South Carolina basketball star earns top-10 NBA Draft grade
On Friday, On3 college basketball analyst James Fletcher released his updated NBA Draft big board. South Carolina basketball star forward Collin Murray-Boyles found himself in the top 10.
According to Fletcher, the sophomore sensation is the No. 7 prospect available in this year’s NBA Draft. Murray-Boyles only trails Duke’s Cooper Flagg among power forwards on Fletcher’s list.
Said Fletcher about Murray-Boyles, “After choosing not to enter his name last year, Collin Murray-Boyles immediately became one of the most intriguing players in this class. He has done nothing but build hype around him since, even as one of the class’s most controversial prospects. He brings elite defensive tools and versatility, showing offensive growth, but requires plenty projection given his current role and what NBA teams will likely ask him to do.”
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Despite South Carolina’s struggles as a team, Murray-Boyles has had a tremendous season. He is averaging 17 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.4 blocks on the year while shooting 58.9% from the field. No other player in college basketball has reached those same statistics. In fact, he has built up some separation in that regard. Murray-Boyles is the only player in the sport who is averaging at least 17 points, eight rebounds, 2.5 assists, one steal, and one block while shooting at least 55%.
His statistical profile, paired with elite defensive instincts, makes Murray-Boyles a big-time prospect despite being a little smaller than traditional post players. Listed between 6-7 and 6-8, he is an undersized power forward/center. However, if he can continue developing his jump shot, Murray-Boyles could become a pro capable of playing all three frontcourt positions. If that becomes reality, he could have a long and productive career in the NBA. Even if it doesn’t, he could make an excellent role player at the next level.
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Fletcher’s top-10 grade for CMB is higher than most, but he’s earned first-round grades almost unanimously. Fletcher isn’t the only analyst to project Murray-Boyles in the lottery, but most grade him between picks 15 and 25.
At the time of this writing, Collin Murray-Boyles has not spoken publicly about his NBA Draft decision. He has two more years of eligibility remaining if he wants to take them. Players also can go through the “NBA Draft pre-draft process” without forfeiting their eligibility. Because of that, Murray-Boyles does not have to make a final decision on his future until mid-June.
This year’s NBA Draft will take place on June 25th and June 26th. Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York will host the event. If selected this June, Murray-Boyles will be the second Gamecock drafted in the past three seasons (GG Jackson in 2023). If taken in the first round, he will be the first USC alum taken that high since Renaldo Balkman in 2006.
