Throughout the 2024-25 season, Babcock Hoops will provide comprehensive scouting reports on top 2025 NBA Draft prospects, analyzing their strengths, questions, and potential at the next level. Our reports offer an in-depth look at each player's development and draft outlook.
Mackenzie Mgbako
Position: Forward
College: Indiana
Class: Sophomore
Height/Weight: 6'9", 222 lbs
Birthdate: November 18, 2004
High School: Roselle Catholic (NJ)
Player Overview
At 6'9", Mackenzie Mgbako combines size, shooting ability, and offensive versatility, making him a highly projectable floor-spacing forward. He excels at setting his feet, rising strong into his jumper, and navigating screens to create open looks. His ability to knock down shots off both the catch and the dribble makes him a valuable asset in modern NBA offenses.
After struggling with finishing inside early in his college career, Mgbako has improved his touch and shot selection, increasing his effectiveness around the basket. Defensively, while he is not a lockdown stopper, he has made strides in navigating screens and staying in front of his man, making him a serviceable defender rather than a liability.
However, questions remain regarding his athleticism and physicality, as his game lacks the explosiveness he displayed in high school. If he can regain his power game, sustain his shooting efficiency, and develop as a secondary playmaker, he has a legitimate chance to make it in the NBA.
"As a 6'9" spot-up shooter, Mgbako’s skill set translates well to the next level. His biggest hurdle will be proving he can maintain consistency." — Matt Babcock, NBA Draft Analyst
Strengths
Elite Shooting Potential: He is one of the best shooting prospects in the country, with a fluid shooting motion and strong footwork.
Size & Frame for a Stretch Forward: At 6'9" with a sturdy build, he has the positional size to be a floor-spacing forward at the next level.
Off-Ball Movement: Navigates screens well and finds open pockets for high-percentage looks.
Improved Finishing Inside: Has worked on his touch and reads, making him a more effective scorer in the paint.
Offensive Versatility: He can hit shots off the catch and off the dribble, making him a threat in various offensive sets.
Concerns
Lost Athleticism: Once known for his physicality and power, his explosiveness has seemingly diminished since high school.
Limited Defensive Impact: Has improved but still struggles to be a plus defender.
Playmaking Development: Needs to develop as a secondary creator and facilitator.
Shot Creation for Himself: While effective off the ball, he still needs to prove he can create offense consistently in isolation situations.
Questions
Can he sustain his improved inside scoring and defensive effort over an entire season?
Where did his high school athleticism go, and can he regain some of that explosiveness?
Will he continue to evolve as a secondary playmaker and shot creator?
Bottom Line
Mackenzie Mgbako’s combination of size, shooting, and offensive skill set makes him a highly intriguing prospect for NBA teams looking for a floor-spacing forward. While his defensive impact and athleticism remain questionable, his ability to knock down shots, find space, and continue improving as a well-rounded offensive player gives him a strong case for NBA consideration. If he can maintain his development and refine his playmaking, Mgbako has the tools to earn a long-term role in the league.