alex Sarr: The Top Center Prospect

Alex Sarr, a 7-foot-1 center playing for the Perth Wildcats in Australia’s NBL, is considered a potential top-three pick and is undeniably the first center off the board. Sarr’s inside-out game translates well to the NBA, as he excels in knocking down 3-pointers and is an elite rim protector.

The Frontrunner: Zach Edey

Leading the pack among college centers is Purdue’s Zach Edey, a 7-foot-2 senior who is currently the frontrunner for Player of the Year. Edey has proved himself this season, averaging an impressive 23 points and 11.4 rebounds per game. His improved conditioning and footwork have made him a force to be reckoned with on the court. While Edey has only attempted one 3-pointer this season, he boasts an impressive 62.7% shooting percentage from the field.

Donovan Clingan: Overcoming Injuries

UConn’s 7-foot-2 sophomore, Donovan Clingan, has shown flashes of brilliance throughout the season. Despite playing through injuries, Clingan has managed to make an impact on the court. He recently recorded 18 points, eight rebounds, and two blocks in just 19 minutes. However, his limited playing time and persistent injuries have raised concerns about his draft stock.

Hunter Dickinson: The Transfer Standout

Kansas’ Hunter Dickinson, a 7-foot-2 senior, was highly sought after in the transfer portal last spring. He chose to play his senior season at Kansas after leaving Michigan. Dickinson has showcased his skills in the Big 12, leading the conference in rebounds and ranking second in scoring. While his game includes more 3-point attempts than his peers, Dickinson is still finding his rhythm from beyond the arc.

Despite their impressive college performances, these centers face uncertainties as they transition to the NBA. Historically, dominant college big men have struggled to translate their success to the professional level. The demanding 82-game schedule and the need to guard outside the paint can pose challenges for these players.

History of Dominant College Centers in the NBA

Past examples include Luka Garza, who excelled in college but was drafted 52nd overall by the Detroit Pistons in 2021. Garza has spent most of his time on a two-way contract with the Minnesota Timberwolves and has seen limited playing time in the NBA. Similarly, Drew Timme, who led Gonzaga to the title game in his junior season, went undrafted in 2023 and is currently playing for the Wisconsin Herd in the G League.

Udoka Azubuike, a standout from Kansas, was picked 27th overall by the Utah Jazz in the 2020 NBA Draft. However, his time in Utah was plagued by injuries and he has since signed a two-way contract with the Phoenix Suns.

Other Centers Projected Higher

While Edey, Clingan, and Dickinson are notable centers, there are other prospects projected higher in the draft. Duke’s Kyle Filipowski, Kentucky’s Zvonimir Ivisic and Aaron Bradshaw, Baylor’s Yves Missi, and Indiana’s Kel’el Ware are all intriguing options for teams looking for versatile centers with potential.

The upcoming 2024 NBA Draft promises to be full of uncertainties. While Edey, Clingan, and Dickinson have proven their abilities on the college stage, their transition to the NBA remains to be seen. With other standout centers vying for attention, teams will need to carefully evaluate these prospects and consider the challenges they may face at the professional level.