Adreian Payne, PF, Michigan State, 6’10”
Payne has been one of many standout Spartans over the last few weeks. With apologies to Gary Harris and Derrick Nix, Payne’s ability to stretch the court and still get dirty down low make him a difficult matchup for opponents.
With 14 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 blocks against the Missouri Tigers, Payne showed why he is a surefire second-round pick who continues to improve his stock with each game.
Jamaal Franklin, SG, San Diego State, 6’5″
I have been a big proponent of Franklin’s all season. With a chance to showcase himself for scouts against other top competition, Franklin did not disappoint scoring 41 points, grabbing 19 rebounds, and adding 9 assists and 6 steals. Franklin has great size and is very productive. Not every team is on board with Franklin as a mid-first rounder, but IMHO he has done enough to lock himself into the top-half of the first round. Had Franklin had more help from his teammates in a loss to Florida Gulf Coast, he would have dazzled against the Florida Gators in the Sweet 16.
MORE FROM JOE KOTOCH:
TOP SCORERS IN THE NCAA; A CLOSER LOOK
Top 20 Picks: Pre-March Madness
Top 2013 Draft Prospects: Centers
Top 2013 Draft Prospects: Power Forwards
Top 2013 Draft Prospects: Small Forwards
Top 2013 Draft Prospects: Point Guards
Top 2013 Draft Prospects: Shooting Guards
Joe Kotoch is the Editor-in-Chief of Pro Basketball Draft, a leading scouting service in the world of professional basketball. Before Joe created PBD, he served as an NBPA & FIBA certified agent and scouted players all across the world. Born and raised in Cleveland, Joe also contributes to Fox Sports Ohio and the Cleveland Plain Dealer. You can follow Joe on Twitter @Probballdraft.