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National reactions to Collin Murray-Boyles being selected in 2025 NBA Draft

by: Peyton Butt06/26/25
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Mar 12, 2025; Nashville, TN, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks forward Collin Murray-Boyles (30) passes the ball under the arms of Arkansas Razorbacks forward Zvonimir Ivisic (44) during the second half at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images

The Toronto Raptors selected South Carolina star forward Collin Murray-Boyles with the ninth overall pick in the NBA Draft on Wednesday. Murray-Boyles became the first South Carolina men’s basketball player to become a lottery pick.

The Columbia native stood out early on amongst other draft picks, especially as a sophomore. His accolades and statistics made him an easy choice in the early first round of the draft, and the national reaction to his selection points to many agreeing with that sentiment.

“He gets most of his points in the paint. He was second in the Southeastern Conference in paint scoring at over 11 points per game. But he was the only SEC player to have over 40 blocks and over 40 steals this season,” said ESPN analyst Jay Bilas on the network’s NBA Draft broadcast live from Brooklyn.

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Like any NBA draft pick, there is always room for improvement. For Murray-Boyles, his numbers are down in jump shots compared to any other statistic.

“He shoots about 67-70 percent at the rim. He’s just over 30 percent on jump shots,” Bilas said. “That’s an area where he needs to improve, but a versatile long-armed defender.”

South Carolina head coach Lamont Paris was among the first to offer congratulations and praise to the Raptors’ first-round pick.

During the draft, Murray-Boyles was highlighted for the support system surrounding him. Gamecock women’s basketball head coach Dawn Staley couldn’t help but notice the same.

Despite the excitement of South Carolina’s first lottery pick, there was some concern from analysts about how the forward would fit in on his new team. His versatility helped him stand out from others in the draft, but the fit has raised concerns.

Toronto Raptors NBA beat reporter Josh Lewenberg noted the strength and size of Murray-Boyles as well as the need for expanded range.

South Carolina’s athletic director Jeremiah Donati also took to X to congratulate the first rounder.

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