Nick Martinelli has showcased his skills over four seasons with Northwestern, taking part in 120 games and starting 77 of them. Known for his unique midrange play, this two-time Big Ten scoring champion aimed to enhance his NBA prospects during the recent NBA draft combine at Wintrust Arena. Over two games, he scored 18 points with three rebounds and two assists in the first and 13 points with five rebounds and a block in the second. Martinelli expressed his desire to prove himself against future NBA players, noting the higher level of competition.
Standing at 6-foot-7 and hailing from Glenview, Martinelli seeks to advance his career after averaging 20.5 points as a junior and 23 as a senior at Northwestern. Despite these personal achievements, his team did not partake in the NCAA Tournament in his last two seasons, finishing with a 15-19 record in 2026. This experience, he hopes, will fuel his drive to win. Martinelli spoke about his ambition to do whatever it takes to return to success on the court.
After his college season ended in the Big Ten Tournament, Martinelli continued to train at Northwestern, though Coach Chris Collins often advised him not to overstrain himself. While Collins even suggested finding a hobby, Martinelli remained focused on improving his shooting and athleticism. Analyst forecasts place him as a potential second-round draft pick for teams like the Golden State Warriors and Atlanta Hawks. Martinelli highlighted his reliance on faith throughout the draft process, mentioning the joy his family would feel if he is selected.
“I’m just going to do whatever it takes to win,” he said. “Going through two years of losing, you definitely want to get back on that winning track.”
On the other hand, Kylan Boswell from Illinois aimed to showcase his defensive and facilitation skills at the combine. Averaging 12.3 points, four rebounds, and three assists in his senior season, Boswell focused on his role in team dynamics rather than scoring. The Illini depended on his defensive prowess and leadership, which Boswell hopes was evident during the games. ESPN projects him as the No. 58 draft pick, but despite his position in mock drafts, Boswell remains confident in his capabilities and potential impact in the NBA.
Players like Andrej Stojaković of Illinois and Jeremy Fears Jr. from Michigan State face decisions regarding whether to stay in the draft or return for another college season. Stojaković weighs his options, while Fears, who averaged 15.2 points and a conference-leading 9.4 assists, seeks feedback. Fears, who sees himself as first-round talent, is open to fulfilling any role that contributes to team success.
The draft process also involves John Blackwell, who transferred from Wisconsin to Duke, where he aims to boost his stock through competition and exposure. Meanwhile, Morez Johnson Jr. committed to remain in the NBA draft, optimistic about his prospects after an impressive season. Johnson, who played at Thornton and transferred from Illinois to Michigan, received backing from his college coach to take the professional leap.