UConn big man Donovan Clingan has long been considered a first-round talent. After a storied career under head coach Dan Hurley, the 7’2” bruiser is ready to elevate his game to the next level, and he has the tools to do so.
Donvan Clingan 2024 NBA Draft Profile
College Career
Even at 20 years old, Clingan has an impressive resume, playing key roles in the Huskies’ two national championships. After a solid first year that earned him a spot on the All-Big East Freshman Team, Clingan became the starting center in his second season. Across 35 games (33 starts), he put up 13 points, 7.4 rebounds, 2.5 blocks and 1.5 assists per game. Clingan also shot 64% from the field, 25% from three and 58% from the free-throw line. His play from his standout sophomore campaign extended into March Madness. Clingan recorded a historic double-double in the Big East championship game, becoming the first player since Patrick Ewing to record 20 points and 15 rebounds in the title match. He was named to the 2024 All-Big East Tournament team, in addition to his All-Tournament and All-Region honors.
Strengths
At 7’2” and 265 pounds, Clingan is one of the strongest centers in this year’s class. He uses his frame effectively in post-ups, often outworking opposing centers and scoring with ease, mostly through jump hooks. He has also used his high basketball IQ to make good reads out of the post, whether it’s to cutters on a give-and-go or out to shooters on the perimeter. Additionally, Clingan has thrived in pick-and-roll situations, finishing lobs with authority.
Clingan has also been UConn’s anchor defensively. His 86 blocks (2.5 per game) this season put him second in the Big East, and his mark of 171 defensive boards was good for fourth in the conference. Clingan’s agility helps him keep up with opponents inside the arc and reject their attempts near the rim. His ability to recover for chasedown blocks—seen on plays like this one—is particularly impressive for someone with his frame.
Weaknesses
Many wonder if Clingan will be able to adjust to the speed of the NBA, especially against opponents at his position. His soft touch at the rim could lead to easy blocks for opponents at the pro level. Additionally, since his frame can only take him so far, Clingan must improve his jumper to unlock another dimension of his offense. He won’t be able to go toe-to-toe in the post on every possession, especially with the rise of other young, more agile bigs.
Clingan’s health is another key concern. He missed four weeks of action after a tendon injury in his right foot, and his minutes and production sometimes suffered as a result. Clingan also needs to work on his free throws, as his poor percentages won’t fly in the NBA.
NBA Comparison
Clingan’s size and skill set may show shades of Jazz center Walker Kessler, a seven-foot bruiser whose dominating paint presence led to a surprising rookie campaign last year—and even put him third in Rookie of the Year voting. Kessler has made his mark close to the basket, rising up for easy finishes or highlight-worthy blocks. He has also excelled as a roller and lob threat. Both Kessler and Clingan also share the unfortunate trait of poor shooting from the charity stripe. Kessler has shot 54% over his two seasons in the league. Kessler is faster and more of a rim runner, but there’s a good chance Clingan could adjust to the quick pace of the NBA soon enough.
