BREAKING NEWS: Hawk set to select Donovan Clingan as a potential candidate for the first overall pick.

Although Zaccharie Risacher or Alexandre Sarr are typically selected by Atlanta in mock drafts, UConn standout Donovan Clingan has shown himself to be a serious contender for the first overall selection. ESPN reports that the Hawks have been unable to schedule a session with Sarr. Clingan has become Risacher’s main rival for the top spot overall as a result.

Clingan recently assisted UConn in winning two consecutive national titles. The 7-2 big averaged 13.0 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks in 35 games during the previous campaign. In addition, the 20-year-old’s 63.9 percent field goal percentage from the previous season was eighth among college players. Atlanta might benefit from the fact that many scouts believe he is the finest defense in the draft class.

The Hawks may consider drafting Clingan as a replacement as it is anticipated that they will deal away Clint Capela. He does need to get better at staying out of foul trouble and floor space. Clingan made just eight three-pointers while playing for UConn last season, making two of them. He might end up being the best player selected in the 2024 draft if he can make progress in this area.