What is Armando Bacot’s draft stock? Exploring 6’11” North Carolina forward's chances to make it into NBA 

North Carolina Tar Heels big man Armando Bacot has been one of the top forwards in college basketball. Throughout his illustrious college career, Bacot has been a productive force.

After another impressive season, Bacot looked to be on the verge of becoming a name to monitor for the 2023 NBA draft. But then Bacot announced on Wednesday that he will return to Chapel Hill for his last year of eligibility, his fifth at UNC.

Bacot was trending towards being a late second-round NBA draft selection. To improve his draft stock for next year, he will need to develop his offensive game.

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Armando Bacot's draft stock moving forward

Armando Bacot's draft stock could improve with a strong season.

North Carolina Tar Heels forward Armando Bacot has the production on paper to warrant an extended look at the NBA level. After a strong junior season, Bacot looked to be an intriguing prospect as a potential second-round selection.

During his junior year, Bacot averaged 16.3 points and 13.1 rebounds per game. He was especially brilliant during North Carolina's unexpected tournament run during the 2021-22 NCAA season that saw the underdog Tar Heels end up in the national championship game.

A year later, Bacot looked like a player who could take another step forward in his game. The Tar Heels came into the year ranked No. 1 in the preseason. It turned out to be a disappointing year for UNC (20-13), however.

Armando Bacot's draft stock will have a difficult path to climb. Bacot is one of the top rebounding forwards in college basketball. He's a beast on the boards who can change the momentum of the game with his effort. Listed at 6-foot-10, 240 pounds, Bacot is a load in the paint and presents challenges for opposing teams.

He averaged 15.9 ppg and 10.4 rpg this season while shooting 55.4%. Bacot, a third-team All-American this season and a two-time All-ACC first-team selection, will need to take strides forward with his offensive game to hear his name called on draft night next year. His mentality in the paint will intrigue NBA teams, especially if they find themselves looking for a rebounding machine with toughness.

The Tar Heels forward has continued his impressive growth at the collegiate level. Bacot is now 12th on NCAA's all-time rebounding list following an impressive performance during UNC's 75-71 win over Miami FL.

Bacot contributed 5 points, 12 rebounds, and 3 assists for the team as he gets one step closer to potentially playing in the NBA.