AFL talent ambassador Kevin Sheehan believes the commercial aspect attached to the first pick in the draft won’t stop Adelaide from bidding on Western Bulldogs academy prospect Jamarra Ugle-Hagan.
“There is that lovely little bonus for the number one choice. A portfolio from NAB plus $10,000 from the AFL,” Sheehan said.
“So it might be $20,000 in total which is a nice little bonus for the youngster that is seen as the best player in the nation at that time in the eyes of the club that holds that choice.”
Speaking on Dwayne’s World on Thursday afternoon, Sheehan spoke of the interesting dilemma the Crows face with the first overall selection.
“It’s interesting isn’t it. They (Adelaide) have been pretty clear on their intentions the last couple of days. They intend to pick the player they think is the best, and if it is Jamarra (Ugle-Hagan), then they’ll pick him,” Sheehan said.
“It’s at least a three or four way debate.
“You’ve got those three talls. Jamarra Ugle-Hagan of course. Riley Thilthorpe who’s a massive unit from West Adelaide at 200cm and 100 kilos. Logan McDonald who couldn’t do much more than be picked in the WAFL senior Team of the Year this year. And then Elijah Hollands, who has to be in the debate as well.
“I think they’re the four who are the best, and of course a couple of them haven’t played this year in Hollands and Ugle-Hagan because of COVID.”
Sheehan says he does not envy the decision that awaits the Crows on draft night on Wednesday.
“It’s a very tough call and I’m glad it’s Adelaide and not myself who will have to make that call within the next week,” he said.
Tune in at 6:30pm AEDT on Wednesday, December 9 for the AFL Draft on SEN, powered by Tyrepower.
