In CBS Sports’ latest mock draft, they projected the Atlanta Hawks to select Louisville point guard Mikel Brown Jr. with the No. 8 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. However, according to an anonymous scout who spoke with Sam Smith of NBA.com, that would be a terrible idea for the Hawks.
The scout said that they wouldn’t even use a second-round pick on Brown, noting all of the different reasons why he is overrated as a prospect. Selecting a point guard at No. 8 would be a great idea for the Hawks, as they could use the extra shot-creation. But there could definitely be some warning signs with Brown.
At least, according to the scout Smith spoke with.
Hawks should take caution with Mikel Brown Jr. based on scout's quote
Here is the full quote Smith got about Brown from “someone close to the Louisville program”:
“Way overrated. Not even sure I would use a second round choice on him. Pretty good passer and an adequate shooter, not particularly athletic. Awful when trying to finish at the basket. Not strong enough for college ball and will get eaten alive in the NBA unless he really evolves. He also missed a lot of games, and there were a lot of rumors about that he could have played. I can’t fathom why some still view him as a top ten pick.”
Those are some strong words. A quote significant enough to make any team pause and question their decision to select a guy, even if they are confident in his abilities.
This past year at Louisville, Brown appeared in 21 games, playing 29.2 minutes per contest. He averaged 18.2 points, 3.3 rebounds, 4.7 assists, and 1.2 steals while shooting 41.0% from the field and 34.4% from deep range on 7.6 three-point attempts per contest.
CBS Sports’ scouting report claims that he’s an elite passer and a much better shooter than his college numbers indicate. That type of player is one who could really help the Hawks.
Adding a playmaking guard who can shoot the ball well would seriously help the team’s current core, but they should be careful not to get back into the Trae Young business. They need a guard who can also hold his own on the other end of the court.
And unfortunately, Brown could fall into that category. He’s not the biggest guy, and he may end up getting pushed around at the NBA level, which could put Atlanta in a bind.
So, even though the mock draft has the Hawks taking him, that quote is one they should take into potential consideration.
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