Sat Jan 03 19:20:00 UTC 2026: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a rewritten version as a news article:

Summary:

St. John’s center Zuby Ejiofor is projected to be a late first-round pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, with multiple mock drafts placing him as the 30th overall selection by the Washington Wizards. His athleticism, motor, and improving assist rate are appealing, but scouts want to see more development in his outside shooting. While some outlets are higher on him than others, most expect him to be drafted. Ejiofor is currently averaging 13.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game, and will return to action against Georgetown on New Year’s Eve.

News Article:

St. John’s Ejiofor Projected as Potential First-Round Pick in 2026 NBA Draft

[City, State] – St. John’s University center Zuby Ejiofor is gaining significant attention from NBA scouts and is projected as a potential first-round pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. Several outlets, including Bleacher Report and Sports Illustrated, have released mock drafts projecting Ejiofor to be selected 30th overall by the Washington Wizards.

Draft experts cite Ejiofor’s athleticism and motor as key assets, highlighting his potential as a strong defensive presence. Jonathan Wasserman of NBA TV compared him to Toronto Raptors center Jonathan Mogbo, praising Ejiofor’s ability to contribute on both ends of the court. However, analysts also emphasize the importance of developing his outside shooting to solidify his NBA prospects.

“Ejiofor is an interesting archetype, and will need to develop a few more perimeter skills to stick,” wrote Derek Parker of Sports Illustrated.

While some rankings are less optimistic, such as CBS Sports’ Adam Finkelstein listing him as the 58th-best prospect, most anticipate Ejiofor will be among the 60 players selected in the draft. No Ceilings projects him to go 45th overall to the Brooklyn Nets.

So far this season, Ejiofor is averaging 13.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, and a career-best 2.5 blocks per game, showcasing his all-around impact on the court. He looks to continue his impressive performance when St. John’s faces Georgetown on New Year’s Eve. The game will be broadcast on FS1 at 8 p.m. ET.

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