NBA scout provides intriguing draft intel on Kansas Jayhawks guard Johnny Furphy

Bill Self and Kansas basketball have sent several wing players to the NBA in recent years. Gradey Dick was taken in the lottery last year, while others such as Ochai Agbaji and Christian Braun went from lowly-ranked recruits to significant role players in the league. It should come as no surprise that the Jayhawks could send another pair of wings to the next level next month.

Kevin McCullar, the leading scorer in the Big 12 this year, and Australian freshman guard Johnny Furphy are projected first-round picks in the draft. While McCullar exercised his final year of eligibility after returning to Lawrence for a super-senior season, Furphy is contemplating leaving Kansas as a one-and-done. He has a decision to make whether he wants to return to school or pursue his lifelong dream in the NBA. 

As speculation continues to grow regarding his decision, Furphy has gained more traction with professional scouts. Jon Chepkevich, the Director of Scouting for DraftExpress, wrote up a quick profile of the Melbourne native on X (formerly known as Twitter).

NBA scout offers thoughts about Kansas basketball guard Johnny Furphy

"Getting a close look at Johnny Furphy ahead of the NBA Draft Combine. The baby-faced Aussie swingman has been on a sharp upward trajectory since his breakout at last summer’s NBA Academy Games. Exceeded expectations as a freshman at Kansas, now slated as a likely 1st rounder."

- Jon Chepkevich

Once a member of the 2024 recruiting class, Furphy skyrocketed in recruiting rankings after multiple impressive showings at the NBA Academy Games last year. He was a late-season addition by Kansas and made his way into the starting lineup during conference play. His outside shooting stroke and length on the wing immediately caught the eye of scouts.

No one expected Furphy to break out the way he did in the 2023-24 season, but he is now viewed highly by NBA analysts. Many mock drafts have him being selected toward the latter stages of the first round. While there are still areas in which he must improve, the 19-year-old offers sky-high potential for any team that is willing to take a flier on him.

At 6-foot-9, he fits the prototypical mold of a 3-and-D wing in the NBA. Despite defensive concerns, his long wingspan gives him promise as an on-ball defender. He shot 35.2% from 3-point range on 3.8 attempts in the previous campaign and showed a knack for hitting contested jumpers. Furphy is more of a spot-up shooter rather than someone who takes shots off the dribble.

Yesterday was the first day of the NBA Draft Combine, a week-long event that should be the tell-tale for Furphy's ultimate decision. Jayhawk fans should monitor his performances during the combine to see whether KU still has a shot to bring him back for a sophomore season.