Top Australian prospect Dyson Daniels declares for the NBA Draft / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: AP Photo/Ron Schwane Credit AP Photo/Ron Schwane

Dyson Daniels of G League Ignite has decided to declare for the NBA draft, according to Jonathan Givony of ESPN. The Australian guard is ranked 10th on ESPN’s big board.

"I'm all in for the draft," Daniels said. "I feel more than ready for this next step in my career and I’m excited for this process to begin."

Daniels had a strong showing in his first G League season, putting up 12.0 points, 7.1 rebounds, 5.1 assists and 2.0 steals in 26 games while playing about 32 minutes per night. He also took part in the Rising Stars contest during the NBA’s All-Star Weekend.

The 19-year-old is hoping to become the second graduate of the NBA Global Academy in Canberra, Australia, to be taken in the lottery. Fellow Australian Josh Giddey was the sixth pick last year.

Daniels was the first major international player to sign with G League Ignite, and he believes the experience was beneficial. Although he struggled early in the season with the faster pace and more physical style of play, he eventually adapted to it.

"As the season went on and coach put the ball in my hand, I was able to find myself as the primary playmaker," Daniels said.

"One of the things I’m looking forward to showing NBA teams is my ability to create my own shot. That’s something I’ve been working hard on. I’m looking forward to showing them my versatility playing multiple positions and using my basketball IQ to be a problem solver."

Dyson says he studies many NBA players' tendencies to help determine how he can fit in the league.

"Offensively, I've been watching Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Luka Doncic," he said. "I like the way they use their change of pace, creative passing and basketball IQ to read the game and make teammates better.

Defensively, I look at Mikal Bridges, Alex Caruso, Matisse Thybulle and Lonzo Ball. I like how they get over screens, read and impact the game. Personally, I want to play my role at a high level, helping a team win with my winning mentality and competing every possession on both ends."

The NBA draft combine will be held May 16-22 in Chicago and the draft will be held June 23 in Brooklyn, New York.

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