Ron Holland II reveals why he’s in good shape

Hearing that the 2024 NBA draft class is one of the “worst” bothers G League Ignite prospect Ron Holland II. That contempt has added to Holland’s motivation as he begins his NBA career as one of 78 players participating in the NBA Combine in Chicago.

“It really bothers me,” Holland said. “If you were to compare us to another draft class, we just don’t have a standout unicorn. I feel like we’re all going to be really good role players one day – some of us might be All- Stars. When I hear we’re a ‘bad draft class,’ it burns my blood.”

Holland enters the draft as a consensus top-10 pick averaging 23.3 points, 10.1 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 2.0 steals in 18 games played with the Ignite. The 6-foot-8 two-way forward has developed his skills as a defensive stopper whose athleticism gives him an advantage on downhill attacks.

He exploded onto the scene during his McDonald’s All-American year at Duncanville High School in Texas. With two Texas teams selected in the top 10, Holland hopes to stay in his home state.

The selection of the Netherlands by the Houston Rockets with the No. 3 pick could be possible in June. However, Holland believes his attributes fit well with the Rockets.

Coach Ime Udoka established a defensive identity in his first year at the helm of Houston. They finished the 2023-24 season with the 10th best defensive rating at 113.7. In the midst of their 22-60 record the year before, the Rockets finished as the second-worst defensive team with a net rating of 118.6.

However, despite their significant improvements, Udoka wants to continue to rely on Houston’s defense. He believes the Rockets’ success on the defensive end will increase with the return of Steven Adams and Tari Eason. With the selection of Holland, Udoka can add to Houston’s defensive repertoire.

“The way Houston plays definitely matches the way I play,” Holland said. Defense is my proudest skill. My desire to win has a lot to do with it. Ultimately, defense wins games. My defense is NBA ready. I want to win Defensive Player of the Year one day.”

Holland showed his draft potential playing with the ball during his lone season in the G League, but believes he can thrive playing without the ball. No matter who the Rockets choose with their first overall pick, adding a prospect who can thrive off the ball will be an ideal addition, given that Houston has several players who are at their best with the ball in their hands .

Holland believes his versatility on both ends sets him apart from all draft prospects and the best in his class.

“I would say my energy, of course – that’s one thing about me that people always talk about,” Holland said. “I always try to win anything competitive, whether it’s free throws, shooting, running or fitness. If I compete, I know for a fact that it will inspire others to compete , and now we’re all getting better.”

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