The Houston Rockets are having a strong season, but it’s never too soon to look ahead to the NBA Draft. With March Madness underway, this is the perfect opportunity to scout future stars who could complement Houston’s young core. For Rockets fans wondering who to watch, three standout prospects are Liam McNeeley, Jase Richardson, and Asa Newell. Each of them brings unique strengths, so let’s analyze why they’re worth paying attention to.
Liam McNeeley, F (UConn – Freshman)
A key player at UConn, Liam McNeeley is a lights-out shooter who fits exactly what Houston needs. His ability to stretch the floor makes him a valuable asset, as he thrives in catch-and-shoot situations. Shooting over 35% from three in conference play, he’s a reliable option who could seamlessly integrate into the Rockets’ system.
Houston is in desperate need of consistent shooters and high-IQ players to improve spacing. McNeeley offers both. His game is often compared to Keegan Murray, a player who successfully translated his college shooting into an impactful NBA role. Beyond his shooting skills, McNeeley is also an effective rebounder for a wing, adding another dimension to his game.
Picture McNeeley’s off-ball movement alongside Jalen Green’s explosiveness or Alperen Şengün’s passing vision. His skill set wouldn’t just address a weakness in Houston’s offense—it could elevate it.
That said, McNeeley isn’t a flawless prospect. He isn’t a self-creator at an elite level and lacks the burst to blow past defenders. While he has a strong pull-up jumper, he isn’t someone who will consistently generate his own shot. Even so, as a sharpshooting complementary piece, he represents a low-risk, high-reward draft choice.
Jase Richardson, G (Michigan State – Freshman)
Jase Richardson has been making waves at Michigan State, showcasing why he’s generating so much hype heading into March Madness. Averaging nearly 18 points per game over his last five outings, Richardson blends polished scoring with elite perimeter defense. He also has NBA pedigree as the son of former star Jason Richardson. With Houston looking for more consistency on both ends, Richardson presents an intriguing option.
His defensive skills are top-tier for a college guard. He excels at pressuring ball handlers and contesting shots, making Michigan State a tough team to face. Offensively, he performs well under pressure, maintaining efficiency in high-stakes situations. In the Big Ten tournament, Richardson exploded for 38 points and seven three-pointers over two games, proving he thrives on the big stage.
Another key factor in his appeal is his basketball IQ. Unlike some young guards who lean heavily on athleticism, Richardson processes the game at a high level, playing with poise and maturity.
At 6-foot-3, his height may be a concern for NBA scouts, as it could limit his ability to defend larger wings. Additionally, while he’s a capable scorer, he isn’t a natural playmaker. In the right system, this isn’t a major issue, but it does cap his potential as a lead guard. If he improves his playmaking skills, Richardson could be an excellent addition to the Rockets under Ime Udoka’s leadership.
Asa Newell, PF/C (Georgia – Freshman)
For Rockets fans hoping for more defensive versatility, Asa Newell is a name to watch. At 6-foot-11, the Georgia big man is a physical presence with promising shooting potential. He has taken small steps in his three-point shooting (hitting 26 threes this season), and his ability to guard multiple positions makes him a perfect fit for today’s NBA.
What truly separates Newell is his defensive impact. He possesses the agility to switch onto guards and the size to challenge shots at the rim. His high-energy approach fuels his effectiveness, particularly on the defensive end. Offensively, he thrives in the paint with strong cutting instincts and an ability to seal off defenders for easy buckets. Given Houston’s defensive identity, Newell would blend seamlessly into their system.
While his potential is clear, he remains a work in progress. His shooting consistency is still uncertain, and while he’s athletic, he doesn’t stand out in that department. For Houston, this raises questions about whether he can be a defensive anchor or create mismatches on offense. Like many rookies, Newell will need time to develop, but his raw tools make him a worthy investment.
