2026 NBA Draft Scouting Report for Donovan Atwell

Without historic three-point numbers this year, Donovan Atwell has a case for best shooter in the draft.

Of his 315 field-goal attempts, 284 came from behind the arc. He's one-dimensional, but the one skill he has may be special enough for him to earn an NBA role.

Atwell will look to cling on as a specialist after making 130 threes in 34 games.

Essential Facts and Stats

College: Texas Tech | Position: G | Age: 23 | Height: 6'5" | Weight: 200 lbs | PPG: 13.5 | RPG: 3.2 | APG: 0.8 | BPG: 0.1 | SPG: 1.2 | FG%: 46.3 | 3PT%: 45.8 | FT%: 84.1

Realistic Pro Comparison: Sam Merrill

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Donovan Atwell's potential role in the NBA would look like Sam Merrill's. They're out there to space the floor and catch-and-shoot.

They're not making many decisions aside from when to release. Atwell had just 14 turnovers during the entire season.

He'll be valued for his spot-up, transition and handoff/movement shooting—and that's it.

Strengths

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Strength 1: Spot-up shooting

Atwell finished tied for second in the nation in threes per game, with most of them coming as a spot-up weapon. He has a short and decisive lefty release.

Strength 2: Shooting versatility

He still showed he could make threes in transition, off handoffs, and off screens. He doesn't need to be standing stationary to connect.

Strength 3: Tools

At 6'5", 200 pounds, he at least has the right tools to be able to defend 2-guards and hold his own.

Weaknesses

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Weakness 1: Creating

Atwell converted one basket all season in a ball-screen or isolation situation. He rarely puts the ball down, creates or picks up an assist.

Weakness 2: Rim pressure

With just nine attempts at the rim all season, Atwell is not a threat to attack, which makes him predictable and one-dimensional.

Weakness 3: Margin for error

If Atwell isn't hot from three, he'll serve little purpose on the floor.