We’re past the season’s halfway point, and with one of the worst records in the NBA, the rebuilding Houston Rockets appear destined for a lottery draft pick. If you’re a fan of the Rockets, that adds intrigue to what’s left of the NCAA basketball season. If Houston is your team, you might want to keep an eye on these four college basketball stars over the next few months.

Jabari Smith, Auburn

Lanky and smooth, this 6-foot-10 power forward is a surefire lottery pick – and boy would he look good in Rockets red. A big man who can handle the ball and sling it from the outside, Smith’s game will plug and play nicely into today’s NBA. He sure would be fun to watch with Jalen Green in Houston next season.

Chet Holmgren, Gonzaga

Compared to Kristaps Porzingis by nbadraft.net, the 7-foot Holmgren moves well for his size and holds his own on both ends of the floor. He has some filling out to do, but he’s definitely worth a gamble for any team picking early in the first round. He puts his well-rounded game on full display in these highlights against UCLA.

Paolo Banchero, Duke

Duke is a lock to produce at least one lottery pick every year, and this is Banchero’s year. A 6-foot-10 power forward who pairs decent shooting range for a big man with excellent footwork and explosiveness, he looks NBA ready.

Jarden Ivey, Purdue

You won’t find a more electric player than Jaden Ivey. This 6-foot-4 shooting guard’s speed and explosiveness should translate well to the NBA – on both ends of the floor. He’s a fantastic passer, has made major strides with his outside shot this season, and good lord is he fun to watch. Just check out these highlights. A Green-Ivey backcourt? Yes, please!

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