2023 NBA Mock Draft: Mavericks go defense, Pistons surprise at 5
By Tyler Watts
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20. Houston Rockets (via Clippers) take Brice Sensabaugh
Sensabaugh was an outstanding scorer during his lone season at Ohio State as he averaged 16.3 points on 48.0 percent shooting from the field, 40.5 percent on his 3-point attempts, and 83.0 percent from the free-throw line. The 19-year-old wing can handle the ball and create shots, which will have plenty of teams interested in the first round of the 2023 NBA Draft.
Sensabaugh is one of the best shooters in the class, but he does not project to go higher because of concerns about his defense and playmaking ability. He is not an elite athlete, and the 6’6 wing was attacked often at the college level. The former Buckeye has to improve his defense and become a more-willing facilitator if he wants to become an NBA starter and reach his ceiling.
Sensabaugh is a shot-maker, which should translate to the next level and have plenty of teams interested.
The Houston Rockets shot a league-worst 32.7 percent from 3-point range last season. They need floor spacers, especially if they plan on adding James Harden to run their offense this summer. If they select one of the Thompson twins at pick four, their need for shooting only gets bigger. Houston needs defense too, but they will have to choose which way to go with this selection.