Creighton center Ryan Kalkbrenner was known for being a great rim protector during his college career. However, people tend to forget that he can hold his own as a 3-point shooter.
Ryan Kalkbrenner Shoots Lights Out at NBA Draft Combine
The 7’2″ Kalkbrenner was recently tested on his three-point shooting abilities at the NBA Draft Combine. It is safe to say that he more than showed out.
The four-time Big East Defensive Player of the Year went 17-of-23 from 3-point range, which likely opened the eyes of scouts and executives.
7’2 Ryan Kalkbrenner drilled 17-of-23 threes during this 3-point shooting drill at the NBA Draft Combine 🔥
Kalkbrenner was a 4x Big East Defensive Player of the Year at Creighton 🤯
(via @DraftExpress)pic.twitter.com/8Whk010pA7
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) May 15, 2025
Kalkbrenner is one of those players who could find some success at the next level because he is such a strong performer in a number of categories. While defense is his greatest strength, his shooting skills might not be far off.
In fact, they might be why a team decides to take a chance on him during next month’s NBA Draft.
Kalkbrenner Could Be Very Productive In the NBA
The Missouri native could be set up for quite a career in the NBA if he plays his cards right. An All-American player, Kalkbrenner was one of the most complete players in the entire country during his college career.
He started 138 career games for Creighton head coach Greg McDermott and shot over 65% from the field across his five-year run in Omaha. The 2025 Naismith Defensive Player of the Year averaged over 2.5 blocks in three of his five collegiate seasons, as well.
Now, he has his eyes set on making an impact on a team in the NBA.
There are plenty of teams out there that could use an elite big man with quality shooting skills. Rebuilding teams such as the Washington Wizards, Utah Jazz, and even the Chicago Bulls could benefit from selecting Kalkbrenner in the draft.
Or, perhaps teams like the Los Angeles Lakers or Golden State Warriors, who could both use another big man, may want to consider drafting him.
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One thing is for sure: Because of his skill set and talent, he will have a lot of eyes on him once he enters the NBA.
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