2023 NBA Draft: Get to know Jordan Hawkins
Overview
Jordan Hawkins played two seasons at UConn, where he broke out as a sophomore and helped propel the Huskies to the 2023 national championship. After appearing in 27 games (four starts) as a freshman and making the Big East All-Freshman team, Hawkins emerged as a regular starter in 2022-23, averaging 16.2 points per game as well as 3.8 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 2.9 made 3-pointers (38.8%) per game. During UConn’s run through the NCAA Tournament, Hawkins had back-to-back 20-point efforts in wins over Arkansas (24 points) and Gonzaga (20 points). He drilled three 3-pointers in the national championship game en route to 16 points and a spot on the NCAA All-Tournament Team. As a high school prospect, Hawkins was named the Maryland Gatorade Player of the Year during his senior season at DeMatha Catholic High School. A consensus four-star recruit, Hawks posted 19.7 ppg, 11.4 rpg, 3.7 apg, 2.3 spg and 1.9 bpg as a senior.
Analysis
Hawkins profiles as a prototypical NBA two-guard who excels as a shooter thanks to his quick release, relentless off-ball movement and impressive mechanics. Hawkins shot nearly 50 percent on spot-up 3-pointers as a sophomore at UConn but is plenty comfortable pulling up off the dribble, as well. At this point in his development, he’s a shoot-first player, though Hawkins upped his assist rate to 8.2% during his sophomore season. More than 63% of his field-goal attempts came from beyond the arc, and he drilled at least five 3-pointers seven times last season. Defensively, the rangy Hawkins may need to add weight to avoid being hunted in switch situations at the NBA level.
Projection
Hawkins projects as a first-round pick who could go in the late-lottery. Any NBA team would covet Hawkins’ ability to space the floor, and further development could unlock other areas of his offensive game. While he may never project as a plus defender, Hawkins has the athleticism to improve and has all the makings of a future starter at shooting guard in the NBA. At this juncture, Hawkins’ skillset is reminiscent of Klay Thompson, Richard Hamilton and Terrence Ross.
2023 NBA Draft Prospect Highlights: Jordan Hawkins
— Profile by RotoWire