UNC freshman guard Cole Anthony has declared for the 2020 NBA draft, officially announcing his decision on Twitter.
A potential lottery pick, Anthony averaged 18.5 PPG, 5.7 RPG, and 4.0 APG in 22 games (34.9 MPG) as a freshman. His first and only college season was derailed for a few weeks by a partially torn meniscus, but he returned to the Tar Heels’ lineup following that injury.
Draft guru Mike Schmitz, who – along with Jonathan Givony – has Anthony ranked 11th on ESPN’s big board, notes that the young point guard is more of a scorer than a facilitator at this point, and is a streaky shooter, having made just 38.0% of his field goals (34.8% from three) at UNC.
However, Schmitz praises Anthony’s offensive confidence and versatility, as well as his competitiveness and ability to fight through screens on defense.
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The 2020 draft class looks heavy on point guards, so despite being ESPN’s 11th overall prospect, Anthony ranks just fifth at his position, behind LaMelo Ball, Tyrese Haliburton, Killian Hayes, and RJ Hampton. NBA teams eyeing point guards early in the draft may also consider the likes of Nico Mannion and Theo Maledon.
Knicks.
God I hope not. They would find a way to ruin him!
HS avg a triple double. At UNC he seemed to dominate the ball. So took bad shots and bad decisions. Not gd for a PG. He has the handle and smarts. So I believe he would play more like a PG. When he has talent around him. Native new Yorker so pressure shouldn’t be an issue. Can definitely score. I would prefer Halliburton. He’s bigger and is solid 2way player. Runs offense and makes gd decisions. But he could be gone. Pistons are the ones most likely to select him. Was not a fan of Anthony for Knicks. But I’ve a watched a lot film on him. Knicks need an ast PG. Who can put pressure with his shot. I think he can do that. I feel gd we will get a solid PG this draft. Halliburton is ready now. Anthony will take time. He’s not Morant. Hayes is too young. He’s yrs away but eventually could be better. No Mello please. After a lot agonizing. I’m gd with either one. NY is going to put pressure to select Anthony.
Knicker,
He had to be the #1 option on the worst UNC team I’ve ever seen. He’s very talented and will be a good pro. He can’t do it all by himself. I’m hoping he doesn’t get drafted by your knicks they ve been awful for years. Since the days of Starks!