New York Knicks: 2019 NBA Draft targets who stepped up on March 28
Grant Williams, Tennessee
Slash Line: 9-for-16/0-for-2/3-for-5
Stat Line: 21 points, seven rebounds, four assists, two blocks
Ending the tournament on a high note, Grant Williams’ 9-for-16 shooting for 21 points tied his star teammate’s numbers. Along with seven rebounds, four assists and two blocks, he impacted the game across the board.
Williams is an interesting, potential draftee. He became the SEC Player of the Year with 18.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 1.5 blocks as one of this team’s co-stars. A shorter power forward, at 6-foot-7, he arguably plays like a center. The blocks might not match his collegiate total, either, against the more athletic competition.
Maybe Williams returns for his senior season in Knoxville, but right now he’s a potential second-round pick.
Admiral Schofield, Tennessee
Slash Line: 7-for-15/3-for-6/4-for-8
Stat Line: 21 points, nine rebounds, two assists, one steal
The heart and soul of Tennessee, Admiral Schofield closed with college career with 21 points and nine rebounds. His solid shooting night kept head coach Rick Barnes’ team involved all night and contributed to their 18-point comeback in the second half.
Schofield is not this draft’s most athletic player, and he is a big 241 pounds for a 6-foot-6 guard-forward, but the ability to shoot has improved since his freshman year, leading to 41.5 percent on three-pointers in 2018-19.
Schofield plays like the classic “winner.” With toughness and consistent hustle, he will satisfy an NBA team’s front office. Maybe it becomes the New York Knicks personnel.