NBA Draft Junkies Podcast

Can Michael Malone Unlock Neoklis Avdalas’ Untapped Potential?

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Fri, 18 Sep 2026 12:39:14 +0000

Neoklis Avdalas entered his freshman season at Virginia Tech as a prospect Rafael and James were extremely high on, largely because there just aren't many players his size who can do some of the things he can do with the basketball.

But his freshman season wasn't always smooth. Avdalas averaged 12 points and 4.6 assists per game, showing plenty of flashes while also dealing with the inconsistencies that can come with adjusting to college basketball.

Now he gets a fresh start at North Carolina.

In this episode, Rafael and James revisit why they were so high on Avdalas entering college, what they learned from his freshman season and what they need to see from him in Year 2.

Most importantly, they discuss whether North Carolina and Michael Malone can finally unlock enough of Avdalas' untapped potential to put him firmly back on the NBA Draft radar.

#NeoklisAvdalas #UNC #UNCBasketball #TarHeels #CarolinaBasketball #GoHeels #MichaelMalone #2027NBADraft #NBADraft #NBADraft2027 #NBADraftJunkies #NBADraftProspects #NBAProspects #NBAScouting #DraftProspects #CollegeBasketball #CollegeHoops #ACCBasketball #BasketballScouting #NBADraftAnalysis

Let’s Talk 2027 NBA Draft: LIVE Q&A + Mailbag

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 12:04:55 +0000

Tonight is all about your questions.

Rafael and James are going LIVE on YouTube and Facebook for an NBA Draft Junkies Mailbag, taking questions directly from the audience about the 2027 NBA Draft and more.

Which prospects are we too high or too low on? Who are the potential sleepers? Which returning players could make a major jump? Which freshmen could emerge as lottery picks? And who belongs in the conversation at the top of the draft?

There’s no set prospect tonight. You control the conversation. Drop your questions in the live chat, give us your takes, challenge our evaluations and tell us which prospects you want to discuss. Rafael and James will be reading comments and answering questions throughout the show.

If you love talking NBA Draft, scouting and prospects, pull up and join the conversation.

Can Tounde Yessoufou Improve His NBA Draft Stock at St. John’s?

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Wed, 16 Sep 2026 04:12:04 +0000

Tounde Yessoufou entered college with plenty of expectations as a McDonald’s All-American, and it didn't take long for him to establish himself as one of the country's most productive freshmen. Yessoufou averaged 17.8 points per game at Baylor and set the program's freshman single-season scoring record, showing the physicality, athleticism and scoring ability that had made him such a highly regarded prospect coming out of high school.

But instead of making the jump to the NBA, Yessoufou is returning to college and beginning a new chapter at St. John’s. After becoming one of the most coveted players in the transfer portal, he'll now have an opportunity to build on an already productive freshman season while showing scouts that there are additional layers to his game.

That's what makes his sophomore season particularly interesting from an NBA Draft perspective. We already know Yessoufou can score and physically compete at the college level. So what does he need to show now? Can he become a more consistent shooter? Can he improve as a decision-maker and creator? Can he impact games when the ball isn't in his hands? And can he turn another year of college basketball into a significant jump in his NBA Draft stock?

In this episode of NBA Draft Junkies Live, Rafael and James break down Yessoufou's freshman season at Baylor, his scouting profile, his move to St. John’s and what they want to see from him as a sophomore. They also discuss one of the bigger questions surrounding returning prospects: When you've already been one of the most productive young players in college basketball, how much can coming back to school actually change the way NBA teams evaluate you?

#ToundeYessoufou #StJohnsBasketball #StJohns #RedStorm #SJUBasketball #BaylorBasketball #2027NBADraft #NBADraft #NBADraft2027 #NBADraftJunkies #NBADraftProspects #NBAScouting #NBAProspects #DraftProspects #CollegeBasketball #CollegeHoops #BigEastBasketball #McDonaldsAllAmerican #TransferPortal #BasketballScouting #NBADraftAnalysis

Is Sayon Keita the Center With the Most Upside in the 2027 Draft Class?

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 10:52:48 +0000

North Carolina freshman Sayon Keita enters the 2026–27 season as one of the more intriguing young big men to watch in the 2027 NBA Draft. The seven-footer from Mali arrives in Chapel Hill after developing in FC Barcelona’s youth system, where he was able to gain valuable experience in one of the best developmental environments in European basketball, including opportunities around Barcelona’s senior team and minutes against professional competition.

What makes Keita especially interesting from an NBA Draft perspective is the combination of size, youth, experience and long-term upside. He will still be only 19 years old around the time of the 2027 NBA Draft, giving teams plenty of developmental runway. And in a draft class that could be relatively thin when it comes to first-round centers, Keita may not have to become the most productive big man in college basketball to establish himself as one of the most coveted center prospects in the class.

In this episode, Rafael and James break down Keita's background and scouting profile, what his experience in Barcelona could mean for his transition to college basketball, the areas of his game that still need development and what a successful freshman season at North Carolina should look like.

They also tackle the bigger NBA Draft questions: Could Sayon Keita be the first center selected in the 2027 NBA Draft? Does he have legitimate lottery upside? And how much production will he actually need at North Carolina for NBA teams to bet on his youth, physical tools and long-term potential?

#SayonKeita #UNCBasketball #UNC #TarHeels #CarolinaBasketball #GoHeels #2027NBADraft #NBADraft #NBADraft2027 #NBADraftJunkies #NBADraftProspects #NBAScouting #NBAProspects #DraftProspects #NBADraftLottery #CollegeBasketball #CollegeHoops #ACCBasketball #FCBarcelona #BarcelonaBasketball #EuroLeague #ACB #BasketballScouting #NBADraftAnalysis #NBADraftBigs

From the NBA to College Basketball: Monta Ellis Takes Over as Alcorn State GM

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Mon, 14 Sep 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Timestamps

00:42 — Rafael's first time watching Monta Ellis play

04:03 — Why Monta wanted to become GM of Alcorn State men's basketball

05:55 — The golden era of Mississippi basketball in the '90s and early 2000s

08:03 — Monta's game, his development on Mississippi playgrounds & his early Golden State Warriors years

10:05 — How Monta's basketball experience prepared him for the Alcorn State GM role

15:19 — How NIL has changed college sports and the recruiting landscape

19:00 — Balancing roster building, fundraising & improving Alcorn State's basketball facilities

23:15 — How being the father of a high-level young player helps Monta relate to today's athletes

25:15 — Josh Powell choosing Alcorn State despite offers from bigger programs

27:30 — Monta's recruiting pitch: Why high school prospects should consider Alcorn State

Are We Sleeping on Arkansas’ J.J. Andrews? Why He Belongs in the Top 5 Conversation

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Sat, 12 Sep 2026 16:46:14 +0000

J.J. Andrews has done a lot of winning.

The Arkansas freshman arrives in Fayetteville after a decorated high school and grassroots career that included multiple state championships and back-to-back Peach Jam titles with Brad Beal Elite. He was also named the 2025 Nike EYBL MVP.

His high school is even more impressive. As a senior at Little Rock Christian Academy, Andrews averaged 30.7 points, 16.9 rebounds and 3.0 assists, while adding 1.9 steals and 1.5 blocks per game and shooting 62% from the floor.

Add in his positional size, athleticism, physicality and winning background, and there's an obvious question: Why isn't J.J. Andrews being discussed more prominently among the elite prospects in the 2027 NBA Draft?

On NBA Draft Junkies Live, Rafael and James break down Andrews' NBA tools, his incredible production, how he'll fit into a loaded Arkansas roster and whether he has a legitimate path from highly regarded freshman to dark-horse top-five pick.

#JJAndrews #ArkansasBasketball #ArkansasRazorbacks #Razorbacks #WPS #2027NBADraft #NBADraft #NBADraft2027 #NBADraftJunkies #NBADraftProspects #NBAScouting #NBAProspects #DraftProspects #Top5Pick #NBADraftLottery #NBADraftSleeper #CollegeBasketball #CollegeHoops #SECBasketball #BradBealElite #NikeEYBL #EYBL #PeachJam #BasketballScouting #NBADraftAnalysis

Duke Is Loaded, But Is Patrick Ngongba II Their Best 2027 NBA Draft Prospect?

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 04:09:26 +0000

Patrick Ngongba II entered his sophomore season needing to prove he could take a significant step forward...and that's exactly what he did.

After averaging just 3.9 points as a freshman, the Duke center jumped to 10.0 points and 5.7 rebounds per game while shooting 60.5% from the field. His season was interrupted by a foot injury in February, however, raising an interesting question about what his draft decision might have looked like had he remained healthy while playing some of his best basketball.

Rafael already viewed Ngongba as a first-round talent last season. Now he's returning to a loaded Duke roster with another opportunity to improve his stock.

On NBA Draft Junkies Live, Rafael and James break down Ngongba's development, his role on this Duke team and how his combination of strength, touch, physicality and interior play translates to today's NBA. And with several NBA prospects in Durham, we ask the bigger question: Could Patrick Ngongba II actually be the first Duke player selected in the 2027 NBA Draft?

#PatrickNgongba #PatrickNgongbaII #DukeBasketball #DukeMBB #DukeBlueDevils #GoDuke #TheBrotherhood #2027NBADraft #NBADraft #NBADraft2027 #NBADraftJunkies #NBADraftProspects #NBAScouting #NBAProspects #DraftProspects #NBADraftFirstRound #CollegeBasketball #CollegeHoops #ACCBasketball #BasketballScouting #NBADraftAnalysis

Is the Quentin Coleman Hype Real?

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Thu, 10 Sep 2026 04:16:02 +0000

Quentin Coleman's name has been gaining serious momentum entering his freshman season at Illinois. The 6'4" guard averaged 23.1 points, 6.1 rebounds and 3.9 assists as a senior, earned Gatorade Missouri Player of the Year honors and led Principia to a second consecutive state championship. He also helped Brad Beal Elite win the Nike EYBL Peach Jam championship and earned a spot on USA Basketball's U18 national team. Shooting is the obvious attraction.

Coleman shot 50% from three during his senior season and around 39% during EYBL play.

James believes Coleman has a chance to become Illinois' latest one and done NBA prospect. On NBA Draft Junkies Live, Rafael and James break down the growing hype, his NBA strengths and weaknesses, his potential role at Illinois and whether he'll get enough opportunity to turn the preseason buzz into legitimate first-round consideration.

#QuentinColeman #IllinoisBasketball #Illini #FightingIllini #IlliniBasketball #EveryDayGuys #2027NBADraft #NBADraft #NBADraft2027 #NBADraftJunkies #NBADraftProspects #NBAScouting #NBAProspects #DraftProspects #NBADraftSleeper #OneAndDone #CollegeBasketball #CollegeHoops #BigTenBasketball #BradBealElite #NikeEYBL #PeachJam #BasketballScouting #NBADraftAnalysis

Dylan Mingo: One of 2027’s Most Exciting Prospects and Baylor’s Next Lottery Pick?

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Wed, 9 Sep 2026 04:08:45 +0000

Dylan Mingo enters Baylor as one of the most intriguing guards in the 2027 NBA Draft conversation. The former five-star recruit starred for the legendary PSA Cardinals on the Nike EYBL circuit and his combination of size, length, ball handling and offensive creativity makes him an especially interesting NBA projection.

Mingo originally committed to North Carolina under Hubert Davis before reopening his recruitment following UNC's coaching change and ultimately choosing Baylor, where he'll now play alongside his older brother Kayden.

On NBA Draft Junkies Live, Rafael and James break down Mingo's game, his position at the next level, his outside shooting and how he'll fit at Baylor. We also discuss whether the Mingo brothers can develop instant chemistry and whether Dylan can become the latest in Baylor's recent line of NBA prospects.

#DylanMingo #BaylorBasketball #BaylorBears #SicEm #2027NBADraft #NBADraft #NBADraft2027 #NBADraftJunkies #NBADraftProspects #NBAScouting #NBAProspects #DraftProspects #NBADraftLottery #CollegeBasketball #CollegeHoops #Big12Basketball #PSACardinals #NikeEYBL #EYBL #BasketballScouting #NBADraftAnalysis #KaydenMingo

The NBA Is Getting Bigger: Is That Good News for Motiejus Krivas?

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Tue, 8 Sep 2026 04:01:33 +0000

Motiejus Krivas has the size of an old-school center, but there may be more skill to his game than his numbers suggest.

The 7'2", 260-pound Arizona big man averaged roughly 10 points, eight rebounds and two blocks in only 25 minutes per game last season. But Rafael believes those numbers don't fully capture Krivas' talent—and thinks he has the ability to make a significant leap and establish himself as one of the most dominant interior forces in college basketball.

On NBA Draft Junkies Live, Rafael and James break down Krivas' offensive skill, interior presence and NBA projection while tackling a bigger question surrounding today's league: As NBA teams begin prioritizing size again, is there once again a place for massive, traditional centers—and if so, how high should you draft one?

#MotiejusKrivas #ArizonaBasketball #ArizonaWildcats #BearDown #2027NBADraft #NBADraft #NBADraft2027 #NBADraftJunkies #NBADraftProspects #NBAScouting #NBAProspects #DraftProspects #CollegeBasketball #CollegeHoops #Big12Basketball #BasketballScouting #NBADraftAnalysis #NBADraftStock #Center #BigMen #ArizonaHoops

Amari Allen: Same Player, Different Height, Different Draft Stock?

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Sat, 5 Sep 2026 04:10:29 +0000

Amari Allen wasn't one of the most hyped freshmen entering last season, but it didn't take long for the Alabama forward to get the attention of NBA scouts. Allen averaged 11.4 points, 6.9 rebounds and 3.1 assists, earned SEC All-Freshman honors and finished sixth in the conference in rebounding.

His versatility was enough for Rafael and James to view him as a first-round talent.

Then came the NBA Draft Combine.

After Alabama listed Allen at 6'8", his measurements created an entirely different conversation about his positional projection. But should a measurement change what scouts already saw on film?

On NBA Draft Junkies Live, Rafael and James break down Allen's freshman season, his NBA skill set and whether being smaller than expected should materially change his draft stock—or whether teams should simply trust the player they saw on the court.

#AmariAllen #AlabamaBasketball #AlabamaHoops #RollTide #CrimsonTide #2027NBADraft #NBADraft #NBADraft2027 #NBADraftJunkies #NBADraftProspects #NBAScouting #NBAProspects #DraftProspects #NBADraftStock #NBADraftCombine #CollegeBasketball #CollegeHoops #SECBasketball #BasketballScouting #NBADraftAnalysis

Thomas Haugh Will Be Almost 24 on Draft Night.....Does It Matter?

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Fri, 4 Sep 2026 04:07:04 +0000

Thomas Haugh has been viewed as a potential NBA Draft pick for multiple seasons thanks to his positional size, skill and versatility. But after twice deciding to remain at Florida, Haugh enters another season facing a very different question: Is there anything left for him to prove?

On NBA Draft Junkies Live, Rafael and James break down Haugh's NBA projection, what another year at Florida could add to his résumé and how teams will evaluate him as an older prospect. We also tackle the bigger draft philosophy question: Can a player stay in college too long and actually miss his best NBA Draft window?

#ThomasHaugh #FloridaBasketball #FloridaGators #Gators #GoGators #2027NBADraft #NBADraft #NBADraft2027 #NBADraftJunkies #NBADraftProspects #NBAScouting #NBAProspects #DraftProspects #NBADraftStock #CollegeBasketball #CollegeHoops #SECBasketball #BasketballScouting #NBADraftAnalysis #NBADraftAge #FloridaGatorsBasketball

What Should We Make of Braylon Mullins’ Freshman Season?

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Thu, 3 Sep 2026 04:35:53 +0000

Braylon Mullins entered UConn with NBA positional size and a reputation as one of the best shooters in his class. The 6'6" wing showed flashes during a solid freshman season, but his 33% shooting from three fell short of expectations as ankle issues disrupted his year.

After considering the 2026 NBA Draft and ultimately returning to UConn, Mullins now has an opportunity to remind scouts why his shooting made him such an intriguing NBA prospect in the first place.

On NBA Draft Junkies Live, Rafael and James discuss how much stock we should put into Mullins' freshman shooting numbers, whether his pre-college track record is more indicative of the shooter he'll eventually become, and what he needs to show as a sophomore to emerge as a potential lottery pick in the 2027 NBA Draft.

#BraylonMullins #UConn #UConnBasketball #Huskies #UConnHuskies #2027NBADraft #NBADraft #NBADraft2027 #NBADraftJunkies #NBADraftProspects #NBAScouting #NBAProspects #DraftProspects #NBADraftLottery #CollegeBasketball #CollegeHoops #BigEastBasketball #BasketballScouting #NBADraftAnalysis #NBAProspect

What More Can Tyler Tanner Do to Improve His Draft Stock?

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Wed, 2 Sep 2026 14:08:59 +0000

Tyler Tanner went from averaging just 5.7 points as a freshman to becoming one of the best guards in college basketball as a sophomore. The Vanderbilt point guard exploded for 19.5 points, 5.1 assists and 2.4 steals per game, earning First-Team All-SEC and SEC All-Defensive honors while putting himself firmly on the NBA Draft radar.

After testing the 2026 NBA Draft process, Tanner ultimately withdrew and elected to return to Vanderbilt for his junior season. But that creates an interesting question: How much higher can his draft stock actually go?

Tanner can become a better shooter, playmaker, scorer and defender, but the biggest concern NBA teams have about him is his size—and that's not changing. On NBA Draft Junkies Live, Rafael and James break down Tanner's NBA projection, what made his sophomore breakout so impressive, what he can realistically improve as a junior and whether another huge season at Vanderbilt can convince NBA teams to overlook his physical limitations.

#TylerTanner #VanderbiltBasketball #Vanderbilt #VandyBoys #AnchorDown #2027NBADraft #NBADraft #NBADraft2027 #NBADraftJunkies #NBADraftProspects #NBAScouting #NBAProspects #DraftProspects #CollegeBasketball #CollegeHoops #SECBasketball #BasketballScouting #NBADraftStock #PointGuard #NBADraftAnalysis

What Should We Expect From Baba Oladotun as a Freshman?

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Tue, 1 Sep 2026 04:42:25 +0000

For years, Baba Oladotun has been viewed as one of the most talented prospects in his class. The skilled forward emerged as an elite recruit early in high school, spent time in the conversation for the No. 1 player in his class and even drew Kevin Durant comparisons because of his combination of size, perimeter skill and shot-making.

Those comparisons only became louder when Oladotun suited up for Team Durant on the Nike EYBL circuit. But as his high school career progressed, other prospects began passing him in the rankings and some of the enormous early hype surrounding his name faded.

Could that actually be the best thing for Baba Oladotun? On NBA Draft Junkies Live, Rafael and James discuss whether entering college with less pressure could allow Oladotun to reset expectations, establish his own identity and remind everyone why he was once considered one of the premier prospects in his class. We’ll break down his NBA tools, his development and what we should realistically expect from him as a freshman.

#BabaOladotun #2027NBADraft #NBADraft #NBADraft2027 #NBADraftJunkies #NBADraftProspects #NBAScouting #NBAProspects #CollegeBasketball #CollegeHoops #BasketballScouting #DraftProspects #NBADraftLottery #TeamDurant #NikeEYBL #EYBL #KevinDurant #HighSchoolBasketball #BasketballProspects

Is Maximo Adams a One-and-Done NBA Draft Prospect?

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 04:18:02 +0000

Maximo Adams enters North Carolina as a highly regarded freshman, but James believes the 6'7" forward is being underrated as an NBA prospect — and could ultimately play his way into the lottery of the 2027 NBA Draft.

The former Sierra Canyon standout broke out on the EYBL circuit, earned McDonald’s All-American honors and now heads to Chapel Hill for his freshman season. On NBA Draft Junkies Live, James makes his case for Adams as a one-and-done prospect while Rafael pushes back and plays devil’s advocate. We break down Adams’ game, his NBA strengths and weaknesses, what he needs to prove as a freshman and whether playing for former NBA championship coach Michael Malone can help unlock his lottery upside.

#MaximoAdams #UNC #UNCBasketball #TarHeels #GoHeels #CarolinaBasketball #2027NBADraft #NBADraft #NBADraft2027 #NBADraftJunkies #NBADraftProspects #NBAScouting #NBAProspects #DraftProspects #NBADraftLottery #CollegeBasketball #CollegeHoops #ACCBasketball #SierraCanyon #McDonaldsAllAmerican #BasketballScouting #MichaelMalone

Who Is Alex Wilkins? The 2027 NBA Draft Sleeper You Need to Know

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 04:20:20 +0000

James has been telling me for months that Alex Wilkins is one of the most underrated prospects in the 2027 NBA Draft — now it’s time to put that take on the record.

The 6'6" sophomore guard went from an under-the-radar recruit to averaging 17.8 points and 4.7 assists as a freshman at Furman before transferring to Kentucky.

He also introduced himself to a national audience in the NCAA Tournament, scoring 21 points with four assists and four made threes against UConn. Now James believes Wilkins could emerge as one of the biggest sleepers in the 2027 NBA Draft.

On NBA Draft Junkies Live, Rafael and James break down Wilkins' game, what made him so productive at Furman, how his game translates to the NBA and whether he can make the jump from mid-major star to legitimate NBA prospect at Kentucky.

#AlexWilkins #KentuckyBasketball #BBN #KentuckyWildcats #2027NBADraft #NBADraft #NBADraft2027 #NBADraftJunkies #NBADraftProspects #NBAScouting #NBAProspects #DraftSleeper #CollegeBasketball #CollegeHoops #SECBasketball #BasketballScouting #DraftProspects

Miikka Muurinen: The Biggest Wild Card in the 2027 NBA Draft?

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Thu, 27 Aug 2026 04:28:59 +0000

Arkansas freshman Miikka Muurinen might be one of the most fascinating evaluations in the 2027 NBA Draft.

The Finnish forward has the size, athleticism, motor and defensive tools to produce highlight-reel plays and quickly become a fan favorite. But beyond the dunks, blocks and flashes, there’s a much bigger question: How much game does Miikka Muurinen actually have right now?

After a season overseas where consistent playing time was difficult to find, Muurinen arrives at Arkansas with an opportunity to finally show what his game looks like with a significant role.

On NBA Draft Junkies Live, Rafael and James break down Muurinen’s NBA tools, skill level, shooting potential and defensive upside while asking what he needs to show at Arkansas to establish himself as one of the top prospects in the 2027 NBA Draft.

#MiikkaMuurinen #ArkansasBasketball #Razorbacks #WPS #2027NBADraft #NBADraft #NBADraft2027 #NBADraftJunkies #NBADraftProspects #NBAScouting #NBAProspects #CollegeBasketball #CollegeHoops #SECBasketball #FinlandBasketball #FinnishBasketball #BasketballScouting #DraftProspects

Brandon McCoy Jr.: How High Can He Go in the 2027 NBA Draft?

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 15:23:39 +0000

Michigan’s Brandon McCoy Jr. enters the season as one of the most physically gifted prospects in the 2027 NBA Draft. At 6’5” with a 6’10” wingspan, McCoy brings elite athleticism, defensive potential and physical tools that immediately stand out. But just how high can those tools take him, and could the development of his jump shot unlock another level to his NBA ceiling?

On NBA Draft Junkies Live, Rafael and James break down McCoy’s game, debate whether he’s the best athlete in the class and compare his long-term potential with fellow elite guard prospect Jordan Smith Jr.

How big is the gap between Smith and McCoy — and what happens if McCoy starts consistently making shots?

#BrandonMcCoyJr #BrandonMcCoy #2027NBADraft #NBADraft #NBADraft2027 #MichiganBasketball #GoBlue #MichiganWolverines #NBADraftJunkies #NBADraftProspects #NBAScouting #NBAProspects #CollegeBasketball #CollegeHoops #BigTenBasketball #BasketballScouting #DraftProspects #JordanSmithJr

Why Isn’t Anthony Thompson in the No. 1 Pick Conversation?

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 13:36:50 +0000

Ohio State freshman Anthony Thompson is already projected as a potential top-10 pick in the 2027 NBA Draft, but should we be talking about him even higher?

At 6’9”, 215 pounds, Thompson brings an intriguing combination of size, athleticism and skill. He can handle the ball, create offense and knock down shots from the perimeter.

In a wide-open 2027 draft class, Rafael believes Thompson deserves to be mentioned as a legitimate candidate for the No. 1 pick.

Tonight on NBA Draft Junkies Live, Rafael and James break down Thompson’s game, his NBA upside, what he still needs to prove at Ohio State and what it would take for him to climb all the way to No. 1.

#AnthonyThompson #2027NBADraft #NBADraft #NBADraft2027 #OhioStateBasketball #OhioStateHoops #Buckeyes #GoBucks #NBADraftJunkies #NBADraftProspects #NBAScouting #NBAProspects #CollegeBasketball #BigTenBasketball

Can Bruce Branch Become BYU’s Third Straight Lottery Pick?

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 23:52:48 +0000

Bruce Branch has spent the past few years playing alongside some of the best prospects in basketball. He played with Koa Peat at Perry High School before joining Caleb Holt at Prolific Prep. Now, the 6’7” BYU freshman gets his opportunity to be the guy. Maybe....

In this episode of NBA Draft Junkies Live, Rafael and James break down Branch’s game, if he'll get to be the main guy in a featured role, and what a successful freshman season should look like. With BYU coming off consecutive lottery picks in Egor Demin and AJ Dybantsa, could Branch make it three straight? And if he thrives as the top option, just how high can he climb in the 2027 NBA Draft? #BruceBranch #BYUBasketball #BYUHoops #2027NBADraft #NBADraft #NBADraft2027 #NBADraftJunkies #NBADraftProspects #NBAScouting #NBAProspects #CollegeBasketball #CollegeHoops #BasketballScouting #DraftProspects #ProlificPrep #McDonaldsAllAmerican #Big12Basketball

Caleb Holt: How High Can He Go in the 2027 NBA Draft?

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 17:23:39 +0000

Arizona freshman Caleb Holt enters the season as one of the most highly regarded prospects in the 2027 NBA Draft. The 6’5”, 215-pound guard was a McDonald’s All-American, co-MVP of the McDonald’s All-American Game and has won three gold medals with Team USA.

Holt’s athleticism, defense, rebounding, motor and ability to impact winning are easy to buy. The bigger questions are what his offensive role looks like at the NBA level.

Does he shoot it well enough to play primarily off the ball? Is he a good enough creator and decision-maker to become a point guard? And how high should you draft a player whose greatest strength may simply be how many different ways he impacts a game?

Rafael and James break down Holt’s game, his NBA projection and whether he can justify the top-five hype — or potentially climb even higher — on NBA Draft Junkies Live.

#CalebHolt #2027NBADraft #NBADraft #NBADraft2027 #ArizonaBasketball #ArizonaWildcats #BearDown #NBADraftJunkies #NBADraftProspects #NBAScouting #NBAProspects #CollegeBasketball #CollegeHoops #BasketballScouting #DraftProspects #McDonaldsAllAmerican

James Plants His Flag: Why Abdou Toure Is a Top 10 Pick in 2027

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 14:39:47 +0000

Arkansas enters the season with the nation’s No. 1 recruiting class and several highly touted NBA prospects, but James believes one of the most overlooked players in the group could ultimately emerge as a top-10 pick: Abdou Toure. In this episode, recorded live on YouTube with interaction from viewers in the comments, Rafael and James break down Toure’s game, his impressive scoring résumé and what first put him on the radar at the 2024 FIBA U17 World Cup. Is James ahead of the curve with his top-10 prediction, or is he too high on one of the biggest wild cards in Arkansas’ loaded freshman class?

#AbdouToure #2027NBADraft #NBADraft #ArkansasBasketball #Razorbacks #NBADraftJunkies #NBAScouting #NBAProspects #CollegeBasketball

NBA Draft Junkies Live: Tyran Stokes vs. the Field: Who’s Really No. 1 in 2027?

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Wed, 19 Aug 2026 13:40:21 +0000

Tyran Stokes has been considered one of the top players in his class for years, but as he heads to Kansas, the race for the No. 1 pick in the 2027 NBA Draft is wide open.

In this episode, recorded live on YouTube with questions and interaction from viewers in the comments, Rafael and James break down Stokes’ game, make the case for and against him as the top prospect in the class, and discuss what could ultimately determine whether he hears his name called first on draft night.

#TyranStokes #2027NBADraft #NBADraft #NBADraft2027 #KansasBasketball #KUBasketball #RockChalk #NBADraftJunkies #NBADraftProspects #NBAScouting #CollegeBasketball #CollegeHoops #BasketballScouting #NBAProspects #DraftProspects

NBA Draft Junkies Live: How Much Should We Really Judge Alijah Arenas’ Freshman Year?

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 15:48:37 +0000

Alijah Arenas entered college as one of the most talented young guards in the country, but his freshman season was anything but normal. After recovering from a serious car accident and then undergoing knee surgery, Arenas didn't have a traditional offseason or preseason before eventually returning to the court. When he did play, the results were mixed. There were flashes of high-level shot creation and scoring ability, but also significant concerns about his efficiency, shot selection and decision-making. So what should NBA scouts actually take away from his freshman season? In this episode, Rafael and James debate whether Arenas' struggles were legitimate red flags or simply the product of an incredibly difficult year. We break down the flashes, the 34% shooting from the field and 21% from three, his NBA strengths and weaknesses, and what he needs to prove this season to reestablish himself as one of the top prospects in the 2027 NBA Draft.

#AlijahArenas #2027NBADraft #NBADraft #NBADraftJunkies #USCBasketball #CollegeBasketball #NBADraftProspects

FIBA U17 World Cup Breakdown: Team USA Dominates | Top NBA Prospects & International Stars

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Wed, 8 Jul 2026 10:15:00 +0000

The Barlowe brothers are back with a full breakdown of the 2026 FIBA U17 World Cup after Team USA rolled to a gold medal, winning every game by an average of 46 points. Rafael and James discuss what stood out from Team USA’s dominant run while evaluating some of the tournament’s biggest NBA prospects, including Duke commit Joaquim Boumtje Boumtje , Beckham Black, A.J. Williams, C.J. Rosser, and several other rising American stars.

The conversation also shifts overseas as the brothers break down the top international performers from the tournament, including Serbia’s Nikola Kusturica, France’s Nathan Soliman, Turkey’s Omer Kutluay and Darius Karutasu, and Australia’s Luke Paul. James also shares his thoughts on Canada Basketball’s style of play and discusses why he believes Isaiah Hamilton’s development could benefit from a different approach.

Timestamps:

1:17 - James is on his way to Vegas for EYBL and NBA Summer League

2:53 - Rafael’s FIBA U17s experience in Istanbul

3:38 - Joaquim Boumtje Boumtje

7:31 - Beckham Black

12:33 - CJ Rosser

14:39 - Class of 2027s talent pool in US

15:54 - U17s too easy for USA

20:12 - Navarro Bowman’s dunk

21:17 - Cayden Daughtry

22:48 - AJ Williams

24:49 - Asa Montgomery and Jordan Page

25:30 - Cayden Daughtry

27:15 - James top international prospects from FIBA U17s

27:20 - Nikola Kusturica

28:11 - Nathan Soliman

29:15 - Luke Paul

33:27- Omer Kutluay

35:20 - Nathan Soliman

35:48 - Canada plays a bad brand of basketball

36:14 - Isaiah Hamilton

39:24 - Nikola Kusturica

42:22 - Nathan Soliman

45:16 - Luke Paul

47:35 - Darius Karutasu

48:44 - Omer Kutluay

#FIBAU17 #NBADraft #NBADraft2027 #TeamUSA #Basketball #InternationalBasketball #NBAScouting #BasketballPodcast #BeckhamBlack #JoaquimBoumtje #NikolaKusturica #NathanSoliman #OmerKutluay #LukePaul #AJWilliams #CJRosser #DukeBasketball #EYBL #NBASummerLeague #NBADraftJunkies #CollegeBasketball #BasketballRecruiting #HighSchoolBasketball #GrassrootsBasketball #FIBAYouth #EYBL #NBASummerLeague #FutureStars #BasketballProspects #DukeBasketball

Beckham Black Dominates as Team USA Crushes France | FIBA U17 Reaction

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Sun, 28 Jun 2026 11:42:09 +0000

Rafael and James Barlowe break down Team USA's dominant victory over France in the opening game of the 2026 FIBA U17 World Cup, sharing their biggest takeaways from one of the tournament's most anticipated matchups. The Barlowe brothers discuss the standout performances from Team USA, led by point guard Beckham Black, whose impressive all around play showcased why he is considered one of the top young guards in the world. The episode also highlights several of Team USA's top prospects while examining the bright spots for France, including an impressive performance from Nathan Solimon. In addition, Rafael shares his concerns about the current state of French guard development, offering his theory on why France has struggled to consistently produce elite level guards despite its recent success in developing NBA talent. The discussion provides in-depth analysis, international scouting insight, and early reactions from the opening round of the 2026 FIBA U17 World Cup.

1:57 - France vs USA recap

2:50 - Beckham Black

10:54 - AJ Williams

13:07 - Navarro Bowman Jr

15:22 - Joaquim Boumtje-Boumtje

20:44 - CJ Rosser

23:19 - Nathan Soliman

30:17 - France’s lack of guard play

37:25 - Messi Yangala

#FIBAU17 #FIBAU17WorldCup #TeamUSA #USABasketball #BeckhamBlack #NathanSalomon #FranceBasketball #TeamFrance #BasketballScouting #NBADraft #NBADraftJunkies #NBABigBoard #InternationalBasketball #FIBABasketball #YouthBasketball #BasketballPodcast #FutureStars #InternationalProspects #ScoutingReport #NBAProspects

2026 NBA Draft Recap: Biggest Surprises, Best Fits & Rookie of the Year Picks

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 11:37:18 +0000

Rafael and James Barlowe recap the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft, breaking down the biggest surprises, best team fits, and potential Rookie of the Year candidates from draft night. The Barlowe brothers share their thoughts on AJ Dybantsa landing with the Washington Wizards, Darryn Peterson heading to Utah, and debate which rookies are in the best position to make an immediate impact. They also discuss whether Cameron Boozer, Darius Acuff, Caleb Wilson, or Mikel Brown Jr. have the inside track in the Rookie of the Year race. In addition, Rafael and James evaluate several intriguing fits, including Karim Lopez with the Memphis Grizzlies, Dailyn Swain with the Chicago Bulls, Keaton Wagler with the Los Angeles Clippers, and Sergio De Larrea joining the Dallas Mavericks. The brothers also react to surprising selections such as Morez Johnson Jr. going No. 9 overall, Brooklyn drafting another point guard in Mikel Brown Jr., and Koa Peat's slide on draft night. The episode wraps up with a discussion on the biggest winners and losers from the first round, highlighting prospects such as Brayden Burries, Nate Ament, Jayden Quaintance, Bennett Stirtz, Christian Anderson, Hannes Steinbach, and Yaxel Lendeborg, while offering instant reactions and analysis on one of the most fascinating draft classes in recent memory.

1:01 - James overall thoughts on the draft

2:25 AJ Dybantsa to Wizards

2:57 - Trae Young extension

4:11 - Darryn Peterson to Jazz

5:20 - Ace Bailey off the bench?

6:17 - Cameron Boozer best odds for rookie of the year?

8:09 - Darius Acuff ROY candidate

8:37 - Caleb Wilson ROY chances

9:01 - Mikel Brown Jr

10:09 - Karim Lopez - Memphis Grizzlies

10:31 - Dailyn Swain - Chicago Bulls

12:12 - Keaton Wager to LA Clippers

14:35 - Brooklyn Nets draft another point guard in Mikel Brown

16:37 - Darius Acuff and Sacramento Kings

17:32 - Should the Pistons try to trade for Zach LaVine?

18:18 - Acuff Rookie of the year pitch

19:07 - Kingston Flemings to Hawks

20:48 - Zuby Ejiofor to Hawks

22:21 - Morez Johnson surprise pick at No. 9?

25:19 - Biggest Winners on draft night? Brayden Burries and Nate Ament to Bucks

31:20 - Aday Mara to OKC Thunder

34:14 - Charlotte Hornets picks Hannes Steinbach and Christian Anderson

34:33 - Hannes Steinbach

35:29 - Christian Anderson

35:50 - Bennett Stirtz to the Thunder

37:04 - Labaron Philon to Sixers

37:28 - Bennett Stirtz

38:48 - Ebuka Okorie to Pistons

40:23 - Allen Graves to Toronto

41:57 - Jayden Quaintance to Spurs

44:16 - Cameron Carr to Lakers

45:35 - Sergio De Larrea to the Mavericks

45:47 - Chris Cenac Jr to the Boston Celtics

50:50 - Koa Peat falling in the draft

51:49 - Yaxel Lendeborg to Warriors

#2026NBADraft #NBADraft #NBADraftRecap #AJDybantsa #DarrynPeterson #CameronBoozer #KoaPeat #NBADraftJunkies #NBABigBoard #BasketballScouting #NBAPodcast #RookieOfTheYear #NBAProspects #DraftTalk #NBADraftReaction #BasketballPodcast #DraftSeason #NBADraftProspects #FutureStars #BasketballAnalysis

Rafael Barlowe Returns: AJ Dybantsa vs Darryn Peterson, Giannis Trade Scenarios & Draft Sleepers

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Mon, 22 Jun 2026 12:31:03 +0000

After spending the season as an international scout for an NBA team, Rafael Barlowe is back behind the mic with his brother James Barlowe for another episode of NBA Draft Junkies.

The brothers examine the "Giannis Effect" and how the Giannis Antetokounmpo trade rumors continues to influence the draft. The Barlowe brothers debate whether AJ Dybantsa or Darryn Peterson deserves to be the No. 1 spot on the 2026 NBA Draft board, and break down their potential fits with the Washington Wizards.

They also examine the Green Room invite list, discuss why Jayden Quaintance and Koa Peat were left out, identify the most polarizing prospects in the class, and reveal their favorite sleepers including German guard Jack Kayil.

0:00 Intro

1:32 Giannis Impact on the 2026 NBA Draft

5:23 Draft Options for the Bucks if a Giannis Trade Happens

6:56 AJ Dybantsa vs Darryn Peterson

11:49 Why AJ Is Rafael's No. 1 Prospect

12:45 AJ Dybantsa's Fit with the Wizards

14:08 Darryn Peterson's Fit with the Wizards

14:46 How AJ or Darryn Fit Alongside Trae Young & Anthony Davis

16:53 Wizards with the No. 1 Pick vs Heat with Giannis

18:00 Green Room Invites

19:20 Jayden Quaintance

21:05 Koa Peat

23:37 James' Big Board vs Green Room Invites

25:04 Jayden Quaintance to the Thunder or Spurs?

27:25 Why Koa Peat Stayed in the Draft

33:12 Why Brayden Burries Is One of Rafael's Most Polarizing Prospects

38:00 Karim Lopez: Boom or Bust?

39:31 Dailyn Swain Discussion

40:39 Nate Ament

47:19 Is Dailyn Swain This Year's Sleeper?

48:42 Jack Kayil: Germany's Hidden Gem

54:08 Jack Kayil vs Sergio De Larrea

If you enjoy NBA Draft coverage, scouting reports, prospect evaluations, mock drafts, and insider analysis, subscribe to NBA Draft Junkies and NBA Big Board for year-round draft content.

#NBADraft #2026NBADraft #AJDybantsa #DarrynPeterson #NBADraftJunkies #NBABigBoard #BasketballScouting #NBADraftProspects #WashingtonWizards #KoaPeat #JadenQuaintance #JackKayil #DraftTalk #NBAPodcast #BasketballPodcast #NBAProspects #DraftSeason #CollegeBasketball #FutureStars #Basketball

Behind the Final 2026 Big Board

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 13:48:31 +0000

Dybantsa 1:01

Boozer 3:33

Peterson 5:16

Wilson 7:15

MBJ 9:24

Quaintance 10:53

Acuff 12:15

Burries 14:20

Wagler 15:42

Felmings 17:36

Mara 19:22

Yaxel 20:33

Swain 21:28

Johnson 22:36

Philon 24:15

Okorie 26:17

Ament 28:04

Carr 30:04

Steinbach 30:57

Anderson 31:43

Lopez 32:27

Peat 33:20

Cenac 35:00

Stirtz 35:50

Thomas 36:40

Graves 37:11

Evans 37:44

Reed 38:21

de larrea 39:06

Veesaar 40:02

NBA Draft Lottery + Combine Reactions

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Wed, 13 May 2026 14:00:00 +0000

In this episode, host James Barlowe gives his analysis of the NBA Draft Lottery results, plus early reactions to official combine measurements and athletic testing results.

March Madness Notes Vol 1

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 17:59:42 +0000

In this episode, host James Barlowe talks about the opening weekend of the NCAA Tournament with breakdowns of player performances. Dybantsa 2:20 Boozer 5:43 Peterson 8:26 Acuff 12:40 Tanner 15:25 Ament 17:27 Wagler 19:50 Burries 23:15 Mara 24:15 NCAA fans 27:10

The Loaded Wing Class

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 14:18:39 +0000

In this episode, host James Barlowe talks about the wing depth in the 2026 NBA Draft. AJ 1:51 Swain 9:11 Ament 11:57 Lopez 17:00 Allen 19:28

2 Guard Talk

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 14:00:00 +0000

Peterson 3:22 Wagler 7:45 Carr 13:42 Tounde 17:33 Burries 22:13 Stirtz 25:38

Centers of Attention

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Mon, 2 Mar 2026 14:26:32 +0000

Ngongba 2:00 Johnson 6:04 Mara 8:06 Steinbach 10:56 Quaintance 13:40 Krivas 18:32 Teams that need bigs 19:20

Who Is The Top Point Guard?

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 16:09:02 +0000

In this episode, host James Barlowe talks about the three man race for PG1 between Mikel Brown Jr, Kingston Flemings, and Darius Acuff Jr.

Behind the Big Board Vol 2

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Mon, 9 Feb 2026 14:23:18 +0000

In this episode, James Barlowe takes you behind the reasoning for his Big Board Vol 2. Peterson 1:15 Boozer 3:22 Dybantsa 4:51 Caleb 8:05 Flemings 10:30 Ngongba 11:56 Wagler 13:48 Mikel Brown 15:03 Jayden Q 16:30 Ament 17:48 Acuff 20:16 Cameron Carr 22:21 Philon 23:56 Peat 24:57 Swain 25:58 Burries 27:55 Yaxel 29:09 Cenac 30:01 Steinbach 31:12 Anderson 31:54 Lopez 34:02 Stirtz 35:21 Tounde 37:20 Morez 38:30 Mullins 38:58 Haugh 39:52 Amari Allen 40:08 Jefferson 41:08 Perrin 41:06 Fears jr 42:52 Tanner 44:25 Bidunga 44:56 Avdalas 45:25 Arenas 45:45

The Race for Number One

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Mon, 2 Feb 2026 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode, host James Barlowe breaks down the race for the number one pick including a breakdown of the highly anticipated head-to-head matchup between Darryn Peterson and AJ Dybantsa.

Hot Shooting in Cold Weather

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 15:00:00 +0000

In this episode, host James Barlowe is joined by Latif Love to talk about how the cold weather could not stop some of the nation's best freshmen from heating up. Flemings 1:20 Wagler 10:57 Dybantsa 22:11 Acuff 36:56 Fears JR 44:58 Mikel Brown 49:54 Caleb Wilson 56:56 Boozer 1:02:00 Ament 1:18:22

Conference Play Temperature Check

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 16:00:00 +0000

In this episode, host James Barlowe checks the temperature of Caleb Wilson, Alijah Arenas, Tyler Tanner and Nate Ament. Arenas 2:07 Wilson 7:58 Tanner 13:37 Ament 17:28

Behind the Big Board

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 14:00:00 +0000

In this episode, James gives you his thought process behind his latest Big Board Peterson 2:08 Dybantsa 3:14 Boozer 4:30 Flemings 6:38 JQ 8:40 Wilson 9:36 Brown jr 11:11 Philon 12:29 Peat 13:38 Wagler 14:29 Carr 16:10 Yaxel 18:00 Ngongba 19:15 Christian Anderson 20:52 Hannes 22:30 Yessoufou 23:20 Haugh 24:37 Acuff 25:52 Avdalas 28:10 Mullins 29:54 Lopez 30:50 Ament 32:00 Cenac 34:33 Stirtz 36:00 Amari Allen 37:20 Joshua Jefferson 38:28 Aday 39:07 Swain 39:37 Morez 40:40 Page 41:17

Conference Play Conversations Part 2

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Tue, 6 Jan 2026 14:15:55 +0000

In the second part of the Conference Play Conversations, James and cohosts Leif Thulin and Latif Love talk in depth about the point guard class in the draft and also the respective rise/fall of Nate Ament and Keaton Wagler Ament/Wagler 36:00

Conference Play Conversations Part 1

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Mon, 5 Jan 2026 14:34:41 +0000

In the first of this two part series, James Barlowe and guest hosts Leif Thulin and Latif Love talk the conference openers for four projected lottery picks. Peterson :45 Dybantsa 9:02 Boozer 18:05 Wilson 29:54

Rookie Report Vol 1

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Fri, 2 Jan 2026 14:00:00 +0000

NBA Draft Junkies host James Barlowe gives you the first Rookie Report of the season for the 2025 NBA Draft Class. 1. Cooper Flagg 1:02 2. Kon Knueppel 5:31 3. Queen 8:15 AAU rant 11:08 4. Coward 15:20 5. Edgecombe 17:02 6. Harper 18:36 7. Fears 20:45 8. Tre Johnson 22:45 9. Maxime Raynaud 25:25 10. Kalkbrenner 28:30

Winter Exams

james.barlowe@gmail.com (Latif Love, James Barlowe) — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 14:23:29 +0000

JQ 1:22 Flemings 11:58 Acuff 21:21 Anderson 26:17 Stirtz 38:18 Boozer 40:38 Wilson 59:23

Under the Microscope Vol. 2 featuring Jacob Myers

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode, host James Barlowe goes under the microscope again but this time with special guest host Jacob Myers ( ⁨@LeagueHim⁩ .) Acuff 2:25 Anderson 6:22 Peterson 13:35 Wagler 21:55 Burries 32:06 Peat 36:00 Philon 40:40 Yaxel 51:02 HS talk 57:00

Scouting Notes: AJ Dybantsa

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe, Leif Thulin) — Sat, 13 Dec 2025 16:04:58 +0000

In this episode of the NBA Draft Junkies Podcast, host James Barlowe and guest Leif Thulin talk all things AJ Dybantsa.

Under the Microscope featuring Leif Thulin

james.barlowe@gmail.com (Leif Thulin, James Barlowe) — Thu, 4 Dec 2025 15:21:26 +0000

In this episode, James Barlowe and special guest Leif Thulin (@leifthulin) put some of the best draft picks under the microscope. Boozer 1:31 Haugh 11:30 Ament 16:18 Wilson 26:58 Mikel 33:28 Dybantsa 39:43 Acuff 51:18 PG talk 53:00 Peat 57:30

Feast Week Pt 3

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Fri, 28 Nov 2025 15:38:39 +0000

Another day of outstanding performances from the best of the 2026 NBA Draft class, James and Latif talk about the monster performance from Cam Boozer. Also discussed: Caleb Wilson, AJ Dybantsa and Neoklis Avdalas. Boozer 1:30 Acuff 9:58 Dybantsa 14:15 Wilson 25:00 Avdalas 33:26

Feast Week Tip-Off Pt 2

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 15:25:35 +0000

In this episode, host James Barlowe and special guest Latif Love recap day two performances of Cameron Carr, Caleb Wilson, Kingston Flemings, Bennett Stirtz and more Carr 1:45 Tounde 6:14 Ament 10:38 Flemings 15:25 Wilson 21:00 Yaxel 32:00 Stirtz 40:00

Feast Week Tip-Off

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 17:03:28 +0000

James Barlowe and special guest Latif Love (@realLatifLove) talk Feast Week performances by Nate Ament, Cameron Carr, Labaron Philon and more. Ament 1:29 Carr 12:12 Yessefou 19:24 Bidunga 29:00 Flemings 33:20 Cenac 39:33 Philon 45:55

Big Time Performances in Hostile Environments

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 18:39:35 +0000

In this episode, James Barlowe talks about big road performances from AJ Dybantsa and Houston Cougars Kingston Flemings and Chris Cenac Jr. Plus, Cameron Boozer's monster performance and more. AJ Dybantsa 0:50 Cameron Boozer 6:18 Kingston Flemings 10:07 Chris Cenac Jr 15:10 Cameron Carr 17:00 Tounde Yessefoua 17:40 Koa Peat 19:00 Labaron Philon 22:39

First Exams

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 19:25:54 +0000

First exams results are in for Mikel brown Jr, Aday Mara and Christian Anderson. Follow feedback is provided for Neoklis Avdalas and Nate Ament while the Houston Cougars face their first early season test. Mikel brown Jr :50 Aday Mara 4:39 Neoklis Avdalas 8:19 Christian Anderson 12:00 Nate Ament 15:00 Kingston Flemings 17:20 Chris Cenac Jr 20:44

Opening Night Standouts Pt 2

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barowe) — Wed, 5 Nov 2025 18:49:27 +0000

Host James Barlowe breaks down the individual performances of Cameron Boozer, Bennett Stirtz, Labaron Philon, and Christian Anderson Boozer 1:47 Isaiah Evans 9:59 Dame Sarr 10:27 Patrick Ngongba 11:02 Bennett Stirtz 11:30 Christian Anderson 15:17 Labaron Philon 17:10

Opening Night Observations and Standout Performances

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Tue, 4 Nov 2025 19:03:16 +0000

In this episode, James Barlowe breaks down the opening night performances of Koa Peat, AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, Caleb Wilson, Chris Cenac, and more. Koa Peat 0:50 AJ Dybantsa 9:30 Darryn Peterson 13:42 Nate Ament 14:39 Tounde Yessefou 16:02 Cameron Carr 17:46 Caleb Wilson 18:02 Darius Acuff 19:38 Mikel Brown Jr 22:47 Neoklis Avdalas 24:21 Chris Cenac 24:44

Exhibition Game Observations: A Sign of Things to Come?

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 16:14:21 +0000

In this episode, James breaks down the performances of projected top 3 picks AJ Dybantsa, Cameron Boozer, and Darryn Peterson. Also mentioned: Caleb Wilson, Mikel Brown Jr., and Nate Ament BYU vs NEB 1:08 Duke/ UCF 6:40 Kansas/Louisville 11:55 Mikel brown 15:47 BYU/UNC 21:40 UT/duke 26:46 Ament 28:01

Preseason Rookie Wrap Up

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 13:18:07 +0000

In this episode, James Barlowe gives a breaks down the performances of the 1st round picks in the 2025 NBA Rookie Class. Timestamps: Flagg 0:55 Harper 2:52 Edgecombe 4:14 Knueppel 6:26 Bailey 7:19 Johnson 9:47 Fears 11:52 Demin 14:28 CMB 16:28 Maluach 18:14 Coward 19:44 Essengue 22:04 Queen 22:46 Bryant 23:04 Hansen 25:13 Berringer 27:13 Clayton 28:47 Traore 30:35 Jakaciounus 31:17 Riley 32:29 Powell 33:15 Newell 33:47 Clifford 34:39 Richardson 35:52 Saraf 37:17 Wolf 38:16 Gonzalez 38:49 Mcneely 39:26 YKN 40:05

Preseason 2026 NBA Draft Lottery

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 15:32:15 +0000

Darryn Peterson 2:03
AJ Dybantsa 5:16
Cameron Boozer 8:20
Mikel Brown Jr 10:27
Nate Ament 13:05
Jayden Quaintance 16:03
Tounde Yessefou 19:10
Caleb Wilson 21:22
Neokalas Avadals 22:48
Chris Cenac 24:31
Koa Peat 26:21
Elyjah Freeman 27:55
Karim Lopez 30:15
Patrick Ngongba 31:07

NBA Draft Junkies Exclusive: Mikel Brown Jr talks FIBA U19 Success & Louisville championship dreams

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 15:28:04 +0000

In an exclusive for NBA Draft Junkies, Rafael Barlowe sits down with Louisville freshman Mikel Brown Jr. for a one-on-one conversation at Combine Academy in Lincolnton, NC, where he was attending Camp Seros — a showcase for Sero Partners clients.

Brown, widely projected as a top-five pick, reflects on his standout showing at the FIBA U19 World Cup—where he firmly put himself on the global radar. He also opens up about his aspirations of leading Louisville to a national championship, the influence of training alongside his father, and how his skillset is built to translate at both the college and NBA levels.

This is a conversation you’ll want to tap into.

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#NBADraft #NBADraft2025 #NBADraftProspects #NBADraftJunkies #MikelBrownJr #LouisvilleBasketball #LouisvilleCardinals #CollegeBasketball #CollegeHoops #NCAAHoops #FIBA #FIBAU19 #U19WorldCup #CombineAcademy #CampSeros #SeroPartners #NBAProspects #FutureStars #BasketballInterview #NBADraftScouting #OneOnOneInterview #NBAFuture #TopDraftPick #HoopsCulture #BasketballDevelopment #NBAScouting #NBATalk #NBACommunity #HoopsProspects #NBADraftWatch

Who’s No. 1 in 2026? Breaking Down Darryn Peterson, AJ Dybantsa, Cameron Boozer & Their Challengers

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 15:40:14 +0000

In this episode of the NBA Draft Junkies podcast, Rafael and James Barlowe dive into a loaded group of prospects projected to headline the 2026 NBA Draft. The brothers debate over Kansas-bound guard Darryn Peterson, with James calling him the best guard prospect of the past 20 years, while Rafael counters with AJ Dybantsa as his pick for the nation’s top prospect thanks to his rare blend of size, skill, and two-way upside. They also break down Duke’s Cameron Boozer, discussing his case to win National Player of the Year as a freshman and why his all-around polish and winning pedigree make him arguably the most complete player in the class. Louisville’s Mikel Brown Jr. gets spotlighted as a dark horse No. 1 pick candidate after a standout run at the FIBA U19 World Cup, where he was robbed of MVP honors despite his impact. The conversation expands to Jayden Quaintance, who impressed as a 17-year-old and looks primed for a breakout season, and Nate Ament, a prospect scouts believe could challenge for the top pick in 2026—drawing comparisons to recent No. 1 Zacharie Risacher. The episode wraps with international and college standouts, including Mexican prospect Kareem Lopez, currently developing in Australia, and Houston freshman Chris Cenac Jr., both of whom Rafael and James believe have the talent to enter the top 5 pick conversation in 2026.

Timestamps

2:05 - Darryn Peterson

11:54 - AJ Dybantsa

24:40 - Cameron Boozer

34:43 - Mikel Brown

42:44 - Jayden Quaintance

48:56 - Nate Ament

54:10 - Karim Lopez

55:26 - Chris Cenac Jr

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#NBADraft #NBADraft2026 #NBADraftTalk #NBADraftProspects #NBADraftClass #NBADraftCoverage #FutureNBAStars #NBADebate #NBADraftAnalysis #NBADraftJunkies #DarrynPeterson #AJDybantsa #CameronBoozer #MikelBrownJr #JadenQuaintance #NateAment #KareemLopez #ChrisSanonJr #DukeBasketball #KansasBasketball #LouisvilleBasketball #KentuckyBasketball #ArizonaStateBasketball #HoustonBasketball #WhoGoesNumberOne #RaceForNumberOne #FutureOfTheNBA #CollegeBasketball #HighSchoolBasketball #NBATalk #BasketballProspects #BasketballCommunity #NextUp #OnTheClock #InternationalProspects #GlobalGame #BasketballWorldwide #FIBA #FutureStars

NBA Draft Junkies Reboot: 2025 Summer League Breakdown

james.barlowe@gmail.com (James Barlowe) — Fri, 8 Aug 2025 13:24:53 +0000

After a three-year hiatus, Rafael and James Barlowe make their return to the NBA Draft Junkies platform with the debut episode of the NBA Draft Junkies podcast. In this premiere, the Barlowe brothers dive deep into the 2025 NBA Summer League, sharing their thoughts on every rookie selected in the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft. From Cooper Flagg to Liam McNeeley, Rafael and James offer their trademark in-depth analysis and authentic evaluations. They highlight standout performances from the likes of Dylan Harper, VJ Edgecombe, Tre Johnson, Kon Knueppel, Yang Hansen, and others, delivering a sharp, insightful breakdown of the rookie class. If you’re a draft enthusiast, this episode marks the official return of two voices you don’t want to miss.

0:45 - Intro/ summer league experience

4:22 - Cooper Flagg

7:09 - Dylan Harper

8:55 - VJ Edgecombe

12:15 - Kon Knueppel

14:05 - Ace Bailey

16:10 - Tre Johnson

19:22 - Jeremiah Fears

22:17 - Egor Demin/ Nets rookies

26:12 - Collin Murray-Boyles

27:52 - Khaman Maluach

30:23 - Noa Essengue

32:15 - Derik Queen

35:18 - Carter Bryant

39:39 - Yang Hansen

44:08 - Joan Beringer

46:41 - Walter Clayton Jr.

48:01 - Nolan Traore

48:51 - Kasparas Jakucionis

50:54 - Will Riley

51:53 - Asa Newell

53:19 - Nique Clifford

55:08 - Jase Richardson

56:45 - Hugo Gonzalez

57:33 - Yanic Konan Neiderhauser

57:42 - Liam McNeeley

#CooperFlagg #DylanHarper #VJEdgecombe #KonKnueppel #AceBailey #TreJohnson #JeremiahFears #EgorDemin #CollinMurrayBoyles #KhamanMaluach #NoaEssengue #DerikQueen #CarterBryant #YangHansen #JoanBeringer #WalterClaytonJr #NolanTraore #KasparasJakucionis #WillRiley #AsaNewell #NiqueClifford #JaseRichardson #HugoGonzalez #YanicKonanNeiderhauser #LiamMcNeeley