2023 NBA Mock Draft: Mavericks land difference-maker, Victor Wembanyama heads East

8. Washington Wizards select Anthony Black

Black is a 6’7 point guard with a high basketball IQ. His size and skill make him an intriguing prospect. He is a strong pick-and-roll ball-handler that could pop with NBA scaring, who competes hard on the defensive end of the floor. The 19-year-old is excellent at creating turnovers and making the right play in transition.

Black averaged 12.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 2.1 steals in 34.9 minutes per game during his lone college season at Arkansas. He made 45.3 percent of his field goals but shot just 30.1 percent from 3-point range and 70.5 percent on his free throws.

His outside shooting is his biggest question mark. Black does not have the prettiest shot, and he struggles with his jumper off the dribble. Teams will go under screens in the NBA, and Black’s lack of elite athleticism could hamper his finishing at the rim.

The Washington Wizards desperately need a starting point guard in the backcourt next to Bradley Beal, especially if they plan on keeping Kristaps Porzingis and Kyle Kuzma long-term. Anthony Black could be the perfect connector in Washington that helps the Wizards get back to the playoffs for the second time since 2018.