Rookie of the Year Predictions: Is Wemby the Obvious Pick?

The Thompson twins and Overtime Elite's unproven path to the NBA - ESPN Courtesy of Overtime Elite

The 2023 draft class featured some very talented newcomers to the NBA. The class was headlined by Victor Wembayama, who many consider the best prospect since LeBron James. It also featured G-League Ignite Star Scoot Henderson, NCAA star Brandon Miller, and the Thompson Twins from Overtime Elite. As of right now, most people seem to think that the rookie of the year will be either Wemby or OKC Thunder big man Chet Holmgren. While both of these players are excellent choices, there is another guy who might just steal that ROTY award away.

Rookie of the Year Prediction: Ausar Thompson, Detroit Pistons

Ausar Thompson, twin brother of Rockets rookie Amen Thompson, was selected fifth overall by the Pistons in this year’s draft. Ausar dominated at Overtime Elite, where he averaged close to a triple-double last season. Many people had concerns with him because they felt he played against weaker competition and guys younger than him at Overtime Elite. However, Ausar put an end to all of those concerns in the summer league. Thompson displayed his elite athleticism, rebounding, and defensive abilities throughout the summer league. In the final game, Ausar finished with 18 points and 14 rebounds on 50 percent shooting as he led his team to a victory. Ausar is a do-it-all Swiss army knife type of player, however, he has a chance to be much more than that. Although Ausar Thompson shot the ball pretty well at OTE, there are some concerns with his shot mechanics and how it will translate at the NBA level. If he can be a solid shooter, Ausar has superstar potential in the league. Expect Ausar to play a huge role for the Detroit Pistons and be in the running for the Rookie of the Year Award next season.