In order for the Milwaukee Bucks to win a second ring during the Giannis Antetokounmpo era, the front office will have to elevate the team’s defense. In that regard, the franchise may consider UCLA big ma Adem Bona to provide a defensive boost for the Greek Freak and company.
After playing high school basketball for Prolific Prep in California and becoming a five-star recruit, Bona committed to play for the UCLA Bruins. His first run during the 2022-23 season saw the big man play 33 PAC-12 games and average 7.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game.
The following year, Bona took a leap in his game during the NCAA Tournament. During UCLA’s 20-game run in the said tournament, the big man posted 12.6 points, 5.7 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.4 steals, and 2.1 blocks per game. He also connected almost 60 percent from the field without making any attempt from beyond the arc for the Bruins.
Just recently, Bona declared for the 2024 NBA Draft after playing two years for the UCLA Bruins. He is projected be selected by the Los Angeles Clippers using the 46th pick, as stated by a mock draft conducted by ClutchPoints.
Adem Bona Among Key Prospects Being Considered By Milwaukee Bucks For the 2024 NBA Draft
If the Bucks assess that they need to ramp up their defense, they can swoop in and get Bona earlier in the draft before anyone else. An article written by Franco Luna for Behind the Buck Pass explains why the UCLA star may fit well with Antetokounmpo and company.
“At 6-foot-10 with a powerful build and a 7-foot-3 wingspan, Adem Bona possesses the All-World motor and tools to be a rim-protecting nightmare. Simultaneously a well-built physical specimen and a gracefully fluid athlete, he has a knack for contesting shots, altering passing angles, and deterring drives at the rim. It’s not difficult to imagine how this presence in the paint complements Giannis’ defensive dominance, creating a suffocating interior defense for the Milwaukee Bucks,” Luna wrote.
While he is an intriguing prospect on defense, the lack of a jumper or an outside shot may cause Milwaukee to think twice on him. On the other hand, having him in the lineup assures head coach Doc Rivers that Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard, and other shot creators in the team will have their share of touches due to the fact that Bona will just focus on defense.
It remains to be seen where Bona will land in the upcoming season. If the Bucks get him, they’re sure to make good use of him, especially on the defensive end of the court.
For More Wisconsin Sports:
Follow us on Twitter at @WiSportsHeroics. Also, check out our Merchandise Here! Get 20% off with the code “WSH.” To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Wisconsin sports, click here! Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Brewers, Milwaukee Bucks, Wisconsin Badgers.
