Duke's Dereck Lively II Declares for 2023 NBA Draft
Intriguing Prospect with Length and Mobility
April 4, 2023 at 12:44 AM EDT
Duke standout Dereck Lively II has declared his intention to enter the 2023 NBA Draft, as announced through social media on Tuesday. Lively II, a highly touted center, is widely regarded as one of the most promising prospects in this year's class.
Lively II's impressive physical attributes make him a compelling draft prospect. At 7'1" with a wingspan of 7'6", he possesses exceptional size and length that have allowed him to dominate defensively at the collegiate level. Moreover, Lively II's impressive mobility and athleticism set him apart from other prospects of similar size, allowing him to cover ground quickly and make plays all over the court.
During his sophomore campaign at Duke, Lively II averaged 8.0 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game. While he may not have put up eye-popping statistics, Lively II's impact on the game extended beyond the stat sheet. His presence as a defensive anchor allowed his teammates to take more risks on the perimeter, and his ability to run the floor and finish above the rim made him a dangerous offensive weapon.
Lively II's decision to declare for the draft comes as no surprise, as he is widely projected to be a lottery pick. With his unique combination of size, athleticism, and defensive acumen, he has the potential to become a cornerstone piece for an NBA franchise in the years to come.
The Dallas Mavericks, who hold the No. 1 pick in the draft, are reportedly interested in selecting Lively II. If he were to land in Dallas, Lively II would join a young and talented team that is looking to contend for a championship in the near future.
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