Overview
Prior to college, Watson played varsity basketball in Spokane at the Gonzaga Preparatory School. He led his team to plenty of success and was notably recognized as the Associated Press 4A Player of the Year and Washington Mr. Basketball during his senior year, which also marked the team’s second consecutive 4A state championship. Watson then began what would become a five-year college career with Gonzaga. He mostly came off the bench for his first three seasons, becoming a full-time starter in 2022-23 and earning All-WCC Honorable Mention. During his 2023-24 season, Watson was named to the All-WCC First Team behind 14.5 points, 7.1 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.5 steals.
Analysis
Watson was tasked with a variety of defensive assignments, from centers to guards. He’s capable of bothering quick players on the perimeter and stopping big players at the rim. His shooting can come and go and he didn’t launch 3s at high volume. However, he was a top-notch finisher, able to complete layups through contact with either hand. He’s not one to handle the ball, but he makes good decisions as a passer.
Projection
Watson may not have a defined position at the NBA, but could feasibly slot in from small forward to center, the latter in small-ball lineups given his 6-foot-8, 230-pound frame. He’ll likely succeed the most on teams or in lineups that are switchable on defense and execute movement offense. There are still questions about Watson’s jump shot, but teams may gravitate toward his low-mistake style of offense and high level of defensive intensity and capability.
— Profile by RotoWire