1. Cade Cunningham, G, Oklahoma State
Measurables: 6-foot-8, 220 pounds, 7-foot wingspan
Class: Freshman
Age: 19
Mike’s Ranking: 1
Evan’s Ranking: 2
Dating back to high school, Cade Cunningham has been one of the top overall basketball prospects. And during his freshman year at Oklahoma State, Cunningham only strengthened his position as a potential future star in the NBA. Three things that stand out when you watch Cunningham on tape – his size, offensive potential, and versatility that he’ll have at the next level.
What gives Cunningham the upper hand over many of his contemporaries is his NBA readiness. Cunningham always seems in control of the game, especially when he’s in a lead-guard role, and never seems fazed by the moment. He can score at an efficient rate, is a good 3-point shooter (shot 40 percent in college), and has flashed impressive playmaking ability (despite averaging less than four assists per game during his freshman season).
“What’s wrong with me feeling like I’m even better than what y’all are saying?”
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) May 24, 2021
Potential No. 1 pick Cade Cunningham is coming into the NBA with high expectations for himself 😤 pic.twitter.com/iW8CnnbKzI
His four turnovers per game are somewhat concerning, but considering the amount of time he had the ball in his hands and with the way the Cowboys leaned on him offensively, it’s not that surprising for a college player.
Cunningham is also not the best athlete, but his feel for the game and high basketball IQ is intangibles that make it all work. The expectation is that Cunningham will be a big contributor right away with the chance to be a star and the face of a franchise.