So, you didn't get drafted

The 2023 NBA Draft has come and gone, with only 60 names being called. What now?

Only a limited number of individuals in the world can be a part of the NBA or WNBA. There are professional teams all over the globe, but the top of the basketball world is known to be here in the good ol’ U.S.A. With spots at the top being so limited, what will you do if you don’t make it in?

If being in the NBA or WNBA is your dream, if basketball is your passion, and if you are willing to work, nothing should stop you.

Here is what you do: Get in the gym. Come to The Basketball Movement. Meet with a trainer dedicated to helping take your game as far as possible.

Being at the top of the basketball world doesn’t just happen, not even for freak athletes like Scoot Henderson. It takes WORK. Hundreds of hours in the gym, peak physical condition and then some, and being married to the game.

If you don’t love basketball, the NBA and WNBA aren’t for you. These leagues are not for the faint of heart. The unseen hours required to make it to and stay in these leagues is a barrier to entry that few can hurdle.

So you didn’t get drafted? You aren’t working hard enough. You must have a fire to make it to the Association, and there is nothing The Basketball Movement does better than stoke that fire. If you have the work ethic, we have the work. Strength and conditioning, skill development/maintenance, film study, and more await you within the doors of the basketball mecca of the Midwest.

Our own Rob Yanders’ first-hand experience at multiple levels of the pro circuit, mixed with the passion all our staff possesses, is a recipe for elevating you to reach your potential. Reach out to us, and we will ensure you won’t regret it. You may find out this road is too hard for you, or you may just let us help you to your ultimate destination. We’re excited to find out with you.

Alfonso Plummer's NBA pre-draft workout

The Basketball Movement’s Wil Harrington caught up with Alfonso Plummer after his NBA pre-draft workout for the Cleveland Cavaliers.

June 23rd will be the 76th edition of the annual NBA Draft. The Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, will once again host the event. Hopeful prospects worldwide will wait with bated breath to see if their lives will be changed forever. Puerto Rico’s Alfonso Plummer is one of those hopeful young men.

Finishing his collegiate career at Illinois, Plummer is a sharpshooter with an excellent, well-rounded game for his stature. He is strong, savvy, and on the radar of several NBA squads. His work with Rob Yanders and The Basketball Movement has helped take his game to the next level.

Long-time blog author and social media manager for The Basketball Movement, Wil Harrington, caught up with Plummer to talk about his recent workout for the Cavaliers:

WH: How would you say the Cavs workout went for you?

AP: It went great. They reached out to my agent right after and said that they liked what they saw, which definitely seems like a good sign.

WH: Were you surprised by anything they threw your way during the workout?

AP: I feel like my work with Rob (Yanders) has helped me be ready for any situation. They try to get you tired and then do one-on-one and three-on-three work. I was prepared.

WH: So it was pretty conditioning-focused then?

AP: Yeah, the whole workout was conditioning-focused. It was intense and pretty hard. At the end, we did a conditioning drill where we had to make ten baskets in different ways in under a minute. I did it, so I am proud of my conditioning - I am definitely where I need to be. Only two out of the six guys there made it.

WH: Any more workouts scheduled? I guess we are getting down to the wire for that.

AP: No, that was it. The other teams know my game too and know my shooting, so that will have to speak for itself.

Plummer has a great shot at making it to the Association via the draft. If not, he knows where to put in work to make it another way. With Rob Yanders in our corner, you cannot be counted out. Good luck, Alfonso! We will be tuned in and rooting for you!

NBA prospect - Payton Willis

Minnesota Golden Gopher Payton Willis has declared for the NBA draft and has Rob Yanders in his corner.

Rob Yanders is a name that has circulated among basketball elite across North America as a trainer that can genuinely maximize potential. Those that have their sights aimed at the top understand this and seek out “the basketball Mecca of the Midwest” - The Basketball Movement.

Payton Willis is one such player.

Declared for the NBA Draft, Payton Willis has an impressive resume that will only improve as he hones his skills here in Southwest Missouri.

“I guess I’ve been a bit of a journeyman,” Willis says. “I have been to Vanderbilt, Charleston, and Minnesota. I wound up with half my college career at Minnesota.” Willis rounded out his collegiate career nicely as a Minnesota Golden Gopher but soaked up each stop along the way.

“I got to experience beautiful cities and schools,” Willis says. “(Each program had) different styles and coaches, and my role changed some, but basketball is basketball.” Having experienced several programs, Willis is uniquely suited for the ever-changing atmosphere of pro hoops.

Last year, the 6 foot 4 Willis averaged 15/6/4  for his squad, demonstrating his ability to contribute across the board.

“I defended three different positions and see myself as a versatile player,” Willis says. “I have been a shooting and playmaking specialist, but I can fit any role a team puts me in.”

Currently, Payton Willis is working on becoming efficient from NBA (3pt) range and tightening his handles. These are just a couple of examples of areas Robert Yanders and his team specialize in. Willis says his time around Yanders has been “great.”

“Obviously (Yanders) has a super nice facility and great workout equipment,” Willis says. “He does super tough workouts, which have definitely been developing my game. The best part is mentorship; I am taking every tip and making sure I’m running with it.”

Willis is applying these lessons rapidly, as he has already had a few NBA workouts with more on the horizon.

The Atlanta Hawks and championship contending Golden State Warriors have already worked out Willis, with the up-and-coming Timberwolves on deck. We asked Payton how these workouts usually shake out.

“(The workouts) are super conditioning based,” Willis says. “They get you tired and then see who wins one-on-one or three-on-three. They know your game already, but they want to see who is strong mentally or who has been putting in the time to be in the best shape possible.”

Willis wants to make sure that decision-makers for these NBA teams know that he is a winner. “I try to be a great guy on and off the court,” Willis says. “I am going to fit in wherever and do whatever is asked of me.”

As anyone that has worked with Rob Yanders can attest, Payton Willis is certainly battle-tested. We wish him the best!

Around the NBA: 2021 Draft recap

The 2021 NBA Draft is in the books — Who went where, and how does this year’s draft class stack up?

Coming out of a strange year for not only NCAA basketball but hoops around the world, the young men in the 2021 NBA Draft have had an interesting road to get here. From the number one pick to the final selection, dreams were realized last night, and we love to see it.

Not everyone gets to achieve their dreams, and unfortunately, not everyone even gets a fair chance.

In the kind of classy move we have come to expect from the modern NBA, Commissioner Adam Silver had some nice words for Terrance Clark. This Kentucky standout was expected to be a lottery pick but tragically lost his life in a car accident earlier this year.

Overall the tone of the evening was back to what we are used to from an NBA Draft. There was a consistent, exciting buzz as players and their families experienced elation. Trades and unexpected picks were occurring throughout. Fans and analysts wonder if they just drafted the next Giannis Antetokounmpo or Luka Doncic. We are excited to find out.

We have had the privilege of covering some of these players (such as Cameron Thomas, pick 27 above, and Sharife Cooper, pick 48 below). The number of unseen hours packed into this list is staggering and one of our favorite parts here at The Basketball Movement. Hard work pays off.

Below is how things shook out:

First Round:

  1. Detroit Pistons: Cade Cunningham, G, Oklahoma State

  2. Houston Rockets: Jalen Green, G, G League Ignite

  3. Cleveland Cavaliers: Evan Mobley, F/C, USC

  4. Toronto Raptors: Scottie Barnes, F, Florida State

  5. Orlando Magic: Jalen Suggs, G, Gonzaga

  6. Oklahoma City Thunder: Josh Giddey, G, Australia

  7. Golden State Warriors (from Timberwolves): Jonathan Kuminga, F, G League Ignite

  8. Orlando Magic (from Bulls): Franz Wagner, F, Michigan

  9. Sacramento Kings: Davion Mitchell, G, Baylor

  10. Memphis Grizzlies (from Pelicans): Ziaire Williams, G, Stanford

  11. Charlotte Hornets: James Bouknight, G, UConn

  12. San Antonio Spurs: Joshua Primo, G, Alabama

  13. Indiana Pacers: Chris Duarte, G, Oregon

  14. Golden State Warriors: Moses Moody, G/F, Arkansas

  15. Washington Wizards: Corey Kispert, F, Gonzaga

  16. Houston Rockets (from Celtics via Thunder): Alperen Sengun, C, Turkey

  17. New Orleans Pelicans (from Grizzlies): Trey Murphy, G, Virginia

  18. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Heat): Tre Mann, G, Florida

  19. Charlotte Hornets (from Knicks): Kai Jones, F/C, Texas

  20. Atlanta Hawks: Jalen Johnson, F, Duke

  21. Los Angeles Clippers (from Mavericks via Knicks): Keon Johnson, G/F, Tennessee

  22. Indiana Pacers (from Lakers via Wizards): Isaiah Jackson, F, Kentucky

  23. Houston Rockets (from Trail Blazers): Usman Garuba, F, Spain

  24. Houston Rockets (from Bucks): Josh Christopher, G, Arizona State

  25. New York Knicks (from Clippers): Quentin Grimes, G, Houston

  26. Denver Nuggets: Nah’Shon “Bones” Hyland, G, VCU

  27. Brooklyn Nets: Cameron Thomas, G, LSU

  28. Philadelphia 76ers: Jaden Springer, G, Tennessee

  29. Brooklyn Nets (from Suns): Day’Ron Sharpe, C, North Carolina

  30. Memphis Grizzlies (from Jazz): Santi Aldama, F/C, Loyola (MD)

    Second Round:

  31. Washington Wizards (from Rockets via Bucks and Pacers): Isaiah Todd, F, G League Ignite

  32. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Pistons via Knicks): Jeremiah Robinson-Earl, F, Villanova

  33. Los Angeles Clippers (from Magic): Jason Preston, G, Ohio

  34. New York Knicks (from Thunder): Rokas Jokubaitis, G, Lithuania

  35. New Orleans Pelicans (from Cavaliers): Herb Jones, F, Alabama

  36. New York Knicks (from Timberwolves via Thunder): Miles McBride, G, West Virginia

  37. Charlotte Hornets (from Raptors via Pistons): JT Thor, F, Auburn

  38. Chicago Bulls (from Pelicans): Ayo Dosunmu, G, Illinois

  39. Sacramento Kings: Neemias Queta, C, Utah State

  40. Utah Jazz (from Bulls via Pelicans and Grizzlies): Jared Butler, G, Baylor

  41. San Antonio Spurs: Joe Wieskamp, F, Iowa

  42. Detroit Pistons (from Hornets): Isaiah Livers, F, Michigan

  43. Portland Trail Blazers (from Wizards via Pelicans): Greg Brown, F, Texas

  44. Brooklyn Nets (from Pacers): Kessler Edwards, F, Pepperdine

  45. Boston Celtics: Juhann Begarin, G, France

  46. Toronto Raptors (from Grizzlies): Dalano Banton, G, Nebraska

  47. Toronto Raptors (from Warriors): David Johnson, G, Louisville

  48. Atlanta Hawks (from Heat): Sharife Cooper, G, Auburn

  49. Brooklyn Nets (from Hawks): Marcus Zegarowski, G, Creighton

  50. Philadelphia 76ers (from Knicks): Filip Petrusev, F, Serbia

  51. Los Angeles Clippers (from Trail Blazers via Grizzlies and Pelicans): Brandon Boston, G, Kentucky

  52. Detroit Pistons (from Lakers): Luka Garza, C, Iowa

  53. Philadelphia 76ers (from Mavericks via Pelicans): Charles Bassey, C, Western Kentucky

  54. Milwaukee Bucks (via Pacers): Sandro Mamukelashvili, C, Seton Hall

  55. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Nuggets): Aaron Wiggins, G/F, Maryland

  56. Charlotte Hornets (from Clippers): Scottie Lewis, G, Florida

  57. Detroit Pistons (from Nets via Hornets): Balsa Koprivica, C, Florida State

  58. New York Knicks (from Sixers): Jericho Sims, F, Texas

  59. Brooklyn Nets (from Suns): RaiQuan Gray, F, Florida State

  60. Milwaukee Bucks (from Jazz via Pacers): Georgios Kalaitzakis, G, Greece

Around the NBA: 2020 NBA Draft recap

Ahead of an unusual NBA season that starts in just over a month, the 2020 NBA Draft was held last night.

If you think the NBA Draft happening in November seems off, you would definitely be correct. Normally the regular season would be underway by now. With the long hiatus that halted last season for six months before resuming with the seeding games and Playoffs of the Orlando Bubble, things did not end until October.

This will be the shortest offseason in US professional sports history; the Miami Heat and Champion LA Lakers only get 71 days off, not including training camps. Those that did not make the bubble requirements on the other hand will have been off for roughly 258 days.

All this to say the 2020 NBA Draft was squeezed into this tight window at an unusual time of year. With a month to prepare, these incoming rookies will need to learn quickly.

Dust is still settling as many draft-night trades are still being finalized. Of the 60 players drafted, over 20 of those players landed on different teams due to trades. While this is a roller coaster night for these young men, it is undeniable that many lives were changed for the better as dreams were achieved.

The full official draft board is below, though it does not reflect the trades. The first trade occurred with the 16th pick.

Though you never truly know which players will rise to the top of a draft class, there was a consensus that the top three players all possessed elite potential, just at different positions. Anthony Edwards is a freak athlete and will come in with a pro game from day one.

James Wiseman fills the center role for the Warriors with a great inside game, the ability to run the floor, and the potential to be an impactful pro rim protector. LaMelo Ball may be the most talented player in the draft, though he has plenty to prove on defense and with his long-distance consistency. No reason he cannot be an elite distributor immediately.

Last night, LaMelo Ball being drafted three meant it was the first time brothers (Lonzo Ball, second overall in 2017) were both drafted in the top five.

As we mentioned, the cream of the crop will rise to the top in time, so we will see where the real steals occurred. Patrick Williams at four and the explosive Isaac Okoro at five will immediately become impact players. Obi Toppin will get plenty of run with the Knicks and establish a highlight reel early. Deni Avdija will open eyes in Washington as a bit of a sleeper, even at nine overall.

Tyrese Haliburton, Cole Anthony, Isaiah Stewart, and Tyrese Maxey are a few more high potential names to remember.

As far as other notable trades that have been going on, there are a few too many to keep track of in this short blog! Chris Paul to Phoenix is the biggest move so far, with the OKC Thunder cashing in most of their new assets for even more future draft picks.

Dennis Schroder is off to the Lakers, with the Thunder flipping Danny Green for Al Horford and a couple of the 76ers picks. The Bucks are making moves in an attempt to entice Giannis Antetokounmpo to stay. They sold the farm to get Jrue Holiday from New Orleans. Milwaukee also thought they were getting Bogdan Bogdanovic from Sacramento, but he has since opted to become a free agent.

Unfortunately, the biggest news trending now is that Klay Thompson tore his other ACL and will miss the upcoming season. The good news is that he is expected to make a full recovery.

That is it for now, but the new 72 game season is right around the corner, slated to begin December 21st. Merry Christmas to all! Stay tuned for more basketball news, tips, and updates on all the movement!

So you didn't get drafted

The 2019 NBA Draft has come and gone with only 60 names being called. What now?

Only a limited number of individuals in the world can be a part of the NBA or WNBA. There are professional teams all over the globe, but the top of the basketball world is known to be here in the good ol’ U.S.A. With spots at the top being so limited, what are you to do if you don’t make it in?

If being in the NBA or WNBA is your dream, if basketball is your passion, and if you are willing to work, nothing should stop you.

Here is what you do: Get in the gym. Come to The Basketball Movement. Meet with a trainer that is dedicated to helping take your game as far as it can possibly go. We saw the snippets of the NBA Draft’s top pick, Zion Williamson - when he was four, he wanted to be the top player in the nation. By nine, he was getting up hundreds of jumpers every day.

Being at the top of the basketball world doesn’t just happen; not even for freak athletes like Zion. It takes WORK. Hundreds of hours in the gym, peak physical condition and then some, and being married to the game.

If you don’t love basketball, the NBA and WNBA aren’t for you. These leagues are not for the faint of heart. The unseen hours that are required to make it to, and stay in these leagues is a barrier to entry that not many can hurdle.

So you didn’t get drafted? You aren’t working hard enough. You must have a fire to make it to the Association and there is nothing The Basketball Movement does better than stoke that fire. If you have the work ethic, we have the work. Strength and conditioning, skill development/maintenance, film study and more await you within the doors of the basketball mecca of the Midwest.

Our own Rob Yanders’ first-hand experience at multiple levels of the pro circuit mixed with the passion all our staff possesses is a recipe for elevating you to reach your potential. Reach out to us and we will make sure you won’t regret it. You may find out this road is too hard for you, or you may just let us help you all the way down the road to your ultimate destination. We’re excited to find out with you.

Tonight: The 2019 NBA Draft

The millionth-ish annual NBA Draft begins tonight - Here is what you need to know about the 2019 edition.

Even with the recent conclusion of the 2019 NBA Finals, the Association has remained abuzz with trades, rumors, and talk of the upcoming NBA Draft. For many of us, basketball has been a 365 day-per-year focus for a while now. More and more, the NBA alone is a year-round event.

With trades continuing to roll in, (recently Mike Conely Jr. from Memphis to Utah for Kyle Korver, Grayson Allen, Jae Crowder, this year’s 23rd pick, and another future first-rounder) focus is firmly on the draft. The biggest trade after the season ended sent superstar Anthony Davis to the Lakers for Lonzo Ball, Josh Hart, Brandon Ingram, and three first-round picks, including number four overall tonight. This trade is noteworthy as it greatly affects tonight’s draft.

Lakerland is focused on winning now, as any team boasting LeBron James should be. The New Orleans Pelicans now have young talent to build around, which they will be able to do right away.

New Orleans will likely select consensus top-talent, Zion Williamson of Duke first overall. Now, they get to select another impressive talent to pair with him since they appear to have control of the number four pick technically still owned by the Lakers. The pick is expected to be Jarrett Culver or De’Andre Hunter to pair with Williamson. Darius Garland will be in the mix as well.

The Grizzlies and Knicks pick number two and three, respectively. Those picks are expected to be Ja Morant of Murray State or RJ Barrett out of Duke.

Below is a mock draft example taken directly from ESPN (that was before the AD to LA deal):

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These player rankings are speculation and it is wild how close to the moment these teams often change their minds. There is plenty of reason to believe there will be picks traded throughout the night as well, starting with that new number four overall pick.

It will be interesting to see how everything shakes out as so many young men see their dreams come true. 60 players will be selected - not all will go straight to the association, as many will wind up in the G-League, etc. Either way, they are all moving one step closer to the ultimate basketball dream and we wish them the best!

Around the NBA: Draft lottery, Conference Championships, and Beilein

Tonight is the NBA Draft Lottery, meaning the future of several franchises hang in the balance.

Two Around the NBA articles back-to-back? It must be your lucky day. Or, it could just be a busy time around the association. The Eastern and Western Conference Championships have been highly anticipated and the draft lottery has been on the calendar for a long time. We did however receive some interesting news from one of the organizations vying for a top pick.

The Cleveland Cavaliers made a surprising announcement yesterday. They have hired former Michigan coach, John Beilein. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported via Twitter that Beilein and the Cavs have agreed to a five-year deal.

At 65 years old, the contract could very well take Beilein right into retirement once his obligation is complete. The Cavs cited character as a large reason for the decision and referred to Beilein as a “culture driver.” In his 39 seasons as a coach at the collegiate level, he has had much success, especially leading the Michigan Wolverines over the last five years.

NBA Draft Lottery

Tonight is the night that teams around the NBA will learn where they will be picking in the 2019 Draft. The lottery will be televised on ESPN starting at 7:30pm (CST).

With a strong consensus for the number one selection in Zion Williamson, the order will have a big impact on the landscape of the NBA for years to come. The second selection will likely be Ja Morant or RJ Barrett, depending on team needs. The third of the Duke freshman trio, Cam Reddish is projected at seven. Darius Garland and NCAA Champion De’Andre Hunter are currently projected as the fourth and fifth picks, respectively.

A few picks have already been traded some time ago and could shift depending on tonight’s lottery. For example, if the Dallas Maverick’s pick is outside the top five, they owe it to the Hawks. Per ESPN: “If not conveyed, the pick remains top-five protected in 2020, falls to top-three protected until 2022 and becomes unprotected in 2023.”

ESPN lists the odds for each team as shown below:

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Conference Championships

In addition to the draft lottery, tonight also marks the start of the NBA Conference Championships. Beginning at 8:00pm (CST) on ESPN, the Portland Trail Blazers travel to take on the Golden State Warriors. The Western Conference Championship is still Golden State’s to lose, though they will be without Kevin Durant due to injury, at least for the first game or two.

In Portland’s game 7 win over Denver on Sunday, they proved that on the rare occasion that Damian Lillard is not scoring in loads, they can still stay afloat. CJ McCollum carried the Blazers in that game 7, but will have his hands full with Klay Thompson this round.

The Eastern Conference Championship begins tomorrow with the Toronto Raptors coming to the United States to take on the Bucks in Milwaukee. The draw to this series should be self-explanatory. Giannis Antetokounmpo vs. Kawhi Leonard. The Greek Freak vs. The Klaw. This game is a true test of superiority for the Eastern Conference and should be thrilling throughout.

That should have you pretty caught-up on what’s happening Around the NBA. Keep checking back with us and follow along on Twitter as we continue to break down the action!

Zion Williamson is headed to the NBA

Zion Williamson has officially declared for the 2019 NBA Draft; he isn’t the only Duke Blue Devil either.

A couple weeks ago, we highlighted the early names that had declared for the NBA Draft or were at least testing the waters. That list was headlined by Murray State’s Ja Morant, who figures to be picked in or around the top three. Now, we are starting to see those other names at the top fill in as well.

The list of names of players that have declared has gotten long, so it may not be worth listing here. What you mostly need to know is that Zion Williamson has officially entered the fray.

Duke freshman Zion Williamson has been on this path for years. We started hearing about him from high school dunk highlights, but he really exploded on the national scene while playing for a stacked, but young team for Coach Mike Krzyzewski. Being built like a tank while maintaining athleticism has helped set him apart. We at The Basketball Movement also know that this has taken years of incredibly hard work, so, congrats to Williamson for making his dreams a reality.

As great as Zion is, he not the only Duke freshman looking to explode onto the NBA scene. RJ Barrett has also declared for the draft now and will likely be picked at two or three alongside the aforementioned, Ja Morant. Cam Reddish has also officially declared. While he had a comparatively quiet season with Duke, he is still an undeniable, elite talent.

A standout from the NCAA championship game, De’Andre Hunter of Virginia has declared along with teammate, Kyle Guy. Other big names like Darius Garland, Bol Bol, Devon Dotson, Quentin Grimes, Tyler Herro, Keldon Johnson, Romeo Langford, Nassir Little, EJ Montgomery, Kevin Porter Jr., Semisola Shittu, and Coby White, have also declared in addition to some overseas talent.

We will be bringing you draft reports and are as excited as you are to see these guys in action. Until then, the NBA Playoffs are underway, so keep an eye out for more news from all levels of the game of basketball!

Ja Morant headlines list of players declared for the 2019 NBA Draft

NCAA underclassmen must declare before April 22nd to be eligible for the 2019 NBA Draft.

If these NCAA players opt to withdraw their declaration and return to college, they have until May 29th to do so. The NBA Draft Combine runs from May 16-20. So, we are still early in the window of declaration, but things are getting real with NCAA March Madness standout, Ja Morant throwing his hat into the ring.

As it stands today, Murray State’s Ja Morant would be projected at or around the second overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft. The consensus number one pick is still Duke’s Zion Williamson by a decent margin. Williamson has yet to declare, and his fellow Duke teammates have not either. Don’t worry; they will. Fellow freshman, RJ Barrett is projected to be picked in the top three with Zion and Ja.

Those players that have declared have likely signed with agents. How college students can afford professional agents is an article for another day.

Below is the list of declared players as it stands right now (per Yahoo! Sports):

Tyus Battle, Syracuse

Bol Bol, Oregon

Ky Bowman, Boston College

Daniel Gafford, Arkansas

Darius Garland, Vanderbilt

Dewan Henandez, Miami

Nassir Little, UNC

Jalen McDaniels, San Diego State

Ja Morant, Murray State

Shamorie Ponds, St. John’s

Naz Reid, LSU

Simi Shittu, Vanderbilt

Coby White, UNC

Kris Wilks, UCLA

The same Yahoo! Sports page names the following players as still “Testing the water.” This means that the players have declared to gauge interest, but have likely not gone so far as to hire agents and or go all-in.

Jordan Bone, Tennessee

Oshae Brissett, Syracuse

Charlie Brown, Saint Joseph’s

Amir Coffey, Minnesota

Steve Enoch, Louisville

Talen Horton-Tucker, Iowa State

Nathan Knight, William & Mary

Sagaba Konate, West Virginia

Jalen LeQue, N.C. State

Jaden Nwora, Louisville

Miye Oni, Yale

Reggie Perry, Mississippi State

Isaiah Reese, Canisius

Derrik Smits, Valparaiso

Jimmy Whitt, SMU

With the likes of ZIon absent from this list, you know that there are many names still on their way. It is still exciting to see players such as Ja Morant, Nassir Little, and Bol Bol already on here. As we near the April 22nd deadline, many of the names you are hearing amidst the March Madness will start to pop up.

You know we will keep you up-to-date if anything big happens leading up to the combine and the 2019 NBA Draft. Remember to follow us on Twitter @BBall_Movement, Instagram, and like us on Facebook to stay in the know!

2018 NBA Draft pick Alize Johnson - The Basketball Movement

Missouri State Alum Alize Johnson talks with The Basketball Movement after being selected in the 2018 NBA Draft.

The first Missouri State Bear selected in the NBA Draft since Winston Garland (1987), Alize Johnson is a versatile threat destined for professional basketball at the highest level. No stranger to The Basketball Movement, we had the opportunity to talk to him after the draft.

Fans of Missouri State basketball are very familiar with Alize's game. He is a capable scorer and is a 20-rebound threat despite his versatility as a stretch-big. With the size and quickness to guard multiple positions, he was coveted by several NBA teams.

Alize Johnson has had a very busy Summer, working out with 12 NBA teams all over the country. He said that it was a "Dream come true" being in all of those facilities and meeting the personnel.

Players or fans alike would recognize another versatile big man named Johnson that Alize got to meet recently. "Meeting Magic Johnson in LA was not normal" Alize said. "I had to act normal, but to meet someone on his level with his experience... it was definitely cool."

He has encountered players at all levels on his journey. He said of his fellow draftee, Dante DiVincenzo that he was not surprised in the least that he went 17th. He also mentioned De'Aaron Fox, who was drafted last season but is technically younger than Alize. "He has been great to defend this offseason. I've learned where I need to be in my lateral movement from his speed."

The Draft

Hearing your name selected in the NBA draft is an incredible accomplishment for basketball players from every corner of the world. In case he was not tired of answering the question already, we asked Alize what it felt like to get drafted:

“It felt like a dream. I have worked extremely hard and been through a lot with my family. It was an emotional night, but now I’m looking forward to getting to play with the best players in the world.”
— Alize Johnson

When asked what the next step is for him, Alize explained that NBA Summer League is the next big moment. "I'm learning plays and getting a feel for how they want to use me" Alize said. He aims to impress them with his ability to fill any role on the floor. He says he would be comfortable at the 3 or 4 position - whatever the team needs.

He said he is currently working on conditioning and getting back to being a knock-down three-point shooter like he was his Junior year at MSU. Speaking of putting in work...

Alize Johnson and The Basketball Movement

His time at Missouri State is what led to meeting Rob Yanders and working out at The Basketball Movement. He said that he heard this is where local guys came to get great workouts.

“Rob is a great guy - very genuine. He can explain how to work out efficiently for you specifically. He’s a great trainer but an even better dude.”
— Alize Johnson on Rob Yanders

As it is often goes with time spent at The Basketball Movement, it is easier to show you the work than to explain it in words. Check out the video below for some of the work Alize Johnson put in here at The Movement.

Asked to give advice to The Basketball Movement's up-and-comers on how to get your name called in the draft, he had a few simple tips.

Our personal favorite is "Use Rob." Alize explained that Rob has played as a professional and had players come through his doors from the highest level. Having such a resource here in the Midwest is a great way for players to get ahead.

Beyond that, Johnson spoke on the importance of character and leaning on whatever religion you may follow. He said to remain humble, but also to work extremely hard.

If working "extremely hard" doesn't scare you off of your path to the top, contact The Basketball Movement to get to work right away.

We wish our friend, Alize Johnson the best of luck in the NBA! Summer League in Vegas starts tonight with all games televised on either NBA TV, ESPN, or ESPN U, so don't forget to tune in!

2018 NBA Draft recap

The 2018 NBA Draft is done and a fresh crop of talent has entered the world's best basketball league.

Last season's rookie class is already looking like one of the best NBA draft classes ever. Many might have assumed that this following draft may be a bit on the weaker side, but talent was not in short supply once more.

Much of the draft played out as expected, though there were a few surprises. Deandre Ayton out of Arizona went number one overall to the Phoenix Suns as expected. The Sacramento Kings had seemed unsure about who to take at two, but went for Marvin Bagley out of Duke.

Euro superstar Luka Doncic was selected third by the Atlanta Hawks, but was traded to the Dallas Mavericks for Trae Young (selected fifth) and a future first round pick. Jaren Jackson Jr. of Michigan State went fourth to Memphis.

Texas standout Mohamed "Mo" Bamba went to Orlando with the sixth pick and Wendell Carter of Duke went seventh to the Bulls.

Villanova star Mikal Bridges went tenth to Philly. He and his family were gushing about staying home, only to be traded a short while later to the Charlotte Hornets. So goes the business of the NBA. Mikal's Villanova teammate and NCAA Tournament MVP Donte DiVencenzo went 17th to the Milwaukee Bucks.

One surprise was the draft-day slide of Mizzou's Michael Porter Jr. to Denver with the 14th pick. Injuries might have scared off other teams, but he could be a real value at 14.

Friend of The Basketball Movement, Missouri State's Alize Johnson was selected in the second round by the Indiana Pacers at 50. Johnson is the first MSU player selected in the NBA draft since Winston Garland in 1987. Congrats, Alize!

A few other noteworthy picks were Grayson Allen at 21, Mortiz Wagner at 25, and Kostas Antetokounmpo (Giannis' little brother) at 60 - the last pick.

There is a lot of promise in these young guys - it will be another fun Summer and season ahead. Keep an eye out here soon, as we talk with Alize about his experiences and expectations going forward.

Congratulations to all those drafted. For those who weren't, you've got next. We'd love to help.

 

NBA 2018 draft lottery order revealed

The Phoenix Suns are set to select first in the 2018 draft. Who will they take?

In the NBA draft, the first 14 picks are determined by their lottery system. Phoenix had about a 25 percent chance to come away with the top pick in this year's draft. The odds held true for them, while there were a couple of variances in the order.

Statistically, Memphis had an excellent chance at picking second or at least third. It was the Sacramento Kings that lucked into the second spot, however. The Atlanta Hawks also moved up, sliding into third by luck of the draw.

Memphis joins Dallas as the two "losers" of the lottery that were bumped down further than expected, though both retain top-5 selections. The draft order is below:

1: Phoenix Suns
2: Sacramento Kings
3: Atlanta Hawks
4: Memphis Grizzlies
5: Dallas Mavericks
6: Orlando Magic
7: Chicago Bulls
8: Cleveland Cavaliers (via Brooklyn Nets)
9: New York Knicks
10: Philadelphia 76ers (via L.A. Lakers)
11: Charlotte Hornets
12: L.A. Clippers (via Detroit Pistons)
13: L.A. Clippers
14: Denver Nuggets

Top basketball prospects in the world will be selected

This year's draft class looks strong, though it will have a tough act to follow after the dominant display by last year's crop of rookies.

The Phoenix Suns are expected to take Deandre Ayton from Arizona to fill there need for a reliable big man. However, their hiring of head coach Igor Kokoskov could suggest that they take European standout Luka Doncic. Kokoskov coached Doncic for the Slovenian national team.

Ayton's size and skill versus Doncic's savvy and athleticism will be an interesting comparison in this draft and likely years to come. The Kings will likely be thrilled to select the whichever player Phoenix leaves on the board.

Potential abounds for all of the remaining teams in the form of Duke's Marvin Bagley, Texas' Mo Bamba, OU's Trae Young, and more.

The draft is scheduled for June 21st. The Basketball Movement will continue to track the draft and it's prospects, so keep it locked right here.

Players that have declared for the 2018 NBA draft

Hundreds of college players and multiple overseas prospects have already declared for the NBA draft.

The NBA draft only has two rounds with 30 picks apiece. So, only 60 of these prospects will actually be selected in the 2018 NBA draft. Certainly worth a shot if you think you have even an outside chance.

Draft time is also excellent for getting yourself in front of NBA teams and scouts, as they will host workouts and combines. There is also the Summer league, so even if you are not a lottery pick in the draft, you can be invited to play and test your skills against NBA or near-NBA level talent.

Players like Villanova's Donte Divincenzo's draft NBA draft stock will never be higher, so stay heads up for some big names declaring sooner than later.

As mentioned, hundreds of hopefuls have already declared. There are likely more to keep popping up in the coming weeks. The 2018 draft is not until June, so this is not a draft preview. Now is just the time for players to put themselves on the map. Let's check out some of the top prospects from ESPN's top 100.

Top 100 underclassmen or internationals who have declared for the draft and foregone college eligibility.

Top 100 Prospects: In

PLAYER, YEAR, TEAM, HT, POS

Deandre Ayton, Freshman, Arizona, 7-0, C

Jaren Jackson Jr., Freshman, Michigan St., 6-11, PF/C

Marvin Bagley III, Freshman, Duke, 6-11, PF/C

Mohamed Bamba, Freshman, Texas, 7-0, C

Michael Porter Jr., Freshman, Missouri, 6-10, SF/PF

Trae Young, Freshman, Oklahoma, 6-2, PG

Collin Sexton, Freshman, Alabama, 6-2, PG

Miles Bridges, Sophomore, Michigan St., 6-6, SF/PF

Robert Williams, Sophomore, Texas A&M, 6-10, C

Kevin Knox, Freshman, Kentucky, 6-9, SF/PF

Lonnie Walker IV, Freshman, Miami FL, 6-4, SG

Mitchell Robinson, Freshman, None, 6-11, C

Keita Bates-Diop, Junior, Ohio St, 6-7, PF

Aaron Holiday, Junior, UCLA, 6-1, PG

Troy Brown, Freshman, Oregon, 6-7, SG

Anfernee Simons, HS Senior, IMG Academy, 6-4, SG

De'Anthony Melton, Junior, USC, 6-3, PG/SG

Shake Milton, Junior, SMU, 6-6, PG/SG

Chimezie Metu, Junior, USC, 6-10, PF/C

Justin Jackson, Sophomore, Maryland, 6-7, SF/PF

Landry Shamet, Sophomore, Wichita St., 6-4, PG

Malik Newman, Sophomore, Kansas, 6-4, PG/SG

Tony Carr, Sophomore, Penn St., 6-3, PG

Trevon Duval, Freshman, Duke, 6-3, PG

Ray Spalding, Junior, Louisville, 6-10, PF

Brandon McCoy, Freshman, UNLV, 6-11, C

Rawle Alkins, Sophomore, Arizona, 6-5, SG

Allonzo Trier, Junior, Arizona, 6-5, SG

Billy Preston, Freshman, Igokea, 6-10, PF

Matur Maker, International, Mississauga Prep, 6-10, C

 

Top 100 underclassmen who have declared for the draft but can still withdraw.

Top 100 Prospects: Testing

PLAYER, YEAR, TEAM, HT, POS

Zhaire Smith, Freshman, Texas Tech, 6-5, SF

Jacob Evans, Junior, Cincinnati, 6-6, SG/SF

Bruce Brown, Sophomore, Miami FL, 6-3, SG

Melvin Frazier, Junior, Tulane, 6-6, SF

Jontay Porter, Freshman, Missouri, 6-10, C

Jerome Robinson, Junior, Boston College, 6-5, PG

Jalen Hudson, Junior, Florida, 6-5, SG

PJ Washington, Freshman, Kentucky, 6-8, PF

Josh Okogie, Sophomore, Georgia Tech, 6-4, SG

Jarrey Foster, Junior, SMU, 6-6, SG

Shamorie Ponds, Sophomore, St. John's, 6-1, PG

Sagaba Konate, Sophomore, West Virginia, 6-8, C

Kerwin Roach, Junior, Texas, 6-3, SG

Kris Wilkes, Freshman, UCLA, 6-7, SF/PF

Carsen Edwards, Sophomore, Purdue, 6-0, PG

Issuf Sanon, International, Olimpija Ljubljana, 6-4, PG/SG

Lindell Wigginton, Freshman, Iowa St., 6-2, PG

Kostas Antetokounmpo, Freshman, Dayton, 6-10, SF

Ethan Happ, Junior, Wisconsin, 6-10, PF/C

Terence Davis, Junior, Mississippi, 6-4, SG

Cody Martin, Junior, Nevada, 6-7, SF

William McDowell-White, International, Bamberg, 6-5, PG

Caleb Martin, Junior, Nevada, 6-7, SF

And more! ESPN has a comprehensive list of the undecided players and player that are automatically eligible due to being seniors.

There are still plenty of undecided players, such as Villanova's DiVincenzo and Mikal Bridges. A few noteworth seniors that have yet to officially declare are Duke's Grayson Allen and Missouri State's Alize Johnson. The most notable prospect outside of the top 100 has to be LiAngelo Ball, who is currently playing in Lithuania.

These list are of course subject to change. The Basketball Movement will do its best to stay on top of player movement at all levels going forward. Stay tuned!