Jayson Tatum Calls Out NBA Teams Over Kyle Filipowski's Draft Fall

Kyle Filipowski was one of only two players (Johnny Furphy) who were invited to the green room but not selected in the first round of the NBA Draft. He'll likely hear his name called early in the second round on Thursday, though former Duke star Jayson Tatum believes teams will regret passing on the big man.

The newly-minted NBA Finals champion took to social media to express his disdain, calling out the NBA for passing on Filipowski.

Once considered a potential lottery pick, Filipowski's stock starting falling in recent days, though he was still expected to go in the first round. Now, he represents one of the best value picks available.

Jayson Tatum Says NBA Teams Will Regret Passing on Kyle Filipowski

It's hard to argue with Tatum. Filipowski represents the kind of productive big man any organization could use, with floor-stretching and playmaking ability that's rare for his 7'0" size.

The Second-Team All-American averaged 16.4 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.5 blocks, and 1.1 steals while shooting 50.5% from the field and a respectable 34.8% from beyond the arc. It's easy to see Filipowski making an impact as a rotational big man and he should improve defensively as he gets strong as well.

Considering the relative weakness of this draft class, Filipowski should feel snubbed. He belonged in the first round and now gets to prove his doubters wrong. The Raptors, Jazz, Bucks, Trail Blazers, and Spurs have the first five picks to start the second round and Filipowski likely won't have to wait long to hear his name called.

Filipowski's teammate, Jared McCain, was selected by the Philadelphia 76ers, though Kyle had a long night without ever hearing his name called.

Tatum knows a thing or two about winning. If he thinks teams will regret not drafting Filipowski, I'm inclined to believe him. Disappointment aside though, it's now on Filipowski to prove Tatum right.

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