Top 5 Sleeper Prospects to Watch in the 2024 NBA Draft

David Connelly
Host · Writer
KJ Simpson
Sporting a 40.5-inch vertical leap at the NBA Combine, KJ Simpson not only helped his draft stock with his athleticism, but his success during the scrimmages at the NBA Combine showed his potential stardom at the guard position. He has gone from being a late-second-round projection to possibly going in the early second round, even perhaps in the back end of the first. Don't be surprised if he takes on a Jose Alvarado type of role wherever he ends up.
Terrence Shannon Jr.
Terrence Shannon's stock is likely to rise now that he has been officially found not guilty of a rape allegation that had been looming over him for nearly six months. Despite this challenge, he had an outstanding postseason performance, averaging 27.9 points over seven games, starting in the Big Ten Tournament. With his name cleared, a team might take an early chance on him.
Ja'Kobe Walter
Ja'Kobe Walter has all the attributes of a contemporary NBA star. He's an exceptional shooter who remains composed under pressure and excels at tough defense. His off-ball movement is top-notch, and his deep understanding of the game suggests he may transition smoothly to the next level.
DaRon Holmes
DaRon Holmes dominated the paint throughout his collegiate career. Standing at 6’10”, he is a powerful athlete with explosive moves at the rim, maintaining an impressive 59 percent shooting efficiency over three seasons at Dayton. His 39 percent accuracy from beyond the arc strengthens his case as a late first-round pick. His skill set would be an ideal fit to bolster New York’s shaky frontcourt.
Ajay Mitchell
Ajay Mitchell draws comparisons to Jalen Williams from Santa Clara in 2022. As a bigger, more physical guard with excellent vision and game sense, he's poised to make the jump to the next level. He was a dominant presence at UC Santa Barbara and impressed many during the scrimmages at the NBA Combine.
KJ Simpson
Sporting a 40.5-inch vertical leap at the NBA Combine, KJ Simpson not only helped his draft stock with his athleticism, but his success during the scrimmages at the NBA Combine showed his potential stardom at the guard position. He has gone from being a late-second-round projection to possibly going in the early second round, even perhaps in the back end of the first. Don't be surprised if he takes on a Jose Alvarado type of role wherever he ends up.
Terrence Shannon Jr.
Terrence Shannon's stock is likely to rise now that he has been officially found not guilty of a rape allegation that had been looming over him for nearly six months. Despite this challenge, he had an outstanding postseason performance, averaging 27.9 points over seven games, starting in the Big Ten Tournament. With his name cleared, a team might take an early chance on him.
