Kansas basketball: Light combine numbers hurt Ochai Agbaji’s draft odds

Kansas basketball guard Ochai Agbaji has completed two scrimmages at the 2021 NBA Draft Combine, making small contributions in each.

Performing with Team 3, Agbaji would make a small impact in the first game. The rising senior would score 4 points and go 0-of-4 from the perimeter. His second scrimmage would show some improvement, finding 7 points and a three-point make.

Combine scrimmage stats for Ochai Agbaji: 

• First game stats (Team 3 vs. Team 4)
• Second game stats (Team 1 vs. Team 3)

Agbaji averaged around 22 minutes per game, giving him a solid chance to showcase his talent before the upcoming draft on July 29. However, it’s probably not the performance Agbaji was hoping for.

It’s been quite a mystery so far, but Agbaji’s low numbers at the combine may be fans’ next best lead on a decision to return for another year.

Before the combine, Ochai was a projected second-round pick. Now, it could be a different story. In regards to holding that spot, it’s tough to justify when he didn’t stand out much in either scrimmage.

Agbaji’s measurements/on-court drill stats are in the right spot, however, his scrimmage performances will make it a tough bid to land a second-round spot. The Jayhawk can remain in the draft if he wishes, but it may be a rocky road from here.

A major part of why Agbaji was included in the combine may have come down to scouts being on the fence about whether or not he’s ready for the jump to the pros. He’s a talented ballplayer with the potential to make real strides in the NBA, but this year’s combine performance isn’t worth much at the end of the day.

Of course, Agbaji has the option to return to Kansas for another season. If by July 7, he decides to come back to Lawrence, he’ll get the opportunity to re-sharpen his skills and post a strong senior season before returning to the draft market in 2022.