Kentucky basketball players ranked by NBA potential

LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY - NOVEMBER 25: Brandon Boston Jr #3 of the Kentucky Wildcats shoots the ball during the game against the Morehead State Eagles at Rupp Arena on November 25, 2020 in Lexington, Kentucky. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY - NOVEMBER 25: Brandon Boston Jr #3 of the Kentucky Wildcats shoots the ball during the game against the Morehead State Eagles at Rupp Arena on November 25, 2020 in Lexington, Kentucky. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /
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Kentucky basketball. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports /

Kentucky basketball NBA Draft prospect No. 2: Terrence Clarke, G

Much like Askew, Terrence Clarke was initially supposed to be part of the 2021 Kentucky basketball recruiting class but reclassified to join the Wildcats this season. Had he not, he likely would’ve been the top-overall recruit in the country for next year’s crop of newcomers. Though he missed that mark in the 2020 class, that does speak to the potential he possesses.

Clarke came out of Brewster Academy with the reputation as a scorer who could take over games from all over the floor. While he’s not a lights-out shooter, he’s more than adequate in that department while also displaying nice ball-handling and tremendous body control to allow him to finish consistently around the rim.

The only things that cause trepidation with Clarke right now are how he handles playing a role in the Kentucky offense and what his defense looks like at the college level. But given the 6-foot-6 wing’s natural ability and talent, showing any signs of those things will have NBA teams fawning over just how good he could be.

Kentucky basketball NBA Draft prospect No. 1: B.J. Boston, G

Barring some unforeseen change, Brandon Boston Jr., a.k.a. B.J. Boston, is going to be the gem of this Kentucky basketball team. The 6-foot-6 guard was the star who actually led the way for Bronny James’ Sierra Canyon team in high school and now he figures to do the same for Calipari and the Wildcats.

Boston’s ball-handling with his length and size make him an asset in every facet of the game but especially as a scorer. He’s improved consistently to become a good shooter from the perimeter and has the ability to get by defenders and get his shot in the lane. Throw in solid defensive chops for a young player and the ability to rebound well as a guard and it’s hard to find something not to like about the youngster.

With everything he brings to the table, it’s not hyperbolic to say that Boston could be a centerpiece guard for an NBA franchise if everything goes well. His complete skill set that continues to get better makes him a certified asset at the next level and a player who is destined to not just be a lottery selection but a top-five pick.

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