3. Tyler Kolek, PG, Marquette Golden Eagles
One of the most intriguing players to consider at No. 17 overall is Marquette Golden Eagles point guard Tyler Kolek. A fierce competitor who wears his emotions on his sleeve, Kolek was one of the standout performers of the 2024 NCAA Tournament.
In a testament to his proficiency as a playmaker, Kolek became the first player since Jason Kidd in 1993 to record at least 15 points, 10 assists, and five rebounds in consecutive NCAA Tournament games.
This was par for the course for Kolek, who led Marquette to 27 wins and its first appearance in the Sweet 16 since 2013. He averaged 15.3 points, 7.7 assists, 4.9 rebounds, 1.6 steals, and 1.5 three-point field goals per game while shooting at a clip of .496/.388/.851.
Kolek was No. 1 in the country in assists per game and would be justifiably regarded as the best facilitator in this class.
A consistently efficient three-point shooter and committed defender, Kolek overcomes concerns about his height and wingspan with effort and skill. With the Los Angeles Lakers, he could step in immediately as a backup point guard.
With sixth man potential and the tools to become a starter, Kolek would alleviate a great deal of pressure from LeBron James as soon as 2024-25.