2021 NBA Draft Big Board — 50. Dalano Banton, Nebraska
Dalano Banton has been rising up boards lately, and it’s not hard to understand why. A 6-foot-9 point guard by trade, Banton blends length and skill in a manner that will surely intrigue NBA teams. He’s a string bean and will need to adjust to NBA physicality, but the upside warrants second round consideration.
The jumper is a point of concern, and Banton wasn’t an efficient scorer at Nebraska, but he’s a skilled passer with a unique vantage point, making advanced reads and distributing the ball unselfishly. His potential as a big ball-mover puts him on the map. If he can figure out the scoring, he becomes a real NBA talent.
2021 NBA Draft Big Board — 49. Greg Brown, Texas
Some would argue Greg Brown is the best pure athlete on the board. He struggled to find consistency in his freshman year at Texas, but the 6-foot-8 forward has all the physical tools needed to survive (and even thrive) at the next level. Whoever drafts him, however, will have to view it as a multi-year project — one that will probably start in the G-League.
Due to his bounce and long reach, Brown’s most consistent offensive contributions will come at the rim. He’s a solid lob threat, with the potential to develop into a reliable roll man. If he can improve his handle and add more skill on the perimeter, then he becomes a complete mismatch in a small-ball four role. One step at a time, though. Brown can also wreak havoc on defense, but that havoc isn’t always good. He’s just as likely to commit a boneheaded foul as he is to make a highlight block. There’s a lot to look forward too, but do not expect instant production.