2018 NBA Mock Draft: Where did the prospects go?

Unlike some of his counterparts, Bates-Diop exited the tournament respectably, scoring a combined 52 points in two games before bowing out to a (get this!) team seeded higher than his Buckeyes, and with more talent.

Bates-Diop went to battle against two formidable offensive teams, jousting Mike Daum in the first round before fencing Zach Norvell Jr. and Gonzaga in the second. Scouts won’t care that Bates-Diop’s team refused to (or flat-out couldn’t) play big, they will be impressed, as we all were, by his scoring performance in the tournament.

The redshirt junior shot 17-39 in the tournament, including 8-22 from distance, showing respectable efficiency despite shouldering such massive burden for his team.

Indiana has cornerstones in place at the center and guard spots, but needs help everywhere else. This is a team relying heavily on veteran talent, and though they have had an inspiring season, the Pacers will need to be smart as they restock their rotation to sustain this success into the future.

Bates-Diop would give the team added scoring punch opposite Oladipo — someone capable of creating shots for himself as well as playing off of a dominant ball-handler. If the Buckeye can add strength at the next level, he has the body to defend 4s, but could survive playing in bigger lineups as a 3. Versatility is key for a team led by Oladipo, and Bates-Diop fits the mold.