Carter Bryant’s favorite NBA players aren’t just stars—they’re models of how to succeed at the highest level. From Kobe’s killer instinct to Tatum’s quiet efficiency, each influence offers a lesson
And perhaps most importantly, they collectively reinforce Bryant’s love for a game played the right way—with simplicity, control, and purpose.
With role models like these and a philosophy grounded in doing the simple things well, Carter Bryant might just be one of the smartest picks in the 2025 draft.
Carter Bryant’s announcement that he is staying in the NBA Draft is more than just a formality — it’s a clear signal that he’s ready for what lies ahead.
He’s not entering the league simply to make up the numbers; he’s aiming to make a name for himself.
Whether it’s locking down opponents, studying the game’s best, or slowly climbing the ranks from role player to potential star, Bryant has the mindset and tools to succeed.
The NBA journey won’t be easy, but Carter Bryant sounds ready to embrace every step of the process.
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Carter Bryant Declares for NBA
Arizona Freshman Eyes Stardom on the Biggest Stage
Arizona Wildcats forward Carter Bryant is officially all-in on the NBA.1
After just one collegiate season, the highly regarded freshman has ruled out a return to Arizona, instead putting all his focus on the next step in his basketball journey — the NBA.
Speaking candidly at the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago, Bryant made it clear that not only is he physically ready for the league, but mentally prepared to become one of the NBA’s next big stars.
Man. I’m hurting.
— Carter Bryant (@PowerHourLSU) May 16, 2025
From Tucson to the Pros: A Rapid Rise
Carter Bryant’s decision to enter the NBA Draft after just one year in college basketball comes as no surprise to those who followed his journey.
A former five-star recruit and McDonald’s All-American, Bryant showed flashes of brilliance during his lone season at Arizona. His combination of size, length, and skill allowed him to contribute off the bench in a competitive Pac-12 environment.
In 37 games with the Wildcats, Bryant averaged 6.5 points and 4.1 rebounds in just under 20 minutes per game.
While the numbers may not jump off the page, NBA scouts have long admired his upside — a lanky, switchable forward with a developing offensive arsenal and strong defensive instincts.
Carter Bryant: Standing Out at the NBA Draft Combine
At the NBA Draft Combine, Bryant didn’t shy away from the spotlight.2
During his media availability, he discussed his decision to stay in the draft, his personal development, and how he envisions his transition to the professional game.
“I’m a guy that I see myself describing it as almost like a progression,” Bryant said. “Like early in the league, I feel like I’m a guy that can guard multiple positions.”
This idea of “progression” is central to Bryant’s outlook. He acknowledges where he is today but remains highly ambitious about where he wants to be.
Defensive Versatility: A Calling Card
One of Bryant’s biggest strengths, and what NBA teams covet most in modern forwards, is his defensive versatility.
At 6-foot-8 with a lengthy wingspan, he believes he can eventually guard every position on the floor — a bold claim that speaks to both his ambition and potential.
“Obviously, I want to be able to guard one through five,” Bryant said. “I feel like I’m capable of guarding one through four now.
Obviously I need to get a little bit stronger, but eventually I see myself being a guy that can guard all five positions on the floor.”
That type of switchability and defensive upside is rare, and it’s the kind of tool that makes Bryant an intriguing prospect in a league increasingly focused on positional flexibility and multi-dimensional players.
Learning From the League’s Elite Role Players
To grow his game, Bryant has immersed himself in film study. Rather than exclusively idolizing superstars, he studies players who’ve carved out roles through defense, toughness, and basketball IQ.
“So, I would say I watch a lot of Toumani Camara right now, Trey Murphy. I watch Herb Jones, Drew Holiday, Derrick White,” he explained. “But I see myself becoming one of the stars in this league.”
Camara, Murphy, and Jones are all respected for their effort, versatility, and ability to impact games without always filling the stat sheet — characteristics Bryant seems to value and want to emulate as he builds his professional foundation.
Eyeing Stardom: Film Study of the Greats
- Bryant doesn’t just want to be a solid contributor — he aims for greatness. He’s also spent time studying NBA stars such as Kyrie Irving, Devin Booker, and Jayson Tatum.
- These players represent the offensive end of the spectrum, and Bryant’s admiration for them suggests he’s equally focused on becoming a well-rounded offensive weapon.
- “It’s something that I can watch a lot of film on — Kyrie, Devin Booker, Jayson Tatum as well,” Bryant said. “So I understand there’s a progression to get to that point, but knowing that I’m capable of doing that as well.”
- Throughout his Combine appearance, Bryant exuded confidence — not arrogance, but belief rooted in self-awareness and dedication.
- “I know I’m capable of becoming one of the best players in this league,” he said. “And it’s just something that you have to work towards every day.”
- It’s this mindset that will likely appeal to NBA teams. Bryant isn’t simply relying on his raw talent — he’s bought into the grind, understands what lies ahead, and is ready to work for it.
Carter Bryant: Evaluating His College Season at Arizona
Bryant’s freshman year was more about development than dominance.3
With Arizona boasting a deep roster, he was primarily used as a rotational forward. Still, he showed his value as a rebounder, defender, and occasional scorer in limited minutes.
His averages of 6.5 points and 4.1 rebounds per game don’t tell the full story — especially when considering his defensive presence and willingness to embrace his role.
He shot 42% from the field and displayed glimpses of a developing perimeter game that could eventually flourish in the NBA.
Areas for Growth and Improvement
While the potential is undeniable, Bryant remains a work in progress — and he knows it. One area he singled out was strength, a key component if he wants to guard NBA bigs and battle in the paint.
“Obviously I need to get a little bit stronger,” he admitted. Strength training and physical development will be essential as he transitions to a league where physicality and durability can define success.
On offense, consistency with his outside shot and off-the-dribble creation are areas where he could improve. If he can become a reliable catch-and-shoot option while improving his ability to finish through contact, he’ll expand his utility significantly.
Projecting His NBA Role
Early in his NBA career, Bryant projects as a 3-and-D forward — someone who defends at a high level, crashes the glass, and contributes offensively without being a focal point.
He has all the tools to become a high-impact rotation player, especially if placed in the right system.
As he continues to mature, both physically and mentally, his ceiling could grow even higher. If he adds strength, develops his offensive game, and maintains his current defensive mindset, stardom is not out of the question.
What NBA Teams Are Getting
Carter Bryant brings several key attributes to the table:
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Positional Versatility: His ability to defend multiple spots and switch across screens makes him valuable in today’s game.
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Work Ethic: His commitment to improving and daily dedication stands out.
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Basketball IQ: A student of the game, he learns from both stars and role players.
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Ceiling: Though still raw, he offers long-term upside that few second-tier prospects can match.
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Carter Bryant Names His Favorite NBA Players: Simplicity, Greatness, and Inspiration
Carter Bryant, a highly-touted NBA draft prospect, recently revealed the players who have inspired him both in the past and present.
As the draft nears, fans and analysts alike are eager to understand the mindset and influences behind the young star’s game.
During a recent interview, Bryant shared that his all-time favorite players are Kobe Bryant and Tracy McGrady, while his current inspirations are Devin Booker, Jayson Tatum, and Kyrie Irving.
This list gives us a unique glimpse into Carter Bryant’s basketball philosophy—one that centers around skillful yet simple basketball.
Let’s break down each of these influences and explore how they connect with Bryant’s game and what it could mean for his NBA future.
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The Mamba Mentality Lives On
- It’s no surprise that Kobe Bryant tops Carter’s all-time list. The late Lakers legend has inspired countless athletes around the world with his unmatched work ethic, killer instinct, and relentless drive to win.
- Kobe’s “Mamba Mentality” wasn’t just about talent—it was about outworking everyone in the room.
- His game, though filled with dazzling footwork and shot-making, was built on fundamentals: footwork, balance, and efficiency.
- This emphasis on repetition and refinement aligns with Carter Bryant’s preference for simplicity in basketball.
- As Carter prepares for his own NBA journey, modeling his mindset after Kobe’s could help him develop not just his skillset, but also the mental resilience needed to thrive under pressure.
- That’s an intangible skill scouts and front offices are always looking for.
- It’s likely that Bryant admires Kyrie’s ability to control the game and create opportunities in tight spaces—not through chaos, but through precision.
- While the surface of Kyrie’s game is showmanship, its foundation is built on impeccable fundamentals.
- In this sense, Carter Bryant can learn a lot from Kyrie: how to use advanced skills effectively without compromising simplicity, and how to be unpredictable without being inefficient.
Carter Bryant: The Power of Simplicity in a Complex League
Carter Bryant’s comment that all of his favorite players “play with the simplicity of the game” speaks volumes.
In today’s NBA—where pace-and-space, analytics, and advanced schemes dominate—there’s still immense value in mastering the basics.
Players like Kobe, T-Mac, Booker, Tatum, and Kyrie remind us that sometimes the most effective move is the simplest one.
Carter’s preference for this style indicates a maturity beyond his years. It also bodes well for his transition to the professional level, where consistency often separates good players from great ones.
Draft Night Awaits: Carter Bryant’s NBA Future
Carter Bryant is projected to be a first-round pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, set to take place on June 25 at the Barclays Center in New York.
Teams will be evaluating his skill set, potential, and basketball IQ—all of which appear to be influenced by the legends and stars he admires.
His emphasis on simplicity suggests he’s likely a player who won’t force the issue, can fit into various systems, and understands the importance of team basketball.
That makes him an appealing pick for teams looking to build around high-character, high-IQ talent.
Beyond Talent: Character and Work Ethic
By naming players known not just for their talent but also their commitment to their craft, Bryant gives us a glimpse into the type of professional he aspires to be.
Kobe’s legendary workouts, Booker’s film study, Tatum’s improvement curve, and Kyrie’s relentless pursuit of excellence—these are qualities that can’t be taught in drills.
If Bryant combines his natural abilities with the mindset of his heroes, he could evolve into a long-term contributor at the NBA level.
Coaches love players who do the little things well, and Carter’s philosophy suggests he’s ready to embrace that role.
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