The Celtics chose Anton Watson, a forward from Gonzaga, as the 54th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft on Thursday night. This marked Boston’s second and final selection in the two-night draft, following their earlier pick of Baylor Scheierman, a sharpshooting wing, at No. 30 overall on Thursday.
Watson, a 23-year-old forward, distinguished himself as a standout defender at Gonzaga, where he played as a fifth-year senior in the last season. He averaged a career-best 14.5 points per game while shooting 57.8 percent from the field, placing third in the WCC in shooting accuracy. Additionally, Watson secured 7.1 rebounds per game and ranked second in steals in the WCC with 1.5 per game.
Watson, a 23-year-old forward, made a name for himself as a top defender at Gonzaga during his fifth and final collegiate season. He achieved a career-high scoring average of 14.5 points per game with an impressive 57.8 percent shooting accuracy, ranking third in the WCC. Watson also averaged 7.1 rebounds and was second in steals in the conference with 1.5 per game.
According to a league source, Watson is expected to agree to a two-way contract with Boston, as the team has limited roster spots available. He may have a chance to secure a full 15-man roster spot with a strong performance in the summer league and training camp. Currently, Boston has one open two-way contract slot after promoting Neemias Queta to the 15-man roster at the conclusion of last season.
Following the NBA Draft, Boston now has three vacant roster spots, presuming they intend to sign Scheierman. Oshae Brissett, Luke Kornet, Xavier Tillman, and Svi Mykhailiuk are all expected to become free agents on Sunday.
