We already knew that the Atlanta Hawks would be hosting Miami big man Norchad Omier for a pre-draft workout on May 9. And that they hosted six prospects on May 8, mostly highlighted by guards who are expected to return to college.
This next batch is a mixture of positions and expectations, though it is still highlighted by a smaller guard prospect.
The Hawks already roster Trae Young and had unrestricted free agent Aaron Holiday this past season. But could they really be in the market to add yet another guard whose stature is sure to be a constant narrative throughout the draft process? Perhaps if that guard is as highly decorated as UCLA guard Tyger Campbell.
Tyger Campbell – G – UCLA – 5-foot-11 – 180lbs
Campbell averaged 13.4 points, 5.0 assists, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.2 steals for the Bruins this past season shooting 37.8% from the floor and 33.8% from beyond the arc. While the scoring and rebounds were up, his efficiency was way down from the 2022 season with the added volume.
Still, he helped UCLA – where Holiday went to school – get to the Sweet 16.
Tyger Campbell pulls off a magic trick. pic.twitter.com/NvtcRWKmrO
— CBS Sports College Basketball 🏀 (@CBSSportsCBB) February 26, 2023
The diminutive guard has been named All-Pac 12 three times and also earned All-Pac 12 Tournament honors this past season. Campbell still has a year of eligibility remaining with interest from Illinois and Oregon already being reported by Sam Connon of All Bruins on April 12 who notes that the guard is intent on turning pro.
“I take a lot of pride in the success we have had, and that’s the result of a lot of hard work and commitment,” Campbell wrote in an Instagram post announcing his decision. “I’m graduating from UCLA and looking forward to the next step in my basketball career. With aspirations to play professionally, I am declaring for the NBA Draft.”
He shot 44.4% from the floor overall and 41.0% from downtown in his junior season, perhaps allaying some concerns. Campbell also averaged 15.8 points, 6.8 assists, and 2.8 boards in the postseason.
He was among the list of 45 participants invited to the 2023 G League Elite Camp in Chicago on May 13 and May 14.