There’s been plenty of buzz coming out of Chicago following the Priority Sports pro day, where some of college basketball’s top talent gathered to showcase their skills in front of NBA scouts and executives.
One player who stood out in a big way was Ryan Kalkbrenner of Creighton. The former Bluejays center impressed evaluators with a polished performance that highlighted his versatility and size. In one widely shared video, Kalkbrenner put on an impressive display, drawing praise from top analysts.
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Jonathan Givony of ESPN and Draft Express weighed in with a glowing review:
“Creighton’s Ryan Kalkbrenner reminded NBA teams of his tremendous tools and rim-running, floor-stretching potential at the Priority Sports pro day in Chicago.”
Fans were going crazy with excitement over the big man and his play in Chicago. Social media has tons of reactions to his play and the raving by Givony and other scouts:
“Ryan is a steal!” shouted out this fan.
Here, a fan is excited about his draft opportunity: “One of the most underrated players in the draft.”
“Future Brooklyn Nets player,” coming from a wishful thinker.
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Celtics fan also hoping: “Future Celtic”
“1st round pick.” from this fan.
A good question here: “Why is Maluach projected so much higher than him?:
Creighton Bluejays center Ryan Kalkbrenner (11).© Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images
The 23-year-old big man from Florissant, Missouri, spent five seasons under head coach Greg McDermott at Creighton, showing steady improvement each year.
As a freshman, Kalkbrenner averaged just 5.9 points per game over 31 games. From there, his production climbed annually: 13.1, 15.9, 17.3, and finally 19.2 points per game in his fifth season. In his final year, he also pulled down 8.7 rebounds per game.
His scoring consistency was particularly impressive. Kalkbrenner reached double figures in each of the last 28 games of the season. He posted a season-high 35 points in a road win over Providence and added 32 points in a Big East Tournament quarterfinal victory against DePaul.
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Kalkbrenner’s physical tools are hard to miss. Measuring 7-foot-1 with a 7’6″ wingspan and a 9’4″ standing reach, he dominated on the defensive end throughout his college career. He was named Big East Defensive Player of the Year four times, a testament to his elite shot-blocking and paint protection.
Last season, Creighton finished with a 25-11 record. The Bluejays knocked off Louisville in the NCAA Tournament’s first round before falling to Auburn 82-70 in the second.
With size, skill, and experience on his side, Ryan Kalkbrenner is drawing serious interest heading into the NBA Draft, and with good reason.
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