5. COLE ANTHONY / GUARD / NORTH CAROLINA
Cole Anthony’s freshman season was a bumpy ride. Older than most in his class, many expected Anthony to exude a maturity and comfort level beyond his five-star contemporaries. That wasn’t the case, as he struggled from the field, was inconsequential on defense, and found himself plagued by both injury and inconsistency.
In the end, Anthony’s draft stock took a hit. I’m here to advocate for a reevaluation from those who have lost faith. I still believe in Anthony, and you should too. He’s one of the best shot creators on the board, and his quick-twitch athleticism won’t dissipate at the next level. Few players are more comfortable pressing turbo, penetrating defenses, and creating space. Anthony is a special athlete despite a meager 6-foot-3 frame, and his skill level (not to mention pre-UNC tape) transcends his UNC numbers.
There are areas in which Anthony must prove himself. He must check his shot selection at the next level. And, while he can thrive as a scorer out of the pick-and-roll, he needs to lean into the point guard nature of his role more often. He’s not a bad passer, but in comparison to others in this range, he could be a more fruitful playmaker for others. In the end, his scoring talent and upside as an offensive spearhead is enough for a top-five grade.