The Phoenix Suns made University of Arizona big man Deandre Ayton the first top overall pick in franchise history. Ayton played his lone college season in Tucson and garnered Pac-12 Player and Freshman of the Year awards while averaging over 20 points, 11.6 rebounds, nearly two blocks per game for the Wildcats.
The 7-foot-1, 260-pound 19-year-old is originally from the Bahamas but played at local Phoenix Hillcrest Prep Academy. He was selected to the 2017 McDonald's All-American Team.
Scouting Report:
Ayton is a physically dominating force, with athleticism to match his strong physique. Dominant force at the basket, Ayton has a mid-range game, as well, and shot 74% from the free-throw line. Defensively, Ayton is great on the boards, but despite his 7-foot-5 wingspan, isn't a great shot blocker. Some scouts and coaches wonder about Ayton's work ethic, but in the end, the 19-year-old possess supreme offensive skills that he haven't seen from a player his size in some time.
Ayton joins the Suns' young core of Devin Booker and last year's fourth overall selection, Josh Jackson.