The Sixer Sense
Fansided

Way-too-early 2019 NBA Draft Big Board

By Christopher Kline

ATLANTA, GA - MARCH 26: Zion Williamson of Spartanburg Day School attempts a dunk during the 2018 McDonald's All American Game POWERADE Jam Fest at Forbes Arena on March 26, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - MARCH 26: Zion Williamson of Spartanburg Day School attempts a dunk during the 2018 McDonald's All American Game POWERADE Jam Fest at Forbes Arena on March 26, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /
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BERLIN, GERMANY – MAY 14: Sekou Doumbouya, #14 of U18 Insep Paris during the Turkish Airlines Euroleague Basketball Adidas Next Generation Tournament game U18 Mega Bemas Belgrade v U18 INSEP Paris at Sportforum on May 14, 2016 in Berlin, Germany. (Photo by Patrick Albertini/EB via Getty Images)
BERLIN, GERMANY – MAY 14: Sekou Doumbouya, #14 of U18 Insep Paris during the Turkish Airlines Euroleague Basketball Adidas Next Generation Tournament game U18 Mega Bemas Belgrade v U18 INSEP Paris at Sportforum on May 14, 2016 in Berlin, Germany. (Photo by Patrick Albertini/EB via Getty Images) /

Doumbouya is the best international prospect in the draft. He’s also the best athlete by some measures, giving him one of the highest ceilings in the top five. His blend of youth (17 years old) and upside should put the Frenchman in contention for a top-five spot on draft night.

Standing 6-foot-9 with a 6-foot-11 wingspan, Doumbouya is capable of spending time at either forward spot. He’s explosive in space, handling the ball well in transition and displaying legitimate passing chops on the move.

Improving his consistency as a shooter will be emphasized at the next level, but Doumbouya has flashed shot-making ability at all three levels. He’s impressive both as a slasher and a cutter, using his size and athleticism to attack the rim.

Defensive engagement has come and gone for Doumbouya, but he should fare extremely well on that side of the ball. He’s capable of guarding all around the floor, bodying up power forwards and sticking with guards on the perimeter.