Jahmai Mashack established himself as a tremendous defender, and the former Tennessee guard is looking to showcase that ability and more in predraft workouts.
Mashack was named to the SEC All-Defensive Team, averaging six points, 4.2 rebounds, 1.7 steals and 1.5 assists on 35.1% shooting from 3-point range in 38 games. He scored in double figures six times, including a season-high 13 points, seven rebounds and four assists on March 14.
The 6-foot-5 standout completed his ninth team workout on Tuesday. He wants to demonstrate his overall skill set and ability, with a particular emphasis on his offensive capabilities.
“My ability to catch and shoot, and my ability to play out of closeouts,” Mashack said after working out with the Portland Trail Blazers. “The NBA is really going toward a closeout league where you’ve got to be able to shoot, pass or drive the ball effectively in point-five seconds. To be able to show that consistently and know I’m a good decision-maker when I get paint touches.”
Mashack was a Naismith Defensive Player of the Year finalist, ranking second in the country in defensive box plus-minus last season (plus-seven). He was one of 14 players, including one of six in a power conference, to record at least 60 steals (64) and 20 blocked shots (20).
The 22-year-old competed in the G League Elite Camp last month, averaging five points, two steals, 1.5 rebounds and one assist in two scrimmage games. He also registered a 6-foot, 7 3/4-inch wingspan in the anthropometric measurement testing.
Mashack isn’t projected to be drafted, though he believes he has had some solid performances during his prior workouts. He is looking to finish the predraft process strong and secure a spot with the right team in the draft on June 25-26 in Brooklyn, New York.
“I want to find the best fit possible, and I feel like there are a lot of NBA teams that like and enjoy the way that I play,” Mashack said. “I want to just be with (a team) that is going to value that and cherish that and grow that as I try to become the best player I can be.”