The Top 5 Centers In the 2024 Class
1- DONOVAN CLINGAN
Position: C
Age: 20
Height: 7’0”
Weight: 248 lbs
From: UConn
21.1 PPG, 12.2 RPG, 2.5 APG, 0.9 SPG, 4.0 BPG (Per 36)
Pro Comparison: Walker Kessler
The rim-running, paint-protecting drop big archetype is losing favor, but Clingan might be as good as they come within that archetype provided he takes a step forward this season. If he does take a step, the juice is worth the squeeze in terms of letting him anchor your defense. His foot speed and general mobility is startling for a guy his size. Definitely expect him to carve out a solid role in the NBA just by virtue of his defense/rebounding. His touch around the rim isn’t too bad either. If he develops a jump shot or shows more playmaking ability in the short term, he could end up a late lottery pick.
2- ZACH EDEY
Position: C
Age: 21
Height: 7’4.25”
Weight: 306 lbs
From: Purdue
28.1 PPG, 13.8 RPG, 2.4 APG, 0.3 SPG, 3.0 BPG (Per 36)
Pro Comparison: Enes Freedom
Edey thrives offensively with layups, putbacks, tips and post-ups. He would have been an excellent target in a league dominated by centers at the time. Edey is an excellent rebounder, averaging nearly 14 rebounds per game, but this is largely due to his size over opponents, which concerns me as it may not transition into the NBA. The Purdue product is 7’4, making him one of the NCAA’s tallest players, and he makes the most of his height. He spends the majority of his time in the paint, either waiting for the ball to come to him or hustling for rebounds.
3- KYLE FILIPOWSKI
Position: C/PF
Age: 20
Height: 7’0”
Weight: 248 lbs
From: Duke
19.9 PPG, 9.7 RPG, 3.3 APG, 1.0 SPG, 2.0 BPG (Per 36)
Pro Comparison: Mark Williams
He’s 6’11, yet doesn’t play a lick of defense by NBA standards, can’t score efficiently at the rim, and is not a great shooter. Filipowski has the physical tools to have a great career in the league, his skills just need to develop to match that. His front-line athleticism is a bit greasy for a big man. He can handle the ball at a decent level, make good passes, and may develop into a good shooter one day.
4- KEL’EL WARE
Position: C
Age: 19
Height: 7’0
Weight: 223 lbs
From: Indiana
17.4 PPG, 10.9 RPG, 2.2 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.8 BPG (Per 36)
Pro Comparison: Tyson Chandler
He reminds me of Tyson Chandler out of high school in terms of skill set and size/athleticism, but just like Tyson, Ware will explode when he starts focusing on his big man skill set and IQ. The three-point shot is nice, but he should focus on his spot-up game and get rid of the off-the-dribble game.
5- ADAY MARA
Position: C
Age: 18
Height: 7’3”
Weight: 245 lbs
From: UCLA
11.9 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 2.6 APG, 0.5 SPG, 2.3 BPG (Per 36)
Pro Comparison: Zydrunas Ilgauskas
Mara is a highly skillful and dynamic 7-3 centre with excellent passing ability and game sense. He has a significant influence on both sides of the floor because to his large stature, presence in the lane, and ball skills. The Spanish big defends well in the paint and at the rim, but his strength should be improved.
Mara's passing ability truly distinguishes him from most other centres. He examines the floor and discovers cutters and open shooters.
He has a terrific midrange shooting touch and is increasing his range to three. Should be a good floor spacer in the NBA. Dunks the ball effortlessly and scores in the paint over either shoulder.