NBA Draft: Alabama’s Jarin Stevenson Showcases Future Upside in Elite Eight Outburst

In the biggest game of his young career, freshman forward Jarin Stevenson was a key piece in Alabama advancing to the Final Four. 

Not only was Jarin Stevenson one of the top recruits in the country entering the current college season, but he was also one of youngest freshman in the country given he reclassified. Still just 18 years old, he entered the NCAA Tournament averaging just 5.0 points and 2.7 rebounds in 16.5 minutes per game during the regular season. 

Even with a very limited role throughout the season, he showed flashes of just how good he could be in the future. Luckily for Alabama, he put together his best career game in the Elite Eight as that future potential became reality for a night. In a big win over the Clemson Tigers, Stevenson produced 19 points off the bench. This came on a spectacular shooting night, as he converted on five of his eight attempts from beyond the arc. 

On the defensive end, the 6-foot-11 forward also notched two blocks as he made an impact on both ends. It’s safe to say without his breakout game, the Crimson Tide would have been much less likely to pull out the close victory that came down to the wire. 

Stevenson likely needs one more collegiate season before he’s really ready to make the leap to the NBA. However, he should be considered a big breakout sophomore entering next season with the chance to become a first-round pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. He’s the ideal modern forward that can space the floor at nearly 7-feet tall. 

Want to join the discussion? Like Draft Digest on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to stay up to date on all the latest NBA Draft news. You can also meet the team behind the coverage.