CHICAGO — Like every other player here at the NBA Draft Combine who has yet to sign with an agent, Ben Bentil would love a guarantee that someone will take him in the first round.
“A spot in the first round, knowing that I’m definitely going in the first round,” Bentil said here Thursday. “It only takes one team to like you so that’s what I’m trying to do.”
Bentil, who measured here at 6-foot-8 1/4, impressed on Thursday, going for 15 points, 11 rebounds and 3 assists in a 109-69 rout along with teammates Isaiah Whitehead, De’Andre Bembry, Malcolm Brogdon and Marcus Paige.
“It’s a small world so we all know each other,” he said.
DraftExpress.com praised Bentil’s play.
“Ben Bentil was as hot as you can get to start off the game, hitting his first four field goals just six minutes in, three of which came from beyond the arc. He slowed down quite a bit after that, but still ended up having a strong outing, rebounding better than expected, and playing solid defense.
“Bentil’s shooting is a great place to start, as its one of the most important aspects of his NBA profile. He has gorgeous mechanics and excellent touch, with range well out to the NBA line and even some ability to create some separation off the dribble in the mid-range when closely contested or off a jab-step.”
Bentil met here with Orlando, Golden State, Utah and Denver and said he has workouts coming up with the Clippers, the Lakers, Denver and Indiana.
“I just want to get positive feedback,” he said.
Bentil is currently projected at No. 52 by DraftExpress.com, while his former teammate Kris Dunn — who is not playing 5-on-5 here — is at No. 4.
“I don’t get overshadowed at all,” Bentil said. “He’s a great player, he’s actually my best friend so we’re cool. He actually pushed me to go.”
Depending on whether Bentil returns to campus or not, Providence could be a top-tier team in the Big East next season. They are in the mix for 6-9 Canadian power forward Kalif Young, who decides next week between Providence and Marquette following an official to Providence this weekend.
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