FSU basketball: Noles have three players selected in 2021 NBA Draft

FSU basketball had three players selected in the 2021 NBA Draft, matching the previous high from the 1981 NBA Draft.

The biggest difference? The 1981 Draft had over 200 players selected, and the 2021 Draft consisted of 60 players.

Leonard Hamilton has converted FSU basketball into one of the premier programs in the nation. Ironically, it happened when FSU fans needed it the most when football has been the worst it has been in our lifetimes.

The Noles have three lottery picks in the last two NBA Drafts. Scottie Barnes was taken No. 4 overall, matching FSU’s Patrick Williams draft spot from last year.

Balsa Koprivica and RaiQuan Gray were taken in the second round with the 57th and 59th selections. It was a no-brainer Scottie Barnes would be a lottery pick, but Koprivica and Gray have eligibility left that could have helped Leonard Hamilton immensely in 2021-22.

It’s a bit disappointing to see them get drafted so late, knowing how important they would have been to next year’s team. However, both will have an opportunity to make more money than they ever would have if they came back next season.

All three players can play in the league for several years. Scottie Barnes still needs to fine-tune his game, but can be a difference-maker on both ends of the floor.

Balsa Koprivica must get more consistent and stay out of foul trouble. However, he developed his game a great deal during his two years at FSU.

RaiQuan Gray could be a steal for the Brooklyn Nets. He’s a player that can do a lot of the dirty work inside and uses his body well. He’s sneaky athletic for a guy with his body type.

It was a great night for Leonard Hamilton and FSU basketball. He continues to develop players for the next level, and recruiting has increased because of it over the past five years. Congrats to these guys and good luck at the next level!