NBA Draft 2018 Prospect Watch: Khyri Thomas

Strengths

Seeing that he’s been recognized on this end of the floor the last two seasons as he’s won back-to-back Big East Defensive Player of the Year honors, we’ll start by breaking down what Thomas has to offer defensively.

Armed with a 6’10” wingspan, Thomas is tenacious when defending opposing ball handlers at the point of attack while holding his own with his stout frame when switched on to wings or even forwards. His off-ball defense is equally dazzling as often displays great anticipation breaking up passing lanes with plenty of hustle.

Tying that together with his ruggedness and workman-like mentality, Thomas often took up the task of covering the opposing team’s leading offensive player over the last couple of years with the Bluejays.

As much as his defensive prowess may stand as his calling card, Thomas’ skills on the offensive end have been refined over his time in Omaha. A very adept shooter from beyond the arc, Thomas shot 40.6 percent from three on 3.2 three-point attempts per game over his three seasons and is comfortable letting it fly a variety of ways (i.e. spotting up, coming off screens, etc).

Thomas has also grown as a finisher at the basket, whether it’s in transition, getting run off the three-point line or getting down in the post and powering his way through an advantageous mismatch.