Devin Vassell a Top 10 pick in the 2020 NBA Redraft

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San Antonio Spurs guard Devin Vassell plays during the first half of a preseason NBA basketball game, Wednesday, Oct. 6, 2021, in Detroit.
(AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

Devin Vassell is great at sliding under the radar. He continues to let his game speak for itself while we watch the numbers improve every year.

Devin Vassell isn’t just a thief on the court but on the charts too. He went from not being a top prospect his freshman year at Florida State University to snagging the 11th spot in the 2020 NBA draft.

In this year’s Sports Illustrated redraft of the 2020 class, he’s deemed worthy of the 10th slot, taking the space of Phoenix Suns Jalen Smith who fell to 17th. Let’s reminisce about the moment we drafted Vassell and why.

Devin Vassell passing a Memphis defender
Photo via: Daniel Dunn/USA Today

Big Dreams

Devin knew before anyone else he would be in the 2020 draft. He said he would play for the Florida State Seminoles for two years before moving on to play professionally.

That is exactly what he did at the end of a very successful sophomore year Vassell, averaging 12.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.4 steals, entered his name as an early entry candidate.

Being a  6-7 guard utilizing a 6-9 wingspan, a smooth 3-point shot, and great defensive performance, Vassell was a steal for San Antonio. At the time Vassell was seen as more of a supporting role for the 2020-2021 Spurs.

When Spurs General Manager Brian Write was asked how well he saw both picks (Vassel and Jones) fitting with the young core; he said “both know how to fit around really good players, they play off of really good players well”. Devin himself was on the same page. 

“I feel like I’ve been tested a lot and I’ve never been given that star position so I’m able to mold and fit however I need to.” was Devin Vassell’s answer to how he believed he fit into the Spurs Organization on the night they drafted him.

Called to the Frontlines

Although he had not been given that star position before, it’s kind of fallen into his lap since the rebuild. Devin has clearly been gearing up for the expectations put on him this season. He’s obviously been in the weight room during his time off gaining some lean muscle.

The added strength and girth should allow him to guard bigger wings more efficiently. Devin also highlighted he’s been perfecting his ball handling, getting to the basket, and free throws. In addition to developing as a player, he’s vocal about emerging as a leader on the team. 

“Unrecognizable to Unforgettable”

I would not take the risk of challenging Vassell. His track record of success shows when the time comes to prove himself he’s whipping up the pudding. That is why he achieved his goal of going pro in two years and is now considered a top 10 pick in his draft class.

If you want to see Devin Vassell put on that spurs hat for the first time again, check out the YouTube video filmed by his good friend Jalen Raw. It provides a more personal look into draft day for the now 3-year veteran.

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