A prolific shooter and defensive anchor, Houston's all-time leader in three-pointers brings championship pedigree and relentless energy to the Kings' radar as a high-value second-round target.
Throughout the pre-draft process, we at KingsRoundtable will continue to highlight prospects of all rankings and projections from this year's loaded class.
With the Sacramento Kings locked in at the No. 7 overall pick, we have highlighted players mocked in that range like Darius Acuff Jr., Kingston Flemings, Mikel Brown Jr., and Keaton Wagler.
But, we have also highlighted player projected to go in the second round, including potential targets for the Kings later in the draft.
In this profile, I will highlight Houston's Emanuel Sharp, a second-round prospect who is one of the most accomplished collegiate players in the class.
Culture Setter
At Houston, Sharp made it to the Sweet 16 or beyond in each of his four seasons with the Cougars, including a national championship berth two seasons ago.
After failing to start a game in his freshman campaign, Sharp was a full-time starter for the rest of his tenure, averaging 12.6 points or better each year.
This past season, Sharp averaged a career-high 15.5 points per game, shooting the deep ball at 37.2-percent.
NBA-Level Shooter
Sharp has the ability to get hot quickly, using a quick release and constant off-ball movement to free himself up for looks.
This past season, Sharp became the 3-point make career leader at Houston, making 309 deep balls.
While shot selection was a problem at times for Sharp, he made up for questionable attempts with maximum effort on the defensive end.
Houston head coach Kelvin Sampson, who's notoriously tough on his players, praised Sharp for his resilience and work ethic, saying he'll remember his four-year senior for his ability to "walk through the storm."
Perimeter Defense
While serving as the Cougars' top 3-point threat, Sharp also took it upon himself to guard opposing team's best guards.
Sharp's point of attack on defense is elite, while using his strength and size to stand his ground against taller players.
Despite being listed at just 6-foot-3, Sharp plays much bigger, anchoring an elite Houston defense.
Areas For Improvement
Outside of continuing to improve shot quality, Sharp should look to add a bit more in-between game, looking for mid-range or floater opportunities when run off the line.
Sharp won't be expected to create his shot much right away, but should look comfortable from 14-18 feet.
Draft Projection
In ESPN's post-lottery mock, Sharp landed with the Atlanta Hawks at the No. 57 overall pick.
Sharp will likely be scooped up towards the end of the second round, but would instantly be one of the top UDFA agents if he is not selected.
Are Kings a Fit?
Sharp's defensive intensity and 3-point shooting make him an instant plug-and-play guy on any NBA roster.
If Sacramento falls later into the second round, Sharp is a proven winner with consistent production at the college level.
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