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College basketball is back, and so are the prospects that will comprise the 2019 NBA Draft. Before the action gets underway, contributor Steve Dewald delivers his viewing schedule for the upcoming week of games.
Instead of focusing on the obvious matchups each week, we are going to deliver a few under-the-radar games worth keeping an eye on. Here are the games that will feature a handful of prospects that could make some serious noise on draft night.
Western Kentucky vs Washington
Date: Tuesday, November 6
Time: 10:30 PM (EST)
Viewing Options: ESPNU
Charles Bassey will make his debut for Western Kentucky in Seattle against Washington. The talented freshmen has a soft touch for a big man, and possesses the athleticism to be a difference maker in the paint. Bassey won’t be the only prospect participating in this contest, as Matisse Thybulle will take the floor for the Huskies. Known for his perimeter defense, Thybulle is a prime candidate to sneak up draft boards as the season progresses.
Bowling Green vs St. John’s
Date: Friday, November 9
Time: 6:30 PM (EST)
Viewing Options: FS2
Returning guard Shamorie Ponds will begin is campaign to bolster his standing in a weak point guard class with a favorable matchup against Bowling Green. Ponds can score from all three levels, but he can truly improve his stock by polishing his pick-and-roll execution. Look for Ponds to put up big numbers in the Red Storm’s second game of the season.
North Carolina A&T vs Wake Forest
Date: Saturday, November 10
Time: 2:00 PM (EST)
Viewing Options: ACC Network
Freshmen forward Jaylen Hoard is primed to get off to a fast start with the Demon Deacons. Hoard did a little bit of everything at the 2018 Nike Hoop Summit, and that trend should continue in a friendly matchup against North Carolina A&T. The score might get out of hand, but watching how Hoard will be utilized at Wake Forest is worth tuning in for.
Wright State vs Murray State
Date: Saturday, November 10
Time: 8:00 PM (EST)
Viewing Options: ESPN+
Ja Morant enters this season as a bonafide draft sleeper. Armed with a quick first step and impressive leaping ability, Morant has all the tools to dominate the competition he will face this season. Murray State’s opening game comes against a sneaky-good Wright State squad, so this contest should put Morant’s gifts to the test.
Make sure you check out our most recent 2019 NBA Draft Big Board for more coverage of this year’s prospects.