In an unexpected turn of events, NBA draft prospect Reed Sheppard found himself astonished, alongside onlookers, by his record-breaking performance at the NBA combine. The Kentucky standout’s vertical leap, soaring to an impressive 42 inches, not only secured his position but also tied for the highest jump among all prospects present. On the “Podcast P” with Paul George, Sheppard revealed the secret behind his remarkable feat, attributing it to an “arm trick” advised by Ryan at Proactive Sports Performance.
Reflecting on his achievement, Sheppard expressed genuine surprise at surpassing his own expectations, let alone emerging as the leader in the NBA draft prospects’ vertical leaps. “I know I can jump, I didn’t know I was going to have the highest vertical in the NBA draft,” he remarked, his incredulity evident. The moment he glanced at the scoreboard and saw the number 42, Sheppard couldn’t help but chuckle at the unforeseen outcome, knowing that neither he nor anyone else had anticipated it.
While the debate over whether Sheppard indeed possesses the greatest bounce among NBA prospects remains unsettled, his stellar performance at the combine undeniably bolsters his draft prospects. Backed by solid numbers and an extraordinary display of athleticism, Sheppard emerges as a standout candidate, poised to make waves in the professional basketball arena.
In his sole season at Kentucky, Sheppard showcased his versatility and talent, averaging 12.5 points, 4.5 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game, despite primarily featuring off the bench. Notable standout performances, such as his 32-point outing against Mississippi State, underscored Sheppard’s potential to be a top contender in the draft.
While his athleticism garnered attention, it is Sheppard’s shooting prowess that further solidifies his position as a potential lottery pick. Shooting an impressive 52.1 percent from beyond the arc for the Wildcats last season, Sheppard’s multifaceted skill set positions him as a valuable asset for any NBA team.
Looking ahead, Bleacher Report’s Jonathan Wasserman forecasts Sheppard as the No. 6 pick in the draft, potentially joining the ranks of the Charlotte Hornets. As anticipation mounts for the draft, Sheppard’s unexpected rise and impressive performance continue to captivate the basketball world, setting the stage for an exciting journey ahead.
