5 2024 NBA Draft prospects 76ers should watch during March Madness

4. Ryan Dunn

Virginia is a surprising bubble team that must play its way into the 64-man field. They face Colorado State on Tuesday night with the victor advancing as the tenth seed in the Midwest region. It is a chance for Dunn and the Cavaliers to shine, and fans should be watching closely.

Virginia’s 6’8 wing is arguably the best defender in college basketball this season. Dunn can guard every player on the floor and excels on the ball or in help situations. He averaged 7.0 rebounds, 1.3 steals, and 2.3 blocks in 27.6 minutes per game in his sophomore season. The 21-year-old is everywhere and should quickly be an impactful defender in the NBA with All-Defense upside.

Dunn is projected to go in the mid-to-late first round because of his offense game. He has taken just 50 3-pointers in his two seasons at UVA. Dunn’s shot has not shown much development and his role is questionable. He has a negative assist-to-turnover ratio and is scoring just 8.2 points per game. Finding an offense fit is crucial to keep Dunn on the floor in the NBA.

The Philadelphia 76ers need defense around Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. Ryan Dunn will be impactful on that end of the floor and still has room to improve. The Sixers are a strong fit, especially if Nick Nurse believes he can develop his offensive game.