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As the Villanova Wildcats hung to a precarious 63-60 lead over the West Virginia Mountaineers in the 2018 Sweet Sixteen, it was time for Omari Spellman to make a play.
West Virginia came down the floor starting to unravel a bit after playing 30 excellent minutes against Spellman and the Wildcats. A Mikal Bridges three on the previous possession gave ‘Nova its first lead in quite some time in the back and forth second half. Spellman, however, would make sure the lead would stick. As Mountaineers guard James Bolden put up a mid-range jumper, the Villanova big man swatted it away with a ferocious spike block. He collected the rebound and pushed it ahead to Phil Booth. Booth took it to the hole and missed a layup, but Spellman was there to clean up the mess with a huge tip slam. In just 13 seconds, Omari Spellman showed the world how much potential he possessed.
As a result of his strong season and huge NCAA Tournament performance, it came as no surprise when Spellman declared for the NBA Draft in late May, just a few hours shy of the deadline.
The interesting task now becomes seeing where the Ohio native fits, and what he brings to the table for an NBA team.
Strengths
Stretch The Floor
In today’s NBA, Spellman’s ability as a mobile big man is a giant (pun intended) asset. He doesn’t have to stay in the paint and play with his back to the basket on offense. He’s versatile and able to cause matchup nightmares for opponents.
Villanova
In case the two titles in three years wasn’t already enough proof, Jay Wright produces special players. From Josh Hart to Jalen Brunson to Mikal Bridges, there are no shortage of Villanova players who either already have had success in the NBA or have a bright future. Spellman shouldn’t be any different.
Weaknesses
Age
Since the NCAA screwed up Spellman’s eligibility and he had to take a redshirt year, he’ll be 21 in July, which is old for a freshman.
Undersized?
Spellman may struggle against some of the league’s elite big men, as he stands 6’9”.
Projection
It wouldn’t be surprising whatsoever to see Spellman taken in the late first round or early second round. The positives outweigh the negatives and he has some of the highest potential of any player in the draft.