The freshmen class is part of what makes the 2023 NBA Draft so special. The group of returnees is super solid too, though – I currently have six in the first round of my draft board. Dayton’s DaRon Holmes II is the headliner, up nine spots on the field.
In this profile, we’ll look at why I’m so high on the 6’10” big from Goodyear, Arizona, and where he may end up in June.
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The Good
Offense
- Really active around the rim. Always seems to be in the right position.
- Underrated passer, particularly out of the post.
- Can score with his back to the basket. Has touch.
Defense
- Good rim protector.
- Capable of switching on the perimeter, also good in the PnR.
The Bad
Offense
- Not a jump-shooter at this point.
- The occasional force in the paint.
Defense
I don’t have any complaints about Holmes on the defensive end. He’s an NBA-ready defender with good size, length, and discipline.
Projected Draft Range
Holmes probably won’t go as high as I have him on my board, but I think somewhere in the 20-40 range is very fair. He’ll have a chance at being a first-round pick.
Comparisons
Just like I did in my Amen Thompson Draft Profile, I’m going to use my HoopSocial colleague Jordan Ennis’ comparison here – Amir Johnson. I don’t personally have a comparison that I’m confident in right now, but I will say that I do see some similarities between Holmes and Derrick Favors.
Ideal Fits
Holmes’ game translates and he’ll fit on most teams. Golden State would be fun. Dallas, Denver, and Utah, too.
Zachary Padmore
Zachary Padmore is a self proclaimed “basketball junkie” from New York. He’s also an amateur NBA Draft scout and avid Utah Jazz fan. You can follow him on Twitter at @ZP12Hoops.