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With the 2015 NBA draft done (no Cal Bears were selected), the calendar turns to 2016, where it's expected as many as three California Golden Bears will be picked. Tyrone Wallace will definitely be in the mix--he's currently projected as a late first round, early second round pick, and could very well sneak onto a title contender in need of a swing guard with good athleticism, solid wingspan for a guard, good handles, ability to get to the foul line, and all that jazz.
The two incoming super freshmen that are a part of the second-ranked Cal basketball recruiting class are also likely to be in demand. Jaylen Brown and Ivan Rabb are currently ranked as top ten draft prospects on a bunch of mock boards. A lot can change between now and September, but that has to be quite encouraging.
The question for next year: Will they stay or go? Both Brown and Rabb seem quite invested in what being a California Golden Bear is all about, so there's a chance one or both of them could consider staying multiple years. Brown has talked about being an unconventional recruit a lot, and Rabb has stressed the importance of a Cal degree. That could mean multiple years in college, or they could take advantage of the new Pac-12 rules that allow them to return whenever they want to finish it on full scholarship.
We'll see what happens with them these next ten months. Hopefully we get to spend more than a year with these two wildly talented prospects, but I'm more than prepared for the ride. How about you?
Here's what Ricky O'Donnell of SB Nation has to say about Brown and Rabb.
5. Jaylen Brown, Cal
Small forward, Freshman
Brown is what scouts would call a prototypical power wing. He has great size for an NBA small forward to go with elite athleticism. He has all the tools to be a great defensive player with a 7'0 wingspan. His biggest question marks will be shooting and ball handling. With Brown and fellow five-star recruit Ivan Rabb in the same starting lineup, Cal is going to have its most fun team since the days of Jason Kidd.
8. Ivan Rabb, Cal
Center/power forward, Freshman
Rabb is a 6'11 human pogo stick who can shoot with either hand. His combination of speed and shot blocking ability would seem to fit perfectly in the direction the NBA is moving. He even showed off a nice face-up jumper as an amateur player. His main objective this season should be hitting the weight room. Again: Cal is going to be a blast to watch next season with him and Brown.