One of the biggest bright spots of the 2024-25 Kansas basketball season has been transfer guard Zeke Mayo. A former South Dakota State star, the Lawrence native has performed above expectations through his first 11 games. He quickly earned respect from the Jayhawk fanbase and cemented himself as a hometown hero.
Mayo was not highly touted out of high school and played in an obscure conference for the first three years of his college career. However, playing at Kansas has given him an opportunity to compete against much higher competition. Given how well he has played, people have begun to wonder whether he'd be a fit in the NBA. According to Sports Illustrated writer Jace Derryberry, he has a very good shot to make it to the next level.
Kansas star Zeke Mayo is an intriguing NBA prospect
"As the season progresses, Mayo’s versatility and consistency will continue to be closely monitored by NBA scouts. His ability to contribute in multiple areas, along with his scoring efficiency and defensive potential, make him an intriguing prospect for the 2025 NBA draft. If he can maintain his current level of play and further refine his skills, particularly as a perimeter shooter and playmaker, there’s a strong chance he’ll be an impactful player at the next level."Jace Derryberry
The 6-foot-3 combo guard is one of the most effective scorers in the Big 12. His 13.5 point-per-game average is good for second-best on the Kansas roster. He's also connected on 24-of-62 attempts from behind the arc, good for 38.7%.
While he is relatively undersized, his outside shooting ability makes him an intriguing prospect. He won Summit Player of the Year in 2023-24. averaging 18.8 points and shooting a conference-high 39.1% from 3-point range. Even with a handful of poor shooting nights with the Jayhawks, he showcased his ability to score in the previous two contests, posting 26 and 25 points, respectively.
Unlike in past years, the Jayhawks do not have many players viewed as potential NBA talents. Star center Hunter Dickinson does not appear to be a good fit at the next level due to his defensive limitations and outdated offensive game. Other seniors like Dajuan Harris and KJ Adams simply haven't performed well enough to catch the eyes of pro scouts. Mayo might be the best bet for a KU player to get drafted in June.
Scouts might shy away from Mayo due to his age. He will turn 23 next December and has not proven himself at a high enough level to justify taking him with an early-round pick. However, if he continues to perform the way he is, Mayo could definitely find himself in the G League or signing a two-way contract with a team next year.