South Carolina forward Collin Murray-Boyles didn’t have to wait long on NBA Draft night, going No. 9 overall to the Toronto Raptors as a lottery selection. His pick marks a historic milestone for the Gamecocks he’s the program’s first modern-era lottery pick and the first first-rounder since Renaldo Balkman in 2006. His selection is also the second-highest in South Carolina history, just behind Tom Riker, who went No. 8 to the Knicks in 1972.
Murray-Boyles is expected to contribute right away in Toronto. The Raptors favor versatile, high-motor players who can defend multiple positions, making him a seamless fit alongside offensive weapons like Brandon Ingram, Scottie Barnes, and RJ Barrett, and rim protectors such as Jakob Poeltl, Chris Boucher, and Colin Castleton. His defensive versatility should allow him to take on challenging matchups across the floor. He’ll also reunite with fellow former Gamecock AJ Lawson, who ended last season on a high note with the team.
A Columbia native, Collin Murray-Boyles shined as a dynamic two-way force for his hometown South Carolina Gamecocks. In his sophomore 2024–25 season, he stood alone in college basketball by averaging at least 16 points, eight rebounds, two assists, one steal, and one block per game while shooting an impressive 55% from the field.
His impact was immediate, earning SEC All-Freshman honors in his first year despite missing time with mononucleosis. He followed that up with a standout sophomore campaign that landed him All-SEC recognition, paving the way for his early entry into the NBA Draft.
The NBA places a premium on versatile defenders, and Collin Murray-Boyles fits that mold perfectly. He’s capable of guarding multiple positions—holding his own against wings, smaller guards, and all but the tallest centers. His defensive switchability is expected to be a major asset early in his professional career. In fact, some draft analysts consider him the top defender in this year’s class, praising his instincts and versatility on that end of the floor.
While his offensive game is still developing particularly his perimeter shooting Murray-Boyles excels around the rim and displays uncommon passing instincts for a frontcourt player. If he can become a reliable shooter while continuing to finish efficiently over length, he has the potential to evolve into a high-level two-way contributor in the NBA, much like he was in college. His professional debut is expected to come during NBA Summer League play, which tips off July 10.
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