2023 NBA Draft Highlights: Spurs take generational talent, Cavs grab project

The 2023 NBA Draft happened on June 22nd with the San Antonio Spurs receiving the first pick. The Cleveland Cavaliers received the 49th pick and chose Emoni Bates. Bates is a 6-foot 9 inch guard and is coming off averaging a 19.2 points per game season at Eastern Michigan, shooting 40.5% from the field and 33.8% from deep. 

Scoring is his strong suit, but he can also be used defensively, specifically rebounds. He has sixth man potential and it should be interesting to see how the Cavs utilize him.

Download betJACK: Ohio's Sportsbook today to receive 100% bet protection on your first bet up to $500!

The Generational Pick

The Spurs picked Victor Wembanyama of the Metropolitans 92 French basketball club. Wembanyama is regarded as one of the best draft prospects in this generation of players. 

Wenbanyama is huge and generally plays perimeter with his notable mobility and shooting. 

These attributes are pretty unusual for a player of his size. His frame and lack of strength have been pointed out as potential weaknesses, so extremely physical play could be difficult for him to counter. 

Other Highlights Of The Night

The Houston Rockets drafted Amen Thompson as the 4th pick. He’s a 6-foot 7 inch guard who’s quick and has a great vertical leap. Thompson knows how to pressure the rim and combined with Jalen Green, this should be one of the most athletic backcourts in the league. 

The Rockets also drafted Cam Whitmore as the 20th pick. He was supposed to be a top 10 choice, but according to ESPN, fell due to medical issues and some bad interviews. He attacks the rim and provides solid defense and rebounds. 

The Utah Jazz had a solid night drafting Taylor Hendricks as the 9th pick and Keyonte George as the 16th pick. 

Hendricks is a 6-foot 10 inch forward whose versatility should bring equal parts on offense and defense. George is a 6-foot 4 inch guard whose athleticism and control allows him to provide back court support and rim work.