NBA Draft 2012: Underrated Prospects Who Will Blossom in Pros

In the NBA draft, there are the hyped, and then there are the disrespected. While the hyped are talked about non-stop, the disrespected must be forced to listen to how great a prospect Anthony Davis is.

But drafting an underrated prospect can be just as beneficial to a team as selecting a first-rounder. Finding diamonds in the rough has the ability to catapult teams past their competition.

Here's a look at some prospects who I believe are vastly underrated this year. 

3. Kevin Jones, PF, West Virginia

Kevin Jones' size (6'8") at power forward and his lack of explosiveness have always been issues for NBA teams, but his senior season at West Virginia showed that he can excel in the paint despite being surrounded by more athletic players.

Jones averaged an astounding 20.1 points and 11.1 rebounds last season with the Mountaineers, and he even showed he could block some shots. This includes a 28 point, 17 rebound performance against Baylor, who had one of the most explosive and athletic frontcourts in the country. He has an outstanding 7'4" wingspan and a never-ending motor. 

2. Festus Ezeli, C, Vanderbilt

Festus Ezeli didn't put up big numbers last season at Vanderbilt, but he has the potential to be an elite shot-blocker who can rebound for you. He also has an emerging offensive game that could enable him to surprise in the NBA.

He has the size (6'11", 255 pounds) and athleticism to translate well to the pros. He also steps up when it matters. He scored 17 points in Vanderbilt's upset of Kentucky in the SEC tournament. He also averaged 11 points, 11 rebounds and 2.5 blocks in two NCAA tournament games last season.

1. Will Barton, SG, Memphis

I'm very surprised that Will Barton is hardly being mentioned as a first-round prospect. I think the Chicago Bulls should select him in the draft. He has the athleticism and explosiveness to translate well to the NBA.

His combination of scoring, rebounding and leadership is impressive, and he significantly improved his jump shot in his last season at Memphis.

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