Dyson Daniels of the G League Ignite has decided to declare for the NBA draft, according to Jonathan Givony of ESPN. The 6’8″ Australian guard is ranked 10th overall on ESPN’s big board.
“I’m all in for the draft,” Daniels said. “I feel more than ready for this next step in my career and I’m excited for this process to begin.”
Daniels had a strong showing in his first G League season, averaging 12.0 points, 7.1 rebounds, 5.1 assists and 2.0 steals in 26 games while playing about 32 minutes per night. He also took part in the Rising Stars contest during the NBA’s All-Star Weekend.
The 19-year-old is hoping to become the second graduate of the NBA Global Academy in Canberra, Australia, to be taken in the lottery. Fellow Australian Josh Giddey was the sixth pick last year.
Daniels was the first major international player to sign with G League Ignite, and he believes the experience was beneficial. Although he struggled early in the season with the faster pace and more physical style of play, he eventually adapted to it.
“As the season went on and coach put the ball in my hand, I was able to find myself as the primary playmaker,” Daniels said. “We built our chemistry and learned our roles in the team, which helped me take my game to the next level.” One of the things I’m looking forward to showing NBA teams is my ability to create my own shot. That’s something I’ve been working hard on. I’m looking forward to showing them my versatility playing multiple positions and using my basketball IQ to be a problem solver.”
I got a hard time believing that Daniels is really 6’8
Basketball reference has him at 6’6
The 6’8″ number is from Givony: link to twitter.com