With the NBA Draft approaching Thursday, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution's mock draft has both the Mavericks and Spurs getting talented players with their first-round picks.

At No. 9, the Mavericks may be in a position to take North Carolina state point guard Dennis Smith, one of the fastest and most athletic guards in the draft. He’s only 6-foot-2, but he plays bigger than that, with a quick first step and an impressive highlight reel despite playing just one year with the Wolfpack.

For the Spurs at No. 29, the AJC projects Ivan Rabb, a 6-11 power forward who averaged 14 points and 10.5 rebounds as a sophomore for California last season. A likely lottery pick after his freshman year, Rabb returned to Cal and didn’t progress as well as some scouts would like, leaving him as a likely late first-rounder now. However, many scouts like his frame, and he could have a lot of potential for the Spurs at No. 29.

The Rockets don’t have a first-round pick this season because they lost it to the Los Angeles Lakers in their February trade for Lou Williams. Their first pick doesn’t come until No. 43.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Atlanta Dream’s new players (from left) Shatori Walker-Kimbrough, Brionna Jones and Brittney Griner pose for photographers during a press conference to introduce the team's newest members, Tuesday, February 4, 2025, in Atlanta. (Hyosub Shin / AJC)

Credit: HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

Featured

State Rep. Kimberly New, R-Villa Rica, stands in the House of Representatives during Crossover Day at the Capitol in Atlanta on Thursday, March 6, 2025. (Arvin Temkar/AJC)

Credit: Arvin Temkar/AJC