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Kentucky's Reed Sheppard lights up NBA Draft Combine

Tue May 14 1:34pm ET
Field Level Media

CHICAGO -- A few weeks ago, Reed Sheppard was wrestling with a "family decision" far from the stay-or-go variety for college freshmen at the end of the season.

Circumstances and emotions were high. Kentucky head coach John Calipari exited stage left for Arkansas. Replacement Mark Pope just so happened to be a family friend, former Kentucky basketball player and his dad's college basketball teammate -- and roommate -- with the Wildcats.

But feedback from the NBA pointed Sheppard in one direction -- the draft.

A projected lottery pick with a sweet stroke and the size to score on multiple levels, Sheppard met with Pope and had regular discussions with his parents. Jeff Sheppard played point guard at Kentucky from 1993-98 and was the Most Outstanding Player in the 1998 NCAA Tournament. He left Lexington a two-time national champion. His mother, Stacey (Reed), also played basketball at Kentucky.


Pope, in the midst of a mass roster exodus, says he pushed Reed Sheppard to the draft with both hands because of his place in the pre-draft rankings as a lottery pick and potential top-5 selection.

Reed Sheppard brought a few gifts from his parents with him to the 2024 NBA Draft Combine. Like his dad's jumping ability.

The younger Sheppard proved what most already knew on Monday with a lights-out shooting performance. Then he surprised more than a few when it came time for vertical jump testing.

"I don't know if I was really expecting it. They must've messed something up," Sheppard said with a smile. "It was pretty cool seeing the 42 (inches) pop up there."

Sheppard's 42-inch vertical, matched by three others on Monday night, was the best recorded by all prospects at the combine. Bronny James (Southern California) posted a notable 40.5-inch vert and Sheppard's SEC rival, Dalton Knecht (Tennessee), hit 39 inches.

Sheppard, who shot 52 percent from 3-point range in his only season at Kentucky, measured 6-foot-3 and created as much buzz as any player at the combine. ESPN projects him as a top-three pick, and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution put him in the mix to be the No. 1 overall pick to the Hawks.

Not a bad platform for a 19-year-old ranked as the fifth-best incoming recruit at Kentucky this time one year ago.

"We haven't really started to talking to teams yet, but I'm excited. I think that will be a really good experience," Sheppard said.

Kentucky's last top-five draft pick was De'Aaron Fox (Sacramento Kings, fifth overall, 2017).

Sheppard's freshman stats are superior to a one-and-done guard and the 13th pick in the 2015 draft, Devin Booker (Suns).

But Sheppard didn't want to talk comparisons, or where he could be drafted on Tuesday. Just over five weeks from the 2024 NBA Draft, the line to greet him on draft night appears to be forming starting at the top.

"It's been an unbelievable week," Sheppard said. "You watch it growing up and it's like, 'Dang, I want to do that. I want to be there.' Being able to be here is really cool. This week, so far, it's been unbelievable."

Player Notes
Jeremy Sochan Sat Jun 22 9:30pm

According to Nick Moyle of The San Antonio Express-News, San Antonio Spurs guard/forward Jeremy Sochan (ankle) was cleared to resume basketball activities and is currently training with the Polish national team ahead of the Olympic Qualifying Tournament. The 2022 No. 9 overall pick had a decent sophomore season, averaging 11.6 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.4 assists. However, he was limited to 74 games because of ankle surgery. Sochan has several areas that need to be addressed, with his three-point shooting being one of them. But his usage rate could improve if he remains a primary ball-handler, and his involvement in the offense could increase if the Spurs move on from Keldon Johnson this offseason.

Tim Hardaway Jr. Sat Jun 22 9:30pm

According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Dallas Mavericks are expected to trade guard/forward Tim Hardaway Jr. The 32-year-old, who has one year left on his current deal, has averaged 14 points in the previous three seasons. However, he fell out of the rotation and logged just 12.7 minutes during the postseason. Although Hardaway isn't a reliable fantasy producer, he can get hot when given minutes. With that said, he's worth monitoring if he gets traded, especially if he gets consistent playing time for a new team.

Victor Wembanyama Sat Jun 22 9:20pm

According to Nick Moyle of The San Antonio Express-News, San Antonio Spurs forward/center Victor Wembanyama has been working on his dribbling with the help of former player Jamal Crawford. The 20-year-old had a stellar inaugural campaign, averaging 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.6 blocks, and 1.6 steals. As a result, he was named the NBA Rookie of the Year while earning NBA All-Defensive First Team honors. However, he had issues taking care of the ball, logging 3.7 turnovers per contest. Hopefully, Wembanyama's time with Crawford will help him improve. Either way, the 2023 No. 1 overall pick has top-10 fantasy potential in all formats for the 2024-25 season.

Ja Morant Sat Jun 22 9:10pm

Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (shoulder) is expected to resume basketball activities in the next two weeks. "I hate being around basketball and not being able to play," said Morant at his youth basketball camp. "I don't got too much longer. I can wait to make sure I'm able to play and be cleared when the season comes." The 24-year-old began the 2023-24 campaign, serving a 25-game suspension. He eventually returned, although he suffered a torn labrum that resulted in surgery after appearing in nine contests. But if Morant can stay out of trouble and remain healthy in 2024-25, he has top-10 fantasy potential in all formats.

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope Sat Jun 22 11:10am

According to NBA insider Chris Haynes, Denver Nuggets guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope will likely decline his player option if he doesn't agree on a contract extension with his current team. Haynes added that even if KCP declines, that doesn't necessarily mean he'll leave Denver. However, Caldwell-Pope will have a "plethora of teams at his doorstop" if he hits the open market. The 31-year-old has spent the last two seasons with the Nuggets, where he has been instrumental in the team's success. He finished the 2023-24 campaign by averaging 10.1 points and 1.3 steals while shooting 40.6% from behind the arc. With that said, if Caldwell-Pope stays in Denver, he'll have to fight with Nikola Jokic and the rest of the starters for scoring chances. Yet, if he lands on a new team for the 2024-25 season, his production could increase.

Tobias Harris Sat Jun 22 11:00am

According to NBA insider Chris Haynes, impending free agent forward Tobias Harris is expected to receive "ample interest" from teams this offseason. Haynes mentioned Utah, Detroit, San Antonio, Dallas, and New Orleans as the clubs with the strongest chance of landing the veteran, adding that he doesn't "see a scenario where Tobias is back in Philly." Harris, the No. 19 overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, has played for the Bucks, Magic, Pistons, Clippers, and most recently, the 76ers. He finished the 2023-24 campaign by averaging 17.2 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.0 steals. Despite being in the league for well over a decade, the 31-year-old could remain a starter for whatever team he lands on. While he's past his prime, he still has a lot to offer fantasy managers, even more so due to his durability.

Mitchell Robinson Fri Jun 21 9:50pm

According to Jake Fischer of Yahoo.com, New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson could be traded this offseason. Per Fischer, the Knicks "have contacted opposing teams about moving Mitchell." However, specific clubs weren't mentioned. The 2018 No. 36 overall pick has averaged 8.0 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks in six seasons in New York. Yet, he has missed time over the years because of various ailments. With that said, Mitchell's defensive prowess should make him an attractive asset for category participants. But his inability to stay on the floor is an issue.

Brook Lopez Fri Jun 21 9:40pm

Milwaukee Bucks center Brook Lopez could find himself on a new team for the 2024-25 campaign. While it's unknown if the Bucks have engaged in official trade discussions with other clubs around the National Basketball Association, Jake Fischer of Yahoo.com reported that Milwaukee is "open to reshaping their roster" and is "gauging" Lopez's value. Despite his age, the 36-year-old is still productive, finishing his most recent season by averaging 12.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks while shooting 36.6% from behind the arc. He's also appeared in 157 games in the last two seasons. Without question, Lopez will draw attention from teams looking for an upgrade underneath the rim. But regardless of where he ends up moving ahead, he could have at least one more quality season for fantasy managers.

Paul George Fri Jun 21 7:10pm

According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, the Philadelphia 76ers interest in Los Angeles Clippers forward Paul George has "waned in recent days." The 34-year-old, who can decline his player option to become an unrestricted free agent, was reportedly high on Philadelphia's wish list this offseason. While there's still a chance that both sides re-engage in discussions this summer, for now, the 76ers may look for alternatives on the open market. George averaged 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.5 steals last season. Even better, he appeared in 74 contests. Although his production has declined over the years, he's still a top fantasy option in all formats. That may not change for at least a few more seasons, regardless if he re-signs a massive extension with the Clippers or goes elsewhere.

Drew Eubanks Fri Jun 21 7:00pm

Forward/center Drew Eubanks will decline his $2.6 million player option with the Phoenix Suns, meaning he'll be an unrestricted free agent. The 27-year-old appeared in 75 games for the Suns last season. However, he averaged 5.1 points and 4.3 rebounds, his lowest marks in the previous few seasons. Eubanks also saw only 15 minutes per contest during the 2023-24 campaign. Yet, he'll have double-double upside if he can find minutes on a new team.

Malik Monk Fri Jun 21 6:50pm

According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, Sacramento Kings guard Malik Monk (knee) plans to sign a four-year, $78 million contract to remain with the team. The 26-year-old was in the running to win the Sixth Man of the Year award, averaging career-highs in points (15.4) and assists (5.1). Unfortunately, he suffered a knee injury near the end of the season and was limited to 72 games. Monk had logged 26.0 minutes per contest during the 2023-24 campaign. He should continue to see the floor as much, if not more, this season, so he'll have plenty of value for fantasy managers.

Alex Caruso Thu Jun 20 5:40pm

According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, OKC acquired guard Alex Caruso from Chicago in exchange for Josh Giddey. With Plenty of scorers on the Thunder's roster, the team needed to focus on upgrading things on the defensive end. Caruso obviously fits the bill, considering he is widely regarded as one of the best defenders in the National Basketball Association. The 30-year-old finished the 2023-24 campaign by averaging a career-high 10.1 points, adding 3.8 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.7 steals, and 1.0 blocks. Although Caruso's scoring numbers could drop on a team that features Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, he should continue to make a difference for category managers due to his defensive prowess.

Josh Giddey Thu Jun 20 5:30pm

According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, the Bulls acquired guard Josh Giddey from OKC. In exchange, the Thunder received guard Alex Caruso. Chicago was expected to be active this offseason to bolster the roster. With Lonzo Ball (knee) still without a return timetable, the move was made to acquire a playmaker. Giddey just completed his third year of service in the National Basketball Association. However, he averaged career-lows in points (12.3), rebounds (6.4), and assists (4.8) while averaging only 25.2 minutes per contest. Without question, the door is open for the 21-year-old to see more scoring opportunities with the Bulls, so it's logical to assume he'll turn things around during the 2024-25 campaign. His statistical contributions could be greater if Chicago can't bring back DeMar DeRozan, who is set to hit unrestricted free agency this summer.

Pascal Siakam Thu Jun 20 11:10am

ESPN Senior NBA Insider Adrian Wojnarowski has reported that Pascal Siakam plans to sign a new maximum deal with the Indiana Pacers, worth $189.5 million over four years. The All-NBA forward is expected to sign the new contract once the league's free agency moratorium ends on July 6. After a mid-season trade from the Toronto Raptors, Siakam became a major part of Indiana's success, helping lead the team to the Eastern Conference Finals. In 41 regular season games with the Pacers, the 30-year-old averaged 21.3 points per game while shooting 55% from the field in 41 regular-season.

Gary Payton II Thu Jun 20 11:10am

ESPN NBA reporter Kendra Andrews has reported that point Gary Payton II has chosen to remain in Golden State with the Warriors after opting into his $9.1 million player option for next year. The 31-year-old guard averaged 5.5 points and 2.6 rebounds while shooting 56.3% from the field this past season. However, his health remains a concern. Payton only played in 44 games as several injuries forced him to be sidelined. He missed games in November and December with a calf strain, and then a hamstring strain cost him time in January and February. The Warriors hope to get more production from Payton moving forward.

LeBron James Thu Jun 20 11:10am

According to Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James' agent, Rich Paul, his client won't suit up for the Suns this season on a minimum contract. Speculation began to swirl about the possibility of James playing in Phoenix after his son, Bronny James, worked out for the club. However, it appears even if the Suns select the 19-year-old in the 2024 NBA Draft, it won't be enough to coax his father into joining Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. Without question, the multi-time All-Star is nearing the end of his career. Yet, despite injuries, he's still productive, finishing the 2023-24 campaign by averaging 25.7 points, 8.3 assists, 7.3 rebounds, and 1.3 steals while shooting a career-high 41.0% from deep. At any rate, James still needs to decline his $51.4 million player option to enter unrestricted free agency, with his decision expected to come soon.

Bruce Brown Thu Jun 20 11:10am

According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Toronto Raptors are expected to pick up the team option of guard/forward Bruce Brown. The 27-year-old won an NBA championship with the Nuggets in 2022-23. However, after signing with the Indiana Pacers, he was dealt to Toronto ahead of the 2023-24 trade deadline. He appeared in 34 games for the Raptors, although his statistical contributions declined, averaging 9.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.7 assists. Nonetheless, the Raptors could end up trading him at some point during the 2024-25 campaign, potentially increasing his production.

Al Horford Wed Jun 19 2:30pm

Boston Celtics forward/centerAl Horfordwill be returning for his 18th NBA season next year. Celtics owner Wyc Grousbeck was on The Greg Hill Show on WEEI, a local Boston radio station, and said, "Al is coming back for next year. That's what I've been told." At 38 years old, Horford won his first NBA championship on Monday as the Celtics defeated the Mavs 106-88. He's suited up for 186 postseason contests and averaged 33.8 minutes, 12.2 points, 8.0 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.2 blocks in his career.

Pascal Siakam Wed Jun 19 2:30pm

According to Scott Agness of Fieldhouse Files, Indiana Pacers forward/centerPascal Siakam is close to signing a long-term contract extension with the team. Siakam had a solid first season as a Pacer and should receive a maximum deal. The All-Star forward compiled averages of 21.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in 41 regular-season contests with the Pacers. In January, he was traded from Toronto for Bruce Brown,Jordan Nwora and three first-round picks.

OG Anunoby Wed Jun 19 2:30pm

New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby might end up elsewhere this offseason. Per ESPN's Brian Windhorst, there have been "indications" that Anunoby may want to test the market as a free agent because he is "not thrilled" with what the Knicks are offering. Reports suggest that Anunoby could land a contract worth $35-40 million per year in free agency. Anunoby was a very good fit with the Knicks after arriving from Toronto on Dec. 30. He averaged 14.1 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1.7 steals, and 1.0 blocks with the team. The Knicks had a fantastic 20-3 regular-season record with him in the lineup.