3 Second-round prospects Wolves fans should get to know in the Final Four

1. Tristen Newton, UConn

Initially, the top spot was held by UConn freshman Stephon Castle. However, Castle will likely be a lottery pick in June—which is too steep for the Wolves. Instead, we'll focus on Tristen Newton, a potential second-rounder.

Newton, a fifth-year senior, has spent two seasons playing for the Huskies. Prior to his time in the Big East, he suited up for the East Carolina Pirates. As a junior, Newton averaged 17.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game.

In his first season at UConn, Newton averaged just 10.1 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game. Despite the nice all-around production, he shot just 37.4 percent from the floor. This season, Newton's averages have increased to 15.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game while knocking down 41.4 percent of his shot attempts.

His 3-point percentage is down in 2023-34, but his effective field goal percentage is up nearly four points. His scoring prowess is intriguing, but Newton's well-rounded game is his true calling card.

The 6-foot-5 guard is unique in the fact that he works well on and off the ball. He's a capable initiator who is dangerous in the pick-and-roll. He exudes patience coming off a pick and uses his size as an advantage to see over defenders.

Aside from his passing ability, Newton is also a deadly scorer as a pick-and-roll ball handler. He's not the fastest player, but he does a great job of getting to or near the rim. If a defender cuts off Newton's driving lane, he quickly redirects course by using a dribble move to find space in the painted area to get a shot off.

Off the ball, Newton is more unassuming than he is on the ball. Nonetheless, he appears quite comfortable as a spot-up threat. He shot a hair under 32 percent from beyond the arc but consistently shot threes from 25-plus feet. Newton doesn't have the quickest release nor does he elevate, but he shoots it with the utmost confidence.

Another part of Newton's game that stands out is his rebounding numbers. The senior guard averaged more than four rebounds per game in every season. His defense isn't noteworthy, as he stacks up as adequate on the less glamorous end.

Luckily for Newton, he stands at 6-foot-5 and weighs around 200 pounds meaning he can handle both point and shooting guards at the next level. He'll likely never be a staunch defender, but he clearly won't be a detriment on the defensive end.