fictional draft class #2

FICTIONAL DRAFT CLASS #2 SCOUTING

REPORTSwagger Coach

Class At a Glance

This year’s class appears to be lighter in terms of overall talent and potential. There

are a few gems sprinkled throughout the group, but a lot of players have question

marks as to how high their ceiling is. This is not the year to try and tank for the first overall

pick.

CLASS STRENGTH:

“A Poor Man’s Class”

Top 20 Prospects1 – PF Randy Winter, Purdue, So2 – PG Jacobi Cash, Florida, Jr3 – SF Zachary Forte, Vanderbilt, Fr4 – C Simon Warrick, Notre Dame, So5 – PF Leif Wolfe, Germany, Intl6 – SF David Teague, Syracuse, Jr7 – PG Wendell Oakley, Louisville, So8 - SG Lamar Higgins, Missouri, Fr9 - SF Shelden Mullin, UCLA, So10 - C Norman Payne, UNLV, Jr11 – SG Michael Davenport, Texas Tech, Jr12 - PG Austin Carlson, Oklahoma, So13 – PF Marcel Valentine, France, Intl14 – SF Taylor Gadson, Connecticut, So15 – SF Dean Pollard, Indiana, Sr16 – PG Magnus Kersey, Holy Cross, Fr17 – C Nando Saramago, Congo, Intl18 – C Leonard Pulley, Arkansas, Sr19 - PG Wade Vaughn, Duke, Jr20 – SF Jamal De La Cruz, USC, Fr

#1 – PF Randy WinterAGE: 20POS: PFHEIGHT: 6’9”WEIGHT: 243CLASS: Sophomore

COLLEGE STATS:PPG: 22.8APG: 3.9SPG: 0.3TO: 2.7RPG: 6.9

Purdue

BIO

AP Player of the Year Randy Winter will provide a nice spark of offense to the teamthat scoops him up in this year’s draft. He’s a versatile player with a penchant for knocking down smooth 15 and 20 foot jumpers like he’s shooting in his own back yard. Scouts can’t decide who the #1 overall pick should be in this year’s class, with Winter and Cash jockeying one another for top position, but one thing’s for sure: Randy will provide an NBA team with a strong shot in the arm moving forward. Winter was recently quoted saying, “a lot of people think I model my game after Lamar Odom…I mean that makes sense. Except I don’t date fat women.” The young Boilermaker said he was just joking at the time, but has since regretted his sarcastic comments. “I’ve received numerous cease and desist letters from the Kardashian family. I’m legally obligated to avoid talking about them entirely, unless I literally say, ‘I love them to pieces.’ Where’s my agent with all of this going on?”

#1 – PF Randy WinterAGE: 20POS: PFHEIGHT: 6’9”WEIGHT: 243CLASS: Sophomore


Purdue

STRENGTHS: Possesses the sharpest mid range jumper in the draft class…is an excellent FTshooter…shows great patience and intelligence on offense…efficient making moves from the low post…handles the rock well for his position…makes wise decisions and shows maturity on the floor

WEAKNESSES: Fairly slow, even for his size…not a particularly strong rebounder…doesn’t attack the rim with passion or hustle enough on defense…a weak motor…not the best athlete in the world, will be outmatched by Blake Griffin-type players

NBA COMPARISON: Lamar Odom

ACCURATE FACTS:HNDL SHOT MED CONS

73 83 40

#2 – PG Jacobi CashAGE: 21POS: PGHEIGHT: 6’2”WEIGHT: 185CLASS: Junior


Florida

BIO

Self-professed Christian rapper Jacobi Cash is fully aware of the paradox his last name brings to the table: “I mean, I get that I’m a black rapper, right, and my last name is Cash…that’s funny, like a stereotype – know what I mean? But I’m a Christian rapper…like I’m actually not about the Cash at all.” During his three years in Gainsville, Cash utilized his connection with the team to fuel his music. “I found the best times to write rhymes was after we played a game…so I would take a pen and pad with me on the bus rides ready to create pure gold.” In addition to his hobby, Jacobi has played well enough at Florida to draw the attention of fans across the country, who are entertained endlessly with his slick mid range game and offensive weaponry at his disposal. Just don’t call him the Black Tim Tebow. “Look, I’m not like Tim. He’s doing the whole V-card thing until marriage…that’s not me…I gotta admit, I get weak in the knees for Irish women. Cha feel me?”

#2 – PG Jacobi CashAGE: 21POS: PGHEIGHT: 6’2”WEIGHT: 185CLASS: Junior

STRENGTHS:Pulls off a nice step-back jumper from mid-range…has a quick first step to blow past defendersand attack the basket…comfortable creating his own shot and shooting off the dribble…seems to have iron lungs that allow him to play almost the entire game…has good hands

WEAKNESSES:Has erratic consistency, will be hot one minute and ice cold the next…has mental lapses on defense…doesn’t attack the basket enough, settles for too many jumpers…needs to apply morepressure on defense…won’t impress you with his passing skills or court vision

NBA COMPARISON: Kemba Walker


ACCURATE FACTS:OFF AWR

QUICK 3PT

77 90 78

Florida

#3 – SF Zachary ForteAGE: 19POS: SFHEIGHT: 6’7”WEIGHT: 221CLASS: Freshman


Vanderbilt

BIO

Zachary “Fire Ball” Forte skyrocketed up the draft boards after his sensational freshmanyear at Vanderbilt. Before the collegiate season began, he didn’t even show up on most mock drafts. But give credit where credit is due; Forte’s ability to consistently keep the pedal down and hit shot after shot gave him both nationwide recognition and a new nickname. “They call me Fire Ball ‘cuz nobody has the ability to slow me down once I get going. Once I’m on fire, there’s no putting me out, your best bet is to just move out of the way unless you wanna get burned.” An awkward poster by Vanderbilt’s sports marketing team unfortunately depicted this idea in an embarrassing context; Forte’s poster hung up outside of the court for two weeks with him holding a basketball below his abdomen, with flames bursting out of his crotch and the caption “FIRE BALLS” written below. “I got a text one day after practice was over and I’m told I gotta check out my new poster…so what do I see? Flames comin’ out of my junk. Yo, that’s not what I meant when I said I was on fire! Seriously man!” Let’s hope there’s no confusion over on the NBA’s side.

#3 – SF Zachary ForteAGE: 19POS: SFHEIGHT: 6’7”WEIGHT: 221CLASS: Freshman

STRENGTHS:Catches fire quickly and pours in quick buckets…an extremely efficient scorer close to thebasket…led the nation in minutes per game at Vanderbilt (38.7)…a strong finisher at the basketwith a nice set of dunks and creative layups…can score from almost anywhere…

WEAKNESSES:Not a strong “catch and shoot” type player…needs the ball in his hands but tends to over-dribble andturn it over too often…a poor passer who doesn’t see open teammates…defensive mechanicsneed work…needs to get stronger…forces too many tough shots

NBA COMPARISON: Paul Pierce


ACCURATE FACTS:PASS SIG SKILL SPEED

49 Anti-Freeze 80

Vanderbilt

#4 – C Simon WarrickAGE: 20POS: CHEIGHT: 7’0”WEIGHT: 275CLASS: Sophomore

COLLEGE STATS:PPG: 13.2BPG: 2.1SPG: 0.3TO: 1.0RPG: 8.9

Notre Dame

If Simon Warrick could arm wrestle an alligator, he would. His enormous biceps were strong enough to curl seventy pounds twelve (12) times before exhaustion at the annual Luke Longley Rookie Invitation Summit in Las Vegas. Scouts on the scene say that he apparently responded by growling, “Can I get a real challenge, like anybody want to see me lift Luke Longley over my head?” Unfortunately, Simon never got that opportunity, but his efforts at the Summit paid off immensely, locking him into place as a solid top 5 prospect in this year’s draft class. When asked what his biggest strength was, Warrick had this to offer: “My biggest strength is THAT exactly…I am the BIGGEST STRENGTH. I can wear just about anybody down…put me on the low block with anyone, big Al Jefferson, LeBron, the Gasols…I don’t care…they’re gonna need Gatorade by the time I’m done with them.” Warrick appears to be one of the safer picks in the draft, showing enough expertise around the basket to warrant a high basement…but a few scouts point out his ceiling may be pretty low.

BIO

#4 – C Simon WarrickAGE: 20POS: CHEIGHT: 7’0”WEIGHT: 275CLASS: Sophomore

STRENGTHS:One of the strongest players to come out of the draft since Shaq…a bruiser who wears down opponents without mercy…shows nice touch close to the basket…has great stamina forhis size…protects the rim well with good hustle

WEAKNESSES:Slower than Shawn Bradley’s grandfather…is not the most intelligent player…a pitiful free throwshooter…loses confidence outside of close range…misses too many layups and dunks…not a very agile or athletic player

NBA COMPARISON: Al Jefferson


ACCURATE FACTS:VERT SIG SKILL BLOCK

48 Bruiser 75

Notre Dame

#5 – PF Leif WolfeAGE: 21POS: PFHEIGHT: 6’8”WEIGHT: 234CLASS: Intl

INTL STATS:PPG: 19.7BPG: 2.1SPG: 1.1TO: 2.8RPG: 6.3

Germany

BIO

The fans over in Germany call Leif Wolfe “Bombenschütze“ based on his distinct range away from the hoop. The big German shot over 41% from beyond the arc throughout his career overseas and is looking to carry over his game to the states. If he is able to properly adjust to American competition, his unique set of skills should benefit just about any team in the league. Just don‘t ask him what his biggest goal is; his translator misunderstood this question when asked at a public Q and A, and Leif Wolfe answered, “Biggest hole is pit I dug for brother Harbert to hide from landlord, Helga...this was BIG HOLE...Harbert is big boy.“ While Wolfe has a lot of promise, fortunately for him, he shouldn‘t end up on Letterman his first year in the league; so there should be plenty of time for him to round out his English. One thing is for sure, however; Leif‘s basketball talents transcend any language barriers...and he appears poised for his first season in the NBA.

#5 – PF Leif WolfeAGE: 21POS: PFHEIGHT: 6’8”WEIGHT: 234CLASS: Intl

STRENGTHS:Has excellent range for a big…a consistent free throw shooter…possesses a rare gift for blockingshots extremely well…has nice speed for a four, runs the court well and gets in position for accurateshots…excels in draining the corner 3…does a good job staying out of foul trouble

WEAKNESSES:Hasn’t stayed as healthy as one would hope – durability could be an issue…gets lost on screens andpick-and-rolls on defense…doesn’t hustle after enough loose balls – doesn’t have the energy to bea crowd favorite…will need to bulk up and pack on some muscle to adjust to the athleticism of the pro’s…could improve his work on the glass

NBA COMPARISON: Markieff Morris

INTL STATS:PPG: 19.7BPG: 2.1SPG: 1.1TO: 2.8RPG: 6.3

ACCURATE FACTS:DUNK QUICK STAM

93 90 93

Germany

#6 - SF David TeagueAGE: 21POS: SFHEIGHT: 6’7”WEIGHT: 238CLASS: Junior


Syracuse

Syracuse Junior David Teague has been labeled a “gym rat” since junior high, pouring in hour after hour of working out and sharpening his skills. Teague already has an chiseled frame and work ethic ready-made for the next level. Scouts criticize his jump shot and point out that his biggest weakness may very well be his lack of range. Syracuse blogger Norm Hutchins has made this abundantly clear: “Ok, we have a guy that spends every waking minute in the gym…and yet his jumpshot sucks. Why? Why doesn’t he just spend less time bench pressing and more time learning how to shoot the damn ball?” But settling for jumpers just doesn’t seem to fit David’s game; the young man earned the nickname “Marmot” for this gym-rat mentality, as well as his tendency to burrow his way inside for tough buckets in traffic. If Teague ever wraps his mind around shooting the ball the same way he applies it to rebounding and defense, he could blossom into a franchise’s key building block moving forward.

BIO

#6 - SF David TeagueAGE: 21POS: SFHEIGHT: 6’7”WEIGHT: 238CLASS: Junior

STRENGTHS:Practically lives in the gym, excellent stamina and willingness to give 100% at any given moment…explosive quickness gets him out in transition for easy buckets…has the ability to blow past slowerSF’s trying to stay with him…a strong defensive rebounder for his position…fast hands create plentyof turnovers

WEAKNESSES:Unable to knock down the 10-15 foot jumper with any sort of consistency…just not a “go-to” optionon offense…still has a long way to go with understanding his role on offense…seems lost in half courtsets…has stayed relatively healthy throughout college, but a collection of minor injuries might comeback to haunt him

NBA COMPARISON: Michael Kidd-Gilchrist

COLLEGE STATS:PPG: 14.1 APG: 2.4SPG: 1.4TO: 2.5RPG: 7.2

ACCURATE FACTS:STAM STEAL DEF REB

94 79 76

Syracuse

#7 – PG Wendell OakleyAGE: 20POS: PGHEIGHT: 6’3”WEIGHT: 225CLASS: Sophomore

COLLEGE STATS:PPG: 5.8APG: 10.6 SPG: 1.0TO: 2.5RPG: 2.6

Louisville

BIO

Wendell Oakley plays with an extreme pass-first mentality that allowed him to lead the NCAA’s in assists per game but rank close to the bottom of the barrel in points per game during his two years at Louisville. When asked why he doesn’t become more aggressive and selfish on offense, Oakley had this to say, “It’s not my job to score the points…my job is to setup the other guys and dictate the offense…toss in a few good looking alley oops from time to time.” While prepared to simply facilitate as a point guard, coaches and scouts agree he could have been a top five pick had he shown the capacity to attack the basket more often under Rick Pitino. Pitino disagrees: “Wendell’s a really good kid…these same people that praise his unselfishness end up criticizing him for passing too much. Well guess what? He makes sure the ball gets in the hoop. Isn’t that why we play the game?” Oakley grew up with nine brothers and sisters, so perhaps sharing is simply ingrained in his nature.

#7 – PG Wendell OakleyAGE: 20POS: PGHEIGHT: 6’3”WEIGHT: 225CLASS: Sophomore

STRENGTHS:Sees the court well and hits players with pinpoint passes…dictates the offense with confidence andswagger for a 20-year-old kid…has a nice first step that gets him past defenders in one-on-onesituations…a fantastic free throw shooter…has improved his pick and roll jumpshot vastly

WEAKNESSES:Health is a major concern – missed the entire second half of his senior year…many scouts question the translation of his skills to the pro’s…doesn’t domuch of anything on defense…a lousy three point shooter

NBA COMPARISON: Kendall Marshall


ACCURATE FACTS:

Bilas Says:

“To me, he’s moreKendall Marshallthan Jason Kidd.”

OFF AWR

3PT SOD

80 61 75

Louisville

#8 – SG Lamar HigginsAGE: 19POS: SGHEIGHT: 6’5”WEIGHT: 192CLASS: Freshman


Missouri

Missouri Freshman Lamar Higgins simply oozes athleticism. Responsible for perhaps the most breathtaking play of the year that involved Higgins bobbling an alley-oop off the backboard, hanging on the rim for balance with one hand, and then finishing the dunk with the other hand, Lamar has never ceased to amaze. 18-year fan Brucie Chiklis had this to say about him, “I try to show up for each and every game these Tigers play…and when I started watching this kid Higgins play, he inspired me to take my fandom to the next level. I now wear full-body black and gold paint each and every game…and every practice too. I try to get his attention by screaming, ‘LAMAR – STAY IN COLLEGE OR WE’LL SUCK NEXT YEAR!’ I get a few looks.” Unfortunately for Chiklis, Higgins is going pro, possessing a wealth of talent and potential too seductive to pass up. However, Higgins clearly has as lot of polish necessary to become a routine piece of a team’s lineup

BIO

#8 – SG Lamar HigginsAGE: 19POS: SGHEIGHT: 6’5”WEIGHT: 192CLASS: Freshman

STRENGTHS:Knocks down three’s with a smooth jump shot…excellent hands create chaos with plenty of stealsand deflections…has superb speed for a shooting guard…a high-flying athlete who attacks the basketwith creative finishes…a great free throw shooter…creates his own shot off the dribble with natural ease

WEAKNESSES:Doesn’t have the hustle or the heart to play strong defense…an immenselyStreaky shooter who can get cold easily…needs to knock down closerange shots with more consistency…needs to pack on weight (tooskinny as of now)

NBA COMPARISON: J.R. Smith


ACCURATE FACTS:3 PT STEAL DURA

80 80 70

Missouri

Bilas Says:

“Has the potential to bea top three pick…

needs to improve hisdefense first.”

#9 - SF Shelden MullinAGE: 20POS: SFHEIGHT: 6’8”WEIGHT: 214CLASS: Sophomore


BIO

Shelden Mullin has no problem with breaking down complex theories and algorithmsduring his time off the basketball court. A natural genius, Shelden only recently discovered his love of basketball sophomore year of high school….and came out of nowhere to be recruited by UCLA. This recent understanding of how the game works has certainly affected his development – scouts are frustrated by Mullin’s inability tofind himself in the right spots on the floor. But coach Ben Howland thinks otherwise:“This kid comes to me, day one, and says, ‘I understand thermonuclear engineering, butthis whole pick and roll thing is confusing the dickens outta me, coach.’ But where he is now….you wouldn’t believe the progress. I think he’s going to keep getting better andbetter…but I mean, I gotta say that. I’m his coach, ya know?” Scouts are all over the map with Mullin’s potential…there seems to be no majority consensus.

UCLA

#9 - SF Shelden MullinAGE: 20POS: SFHEIGHT: 6’8”WEIGHT: 214CLASS: Sophomore

STRENGTHS:Played each game his sophomore season – no injury concerns…in great shape with solid stamina…scores from a variety of places around the court as a spot up shooter…takes good care of the ballfor a small forward by limiting mistakes

WEAKNESSES:A very poor rebounder for his size – doesn’t show enough understanding of the mechanics of workingthe glass…fouls too often and for unnecessary reasons…doesn’t seem to have the mental focus or killer instinct in clutch moments…struggles shooting in traffic

NBA COMPARISON: Keith Bogans


ACCURATE FACTS:OFF AWR DEF AWR MED

66 66 75

UCLA

#10 – C Norman PayneAGE: 21POS: CHEIGHT: 6’7”WEIGHT: 260CLASS: Junior


Norman “Mister” Payne has brought UNLV a toughness and tenacity unseen in recentyears. The 21 year old big man established himself as a nice choice for teams lookingto improve their low post defense by hustling, rebounding, and scrapping for loose ballson a consistent basis. Many scouts point out his lack of height might be an issue, but Payne shows an elevated understanding of his predecessors: “I mean, yeah I’m not seven feet tall, man. I’m only six-seven. But there’s guys like DeJuan Blair and Chuck Hayes getting out there and earning a living doing this…so I plan on doing it myself.” A two-way player, Norman played defensive end for UNLV’s football team all three years in college and excelled at both sports. When asked why he chose not to pursue football instead of basketball, Payne said this: “Hey, I gotta admit something. Bring the camera closer…closer…closer…yeah…look at my face. Look at it. I’m a good lookin’ dude. I’m sexy as hell. I can’t hide perfection under a football helmet. Now back that camera off me, fool.” Hopefully Payne’s vanity doesn’t catch up to him.

BIO

UNLV

#10 – C Norman PayneAGE: 21POS: CHEIGHT: 6’7”WEIGHT: 260CLASS: Junior

STRENGTHS:A great defensive rebounder – uses his bulk and strength to push around other big men…a passionateplayer who wears his heart on his sleeve and out-hustles many…defends the basket well with solid awareness…scored a healthy amount of points off offensive rebounds at UNLV

WEAKNESSES:Slow as molasses…still has a ton of work to do understanding the offensive side of the court…too slowto stay with faster players…will get burned out on the perimeter every single time…needs to improve hisshot blocking and athleticism…not very comfortable operating out of the post…an abysmal free throwshooter

NBA COMPARISON: Chuck Hayes


ACCURATE FACTS:LOW POST D SHOT INS DREB

84 77 91

UNLV

#11 – SG Michael DavenportAGE: 21POS: SGHEIGHT: 6’4”WEIGHT: 194CLASS: Junior


BIO

Gunslinger Michael Davenport is no stranger to pressure. He hit three of four shotshis Junior year with the game on the line at Texas Tech and created a habit of finishingoff opponents at the buzzer. His shooting ability led the Red Raiders to the Final Fourthis past year before falling to Duke in overtime. The 21 year old sharpshooter facedperhaps an unfair level of criticism after the loss, enduring the blame of critics acrossthe nation for missing a game-tying layup with a few seconds remaining. After the game, Davenport had this to say: “You could spend your whole life beating yourself upafter a mistake like that…but that’s not me. I’m picking myself up, declaring for the draft, and I’m going to rebuild myself in the pro’s. Don’t care about the past anymore.” While Davenport is unconcerned with past history, it should be noted that he was an archaeology major at Texas Tech. Ironic, isn’t it?

Texas Tech

#11 – SG Michael DavenportAGE: 21POS: SGHEIGHT: 6’4”WEIGHT: 194CLASS: Junior

STRENGTHS:A consistent shooter who gets into a groove and shoots a high percentage from deep, absolutelydeadly from 3 point range…has shown the ability to create shots for himself…knocks down thecorner 3 with great accuracy…capable of handling the ball when necessary

WEAKNESSES:Makes too many mistakes on defense and is out of position too often…doesn’t show enough savvydefending players on the perimeter…turns the ball over too much…struggles from close range…settlesfor too many jumpers and doesn’t attack the basket enough…won’t work hard enough to get the ballinto his hands on offense

NBA COMPARISON: Kevin Martin


ACCURATE FACTS:SHOT 3PT OFF AWR CONS

85 69 45

Texas Tech

#12 – PG Austin CarlsonAGE: 20POS: PGHEIGHT: 6’3”WEIGHT: 216CLASS: Sophomore


Oklahoma sophomore Austin Carlson brings a rowdy attitude to each appearance onthe court, citing his biggest influence in former Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis.Similar to Lewis’ mastery over the defensive end of the field, Carlson possesses a highlevel of understanding when it comes to shutting down opposing point guards. Herecently told a few members of the media, “I look up to Ray Lewis because he brings itevery game. That’s exactly what I want to do when I’m on the court – I want people toremember who I am.” While Austin certainly has the emotional edge, critics bring uphis lack of shooting and passing attributes as a concern moving forward. The point guard only averaged a little less than 14 points per game and dished out only about 5 assists in each contest. Coach Lon Kruger had this to offer in his defense: “Austin maynot have put up the best numbers here at OU, but I’ll be damned! He pushes himselfharder and harder each play. You couldn’t ask for a better player.” We shall see who is right after he’s drafted.

BIO

Oklahoma

#12 – PG Austin CarlsonAGE: 20POS: PGHEIGHT: 6’3”WEIGHT: 216CLASS: Sophomore

STRENGTHS:A solid defender who puts in effort out on the perimeter…able to contain high quality point guardswith strong defensive instincts…hustles throughout the game and doesn’t fatigue easily…has anice quickness and intelligence that allows him to draw charges

WEAKNESSES:Struggles mightily from close range (shot less than 35% from within 6 feet of the basket at OU…struggles finishing with contact or in traffic…turnover prone with a tendency of making too many costly mistakes…not a very accurate passer…

NBA COMPARISON: Eric Bledsoe


ACCURATE FACTS:DEF AWR SHOT INS QUICK

76 63 91

Oklahoma

#13 – PF Marcel ValentineAGE: 24POS: PFHEIGHT: 6’9”WEIGHT: 241CLASS: Intl

INTL STATS:PPG: 18.2RPG: 8.1SPG: 0.5TO: 1.1BPG: 0.5

BIO

Coming from France means adjusting to a different world for Marcel Valentine. Afterbattling LeBron James in the 2012 Olympics, Valentine felt “unwelcomed by Americanplayers.” Following a loss to USA, he had this to say, “I told LeBron I was going to theNBA and he shrugged his shoulders and said, maybe I should stay in France becauseI suck. I took tremendous offense to this reasoning, and I have vowed to make myimpact in the states felt. I shall beat him in the playoffs. That is, unless, the Heat draftme. Then I will have no choice but to become his ally.” Although USA conquered France in the Olympics, perhaps James was a bit too hasty in his description of Valentine’s talents. Possessing an old school post game and throwback mentality to scoring, Marcel brings many unique talents to the table. If he is to indeed conquer King James, he must rely on his playmaking from the low block to carry him to victory.

France

#13 – PF Marcel ValentineAGE: 24POS: PFHEIGHT: 6’9”WEIGHT: 241CLASS: Intl

STRENGTHS:A skilled post player who hits fadeaways and hook shots with poise…seems to be completely injury-free - has not endured a single injury during his time in France…confident operating from the lowblock and teams will have to respect his fundamentals with his back to the basket

WEAKNESSES:Not particularly athletic…doesn’t have the speed, strength, or agility to match up physically withother big men…has a low motor and doesn’t “get after it” on defense…a decent rebounder but won’timpress you with his production off the glass…not comfortable outside of 10 feet from the basket

NBA COMPARISON: Elton Brand


ACCURATE FACTS:POST FADE DEF AWR DURA

77 67 90

France

#14 – SF Taylor GadsonAGE: 20POS: SF/SGHEIGHT: 6’6”WEIGHT: 225CLASS: Sophomore


Taylor Gadson has been on a tear throughout much of his basketball journey to exact revenge on his naysayers. Dating back to his junior year in high school, Taylor heard plenty of criticism coming his way. “I got cut from the first team I tried out for. That hurt a lot – made me dig deep for why I wanted to play basketball. Coach told me basketball wasn’t my sport, that I was too big and that I should play football instead. But I looked up to Michael Jordan and how he went through something similar. And I told myself, ‘if he can do it, I can do it.’ So next year I tried out, made the team, cracked the starting lineup, averaged nearly 30 points a game, and then rode the pine in Connecticut for a year before coach gave me a shot there…the rest is history.” If the third time is the charm for Gadson, it would appear that giving him an opportunity from the beginning would be the suggested route. Capable of using tremendous athleticism to outplay opponents, Gadson surely will have a place on an NBA team. The question is: how long will he remain unseen until he can no longer tolerate it?

BIO

UCONN

#14 – SF Taylor GadsonAGE: 20POS: SF/SGHEIGHT: 6’6”WEIGHT: 225CLASS: Sophomore

STRENGTHS:Athletic and capable of guarding both the 3 and 2 spots…quick hands create plenty of turnovers…finishes strong at the hoop with high accuracy on dunks and layups…has plenty of hops…scoopsup a good amount of buckets within close range

WEAKNESSES:Will need to enhance his jump shot – not accurate enough from the outside…does a poor job oftaking care of the basketball – runs into problems when he over-dribbles…needs to use his headmore when executing on offense…a streaky shooter who struggles getting into rhythm

NBA COMPARISON: Shawn Marion


ACCURATE FACTS:VERT LAYUP QUICK

87 86 83

UCONN

#15 – SF Dean PollardAGE: 22POS: SFHEIGHT: 6’8”WEIGHT: 215CLASS: Senior


BIO

Who could have predicted Indiana Senior Dean Pollard would be going pro? After three under the radar seasons in college, Pollard continued building on his strengths and turned in a memorable performance this past year. A self-proclaimed “Protector” on defense, Pollard earns respect by pushing himself on D each and every possession. Before falling to Florida in the sweet sixteen, Dean held his matchups to less than 12 points per game in the tourney – an impressive feat indeed. A fan of the Dave Matthews Band, Kendrick Lamar, and Justin Bieber, Pollard is a strange guy. When asked why he has such an eclectic taste in music, he replied with, “There is no such thing as a taste in music. I like all types of music, all types of sounds. I would listen to a mix tape of dudes’ sneakers squeaking on the floor if I could. Doesn’t matter.” There’s no telling what the 22 year old will be listening to during his pre-game warmups.

Indiana

#15 – SF Dean PollardAGE: 22POS: SFHEIGHT: 6’8”WEIGHT: 215CLASS: Senior

STRENGTHS:Can knock down the 3 at a nice clip (shot 38% from deep his senior year)…defends well with anexcellent work ethic…a master on the defensive end of the court and showed great leadershipat IU quarterbacking the D…doesn’t seem to wear down easily…nice quickness for a SF

WEAKNESSES:Not the person to draft if you want a scorer – struggles shooting from mostplaces inside the 3 pt line…will be an after-thought on the offensive end for any team that drafts him until he improves his offensive IQ…a mediocre free throw shooter

NBA COMPARISON: Bruce Bowen


ACCURATE FACTS:OFF AWR STAM QUICK

46 92 79

Indiana

Bilas Says:

“A very risky pick – his workethic could make him a

true asset, but it’s hard to tell.”

#16 – PG Magnus KerseyAGE: 19POS: PGHEIGHT: 6’0”WEIGHT: 206CLASS: Freshman


If there is anyone special enough to earn a lasting nickname nationwide during college,it’s Magnus “Little General” Kersey. Taking Holy Cross back to relevance for the first time since 1977, Magnus transformed himself into a symbol of courage in a very David vs Goliath type fashion. Encouraging fans and students to show up for the games in creative ways, Magnus influenced a rebirth of Holy Cross basketball in a major way: people began dressing up with helmets, plastic shields, and swords to cheer for the Crusaders. With the 6 foot point guard’s tremendous play and boisterous crowd, home games in Worcester became a national event. Unable to move the Crusaders past the 2nd round in the NCAA tourney, many hoped Kersey would come back for his sophomore year to build upon the team’s progress. However, Magnus has declared for the draft, already exciting many scouts with his playmaking abilities and high ceiling. While undoubtedly still raw in many areas, the 19 year old freshman sensation should find himself a home with an NBA team without any difficulty.

BIO

Holy Cross

#16 – PG Magnus KerseyAGE: 19POS: PGHEIGHT: 6’0”WEIGHT: 206CLASS: Freshman

STRENGTHS:Great brute strength allows him to muscle his way to the hoop for high quality shots…dominatesfrom close range…ran the team at Holy Cross with unprecedented leadership…an intelligentplayer who gets teammates involved and setup in good spots to score…takes great care of the ball

WEAKNESSES:Not quite fast enough to stay with his assignments – will be a step slower than most NBA point guards…gets burned on too many quick cuts to the basket…for as emotional as he is, he needs to boost up his motor – won’t make nearly enough hustle plays in a game

NBA COMPARISON: Deron Williams


ACCURATE FACTS:PASS SHOT INS EMOTION

84 87 99

Holy Cross

Bilas Says:

“I would draft him, stashhim away for a few years,

and let him develop.”

#17 – C Nando SaramagoAGE: 20POS: CHEIGHT: 7’6”WEIGHT: 237CLASS: International


BIO

You would be hard pressed to find a taller dude coming into the NBA draft in recent history than Nando Saramago. Standing 7 foot 6 inches, Nando towers over most everyone he comes up against. Speaking very little English, Saramago still understands what his role will be with the team that drafts him: “I will be hustle, I will be man who stops man from scoring.” You can’t explain it any simpler than that. Thanks to his ridiculous height, Saramago is an outright blocking machine, erasing shots that come his way faster than industrial strength white-out. By searching for him on youtube, the top clip brings back a play earlier this year that had him swatting a ball so hard it became lodged in the rafters above the court. Because the budget for basketball isn’t quite as high as it is in America, Nando had no choice but to climb up and retrieve the ball to continue the game. He had this to say about the experience, “I do not regret my blocks. I will block the ball even more in the NBA.” The team that ends up drafting him will no doubt see an abundance of swats this season.

Congo

#17 – C Nando SaramagoAGE: 20POS: CHEIGHT: 7’6”WEIGHT: 237CLASS: International

STRENGTHS:A ruthless shot-blocker with a knack for catching everything that comes his way…excellent hands…good instincts on defense allow him to be in the right position most of the time to make plays…a strong defensive rebounder…defends the low-post nicely

WEAKNESSES:Injury concerns are extremely high; with such a tall stature, we might be looking at the next Yao Ming health-wise…uncomfortable scoring on offense, will need tons of polish…lacks the hunger to dominate the boards on offense…gets the ball stolen from him by quicker players too often

NBA COMPARISON: Bismack Biyombo


ACCURATE FACTS:SIG SKILL DEF AWR BLOCK

Eraser 78 93

Congo

Bilas Says:

“An extremely risky pick –his defense is very

intriguing but his healthis a major concern.”

#18 – C Leonard PulleyAGE: 22POS: C/PFHEIGHT: 6’10”WEIGHT: 285CLASS: Senior

COLLEGE STATS:PPG: 14.2RPG: 7.1SPG: 1.6TO: 1.3BPG: 1.1

Leonard “Tuggy” Pulley has a few interesting pre-game rituals. Before each game, Pulley eats two plates of nachos, shaves his beard, dances to Tone Loc’s Funky Cold Medina, and pledges allegiance to the United States of America. An unusually quiet person, when asked about his unique ritual, Pulley just said, “I don’t know, man. I just do stuff before the game.” Equally as interesting as his pre-game ritual, Leonard’s style of play turns heads with his ability to rack up steals at a quick rate. If Pulley can improve his strength and ability to finish at the basket, he will make for a nice addition to the team that ends up selecting him.

BIO

Arkansas

#18 – C Leonard PulleyAGE: 22POS: C/PFHEIGHT: 6’10”WEIGHT: 285CLASS: Senior

STRENGTHS:Able to spread the floor by knocking down mid range jumpers…a solid free throw shooter for hisposition…a pesky thief on defense, racks up plenty of steals…plays with his brain first on defenseby anticipating plays before they happen…excellent quickness for a big

WEAKNESSES:Durability is a concern, suffered injuries throughout his career at Arkansas…not an adequate post-up player – just too uncomfortable with his back to the basket…needs to get stronger finishingat the rim…must develop strength to truly excel at the next level

NBA COMPARISON: Joakim Noah


ACCURATE FACTS:OFF AWR SHOT MED STRENGTH

67 77 70

Arkansas

#19 – PG Wade VaughnAGE: 21POS: PG/SGHEIGHT: 6’6”WEIGHT: 210CLASS: Junior


BIO

Duke Point Guard Wade Vaughn has taken offense to following after former star Kenny Caballero’s footsteps. A reporter for Duke basketball ran into a landmine by bringing this up. Here’s what Wade responded with, “I don’t give two sh*ts about what anyone did here before I got here. I’m sorry. I’m not into the whole legacy thing. This is about our season right now. If Larry flippin Bird played here thirty years ago, I wouldn’t care. I’m all about winning. And yeah, you can quote me on that. What a clown question, bro.” Perhaps Vaughn was expressing some jealousy about Caballero’s skills; he won’t be drafted as high in the first round and in a worst case scenario situation, might even slip to the second round. But Vaughn remains hopeful, showcasing a rare talent for operating out of the post. When being tasked with comparing him to current or former NBA players, scouts have a difficult time with the assignment. He truly plays differently than most every other point guard in the history of the league. While Gary Payton, Mark Jackson, and Magic Johnson all utilized the post game, Vaughn doesn’t appear fit to be compared to them; he’s just not as diverse in his skillset.

Duke

#19 – PG Wade VaughnAGE: 21POS: PG/SGHEIGHT: 6’6”WEIGHT: 210CLASS: Junior

STRENGTHS:Plays extremely well with his back to the basket – has a beautiful go-to move with a postfadeaway…well coached and polished on offense…a smooth finisher at the basket…a consistentscorer who doesn’t fall out of rhythm easily

WEAKNESSES:Needs to improve 3 point shooting if he wants to become a true two position player…not the mostaccurate passer in his class – doesn’t always hit players in the best spots…defensive consistencyis a bit lacking…plays too passively…terrible rebounder

NBA COMPARISON: Tyreke Evans


ACCURATE FACTS:PASS LOW POST OFF OFF AWR

70 80 80

Duke

#20 – SF Jamal De La CruzAGE: 19POS: SFHEIGHT: 6’8”WEIGHT: 215CLASS: Freshman


Speedster Jamal De La Cruz is hoping to bank on his athleticism to move him up the draft board before a team selects him. Spending just one year at USC, De La Cruz received a lot of preseason hype based on his upside. However, as the year progressed, Jamal slipped out of the public consciousness in favor of more impactful players. Similar to Austin Rivers decision to go pro, many critics questioned Jamal’s decision and suggested that he stay an extra year or two to polish his skills. The team that ends up drafting him will surely do so based on his potential and will need to be patient with developing him. Here’s what Jamal had to say about his choice to leave USC: “I thought about this long and hard. I thought, man would I rather get more of an education and help my team here, or would I rather feed my family and give them a nicer place to live? That was a heck of a tough choice. I decided to go pro because I felt it was the best option. Now I just need someone to take a chance on me.” No one knows for sure what to make of Jamal’s future – let’s just hope he made the right decision.

BIO

USC

#20 – SF Jamal De La CruzAGE: 19POS: SFHEIGHT: 6’8”WEIGHT: 215CLASS: Freshman

STRENGTHS:Nice speed and agility for his height…a great athlete who gets out into transition quickly…useshis height to his advantage with interior scoring…a good offensive rebounder for his position

WEAKNESSES:A pitiful three point shooter…not disciplined enough to put in much effort on defense…gets beatoff the dribble far too often…needs to improve his strength to make a lasting impact at the nextlevel

NBA COMPARISON: Alonzo Gee


ACCURATE FACTS:SHOT CLOSE SPEED QUICK

78 87 85

USC

CLASS PRO TIP:

Don’t draft players from this class based on team needs – think long term

potential…and listen to Bilas’ Tips!

Class brought to you by…

fictional draft class #2

Documents

sf ppg

college stats

year randy winter

pg ppg

florida height

prospects1 pf randy

so2 pg jacobi cash

pf ppg