After a lone season at Nebraska, Bryce McGowens is officially heading to the Association. The freshman was selected 40th overall by the Charlotte Hornets on Thursday in the 2022 NBA Draft after a very impressive campaign for the Cornhuskers.
Like many of the picks before him, the 40th overall selection was not Charlotte's originally. The pick was owned by the Timberwolves at first, before the Hornets acquired it from them. (via Adrian Wojnarowski)
While Nebraska went just 10-22, McGowens proved to be a notable bright spot. He averaged 16.8 points and 5.2 boards per game in 31 contests and does a very good job of getting downhill and attacking the hoop. The guard isn't the quickest player around, but he's got a smooth handle and knows what to do with the rock in his hands.
However, likely the reason he wasn't selected higher in the NBA Draft is his inability to shoot. For any backcourt player in this day and age, they need to show the ability to be at least somewhat efficient from deep. McGowens drained only 27% of his triples in the 2020-21 college season on just over four attempts per night. Also, the 6'8″ youngster isn't the greatest playmaker just yet, dishing out only 1.4 dimes per contest. Especially as a guard, he'll need to improve on his facilitating abilities at the next level in order to really make an impact.
Nevertheless, he's an intriguing talent who can score at will inside. With solid length, McGowens should eventually turn into a respectable defender as he grows more into his lanky frame. His NBA Draft has come true and now, the real work starts.
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