5. Mohamed Bamba, C, Texas
Mohamed Bamba possesses all the tools to be one of the most skilled centers in all of college basketball. Ability to protect the rim? Check. Can run the floor? Check. Can shoot threes? Check. Can score in the low-post? Check. He can do it all, and the potential for Bamba is limitless.
In the preseason against Texas A&M, Bamba scored 15 points on an efficient 7-11 shooting from the field. Also, Bamba grabbed 10 rebounds, got two steals, as well as two blocks. This stat-stuffing game is most definitely a sign of things to come from the New York native. In addition to this, Bamba showcase his defensive skills by holding fellow draft prospect, Robert Williams, to just 4-11 shooting from the field.
Bamba has the potential to be a Rudy Gobert-esque lockdown defender. The center has an absurd 7-foot-9 wingspan — this makes him a constant threat to grabbing offensive and defensive rebounds, as well as swatting shots into the stand.
Moreover, throughout the preseason, Bamba has shown he can shoot the ball. His range even stretches out to beyond the three-point line. Now that’s something Rudy Gobert cannot do, it’s very impressive to see Bamba launch the ball consistently. His rare skill-set will make him a hot commodity come draft season, don’t be surprised to see his draft stock rise.