After exploding for 36 points and earning Big 12 Newcomer of the Year, this versatile Jayhawk playmaker offers the Kings high-upside shot creation and gritty defensive length.
The Sacramento Kings are positioned to improve with a successful offseason, starting with their three picks in the upcoming 2026 NBA Draft.
At KingsRoundtable, we have highlighted a wide range of prospects, including lottery picks, late-first, and second-round prospects.
In this profile, I will showcase Kansas guard Melvin Council Jr., who had an impressive first season at the power 4 level.
No. 1 Option
While potential No. 1 overall pick Darryn Peterson was the premier offensive talent for the Jayhawks last season, his inconsistent minutes and missed time thrust Council into a bigger role.
The Rochester, NY, native stepped up, scoring in double figures 24 times and posting multiple high-level offensive showings.
Against NC State, Council earned Big 12 and national weekly honors for his 36 point outburst, setting a Kansas record for threes made in a game (9).
Council made crucial shots throughout the waning minutes of regulation before scoring five points in overtime and leading the Jayhawks to a 77-76 win.
3-Level Scorer
While Council doesn't have the smoothest game, he gets to his spots and knocks down his jump shots.
Council shot just 30-percent from deep, but showed the ability to hit from mid range with consistency.
The 6-foot-4 senior also averaged over five assists per game, which was a career-best.
Despite having in the ball in his hands more than prior seasons, Council kept his turnovers at bay, with his 2.68 assist-to-turnover ratio ranking seventh in the Big 12.
In two games against in-state rival Kansas State, Council averaged 17 points, 8.5 rebounds and 11 assists, recording two double-doubles.
Following the season, Council was named the Big 12 Newcomer of the Year.
Areas For Improvement
While Council's shooting splits don't scream efficiency, some of this was due to Kansas' injury trouble and offensive inconsistency.
However, Council definitely needs to shoot better from beyond the arc, while continuing to add to his in-between game.
Defensively, Council's length gives him the ability on the perimeter, but he can sometimes be limited in the interior.
Draft Projection
Council has been invited to multiple pre-draft workouts, but doesn't appear on many mock drafts.
He is however, ranked No. 90 on ESPN's big board.
Expect Council to be viewed as a high-priority UDFA with two-way upside.
Are Kings a Fit?
Council's unique game makes his team fit slimmer than most 3-point/perimeter oriented guards.
However, Sacramento could definitely benefit from Council's playmaking and shot creation.
Join our ROUNDTABLE community! It's free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members.
Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected!
