Swarm and Sting
Fansided

Three players the Charlotte Hornets could draft with late first-round pick

By Evan Birchmore

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - FEBRUARY 03: The Charlotte Hornets logo is pictured on a uniform against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena on February 03, 2023 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images)
DETROIT, MICHIGAN - FEBRUARY 03: The Charlotte Hornets logo is pictured on a uniform against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena on February 03, 2023 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images) /
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NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – MARCH 10: Julian Phillips #2 of the Tennessee Volunteers drives towards the basket against the Missouri Tigers in the first half during the quarterfinals of the 2023 SEC Men’s Basketball Tournament at Bridgestone Arena on March 10, 2023 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Carly Mackler/Getty Images)
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – MARCH 10: Julian Phillips #2 of the Tennessee Volunteers drives towards the basket against the Missouri Tigers in the first half during the quarterfinals of the 2023 SEC Men’s Basketball Tournament at Bridgestone Arena on March 10, 2023 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Carly Mackler/Getty Images) /

Julian Phillips, Forward, Tennessee

A gritty defender on the defensive end and a relentless attacker on the offensive end, Julian Phillips plays with a tenacity that will translate to the next level. An above-average passer within the halfcourt offense, Phillips was someone who the Tennessee Volunteers would run their offense through out of the high post on occasion.

Phillips is also impactful as a slasher on offense, finding ways to get to the rim and draw contact to force his way to the foul line. He converts on his opportunities once he gets to the line, knocking down 82.2% of his free throws this season. His free-throw shooting raises the question about the most glaring weakness in his game, which is his perimeter shooting. Only a 23.9% three-point shooter and a 41.1% shooter overall, the high mark from the foul line seems to indicate that Phillips should be able to at least develop into a passable shooter at the next level. However, this remains the clear area of concern for him going forward.

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