What is Markquis Nowell's draft stock? Exploring 5'8" Kansas State guard's chances of making it to NBA

Few players have captured the hearts of college basketball fans in the way Markquis Nowell has. The 5-foot-8 Kansas State guard is at the epicenter of the program's Elite Eight run and has put forth some of the most impressive individual performances across the tournament.

Many have begun to wonder what Nowell's draft stock looks like as he caps off his college eligibility in this year's NCAA Tournament.

It is tough to deny the statistical success of Nowell. He set the NCAA Tournament record for assists in a game during Thursday's 98-93 overtime victory over Michigan State. He put forth a complete performance with 20 points, 19 assists and five steals. He has averaged 17.2 points and 8.1 assists, which is second in the country this season.

The biggest hurdle for Nowell at the next level will be his size. While he shows no fear of attacking the basket against bigger defenders, he already struggles at times at the college level. The NBA is a different beast, and this issue will only grow at this stage.

Nowell's size and the fact that he's already 23 years old are the main reasons why most expect him to be undrafted when it is time for teams to make their selections. While he is an NBA-level passer and possesses a heart well above his size, there are currently no players in the NBA under 5-foot-11.

Concerns about what he can do on the defensive end, although Nowell has an impressive knack for racking up steals from opponents, will hold teams back. He has impressive touch around the rim, elite passing ability and all the intangibles you could hope for, but his size could be a factor teams are unwilling to overlook.

Could Nowell's play change his draft stock?

NBA teams will surely be locked in on what happens for the remainder of the NCAA Tournament, and Nowell will undoubtedly step into center stage. However, there is not much more he can do to alter his professional outlook.

The New York native is already playing some of the best basketball in the country and has stepped up in big moments when the team has needed him. He will likely get a tryout in summer league and training camp on an NBA roster, which will be his best possible route to the league.

Nowell could also make a great deal of money and dominate overseas in the way Myles Powell, Jimmer Fredette and other borderline NBA players have.

For the time being, Nowell will have his sights set on competing for a national championship and performing at the highest level for Kansas State. The NBA cards will fall however they are meant to in the future, but everyone should soak up one of the most impressive college runs in recent history while it lasts.