As the Mountain West Tournament approaches, the buzz around NBA draft prospects from the conference is notably quieter than in previous years. But here's the shocking truth: only one player from the Mountain West currently ranks in ESPN's top-100 Big Board, and that's San Diego State's Miles Byrd at No. 61. Despite the slim pickings, this annual tradition of evaluating talent persists, with a spotlight on younger players who may not be ready for the NBA now but are worth keeping an eye on. Let's dive into the analysis of this year's prospects, categorized by their potential and readiness for the next level.
Tier V: Youngsters Who Need More Time
These players are far from NBA-ready but show glimpses of potential that could develop over time. Take Colby Garland, a junior at San Jose State, who’s already played for three schools in three seasons. Averaging 20.1 points per game with solid efficiency (49.7% FG, 39.0% 3PT, 83.7% FT) and a 2:1 assist-to-turnover ratio, Garland’s journey is one to watch. But here’s where it gets controversial: is his instability a red flag, or does his production outweigh the concerns? Similarly, Kyle Jorgensen of Colorado State started the season on fire before a leg injury sidelined him. At 6-foot-9 with a 42.1% three-point shot and playmaking skills, he could evolve into a stretch four—if he stays healthy. Elijah Price of Nevada is a high-motor, versatile defender with rebounding prowess, but his finishing needs work. Elzie Harrington, a freshman at San Diego State, burst onto the scene early but has since cooled off. Still, his size and potential as a point guard keep him on the radar. Tomislav Buljan, a 23-year-old freshman at New Mexico, is productive (12.1 PPG, 10.1 RPG) but faces an uphill battle due to his age. Carey Booth of Colorado State, a former top-100 prep prospect, has the athleticism and build of an NBA player but needs consistency. Gavin Gores of Wyoming is an underrecruited gem with elite athleticism but a nonexistent outside shot (2-of-16 outside the paint). Jake Hall of New Mexico is a freshman sharpshooter (44.5% from three) whose size might limit his NBA ceiling. Lastly, Tyrin Jones of UNLV is arguably the nation’s best athlete with unmatched effort, but his skill set needs refinement.
Tier IV: The Long Shots
These players face long odds but have shown flashes of NBA potential. MJ Collins of Utah State is having a breakout senior season (17.3 PPG, 49.4% FG) after underwhelming stints at Virginia Tech and Vanderbilt. His playmaking and defense are lacking, but could he sneak onto a G League roster? Mason Falslev, also of Utah State, is a 6-foot-4 tweener with NBA-level athleticism, leading the MW in steals and shooting 41.2% from three. At 24, though, his window is narrowing. Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn of UNLV has exploded this season (20.6 PPG, 50.9% FG) with a Trae Young-like game, but his size (6-1, 185) and lack of true point guard skills make his NBA path steep. And this is the part most people miss: could Gibbs-Lawhorn’s scoring prowess override his physical limitations?
Tier III: On the Bubble
With the right breaks, these players could hear their names called on draft night. Jaden Henley, a senior at Grand Canyon, is a 6-foot-7 athlete with Cody Martin-like potential, but his shooting (26.5% from three) holds him back. Corey Camper Jr. of Nevada, a fifth-year senior, has improved his offense (17.1 PPG, 42.7% from three) and offers three-and-D potential, though his size (6-5, 185) is a concern. Controversial take: Is Camper’s defensive prowess enough to compensate for his lack of ideal wing size?
Tier II: Likely NBA Players
These prospects are on the cusp of making it to the league. Magoon Gwath, a 7-foot sophomore at San Diego State, can shoot threes (46.9% this season) and protect the rim (3.9 BPG per 40 minutes). While he’s still a project, his unique skillset is NBA-ready—if he stays healthy. Miles Byrd, also of San Diego State, is a long, athletic wing with elite defensive instincts but a questionable offensive game (33.1% from three). The million-dollar question: Can his defense carry him to the NBA despite his offensive limitations?
Tier I: Slam-Dunk NBA Players
None this year. But that doesn’t mean the Mountain West is devoid of future talent. What do you think? Are there any players here who could surprise us and become NBA stars? Or is this conference’s draft outlook as bleak as it seems? Let’s debate in the comments!
