Coming out of high school, James Wiseman was the top prospect in the ESPN 100 for the class of 2019. After committing to play at the University of Memphis, the 7-foot-1 center was expected to be in contention to be the No. 1 pick in the upcoming draft.
While things haven't exactly gone Wiseman's way, the 18-year-old big man is still preparing to be the top pick in June. As a part of his preparation, Wiseman has reportedly been studying the likes of Anthony Davis, Dirk Nowitzki and other top big men of the era.
“I'm trying to gain some weight and keep my body healthy,” Wiseman said. “I study a lot of film. Anthony Davis. Dirk Nowitzki. Karl-Anthony Towns. A lot of players who can shoot the ball at my height. I'm working on my shooting mechanics, trying to get my shot right, Wiseman said per ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.
Wiseman left Memphis in December amid an NCAA investigation into his recruitment and subsequent suspension from the team. The heralded prospect played just three games with the Tigers before leaving.
However, in those three games, Wiseman certainly had the look of a top pick averaging 19.7 points, 10/7 rebounds and 3.0 blocks per game in just 23.0 minutes a contest.
Wiseman was also incredibly efficient during his short collegiate career shooting 76.9 percent from the field.
When it comes to being the number one pick in the draft, the Nashville native is more than confident.
“I truly expect that,” he said. “I trust in myself, in terms of my game and my skill level. I've just to keep working, keep grinding every day,” he said.
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