Jay LaPrete/NCAA Photos/NCAA Photos via Getty Images
The Boston Celtics have begun their title defense by selecting two NCAA standouts in the 2024 NBA Draft.
The Celtics followed up Wedneday’s selection of Creighton’s Baylor Scheierman by drafting Gonzaga forward Anton Watson.
Bobby Krivitsky @BobbyKrivitsky
The Celtics selected Anton Watson with the 54th overall pick. He’s a six-foot-eight forward from Gonzaga. Known for his versatility as an on-ball defender who can guard all positions.
He’s also a savvy passer, and Celtics fans will love his intensity.
Nathan Grubel @DraftDeeper
The Boston Celtics getting Anton Watson at 54 is defintiely a Boston type of pick. Experienced F who can make plays out of the post and on the move, and has been of the most versatile defenders in college basketball the last few seasons. If he can shoot it, he can stick.
Global Scouting @GlobalScouting_
Anton Watson is an elite defensive forward heading to the Celtics. If he ends up being a more consistent shooter I would then expect him to carve out a role in the NBA for more years to come.
Watson averaged 14.5 points and 1.5 steals per game as he developed into a two-way player during his senior season.
Taylor Snow @taylorcsnow
Gonzaga’s all-time steals leaders:
1. John Stockton – 262
2. Anton Watson – 215 ☘️
He could potentially provide scoring off the bench next season as the Celtics look to repeat as champions.
This article will be updated soon to provide more information and analysis.
