BREAK: Milwaukee Bucks going for Indiana Hoosiers current superstar
Brook Lopez, a one-time All-Star big man, may be experiencing a decline due to age. The Milwaukee Bucks could address this issue by targeting Indiana Hoosiers star Kel’el Ware in the 2024 NBA Draft.
Ware initially made a strong impression as a freshman at Oregon, but his playing time diminished due to concerns about his work ethic, which negatively affected his draft prospects for the 2023 NBA Draft. During that time, he averaged 6.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game over 35 appearances.
Subsequently, Ware transferred to Indiana, where he significantly improved in his second year of college basketball. In 30 games, the center posted impressive numbers, averaging 15.9 points, 9.9 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.9 blocks per game. He also showed growth by shooting 58 percent from the field and an improved three-point shot at 42 percent, albeit on limited attempts. After Indiana’s elimination by Nebraska in the Big Ten Tournament, Ware declared for the NBA Draft.
Indiana Hoosiers Kel’El Ware Identified as Dream Draft Target for Milwaukee Bucks
Integrating a traditional center isn’t ideal for a lineup featuring two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. Brook Lopez has thrived alongside Giannis for this reason. However, before Lopez’s performance declines, Milwaukee’s front office should consider drafting a player like Kel’el Ware, as Dalton Sell from Behind The Buck Pass suggests.
“The 7-footer possesses an incredible amount of athleticism, which would be a great change of pace compared to the bigs the Bucks have employed in recent memory. Ware utilizes speed, mobility, and length to provide elite rim protection, something that would make him incredibly valuable to this Milwaukee Bucks team, especially if he’d be viewed as a long-term replacement for Lopez.
Speaking of Lopez, one of the reasons he has been so successful with the Bucks is his outside shot. Even at his size, Ware showed off an improved jumper this past season, shooting 42.5 percent from deep. If he can consistently knock those down, he could be an excellent fit on the roster, especially when playing next to Giannis Antetokounmpo,” Sell wrote.
Having a big man who can rebound, defend the post, switch on defense, and shoot from outside would be invaluable for the Bucks. If they draft Ware and develop him into that kind of player, the team’s chances of advancing in the postseason next year would significantly improve.
Whether the Bucks can secure Ware in the draft remains uncertain, but the Indiana Hoosiers star is certainly a promising option for Milwaukee.