7. Jaren Jackson Jr., PF/C, Michigan State
As somebody I was high on entering the season, Jackson has done nothing but live up to that hype. He’s easily the best prospect on Michigan State, emerging as a high-level defender and a capable stretch-big offensively.
At 6-foot-10 with a 7-foot-4 wingspan, Jackson’s length and mobility allows him to cover a lot of ground on the defensive end. He’s perfectly capable of sliding his feet on the perimeter, while he continues to show impressive instincts around the basket.
Jackson also has his shot falling offensively. His mechanics are funky, but the shot has worked since high school. He’s currently shooting 43.2 percent from deep, thriving in pick-and-pops and as the trailing big in transition. Add some fluid post moves to that, and you have a top-seven talent.