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Ja’Kobe Walter chosen by Raptors as 19th overall pick in 2024 NBA Draft
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    Ja’Kobe Walter chosen by Raptors as 19th overall pick in 2024 NBA Draft

    Meet the newest member of the Toronto Raptors.

    Toronto selected guard Baylor guard Ja’Kobe Walter 19th overall at the 2024 NBA Draft.

    The 6-foot-4 combo guard is a gifted two-way player, averaging 14.5 points, 4.4 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game in 35 starts for the Bears in his freshman year. He was a five-star recruit coming into college and was the eighth-ranked prospect of the 2023 class on 247 Sports.

    According to Sportsnet’s Michael Grange, the Raptors did not hold a workout for Walter and he had no indication that the team would take him at 19.

    The Raptors need all the help they can get from long-range as they look to build out their core around Barnes. Don’t let his 34.1 per cent hit rate from 3-point range fool you, Walter can provide the shooting they need as one of the best movement shooters in the class.

    With the Raptors’ tendency to operate more off-ball screens and handoffs last season, Walter, with his steady pull-up shooting ability, could add serious dynamism to an offence that started to find its sea legs when the core was healthy in limited action last season. He’s also a talented driver, unafraid to get physical down the lane and finish through contact.

    Though not a primary shot-creator due to his lack of ball-handling abilities, he did showcase a solid gift for playmaking while in high school and can operate well in tight spaces on drives.

    The Raptors finished 25-57 last season and struggled mightily on both ends, finishing in the bottom 10 in both offence and defence.

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    The Toronto Raptors made a bold move in the 2024 NBA Draft by selecting Ja’Kobe Walter as the 19th overall pick. The 6’7” small forward out of Duke University has been turning heads with his impressive skill set and athleticism.

    Walter is known for his scoring ability, versatility, and high basketball IQ. He has the ability to create his own shot, drive to the basket, and knock down shots from beyond the arc. His length and athleticism make him a threat on both ends of the court, as he can defend multiple positions and disrupt passing lanes.

    During his time at Duke, Walter was a standout player, averaging over 20 points per game and leading his team to multiple deep runs in the NCAA tournament. His performance on the court caught the attention of NBA scouts and executives, leading to his selection by the Raptors in the first round of the draft.

    The Raptors are hoping that Walter can make an immediate impact on their roster and help them compete in the Eastern Conference. With his scoring ability and defensive prowess, he has the potential to become a key contributor for the team in the coming seasons.

    Walter’s journey to the NBA has been a testament to his hard work and dedication to the game of basketball. He has overcome obstacles and challenges along the way, but his perseverance has paid off with a first-round selection in the NBA Draft.

    As Walter begins his professional career with the Raptors, fans can expect to see a dynamic and exciting player who will bring energy and excitement to the court. With his talent and work ethic, he has the potential to become a star in the league and make a name for himself as one of the top young players in the NBA.