One-time All-Star big man Brook Lopez may be on the decline due to his age. The Milwaukee Bucks can remedy that predicament by going for Indiana Hoosiers star Kel’El Ware in the 2024 NBA Draft.
Ware burst onto the scene as a promising freshman at Oregon in college. However, his playing time gradually decreased due to concerns about his work ethic, impacting his draft prospects for the 2023 NBA Draft. During this period, he averaged 6.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game over 35 appearances.
Subsequently, Ware made the decision to transfer to Indiana, where he experienced a significant improvement in his second year of college basketball. Throughout 30 games, the center showcased impressive stats, averaging 15.9 points, 9.9 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.9 blocks per game.
He also demonstrated growth by shooting 58 percent from the field and displaying an improved three-point shot at 42 percent, albeit on limited attempts. Following Indiana’s elimination by Nebraska in the Big Ten Tournament, Ware declared himself eligible for the NBA Draft.
Indiana Hoosiers Kel’El Ware Identified as Dream Draft Target for Milwaukee Bucks
Slotting a traditional center doesn’t really work for a lineup that features two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. For this reason, Lopez has always functioned well beside the Greek Freak. But before the big man declines in performance, Milwaukee’s front office has to draft someone like Ware, as explained in an article by Dalton Sell for Behind The Buck Pass.
“The 7-footer possesses an incredible amount of athleticism, which would be a great change of pace compared to the bigs the Bucks have employed in recent memory. Ware utilizes speed, mobility and length to provide elite rim protection, something that would make him incredibly valuable to this Milwaukee Bucks team, especially if he’d be viewed as a long-term replacement for Lopez.
Speaking of Lopez, one of the reasons he has been so successful with the Bucks is his outside shot. Even at his size, Ware showed off an improved jumper this past season, shooting 42.5 percent from deep. If he can consistently knock those down, he could be an excellent fit on the roster, especially when playing next to Giannis Antetokounmpo,” Sell wrote.
Having a big man who can rebound, defend the post, switch on defense, and shoot from outside will be heaven-sent for the Bucks. If they manage to get Ware and develop him into that kind of player, the team has a better chance of going far in the postseason next year.
It remains to be seen whether the Bucks can land Ware or not in the draft. In any case, the Indiana Hoosiers star is shaping up to be a great option for Milwaukee.
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