2024 NBA Draft Combine: Winners and losers

The 2024 NBA Draft Combine has concluded, and as the dust settles in Chicago, we review the most significant winners and losers from this year’s pre-draft event. Despite being considered one of the weakest drafts in recent memory, the combine still plays a crucial role. It helps fringe lottery picks, determines if a player is a late first-rounder or early second-rounder, and boosts the chances of players who might have gone undrafted. With the draft just over a month away, here’s a breakdown of the standout moments and performances from this year’s combine.

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WINNERS

Zach Edey

Doubts about Zach Edey remained, but he exceeded expectations during the measurements and drills at the combine. Edey measured half an inch taller this year, standing at 7-foot-3.75. His three-quarter sprint time was 3.42 seconds, beating Donovan Clingan's 3.46 seconds. While the difference was minimal, Edey demonstrated he is comparable to other big centers like Brook Lopez (3.57 seconds) and DeMarcus Cousins (3.55 seconds). Additionally, he showed similarities to famous perimeter players, such as Khris Middleton (3.47 seconds) and Kevin Durant (3.45 seconds) during their combines. More: Zach Edey: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Stephon Castle

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Everyone on the championship team, except Donovan Clingan , had a solid showing at the NBA Draft Combine, reflecting Dan Hurley 's effective coaching in developing fundamentally sound prospects. Stephon Castle finished third in the on-the-move shooting drill, addressing concerns about his three-point shot. His performance suggested he could effectively play off the ball, even if he isn’t a true point guard. Castle insists he is a point guard, and his measurements were 6-foot-5.5 with a 6-foot-9 wingspan and weighs 210 pounds. Historically, Bernard Robinson , Chris Porter , Buddy Hield , and Terrence Williams exhibited comparable draft combine metrics. More: Stephon Castle: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Alex Karaban

Alex Karaban was measured at 6-foot-6.5 with a 6-foot-11 wingspan and weighs 219 pounds. Historically, Donte Greene , Erik Daniels , Paul George , and Kyle Singler recorded similar draft combine metrics. Karaban excelled in the three-point star, shooting off the dribble, and the side-mid-side shooting drills. He also played strong defense and showcased his offensive versatility.

Tristen Newton

Newton recorded measurements of 6-foot-3.25 with a 6-foot-6.75 wingspan and weighs 191 pounds. Historically, Tony Bobbitt , Malik Beasley , Jared Cunningham , and Jerian Grant had comparable draft combine metrics. Newton posted a Top 5 shuttle run time and tied for seventh in the three-point star drill. Despite his age, Newton appears to be a priority undrafted free agent (UDFA) target for contending teams, likely filling a bench role.

Cam Spencer

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Spencer was listed at 6-foot-3 with a 6-foot-5 wingspan and weighs 201 pounds. Historically, Beno Udrih , Gary Harris , Jahmi’us Ramsey , and Ty Jerome posted comparable draft combine metrics. Spencer finished third in the three-point star drill and second in the shooting off the dribble drill. He demonstrated his rebounding and passing skills, consistently making winning plays.

Devin Carter

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Carter impressed as an athletic marvel, measuring 6-foot-2.25 without shoes with a 6-foot-8.75 wingspan. He set the combine record for the fastest three-quarter court sprint at 2.87 seconds and tied for first in max vertical leap at 42 inches. Carter is known as a defensive, pass-first guard who can score, and his athleticism enhances his potential. More: Devin Carter: NBA draft scouting report and intel

Reed Sheppard

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Sheppard measured 6-foot-1.75 without shoes with a 6-foot-3.25 wingspan. He tied for the best max vertical leap at 42 inches. Historically, Chris Porter and Buddy Hield posted comparable draft combine metrics. Sheppard showcased his clean shooting stroke in the three-point shooting drill and his potential to play both guard positions as a capable defender. More: Reed Sheppard: NBA draft scouting report and intel

LOSERS

Donovan Clingan

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Clingan had a disappointing week showcasing his athleticism. Despite being considered mobile and agile for his size, his measurements and drill times suggested otherwise. Clingan recorded a 29-inch max vertical, ranking third-worst. Historically, John Edwards , Dexter Pittman , Jason Collins , and Jerome Jordan exhibited comparable draft combine metrics. He had a poor performance in lane agility, shuttle run, and three-quarter court sprint. Silver lining is that his athletic testing scores are eerily similar to Rudy Gobert. Clingan tested adequately in the combine shooting drills but there's still questions if his shooting touch is legit. More: Donovan Clingan: NBA Draft scouting report and intel

Rob Dillingham

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Dillingham measured 6-foot-1 without shoes, had a 6-foot-3 wingspan, and weighed 164 pounds. Historically, Seth Curry , Smush Parker , Kyle Guy , and Monte Morris demonstrated comparable draft combine metrics. An NBA executive previously noted the challenges for an undersized combo guard like Dillingham in the NBA. More: Rob Dillingham: NBA draft scouting report and intel

HONORABLE MENTION

Bronny James

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Despite an underwhelming freshman season and a serious heart injury, James had a strong combine. He showed superior athleticism for his height, with a max standing vert tied for sixth-best at 40.5 inches. James finished second in the three-point star shooting drill and demonstrated his skills in scrimmages, showcasing he belonged at the pre-draft event. More: Bronny James: NBA draft scouting report and intel

G LEAGUE ELITE CAMPS AND PORTHSMOUT ATTENDEES

Jesse Edwards

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Edwards' Elite Camp measurements were impressive, standing 6-foot-11.5 with a 7-foot-5 wingspan. Scouts are excited about his shot-blocking and rim-running abilities. Edwards recorded seven points, nine rebounds, and two assists in his first scrimmage, projecting as a high-energy, athletic big man.

Enrique Freeman

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Freeman, a former walk-on, was a standout, measured at 6-foot-7 with a 7-foot-2 wingspan. Historically, Jerami Grant , Tristan Thompson , Darius Bazley , and Larry Nance had similar metrics. Freeman led the scrimmages in total points and ranked in the top two for total steals and blocks, projecting as a combo forward with defensive toughness and floor-spacing ability.

Isaac Jones

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Jones, with a 7-foot-3 wingspan and 9-foot standing reach, showcased his leaping ability and recorded strong performances in scrimmages. His athleticism and motor are intangible assets that make him a promising prospect.

COLLEGE PROSPECTS WITH ELIGIBILITY (IN THE TRANSFER PORTAL)

JT Toppin

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Toppin had a solid freshman season and a strong showing at the combine. With great size at 6-foot-7 and a 7-foot wingspan, he recorded 11 points and 10 rebounds in his first scrimmage. Likely to transfer to a bigger program, Toppin boosted his NIL value.

Coleman Hawkins

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Hawkins, focused on going pro, had a strong second scrimmage, with 17 points, three assists, and five rebounds. In a weak draft class, Hawkins has a good chance of being drafted or securing a two-way contract.

Jaxson Robinson

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Robinson's measurements were unremarkable, but he has a significant wingspan of 6-foot-11.75. Despite struggling with shooting, he managed to score in double digits in both games. Likely to transfer to a blue-blood program, Robinson will use scout feedback to improve his stock.

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