SBNation recently released their mock draft and invited affiliates to choose selections for their teams. Representing the Milwaukee Bucks at the 23rd pick, I joined the draft profiles discussion. At Brew Hoop, we’ve analyzed several prospects including Marquette’s Tyler Kolek, Colorado’s Tristan Da Silva, Purdue’s Zach Edey, Miami’s Kyshawn George, and Dayton’s DaRon Holmes II. Now, I’ll profile my pick: Virginia’s Ryan Dunn.
Ryan Dunn, after two years at the University of Virginia, entered the draft following his sophomore year. In the past season, he played 34 games, averaging 27.5 minutes, 8.1 points, 6.9 rebounds, 0.8 assists, 1.3 steals, and 2.3 blocks per game. Dunn, a 6’6″ wing with a 7’1″ wingspan, made a significant impact.
– “The best defender in this class, a player who can lock down multiple positions and get stops anywhere on the floor.” – Kevin O’Connor, The Ringer
– “Dunn is one of the best defensive prospects I’ve evaluated.” – Sam Vecenie, The Athletic
These commendations highlight Dunn’s defensive prowess. His stats are remarkable: leading the ACC with 2.3 blocks and having 1.3 steals per game as a wing. His wingspan allows him to excel as a help-side defender, and he’s a tenacious on-ball defender, perfect for a switch-based defense.
– “He’s also one of the worst offensive prospects that may be taken in the first round that I’ve seen in the last 10 years.” – Sam Vecenie
Despite his defensive excellence, Dunn’s offense is concerning. His shooting splits are poor: 54.8% FG, 20% 3PT, and 53.2% FT. He struggles to create his own shot and lacks playmaking ability, averaging only 0.8 assists per game. Dunn’s offense requires significant improvement, potentially with the help of a shooting coach.
Dunn is often compared to Herb Jones and Andre Roberson, both known for their defensive skills but limited offensively. Another comparison is Derrick Jones Jr., suggesting that Dunn’s defensive upside could justify the risk of his offensive limitations.
Overall, I chose Dunn in the mock draft because it’s rare to find a player with NBA-level skills late in the first round. Dunn’s defense could make an immediate impact for the Bucks. With established scorers like Damian Lillard, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Khris Middleton, and Brook Lopez, Milwaukee doesn’t need Dunn to carry a scoring load. His athleticism, intelligence, and defense address the Bucks’ biggest weaknesses from the previous season.
