**Which Former Ohio State Basketball Player ShouldHave Been Drafted Higher?**
**Columbus, Ohio – April 26, 2025** — The NBA Draft is an exciting and often unpredictable event for college basketball players. Many prospects come into the draft process with high expectations, but for some, their selections don’t necessarily reflect their potential. For former Ohio State players, the story of underappreciation in the draft is one that resonates with fans, analysts, and former teammates alike. Among the many talented Buckeyes who’ve taken their talents to the NBA, one name continues to stand out as a player who many feel should have been drafted higher: **E.J. Liddell**.
### The Rise of E.J. Liddell at Ohio State
E.J. Liddell made a name for himself as one of the most dominant players in college basketball during his three years at Ohio State. A forward known for his exceptional defensive ability, versatility, and scoring proficiency, Liddell showcased his skills on both ends of the floor, leading the Buckeyes to a strong 2021-2022 season. He averaged 19.4 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game during his final season, earning All-Big Ten honors and establishing himself as one of the top players in the country.
Liddell’s ability to stretch the floor as a forward while also serving as an elite rim protector made him a highly attractive prospect. His basketball IQ, leadership on the court, and work ethic off it suggested a player who would be ready to contribute to an NBA team immediately. Despite all these assets, Liddell’s draft stock didn’t seem to align with his college production.
### The 2022 NBA Draft – A Missed Opportunity?
When the 2022 NBA Draft rolled around, Liddell was projected to be selected much higher than he ultimately was. Many experts had him slotted in the first round, and some even believed he could go as high as the late lottery picks, given his combination of size (6’7″), defensive prowess, and scoring ability. However, when the draft ended, Liddell was selected in the second round, 41st overall, by the New Orleans Pelicans.
This selection was seen as a steal for the Pelicans, but many analysts and Ohio State fans were quick to express their disappointment that Liddell didn’t go higher. The second-round selection was not necessarily a reflection of Liddell’s talent, but rather the result of various factors that led to his perceived “fall” in the draft. One such factor was concerns over his athleticism. Though Liddell was an excellent defender and displayed a versatile offensive game, some questioned whether he could translate that success to the NBA, particularly with regard to his explosiveness and lateral quickness.
### Why Liddell Should Have Gone Higher
**1. Defensive Prowess:**
One of the most underrated aspects of Liddell’s game is his defense. He was a dominant shot blocker in college and displayed an innate ability to guard multiple positions. This skill set is incredibly valuable in the NBA, where versatile defenders who can guard both wings and big men are highly sought after. While some players in the draft had higher upside in terms of offensive potential, Liddell’s defense was already NBA-ready, which made his second-round selection a missed opportunity for teams looking for an immediate impact player.
**2. College Production:**
Liddell’s production in college was nothing short of spectacular. Over his final two seasons at Ohio State, he averaged over 20 points per game, contributing in virtually every area of the game. His scoring consistency, rebounding ability, and knack for clutch performances were some of the reasons why he became the focal point of Ohio State’s offense. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations, including key moments during the NCAA Tournament, proved that he could handle the pressures of a professional career.
**3. Versatility:**
Perhaps Liddell’s biggest strength was his versatility. He was capable of playing both forward positions and could stretch the floor with his outside shooting. He improved his three-point shooting percentage each year at Ohio State, finishing his final season with a respectable 37.4% from beyond the arc. This ability to space the floor and create mismatches on offense is exactly what NBA teams covet in today’s game.
### The Underlying Factors in His Draft Position
While Liddell had all the tools to be a first-round pick, several factors may have contributed to his slide in the draft. One of the primary reasons was his lack of elite athleticism, which made some scouts question his ability to guard at the NBA level against more explosive athletes. Additionally, his offensive game was often overshadowed by other players in the draft class who had higher upside and flashier scoring abilities. The NBA tends to prioritize players with high athletic ceilings, and Liddell’s more measured, well-rounded game may have caused him to fall out of favor with teams prioritizing raw talent over immediate results.
Another consideration was his age. Liddell was already 21 years old when he entered the draft, which is considered somewhat old for a prospect. While his age meant that he was more polished than younger players, it also made some teams hesitant to invest in a player who was closer to his physical peak. This may have led them to overlook his proven track record in college.
### The Silver Lining: A Steal for the Pelicans
Despite the slight disappointment surrounding Liddell’s draft position, being selected by the New Orleans Pelicans may ultimately prove to be a blessing in disguise. The Pelicans had the luxury of adding a player like Liddell in the second round, and with a roster that already featured Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and CJ McCollum, there was less pressure for Liddell to contribute immediately. This situation allowed him to develop at his own pace, improving his game while learning from some of the best players in the league.
Moreover, the Pelicans’ developmental staff is known for getting the best out of players, and Liddell’s strong work ethic and leadership qualities fit perfectly within their culture. As a result, Liddell has the potential to make an impact for New Orleans in the coming seasons.
### Conclusion: A Missed Opportunity for Other Teams
While Liddell’s selection by the Pelicans might ultimately work out well for him, it remains a mystery why some NBA teams didn’t see his potential and pass on him in favor of more risky, unproven prospects. Given his skills, versatility, and proven production in college, Liddell should have been a higher draft pick, and his continued development in the NBA could prove that he was one of the best value picks of the 2022 draft.
For Ohio State fans, Liddell’s journey serves as a reminder of how the draft process can sometimes overlook players with proven talent, in favor of more speculative picks. If Liddell’s NBA career continues on its current trajectory, it will only serve to highlight the misjudgment of those teams that passed on him in the first round, and further cement his legacy as one of the most underappreciated Buckeyes to come through the program in recent years
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