Making The Best Starting 5 Out Of The Undrafted Prospects

It's always a dream to hear your name called on the night of the NBA Draft, but the truth of the matter is, only about 1.1% of the eligible candidates get their name pulled to go pro. But what if there was a team comprised of undrafted players to play on the court? We answer that question by using those undrafted players to create the best starting 5 possible.

Stefan Jankovic, Forward, University of Hawaii

Standing at 6'11 and 7' wingspan, Stefan Jankovic was Hawaii's leading scorer in his junior year and the Big West Conference player of the year, but that was not enough for the forward, who led his team to the program's first NCAA tournament since 2002. It's hard to see why he was not drafted, as you can see his performance in the clips below. Jankovic shows his versatility as he can shoot 3's, take some mean step back jumpers, and score contested shots in the paint. Jankovic's soft touch and perimeter shooting should get him on a roster sooner than later.

Fred VanVleet, PG, Wichita State

The senior duo in Fred VanVleet and Ron Baker of Wichita State went undrafted, but VanVleet can be a steal in the draft, although he lacks the basic tangible skills. Averaging 12.2 PPG and 5.0 assists per game, he has a great feel for the floor..Despite his small 6-foot frame,  VanVleet shows his ability to get to the rim and his ball handling skills as you can see in the clip below, which leads us to believe VanVleet can beat the odds despite his name not being pulled. Alongside that, VanVleet was an effective perimeter shooter, as he shot 38% from beyond the arc during his Wichita State career.  Besides, a notable name in the NBA got the same critique as well. Can you guess?

Egidijus Mockevicius, C, University of Evansville

University of Evansville C Egidijus Mockevicius could be a hidden gem that would make the cut. Named the 2016 NCAA leading re bounder and the Missouri Valley Conference defensive MVP, Mockevicius averaged 15.6 PPG and 14 RPG. One factor could be his age, as he's 23, but he has the offensive skill set that could potentially led him to getting an NBA call in the future.

Wayne Selden Jr., G, Kansas

There were a lot of big notable names that went undrafted and Kansas guard Wayne Seldon Jr. was one of them. Averaging 13.8 points and just 3.4 rebounds per game, in his senior campaign, Selden, possesses the ability to finish around the basket and stretch the floor as he shot 39% from the field in his final season. While he's a solid scorer,  Selden does not possess playmaking skills and can be a liability on defense. Overall Selden can score. If he does sign with a team, he can hone in those skills he needs to work on and can possibly add more depth at the shooting guard position.

Zach Auguste, PF/C, Notre Dame

Notre Dame's Zach Auguste rounds out my undrafted roster. Auguste averaged 14 PPG and 10.7 rebounds per game as a senior, but his overall makeup lacks offensive progress and efficient post moves. Auguste embodies a center in a power forward's body, which can be tricky depending on what you look for. Auguste will also turn 23 in July, which could work against him. Auguste has a great chance of signing with an NBA roster, but he needs to elevate his level of play against elite competition.