UK Basketball: Wenyen Gabriel working out for Utah Jazz

Wenyen Gabriel may not be invited to the NBA Draft Combine, but he’s now getting some pre-draft workouts.

Up first will be the Utah Jazz, who announced Gabriel will be working out for the team on Saturday. It’s the first known workout for Gabriel, who is now hoping to work with teams individually and potentially find someone willing to spend a draft pick on him.

It’s hard to see that coming, but Gabriel is smart to get his name out there nonetheless while working out in front of NBA decision makers. He may be looking at an overseas stint if he chooses to remain in the draft, but perhaps he can find a team willing to give him a legitimate chance to make a roster as a rookie in 2018.

Gabriel’s second season in Lexington was a major improvement on the first as he improved his numbers and minutes while also taking on a leadership role. He averaged 6.8 points and 5.4 rebounds per game in his second season.

Gabriel had a moment in the national spotlight when he caught fire in the SEC Tournament, going 7-for-7 from 3-point range against the Alabama Crimson Tide, scoring 23 points. Gabriel also impressed with 16 points against the Buffalo Bulls in the NCAA Tournament.

However, he’s not showing up on any draft boards as of late. He is not mentioned in big boards at NBAdraft.net, Sports Illustrated or ESPN.

Could that change between now and June 21st, the day of the draft?

Probably not, but Gabriel has never been one to back down from a challenge.