NBA Draft 2019: Mock Draft 1.0
By Chris Kern
Maryland. Bruno Fernando. 26. Center. player. 156. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis
Bruno Fernando decided to go back to Maryland for his sophomore season rather than stay in last summers draft and he seems to be much better off because of it. He had a very good season and he seems to be a near lock to be a first-round draft pick. He has a chance to go much higher than the 26th spot I have him projected to.
Fernando is a dominant force inside on both ends of the floor which limits his NBA stock somewhat. There are just a certain number of spots in the NBA for guys with his game. Most teams prefer to draft more versatile players which is why I have him falling to 26. I wouldn’t be surprised if he goes higher since he is very good, but the majority of teams don’t have a huge need for a big man.
During this past season in college, he averaged 13.6 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game. He is very good on both ends of the floor and he also shot 78% from the free-throw line which is a big positive for a player of his size and skillset.
His physical ability should make him a quality backup center, but the Cleveland Cavaliers will draft him here at 26 because of his potential. They are a young team trying to build a quality team and if they’re able to get a player with his skill and potential late in the first-round they will not hesitate to draft him.