The Oklahoma City Thunder then picked Chet Holmgren in second place, and although many projected him as the top pick coming Thursday, the Houston Rockets put Jabri Smith in third place.
Reflecting the evolving nature of the NBA, Magic saw the wing at Banchero, this time with their last three top picks in franchise history, including front-court prospects in the form of Shakil O’Neill, Chris Weber and Dwight Howard.
On ESPN’s broadcast of the draft, Banchero said, “I don’t even know what to say. I can’t believe what happened recently.” “I never thought it would happen. I wanted to be in the NBA, but I didn’t know I would be here. It’s incredible. “
Banchero is the fifth top pick from Duke University after Art Heyman, Alton Brand, Kiri Irving and Zion Williamson, as well as the 13th new selection in a row to take the first.
The 19-year-old averaged 17.2 points, 7.8 rebounds and 3.2 assists as he led the Blue Devils into the final four, earning first-team All-ACC selection and ACC Rookie of the Year.
Paolo Banchero (pp_doesit) Total number 1 is selected
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June 24, 2022
As a fanatic who can reach the floor, the 7-foot-1 Holmgren demonstrated his unparalleled shooting ability for his size at Gonzaga University in his new year, possibly competing with Shy Gilgius-Alexander and Josh Giddy. Created more space for drama. To happen.
Equally talented for his size, the 6-foot-10 Smith is the most NBA-ready of the three to drop out of Auburn University, he has all-round defensive skills as well as the ability to score goals from catches and dribbles. Capacity. ,
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