Benched Under Obradović, Legendary Coach Now Claims: "He Could Be the No. 1 Pick in the NBA Draft"

The Memphis Tigers head coach and former Orlando Magic star has long been regarded as a keen talent evaluator in college basketball, and his insights carry serious weight across the American sports landscape. Ahead of the 2026/27 season, his attention was captured by a young Finnish prospect playing for Arkansas under legendary head coach John Calipari.

Calipari has sent 85 players to the NBA throughout his career, including superstars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Devin Booker, Bam Adebayo, Jamal Murray, and Tyrese Maxey, as well as four No. 1 overall picks: Derrick Rose, John Wall, Anthony Davis, and Karl-Anthony Towns. Hardaway believes Muurinen could become the fifth Calipari protege to hear his name called first on draft night.

Following an exhibition clash in which Arkansas defeated Memphis, Hardaway pointed out that the Finnish standout looked as if he was playing against seven or eight pros on the floor, adding that his exceptional mobility, wingspan, and active motor strongly resemble Victor Wembanyama or Giannis Antetokounmpo. He also praised veteran Billy Richmond II, noting the remarkable maturity across the entire opposing roster.

Muurinen is slated to make his official NCAA regular-season debut on November 5, just over a week after being cleared for competitive action. However, two exhibition games were all it took for the Finnish power forward to land on the 20-player preseason watch list for the prestigious Karl Malone Award. In a 76-72 victory over Gonzaga, he posted 10 points, six rebounds, and two blocks, before leading the team with 10 points, 12 rebounds, two assists, and two steals in a 93-81 win against Memphis.

US sports journalists share that excitement, highlighting his immense contributions on the boards and as a rim protector. Terry J. Wood of the "Fayetteville Flyer" noted that Calipari has deployed Muurinen as a central piece right from the start, utilizing his length and fluid mobility to reshape defensive dynamics and heavily impact the game without needing high shot volume on offense.

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