Sports & Athletes

Rising Stars: Undrafted NBA Players with High Upside

A curated list of undrafted basketball prospects who have demonstrated exceptional talent, athleticism, and potential to secure roster spots or make significant impacts in the upcoming NBA season. These players showcase the skill sets needed to succeed at the professional level despite not being selected in the draft.

ID: 22469
Items: 20
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Jordan Nwora

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Though initially undrafted, Nwora has proven his worth with the San Antonio Spurs. His versatile scoring ability, improved playmaking, and reliable three-point shooting make him a valuable rotation player with a ceiling as a primary offensive option if given consistent minutes.

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Isaiah Stewart

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Selected via lottery but often grouped with big men who overcame physical stereotypes, Stewart has established himself as a gritty, versatile forward. His defensive versatility, rebounding prowess, and developing mid-range game give him a high ceiling as a modern NBA big man.

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Dwayne Bacon

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An athletic wing who has carved out a niche in the G League and internationally. His ability to finish at the rim and create his own shot allows him to compete for two-way contracts. With improved decision-making, he could contribute as a energetic role player.

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Carsen Edwards

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Known for his explosive scoring burst and confidence, Edwards has earned NBA minutes through sheer offensive firepower. His ability to hit deep threes under pressure makes him a valuable stretch guard, provided he can improve his defensive consistency and ball security.

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Tacko Fall

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The towering center offers a unique defensive presence with his shot-blocking ability and rebounding. While limited offensively, his specialized skills make him a viable two-way contract candidate for teams needing interior defense and rim protection in specific matchups.

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Sasha Vezenkov

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Although he declared for the draft, Vezenkov went undrafted initially due to injury concerns but has since proven his NBA readiness. His all-around game, including rebounding and shooting, gives him a high ceiling as a starting-caliber forward in the right system.

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Mfiondu Kabengele

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A skilled big man with a soft touch and good mobility for his size. He has shown flashes of potential in the NBA G League and as a backup in the league. His ceiling lies in developing a consistent mid-range game to become a reliable rotational forward.

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Theo Maledon

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A French guard with impressive size, passing vision, and defensive potential. Though he was drafted, his early career struggles highlight the upside of undrafted or low-draft-position guards who develop abroad. His athletic profile suggests he can be a starting point guard.

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Deni Avdija

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Drafted but often compared to undrafted international prospects who develop late, Avdija’s size, IQ, and playmaking are elite. His defensive versatility and passing ability give him a high ceiling as a franchise cornerstone or All-Star caliber wing if his shooting improves.

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Lindy Waters III

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A reliable three-point shooter who has found a home with the Oklahoma City Thunder. His spacing ability and defensive awareness make him a valuable role player. With continued consistency, he could evolve into a starting-level wing for contending teams.

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Josh Giddey

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While drafted, Giddey’s development path mirrors that of undrafted guards who refine their skills overseas. His elite playmaking and rebounding for a guard position provide immense upside. Improving his jump shot will determine if he becomes a primary ball-handler.

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Precious Achiuwa

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An athletic forward who has established himself as a key defender and rebounder for the Miami Heat. His energy, transition scoring, and defensive versatility give him a ceiling as a starting small-ball four. Continued offensive development could solidify his role.

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Killian Hayes

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A French point guard with high basketball IQ and playmaking ability. Though undrafted initially in some projections, his international success highlights his potential. If he develops a reliable jump shot, he could become a starting point guard with elite distribution.

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Cody Martin

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An undrafted guard-forward who has carved out a long NBA career with versatility. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute in transition makes him a valuable two-way player. With smart development, he could become a starting wing for playoff teams.

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Skylar Mays

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A tough, intelligent guard who has earned NBA minutes through his defensive intensity and playmaking. His ability to read defenses and make the right pass gives him a ceiling as a reliable backup or spot-starting guard in a motion-heavy offensive system.

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Maxi Kleber

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An undrafted power forward who has become a staple for the Dallas Mavericks. His defensive versatility, shot-blocking, and spacing ability make him an ideal modern big. His ceiling is defined by his reliability and ability to anchor a championship-caliber roster.

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Joe Ingles

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Though not young, Ingles exemplifies the undrafted international success story. His unselfish play, shooting, and basketball IQ allow him to fit seamlessly into complex systems. He continues to provide elite value as a veteran leader and offensive facilitator.

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Dario Saric

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An undrafted forward with a unique skill set that includes shooting, passing, and rebounding. His offensive versatility allows him to play multiple positions. With improved health and consistency, he retains the ceiling to be a starting forward for competitive teams.

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Daryl Macon

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A dynamic scoring guard who has excelled in the G League. His ability to create his own shot and attack the rim makes him a dangerous offensive weapon. If he refines his outside shot and defense, he could earn a stable two-way NBA contract.

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Tre Mann

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While drafted, Mann’s trajectory is relevant to undrafted success stories. His scoring prowess and playmaking are NBA-ready. Improving his efficiency and defensive engagement will determine if he can break through as a consistent starter in the Eastern Conference.