Texas Tech Red Raiders guard Mac McClung has signed with an agent and will enter the 2021 NBA draft. Who is the closest comparison for McClung as he prepares to begin his NBA career?
McClung has had a rather curious journey as an NBA prospect. He was previously a top football recruit out of Gate City, Virginia. However, McClung's exceptional athleticism made him a viral sensation on the hardwood.
The combo guard routinely made highlight reels with thunderous jams and a diverse skill set. Those gifts initially resulted in McClung heading to Georgetown to play for Patrick Ewing and the Hoyas. He made the Big East All-Freshman team, but was not long for Georgetown.
McClung transferred to Texas Tech, where he earned more of the national spotlight. He averaged 15.5 points, 2.7 rebounds and 2.1 assists for the Raiders, and will now look to bring his talents to the Association.
One player in particular comes to mind as a base of comparison for McClung: Milwaukee Bucks combo guard Donte DiVincenzo.
Mac McClung and Donte DiVincenzo share explosive athleticism
DiVincenzo's stock exploded during the 2018 NCAA Tournament. Why? Well, he excelled at both ends of the floor with his ability to get to the cup and finish with style while also having the capacity to knock down perimeter jumpers.
The former Villanova star was drafted by the Bucks with the No. 17 overall pick in the 2018 NBA draft. His skills have translated to the league.
DiVincenzo has been a tremendous playmaker for Milwaukee as a guy who can serve as a primary ball-handler or play off the ball. He averaged 10.4 points, 5.8 rebounds and 3.1 assists per game during the regular season, also shooting a career-high 37.9 percent from beyond the arc. The 24-year-old's athleticism and length has also helped him on the defensive end of the floor.
McClung has similar upside. He can make plays off the dribble and work off screens, whether on or off the ball. The Red Raiders star improved his three-point percentage this past season, and it's a part of his game that should continue to grow.
Additionally, McClung profiles as a decent defender if he adds some muscle. DiVincenzo (6'4″) has a couple inches on McClung (6'2″), but the latter can still be a solid on-ball defender especially against opposing point guards.
The scrappiness
Both McClung and DiVincenzo share some intangible traits, as well.
DiVincenzo has built a reputation as a guy who will get on the floor and make hustle plays. The same can be said of McClung.
The 21-year-old constantly seems to find a way to impact games with his high motor. He hunts offensive opportunities around the basket and coming off screens while also getting into the lane and helping with the battle on the boards.
There is something to be said for guys who can come off the bench and provide a spark on both ends. DiVincenzo has done that for the Bucks, and it would not be a surprise if the same holds true with McClung. It's probably his best chance to stick in the league.
In finality
Whereas DiVincenzo's size makes him more of a true combo guard, Mac McClung will probably be better served at the point.
Still, the former Red Raiders star has exceptional two-way athleticism and also possesses upside in terms of his perimeter shooting.
Any team considering taking McClung later this summer would likely be thrilled if he were to pan out anything like DiVincenzo, who has maximized his talents to be a real playmaker and asset for the Bucks.
Follow Us
Subscribe