Caleb Love Aims for NBA Return After Stellar Tournament Performance

PHOENIX, Ariz. — Caleb Love is looking to revive his NBA prospects as he continues to shine during the NCAA tournament. The Arizona guard recently scored 29 points against Oregon, showcasing his scoring ability after a rocky college career.

After a promising sophomore season at North Carolina, where he averaged 15.9 points per game and played a key role in leading the Tar Heels to the national championship game, Love faced challenges. A disappointing junior season diminished his draft stock, prompting him to transfer to Arizona for his final two years of eligibility.

With this Thursday’s game against Duke, Love will tie the NCAA record for most career starts in a power conference with 168, joining notable players like Armando Bacot and Jordan Bohannon. His experience is a valuable asset as he aims to prove his potential as an NBA player.

“When I’m on, I feel like I’m one of the best scorers in the game,” Love said. He has delivered memorable performances, such as a spectacular 27-point second-half effort against UCLA during the 2022 Sweet Sixteen and a game-winning three-pointer against Duke in the Final Four that same year.

Despite his scoring talents, Love’s NBA projections have waned. He is currently not featured in many mock drafts due to inconsistent shooting. This season, he has only shot 39.3 percent from the field and 33.6 percent from three-point range, raising concerns about his shot selection.

“Sometimes I take tough shots, and I need to focus on the right looks,” Love acknowledged. “But I believe I can be a game-changer when I’m feeling it.”

If he can improve his decision-making while maintaining his scoring prowess, analysts believe Love has the potential to develop a role similar to that of Jordan Clarkson, an 11-year NBA veteran known for his scoring. Clarkson has carved out a long career, earning over $112 million and receiving multiple high placements in the Sixth Man of the Year voting.

“Caleb has similar traits to Clarkson. He can shoot off the dribble and has a knack for scoring,” said NBA analyst Mike Smith. “But to succeed in the NBA, he must refine his shot selection and improve his efficiency.”

Love was rated as a top-15 recruit coming out of high school and had previously been recognized above NBA caliber players like Jaden Ivey and Bennedict Mathurin. However, his recent performances could reignite interest from NBA teams. “His natural shooting ability and transition skills are unique, and if he showcases those during the tournament, there’s a path back to the draft,” said scouting executive Rachel Greene.

As the NCAA tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Love to see if he can reclaim his standing as a potential late-round pick or intriguing undrafted free agent after the season concludes.