French guard Rayan Rupert officially declares for 2023 NBA draft
Rayan Rupert, a 6-foot-7 guard in the National Basketball League, told Jonathan Givony of ESPN on Wednesday that he has officially declared for the 2023 NBA draft.
Rupert, who was born in France, averaged 5.9 points and 2.1 rebounds on 35% shooting from the field in 28 games with the New Zealand Breakers. He scored in double figures six times, including a season-high 14 points on Jan. 3.
The soon-to-be 19-year-old missed nearly two months of action early in the season due to a wrist injury but returned in early January and finished out the year. He has since arrived in the United States and is training for the draft in Dallas, Texas.
Projected 1st rounder Rayan Rupert (@rayanrupert12) knocking down shots at the end of his workout.
Rupert has a 7'3" wingspan and could climb up draft boards with strong shooting performances in pre draft workouts.
Rupert is training with @TimMartin_TX @_juwan @FredCampbell84 pic.twitter.com/2jdQInHSEx
— Rafael Barlowe (@Barlowe500) April 4, 2023
Rupert is considered a mid-to-late first-round pick this year given his ability to penetrate into the paint and kick it out when necessary. On the other end, his 7-foot-3 wingspan and strong instincts can often create havoc in the passing lanes.
He will need to improve on his shooting and overall offensive package, but it is his defense and overall potential that teams will covet. He is viewed as the best international prospect outside of Victor Wembanyama and should join his fellow countryman as a first-round pick on June 22.
