Monday, March 29, 2010

Games watched in 2009-10 NCAA season

We watch and take notes on an obsessive amount of basketball. While no substitute for seeing a player LIVE - the advancements made in high definition television, and digital recording allows us to see as many games as one human can tolerate. In this 2009-10 NCAA season - we have watched complete games of the following teams (with number of times seen to date):

* Air Force - 1
* Akron - 1
* Alabama - 1
* Appalachian St. - 1
* Arizona - 2
* Arizona St. - 1
* Arkansas - 1
* Auburn - 1
* Baylor - 5
* Boston College - 2
* Boston University - 1
* Butler - 5
* BYU - 4
* Cal - 7
* Charlotte - 1
* Cincinnati - 4
* Clemson - 1
* Cleveland St. - 1
* Colorado - 1
* Connecticut - 6
* Cornell - 1
* Dayton - 1
* De Paul - 3
* Duke - 10
* Duquesne - 1
* E. Carolina - 1
* Fairfield - 1
* Florida - 4
* Florida St. - 5
* Fordham - 1
* Fresno St. - 1
* Georgetown - 5
* Georgia - 1
* Georgia Tech - 3
* Gonzaga - 6
* Hawaii - 1
* Idaho - 1
* Illinois - 3
* Indiana - 1
* Iowa St. - 1
* IUPUI - 1
* Kansas - 6
* Kansas St. - 5
* Kentucky - 8
* Louisiana Tech - 2
* Louisville - 4
* Marquette - 4
* Marshall - 1
* Maryland - 2
* Memphis - 2
* Miami - 2
* Michigan - 3
* Michigan St. - 4
* Minnesota - 3
* Missouri - 2
* Missouri St. - 1
* Mississippi - 3
* Mississippi St. - 4
* Montana - 1
* Nebraska - 1
* Nevada - 3
* New Mexico - 4
* New Mexico St. - 2
* North Carolina - 7
* North Carolina St. - 1
* North Texas - 1
* Northeastern - 1
* Northern Iowa - 3
* Notre Dame - 2
* Oakland - 1
* Ohio - 2
* Ohio St. - 5
* Oklahoma - 2
* Oklahoma St. - 2
* Old Dominion - 1
* Oregon - 2
* Oregon St - 1
* Penn St. - 1
* Pittsburgh - 2
* Portland - 1
* Portland St. - 1
* Providence - 1
* Purdue - 4
* Quinnipiac - 2
* Rhode Island - 2
* Richmond - 3
* Rider - 1
* Robert Morris - 1
* Rutgers - 1
* Saint Marys - 3
* San Diego St. - 3
* Seattle U. - 1
* Seton Hall - 4
* Siena - 2
* SMU - 1
* South Carolina - 2
* South Florida - 2
* Southern Illinois - 1
* St. Bonaventure - 1
* St. Johns - 3
* St. Josephs - 1
* Stanford - 3
* Syracuse - 4
* TCU - 1
* Temple - 4
* Tennessee - 5
* Texas - 8
* Texas A&M - 2
* Texas Tech - 2
* Troy - 1
* Tulsa - 4
* U Mass - 1
* UCLA - 2
* UNLV - 2
* USC - 3
* USF (San Francisco) - 1
* Utah 1
* Utah St. - 3
* UTEP - 4
* Vanderbilt - 3
* Vermont - 2
* Villanova - 5
* Virginia - 2
* Virginia Tech - 2
* Wake Forest - 5
* Washington - 8
* Washington St. - 1
* Weber St. - 1
* West Virginia - 7
* Western Kentucky - 1
* Wichita St. - 1
* Wisconsin - 3
* Wofford - 1
* Wright St - 1
* Xavier - 3

Friday, March 26, 2010

John Wall is the one. Right?

I admit to letting it enter my mind that John Wall may not be the best player ultimately in the 2010 NBA Draft. ...Then I slap myself. If not Wall, could it be DeMarcus Cousins, Evan Turner, or even a Greg Monroe? ...Turner seems like he could be a superstar or he might be just a star. If it is the latter - then choosing him first would be a bad look. ...Monroe, I’m certain, will flourish outside of the constraints of the Georgetown offense which uses less possessions per game than the average team. But in the final analysis - Wall is just too dynamic to pass on. He is already a superstar.

Players coached by Bob Huggins seem to gain confidence as they gain weight in his strength and conditioning program. Devin Ebanks is the best example of a guy who has dramatically changed his body in the Huggins Boot Camp. It will be interesting to see what happens next year when Huggins' best finesse player De’Sean Butler is no longer around. Right now Huggy still has leftovers from the Jim Beilein era. The mixture of some finesse from the Beilein days with the traditional Huggins-style player has served West Virginia well this season.

Who will have a better NBA career? Jerome Randle, Matt Bouldin, Austin Freeman, Luke Harangody, or Jared Quayle? Will any make the NBA? My money is on Randle to have the best NBA career. Quayle may be hard pressed to make an NBA roster due to a horrid performance on the biggest stage in the NCAA Tourney, and the NBA’s lack of respect for Utah State.

Dominique Jones of South Florida and Virginia’s Sylven Landesberg both declared for the NBA Draft. Jones I like because he passes it as well as he scores it.

Does Kansas State coach Frank Martin remind you of rocker Henry Rollins?

Monday, March 22, 2010

The Sweet 16. Players to watch from an NBA scouting perspective.

1. DeMarcus Cousins - Kentucky 6'11" 260 Frosh. ... He is the the most efficient player in college hoops. He is a big kid with an NBA body. He has a back-to-the-basket post game and he possesses quick hands. He WILL score anywhere close to the hoop. He has excellent footwork and he uses his massive body to put defenders in bad positions. With his combo of size and his 'mean streak' - I truly believe that as a FRESHMAN - DeMarcus Cousins is the biggest, baddest player in college basketball. 


2. John Wall - Kentucky 6'4" 195 Frosh. ... John Wall is a game changer. He is a dynamo! Electrifying. ...Wall plays with a smile on his face - usually because he is owning the game. He makes difficult plays look routine. He is simply too fast with the ball for defenders to react to. ...Right handed but has a left. He wants to run, run, and run some more. He makes quick decisions and whips the ball inside. He gets involved as a help defender. He can shake off defenders with his quickness, ball handling ability and his wide array of moves. ...His weaknesses include a penchant to play too fast for his teammates and occasionally pouting. ...From Raleigh, NC. …Dished eleven assists in the 2009 Hoop Summit game for USA Basketball. Ranked the No. 1 overall prospect of 2009 by Rivals.com.

3. Evan Turner - Ohio St. - 6'6" 175. Jr. ... Turner is one of those kids that just looks like a pro. He plays like one too. This season, the clutch player scored 20 points per game while dishing six assists and grabbing nine boards each time he laced his sneakers. He led Ohio State to the Big Ten championship and was rightfully named a first-team All-American. ...He is versatile with the ability to handle the ball, shoot, and rebound. He has a post game. ...Can score by creating his own. He can be turnover prone and he may not be ready to be a Point Guard in the NBA (being defended by small guards with quick hands have given him trouble). His assist-to-turnover ratio has improved with each season - now at 1.42-to-1. He has some grit and will accept a challenge. He will battle inside for rebounds. …A personal favorite of mine. He can create his own shot in the same manner as Paul Pierce. ...See his huge game winning shot in the 2010 Big Ten Tourney.

4. LaceDarius Dunn - Baylor 6'4" 196 Jr. ... Since the NCAA Tournament features the best teams - not surprisingly - it also features some of my favorite players. …LaceDarius Dunn is a shooting Guard that really came alive in the N.I.T. Tournament at the close of the 2008-09 season. He carried that momentum into this campaign and he never let up. Dunn is a scorer that does have a questionable shot selection but he also makes things happen with his aggressiveness. He just cannot be denied as a scorer. This season he averaged 19 points, five rebounds and two assists per game. His percentages are impressive at .425 from beyond the arc, and .860 at the line. ...He is good at splitting a double team with his dribble. He is an excellent shooter that barely raises up on his toes at the release point. Right handed. ...He has improved his scoring average with each season at Baylor. ...He has great speed. ...He will get a technical foul now and again. ...Dunn reacts quickly and sometimes gets by on his athleticism as opposed to moving without the ball. ... I also think he could be more alert as a defender. ...Overall though - I like Dunn as a big shot taker and maker. ...In high school: Led Excelsior Christian School (Monroe, La.) to 118-9 record and one state championship over final three prep seasons.

5. Devin Ebanks - West Virginia - 6'9" 205. Soph. ... Right now Ebanks sticks out due to his NBA body and ability to rebound the ball. He can run the floor, dribble drive, create his own shot and pull up for the mid-range jumper with defenders in his face. He reads plays and slashes at opportune times. ...He has gotten stronger already - making a noticeable improvement in his thin frame this year under Bob Huggins. ...Some players simply have a nose for the ball - and this kid fits that description. …Versatile. He can guard four positions. ...Long. Right-handed. ...Good hands. ...Finds the gaps in a defense and puts himself in a position to score. ...Can slash. ...Nimble, and athletic. ...Has the ability to finish. Smooth. ...He has a short torso and long legs. Ebanks - if he can improve his deep shooting - will be a SF at the next level.

6. Gordon Hayward - Butler - 6'8" 180. Soph. ...Among the most polished players is Gordon Hayward, the 2009-10 Horizon League Player of the Year. He is a 6'8" kid that has guard-like skills due to a late growth spurt. As a high school freshman the right-hander stood 5'11". By his Senior season as a prep he was 6'8"! He can dribble, pass, and shoot (with a soft touch), and as his body matures (weight gain) he is catching up to the competition in the physical sense. A smooth wing player that makes smart decisions, Hayward also brings experience in the form of a past USA Basketball U-19 stint. ...Used occasionally to bring the ball up the floor. ...He posted sophomore averages of 16 points, nine rebounds, and two assists. His career Butler shooting numbers of 48% FG, and 82 % FT are rock solid. ...Was also an excellent tennis player in high school.

7. Kyle Singler - Duke - 6'8" 220. Jr. ...Singler is a scrappy Small Forward that never ceases to amaze with his smarts, boundless energy, and relentless hustle. He was the 2010 ACC Tournament MVP after averaging 21.7 points and 8.3 rebounds while leading Duke to its ninth ACC Championship in the last 12 seasons. He shoots the three well, and he is a great free throw shooter. He rebounds, he scores. ...Named a finalist for the 2010 Wooden Award. ...Singler seems to be mentally a step ahead of other players. He reads offensive situations and then makes the proper cut at the precise time to help his team. He is unselfish. …Limited in taking players off the dribble but he does possess a great shot fake that he uses to get free. ...He has range out to the three point line which helps spread any defense. …Focused. ...High hoops I.Q. …Singler is Duke's most well rounded player.

8. Wesley Johnson - Syracuse 6'7" 198 Jr. ... Wes Johnson is the man most often given credit for the great year that the Orange have enjoyed. He is the 2009-10 Big East Player of the Year. He scored 16 points, grabbed eight rebounds and had two assists per game this season. Johnson transferred from Iowa State and sat out the entire 2008-09. ...He can create his own shot and is said to be the hardest worker on his team. He can knock down contested shots due to his supreme athleticism. ...Has great body control. ...Plays the game with a smile on his face. ...Provides energy and ability. ...Shot 49% FG, 79% FT, and 39% 3pt. this season.

9. Kevin Jones - West Virginia 6'8" 250 Soph. ...Kevin Jones is everywhere! He is one of those players that has a nose for action. His coach Bob Huggins says he is a great kid that he does not have to worry about. He is never late and he knows all the plays. …He is strong and at this stage of his career he is more of a Power Forward really. He finishes well in transition. He might remind you of a Corey Maggette (but not as athletic at same age). ...At the next level, Jones will likely find himself playing Small Forward. …He does have ability to score from both inside and outside. As a sophomore - his averages are ten points, and six rebounds per game. ...He is an athletic right handed player but his speed is not great. He also needs to become a better ball handler as we've seen him struggle to handle intense ball pressure.

10. Draymond Green - Michigan State 6'6" 235 Soph. ...One of the most intriguing prospects in the NCAA is Draymond Green. Green is an undersized forward at 6'6" but he makes up for any lack of height with his savvy, and leadership. Known as "the Dancing Bear" to his teammates, Green has drawn comparisons to Charles Barkley from Illinois coach Bruce Weber. You do not see many PF's that own a positive assist-to-turnover ratio. However Green - in his career to date as a Spartan, has 136 assists and 83 turnovers. ...He shoots 55% from the field and scores ten points per game. He also will grab eight rebounds each time he hits the floor. ...Led Saginaw High School to Michigan Class A State Championship two straight years as a junior and senior respectively. Here is the article where Weber references Barkley.

11. Jamar Samuels - Kansas St. 6'7" 215 Soph. ...Samuels is another guy that is really playing Power Forward but will most likely need to transition to SF if he makes it to the NBA. ...He has a big NBA body with long arms. ...Averaging 12 points and five rebounds in 24 minutes per game this season. ...Right handed. …He can hit a three point shot but does not attempt many (19-46 41% this season). ...Was redshirt as a freshman. ...Played on the AAU circuit with the DC Assault alongside Michael Beasley. ...You can follow Jamar on Twitter.

12. Raymar Morgan - Michigan St. 6'7" 220. SR. ...Raymar Morgan is a player worth keeping an eye on now that he is healthy. Past ills have kept him from performing at his best but this year Morgan was solid - posting 12 points and six rebounds per game. As a Senior he also has more assists than turnovers for the first time in his career ( a sign that the light bulb may be turning on). ...For his career - he shoots 53% FG - which translates to a guy that takes good shots. ...He can defend Small Forwards and that should be his natural NBA position but he struggles with his perimeter shooting (just 29% from the college three this year). …A good athlete with terrific speed. He rebounds outside his area.

13. Patrick Patterson - Kentucky 6'8" 230 ... Patterson is one of three potential first round draft picks that Kentucky has on their ridiculously talented roster. …Patterson is the least spectacular but surely the most steady of the three. ...He plays a mature game and seldom tries to deviate from what he knows he can accomplish. He has recently become a much better perimeter shooter and now extends his range beyond the college three point line. His most dependable look in the NBA will be hitting the face-up 17 footer which he already does very well. His 73% free throw number backs up his nice touch for a BIG. ...Excellent finisher around the basket that shoots a high percentage (59% FG). …Wingspan is 7'1". ...Right handed. ...Good hands and soft touch. ...Patterson is a guy I trust.

14. Brian Zoubek - Duke 7'1" 280. SR. ... It would be hard to find a better teammate BIG than Brian Zoubek. He sets a wicked screen. He takes charges. He rarely tries to do anything outside of his skill-set. He only plays 18 minutes per game but he scores five points and grabs seven boards during that span. ...He is a legit 7'1" 280, and he CAN impact a college contest with his mere presence. ...Shoots 59%FG for his career at Duke. In 2006 as a high school SR he was on the Jordan All-America team, and was named 2006 New Jersey Player of the Year.

15. Quincy Pondexter - Washington 6'7" 220 SR. ... Pondexter is a player I like. He has superior energy and always seems to give an honest effort. He was named first team All-Pac-10 as well as being named to the Pac-10 All-Tournament Team. ...Pondexter is an alert swingman/scorer that I think will be more of a TWO than a THREE in the NBA. He set a Pac-10 record with five player of the week honors this season. He scored 19.8 ppg (second in Pac 10) this season. .…He is said to be a hard worker - winning the team's "hardest worker" award two years in a row from 2007-08 through 2008-09 (both seasons included Jon Brockman as a teammate). …Pondexter is feisty. …Quick jumper. ...A good but not GREAT athlete. ...Good defender. A 2006 graduate of San Joaquin Memorial High School in Fresno, CA where he played with the Lopez twins. His father, Roscoe, played college basketball for Lute Olson at Long Beach State before being drafted in the third round of the 1974 NBA Draft by the Boston Celtics, the 53rd pick overall ... Roscoe played 10 years of professional basketball overseas.

16. Omar Samhan - St. Mary's 6'11" 265 SR. ... Omar Samhan makes me shake my head. He shouldn't be as effective as he is. He is a shining example of how hard work can make you an effective player. Samhan led the West Coast Conference in scoring, rebounding and blocked shots. …He does not run that well. He looks awkward. But at the end of a game - Samhan has his average of 21 points. ...He does not "show and recover" well - which will most likely prevent him from being an NBA Center. ...By all accounts - Samhan is a GREAT kid. ...Known as a hard worker that lost weight and changed his body by working out in the summer.

Plus 16 more: Jordan Eglseder - Northern Iowa, Jon Scheyer - Duke, De'Sean Butler - West Virginia, Jordan Crawford - Xavier, Rick Jackson - Syracuse, Matt Howard - Butler, Wayne Chism - Tennessee, Kris Joseph - Syracuse, Quincy Acy - Baylor, Jason Love - Xavier, JaJuan Johnson - Purdue, Curtis Kelly - Kansas St., Arinze Onuaku - Syracuse, Jeff Foote - Cornell, J.P. Prince - Tennessee, William Buford - Ohio St.

Wednesday, March 17, 2010

Shooting Guards. 65 Players to Watch in the 2010 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament

This year the crop of shooting guards in the NCAA Tourney is outstanding! There is potential NBA talent that runs deep. ...Let's look at our list of Shooting Guards to watch in the 2009 NCAA Tournament.

1. Evan Turner - Ohio St. - 6'6" 175. Jr. ... Turner is one of those kids that just looks like a pro. He plays like one too. This season, the clutch player scored 20 points per game while dishing six assists and grabbing nine boards each time he laced his sneakers. He led Ohio State to the Big Ten championship and was rightfully named a first-team All-American. ...He is versatile with the ability to handle the ball, shoot, and rebound. He has a post game. ...Can score by creating his own. He can be turnover prone and he may not be ready to be a Point Guard in the NBA ...but who cares? He can play the game! His assist-to-turnover ratio has improved with each season - now at 1.42-to-1. He has some grit and will accept a challenge. He will battle inside for rebounds. …A personal favorite of mine. He can create his own shot in the same manner as Paul Pierce. ...See his huge game winning shot in the 2010 Big Ten Tourney.

2. Marqus Blakely - Vermont 6'5" 210 SR. ... Blakely is the rare kid from a lesser conference that I am certain can play in the NBA. A highlight reel, Blakely was named Defensive Player of the Year in the America East Conference three years in a row. This season in the A.E. - he was second in scoring (17.4 ppg), second in rebounding (9.1 rpg), fourth in assists (3.7 apg) and led the conference in both steals (2.6 spg) and blocks (1.9 bpg). …Blakely is a 6'4" low post player that will likely have to transition to Shooting Guard at the next level. I think he can do it because of his fantastic athleticism. He can certainly guard opposing TWO's but whether or not he can provide scoring from beyond 15' will be his biggest challenge. The three-point shot is not his game. From inside of 15 feet - he is capable of scoring in a variety of ways. He can hurt you in the low post - where he abuses defenders, or he can take you off the dribble. He now uses his left hand well (something he added). ...For a big-time scorer - he is underrated as a passer. He is unselfish and he passes well out of the low post double-teams he sees. He gets his points based on his outstanding athleticism. ...He may be a guy that you don't ever have to run a play for, (If he can accept that role) yet he will find a way to help in the scorebook. ...He can finish on the run. ...Has long arms. ...Does a good job of putting himself in position to score. ...Right handed. ...Rebounds in traffic. ...Good concentration and a good teammate. ...See Marqus dunk!

3. Jeffrey Taylor - Vanderbilt 6'7" 210 Soph. ...Taylor does some things that separate him from the average Shooting Guard prospect. For starters - he takes charges and is an excellent defender. …He is also relatively unselfish - passing ahead as a rule. …He is a good athlete with quick and explosive jumping ability. ...See Jeff Taylor in action. ...What he is not (yet) is a three-point shooter. ...He also can try to do too much at times. This season - he averages 13 points and five rebounds per game. ...Summer 2008: Played for Sweden National Team in the Under-20 European Division B Championships, where he averaged 19.4 points, 9.3 rebounds and 2.8 assists in eight games. ...Taylor's father, Jeff, played at Texas Tech before playing in the NBA for Houston and Detroit.

4. Aubrey Coleman - Houston 6'4" 200 SR. ... Coleman is a stone cold scorer that is better off the dribble than with the jump shot. …He has a good handle on the ball and he can really "shake". He led the nation at 25.6 points per game. This season - he has posted nine 30-point games, including a career-high-tying 38-point effort at Tulane. He ranks seventh in the country with 2.7 steals per game. He also grabs 7.4 rebounds per game. ...Right handed. ....Not just a scorer - he also finds his teammates. ...He finishes at the rim. ..He plays defense too - although he does gamble lots. His fantastic anticipation makes him a leader in steals. In 2009-10 Coleman scored 420 points during the conference regular season, the second-highest total in league history.

5. LaceDarius Dunn - Baylor 6'4" 196 Jr. ... Since the NCAA Tournament features the best teams - not surprisingly - it also features some of my favorite players. …LaceDarius Dunn is a shooting Guard that really came alive in the N.I.T. Tournament at the close of the 2008-09 season. He carried that momentum into this campaign and he never let up. Dunn is a scorer that does have a questionable shot selection but he also makes things happen with his aggressiveness. He just cannot be denied as a scorer. This season he averaged 19 points, five rebounds and two assists per game. His percentages are impressive at .425 from beyond the arc, and .860 at the line. ...He is good at splitting a double team with his dribble. He is an excellent shooter. Right handed. ...He has improved his scoring average with each season at Baylor. ...He has great speed. ...He will get a technical foul now and again. ...Dunn reacts quickly and sometimes gets by on his athleticism as opposed to moving without the ball. ... I also think he could be more alert as a defender. ...Overall though - I like Dunn as a big shot taker and maker. ...In high school: Led Excelsior Christian School (Monroe, La.) to 118-9 record and one state championship over final three prep seasons.

6. Wendell McKines - New Mexico St. 6'6" 224 Jr. ... By body type only is McKines a Shooting Guard. He actually plays PF (well) for New Mexico State. He is a rugged dude with serious athleticism and ability to score around the hoop. McKines has some guard qualities in the fact that he has more assists than turnovers for his three year career. This season he is scoring eleven points and grabbing ten rebounds per game. His overall field goal number is 51%. He shoots a respectable 38% from beyond the arc. …He plays like a grown man. …Quick off his feet and explosive with his finishes at the rim. He also has the ability to put the ball on the floor and score off the drive. ...Right handed. ...Will finish alley-oops. ...From Oakland, CA. ...Body similar to former Milwaukee Bucks great Ricky Pierce. ...McKines needs to improve his concentration at the free throw line where he is only a 55% shooter.

7. Devin Ebanks - West Virginia - 6'9" 205. Soph. ... Right now Ebanks sticks out due to his NBA body and ability to rebound the ball. He can run the floor, dribble drive, or create his own shot and pull up for the mid-range jumper with defenders in his face. He reads plays and slashes at opportune times. ...He has gotten stronger already - making a noticeable improvement in his thin frame this year under Bob Huggins. ...Some players simply have a nose for the ball - and this kid fits that description. …Versatile. He can guard four positions. ...Long. Right-handed. ...Good hands. ...Finds the gaps in a defense and puts himself in a position to score. ...Can slash. ...Nimble, and athletic. ...Has the ability to finish. Smooth. ...He has a short torso and long legs. . Ebanks - if he can improve his deep shooting - will be a SF at the next level. …Was an Indiana recruit that bounced to West Virginia when the Kelvin Sampson thing went down.

8. Xavier Henry - Kansas 6'6" 225 Frosh. ...Henry is a wing-lefty that presents the classic triple threat. He can shoot, pass, and dribble. …As a bonus - he rebounds outside his area, and is composed beyond his years. He scored 14 points, and grabbed four boards per game this season. ...He is a smart player that reads situations and takes what the defense gives him. ...He can hit a three or score on the move. ...He make nice cuts to the hoop and finishes. His percentages: FG 45%, FT 79%, 3pt.43% ...2008-09 McDonald's All-America. ...Henry is the son of former NBA player Carl Henry.

9. James Anderson - Oklahoma St. 6'6" 195 SR. ... Anderson was the Big 12 Player of the Year and I think he is ready right now to help an NBA team on offense. ...He had a fantastic season - showing that he can score in numerous ways - and do it at NBA speed. Perhaps more importantly - he also defends and is willing to do so. He averaged 23 points, six rebounds and two assists per contest this season. ...He is a strong right handed athlete that can make shots. In the summer of 2009 - he was one of 12 players selected to represent the United States at the World University Games. ...He makes difficult, high flying plays. ...Also has an ability to finish in traffic. ...Uses both hands well. ...80% career FT shooter. …Was named a McDonald’s All-American in high school.

10. Wesley Johnson - Syracuse 6'7" 198 Jr. ... Wes Johnson is the man most often given credit for the great year that the Orange have enjoyed. He is the 2009-10 Big East Player of the Year. He scored 16 points, grabbed eight rebounds and had two assists per game this season. Johnson transferred from Iowa State and sat out in 2008-09. ...He can create his own shot and is said to be the hardest worker on his team. He can knock down contested shots due to his supreme athleticism. ...Has great body control. ...Plays the game with a smile on his face. ...Provides energy and ability. ...Shot 49% FG, 79% FT, and 39% 3pt. this season.

11. Raymar Morgan - Michigan St. 6'7" 220. SR. ...Raymar Morgan is a player worth keeping an eye on now that he is healthy. Past ills have kept him from performing at his best but this year as a Senior - Morgan was solid - posting 12 points and six rebounds per game. As a Senior he also has more assists than turnovers for the first time in his career (a sign that the light bulb may be turning on). ...For his career - he shoots 53% FG - which translates to a guy that takes good shots. ...He can defend Small Forwards and that should be his natural NBA position but he struggles with his perimeter shooting (just 29% from the college three this year). …A good athlete with terrific speed. He rebounds outside his area. On the downside - he only shoots 67% from the free throw line.

12. Chandler Parsons - Florida 6'9" 200 Jr. ...Parsons is among the more versatile players in college hoops. He is 6'9" with superb ball-handling skills. He can score, dribble, dish, and rebound. He shoots 37% from beyond the college arc - which is an improvement over his numbers for his first two years. ...He can legitimately play some spot TWO although his natural position is THREE. ...This season he averaged 12 points, six boards, and three assists per game. …Will rebound outside his area. ...Really fluid for a tall kid. ...Hits floaters. ...Right handed. ...Has a way of making the game look easy for him. See Parsons' buzzer beating skills here.

13. Alex Franklin - Siena 6'5" 228 SR. ...I am a fan of Alex Franklin. ...He is the kind of player that goes hard and has the talent to match his intensity. He is a nightmare match up due to his combo of strength and ball-handling ability. He abuses defenders once he gets into the paint. ...He started his career at Siena as not much more than a undersized power player. He has evolved into an a skilled basketball player. He was 2009-2010 Metro Atlantic Player of the Year with averages of 16 points and eight rebounds per game. For his career - he is shooting 57% FG. (not every day a 6'5" guy does that!) …He owns a sick handle and sweet offensive one on one game. …Plays at NBA speed. ...Can guard either SG or SF. ...He is unselfish and routinely passes the ball ahead.

Two more worth watching: Austin Freeman - Georgetown, Jordan Crawford - Xavier.

READ MORE!!! 65 players to watch: Point Guards, Small Forwards, Power Forwards, Centers

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Centers! 65 Players to Watch in the 2010 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament.

There is a real chance for a few select college players at the Center position to impact the NBA in the coming years. The NBA landscape is pretty average beyond the top 25 players at this important position. ...Centers, in our book, should be shot blockers, the last line of defense. To be an efficient Center - you must also score, shoot a high field goal percentage, and rebound well. ...Let's look at our list of Centers to keep an eye on in the 2010 NCAA Tournament.

1. DeMarcus Cousins - Kentucky 6'11" 260 Frosh. He is the easily the most efficient player in college hoops with a gaudy .870 EFR. He gets technical fouls for talking back to referees. He is a big kid with an NBA body. He has a back-to-the-basket post game and he possesses quick hands. He WILL score anywhere close to the hoop. He has excellent footwork and he uses his massive body to put defenders in bad positions. 62% free throw shooter. …Foul prone and throws away two turnovers for every one assist.

2. Greg Monroe - Georgetown 6'11" 250 Soph. ... Greg Monroe is the best passing big man in college basketball. He is easily one of my favorite prospects. He runs and finishes. He scores in the low -post. He slices up defenses with his ability to pass - either facing or with his back to the basket. …He is 6'10" but he moves like he is 6'7". ...Left-handed. He can guard Small Forwards but his offensive game is better suited for the FOUR or FIVE positions. He can dribble reasonably well but his face-up perimeter shooting is not like that of a NBA SF. He shoots 68% from the line which really needs to be better. ...He is well liked by his teammates. ...There is lots to admire about this former McDonald's All-America big man with finesse.

3. Dexter Pittman - Texas - 6'10" 298. SR. ... Although he had a rough 2009-10 season, Pittman is a college hoops success story. He lost 80 lbs. to get into playing shape and now he is scratching the surface of what is possible for his game. He can score with his back to the basket and he eats up space for rebounds. He has good hands and he is nimble and enthusiastic. ...In the 2009 Big 12 Tournament - Pittman averaged more than 20 points and 10 boards a game. ....Still has a ton of work to do as he turns it over three-plus times for every assist. ...Only a 61% FT shooter. ...A bit of a 'happy-go-lucky' kid which hurts his game because he really needs to demand more touches in the paint. ...As a freshman he weighed 366 lbs. …Pittman's Dad Johnny is a 7-footer who played at Oklahoma State from 1989 to 1991.

4. Cole Aldrich - Kansas - 6'11" 250. Jr. ...Cole Aldrich is an efficient Center and defensive force. Most likely he is not going to be a scorer in the NBA. I think he will be an upgraded version of a what Joel Pryzbilla brings; which is shot blocking, rebounding, and just enough offense to keep himself in the rotation. He is a two-time winner of the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year award (2008-09, 2009-10). He is tough for any offensive player to score on in the paint. ...Aldrich had a strong junior season last year when he averaged 14.6 points, joining Oklahoma's Blake Griffin as the only two players in the conference to average a double-double. ...Aldrich is the rare BIG that can shoot well although his shot is awkward looking - well over his head. He hits 73% from the free throw line - and is capable of hitting the face up 17' shot. ...Does not shy from contact. ...He is a smart kid that was named the 2009-10 Academic All American of the Year. ...Former McDonald's All-American.

5. Keith Benson - Oakland 6'11" 225 Jr. ...Benson plays in the Summit League which is far from a major conference but his EFR of .700 is too good to be ignored. Benson is lanky and right handed. …He was the Summit Player of the Year for 2009-10. He led the league in blocks (116), and rebounds (358). …He has quick hands and a good bounce in his jumping ability. He understands his role and plays near the rim. ...Good on the offensive glass. ...Really skilled as a shot blocker, and a solid protector of the rim. ...He moves his feet well and has enough quickness to be an NBA Center. ...He is a career 70% free throw shooter. ...Invited as 1-of-14 collegiate players (5 mid-major players) to Amar'e Stoudemire Skills Academy in summer 2009. Check out a nice Detroit News feature on Benson here.

6. Samardo Samuels - Louisville 6'9" 260 Soph. ... Samuels is an undersized Center with good hands. …He has a nice touch around the hoop, and his half-hook shot is hard to stop. ...Large and wide. He carves out space and finishes with authority. Samuels opened eyes when he scored a career-high 36 points against Notre Dame, the most for a U of L player in eight years -- since Reece Gaines scored 37 against Saint Louis in 2002. …He can get into trouble with the dribble. …Not a high-energy guy. Often stoic. ...In high school: Averaged 24.2 points, 10.7 rebounds and 2.7 blocked shots leading St. Benedict Prep to a 24-1 record and the No. 2 ranking in the USA Today Super 25 high school basketball rankings.

7. A.J. Ogilvy - Vanderbilt 6'11" 250 Jr. ... Ogilvy is the rare BIG that has a soft touch on his shot. For his career at Vandy, the big Australian shoots 55% FG, and 74% FT. ...He is not a speed demon but ala Brad Miller he somehow takes BIGS off the dribble. ...Right handed, and knows how to play. He does not force his game at all. ...Defensively - he will sacrifice his body and take a charge. …Can be a bit too passive. ...Needs to be more aggressive. Ogilvy is a bit of an enigma in the sense that you are not sure which A.J. will show up. When he is "on" - he can remind you of Andrew Bogut type talent. ...When he is not super aggressive - he can under whelm.

8. Solomon Alabi - Florida St. 7'1" 241. Soph. ... ...A shot blocking big man with loads of potential due to his combo of athleticism and soft touch. …Long and athletic - if he fully develops as a player - he could be special. He is shooting 54% FG and 75% FT for his two years at Florida State. …At this stage - he is mostly a shot blocker and defensive presence. This season he averaged only 12 points and six rebounds per contest. He does have a go-to right handed hook shot. ...Quick jumper. …Could be a better rebounder. ...Named to 3rd team All-ACC in 2009-10, while making the league's All-Defensive team. ...Alabi red-shirted as a freshman. ...Played in only 10 games in his first year as a Seminole before a leg injury shortened his season.

9. Brian Zoubek - Duke 7'1" 280. SR. ... It would be hard to find a better teammate BIG than Brian Zoubek. He sets a wicked screen. He takes charges. He rarely tries to do anything outside of his skill-set. He only plays 18 minutes per game but he scores five points and grabs seven boards during that span. ...He is a legit 7'1" 280, and he CAN impact a college contest with his mere presence. ...Shoots 59%FG for his career at Duke. In 2006 as a high school SR he was on the Jordan All-America team, and was named 2006 New Jersey Player of the Year.

10. Ray Turner - Texas A&M 6'8" 220 Frosh ... A big reason why Texas A&M should be taken seriously is freshman Ray Turner. ...Turner is only 6'8" but his long arms, hyper-athletic speed (for his size) and chiseled body make him an NBA prospect. …Turner is a monster on the offensive glass, hitting the boards for crowd pleasing put back dunks. ...He may ultimately be more of a PF. He has only played 169 minutes this season. ...Became eligible in December ...From Houston, TX. ...Recruited by Oklahoma State, Memphis, Missouri, Marquette, Baylor, Nebraska and New Mexico.

11. Omar Samhan - St. Mary's 6'11" 265 SR. ... Omar Samhan makes me shake my head. He shouldn't be as effective as he is. He is a shining example of how hard work can make you an effective player. Samhan led the West Coast Conference in scoring, rebounding and blocked shots. …He does not run that well. He looks awkward. But at the end of a game - Samhan has his average of 21 points. ...He does not "show and recover" well - which will most likely prevent him from being an NBA Center. ...By all accounts - Samhan is a GREAT kid. ...Known as a hard worker that lost weight and changed his body by working out in the summer.

12. Jordan Eglseder - Northern Iowa. 7'1" 290. SR. ... Eglseder is an effective college Center but I doubt he will ever sniff the NBA. ...He simply is too slow despite being able to score near the hoop. ...Huge kid from Bellevue, Iowa averaged ten points, six rebounds, and one block per game in just 20 minutes per contest this season at Northern Iowa. Career numbers are 55% FG, 73% FT. …Good rebounder, and decent shot blocker. Lefty. ...Was suspended for three games after being arrested and charged with operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated.

13. Derrick Caracter - UTEP 6'9" 260 Jr. ... Caracter averaged 14 points and eight rebounds this season at UTEP. ...Wide shoulders and strong base make Caracter a tough cover around the basket. He has had some off-court trouble and he transferred from Louisville to UTEP. He did not play at all in 2008-09. …He can use both hands around the basket. Slightly overweight. ...Passes well out of double-team - which he draws in the low post. ...He sees the floor well as a hi-post passer. ...Career: 56% FG, 63% FT.

Two more worth watching: JaJuan Johnson - Purdue, Arinze Onuaku - Syracuse

See the rest of the 65 players to watch: Point Guards / Shooting Guards / Small Forwards / Power Forwards

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Point Guards to watch in the 2010 NCAA Men's Basketball Tourney

Unquestionably - a good Point Guard will help a team get to the winner's circle. Here is our list of Point Guards to enjoy in the 2010 NCAA Tournament.

1. John Wall - Kentucky 6'4" 195 Frosh. ... John Wall is a game changer. He is a dynamo! Electrifying. ...Wall plays with a smile on his face - usually because he is owning the game. He makes difficult plays look routine. He is simply too fast with the ball for defenders to react to. ...Right handed but has a left. He wants to run, run, and run some more. He makes quick decisions and whips the ball inside. He gets involved as a help defender. He can shake off defenders with his quickness, ball handling ability and his wide array of moves. ...His weaknesses include a penchant to play too fast for his teammates and occasionally pouting. Statistically speaking - his efficiency is lower than Derek Rose's was as a freshman. ...From Raleigh, NC.…Dished eleven assists in the 2009 Hoop Summit game for USA Basketball. Ranked the No. 1 overall prospect of 2009 by Rivals.com.

2. Jimmer Fredette - BYU 6'2" 195 Jr. ... Fredette is a combo-guard that leads the Mountain West in scoring, three-point percentage, and free throw percentage. ...12th in the nation in scoring at 21.7 points per game. His shot selection could be better - and when it improves he has a chance to raise his FG%. ....He is a tremendously accurate shooter (44% from three and .89% FT). He had some crazy games this year including torching Arizona for 49 points. In that game - he hit nine triples. ...Good ball handler. ...He has long arms. ...Fredette has the ability to control his pace. …Not just a three point shooter. …Good with the ball in his hands - and capable of making plays at full speed. ...He will jack some quick shots but overall I like Jimmer Fredette.

3. Grievis Vasquez - Maryland. 6'5" 195. SR. ...Vasquez is a passionate leader that was named ACC Player of the Year in 2009-10. Vasquez is the only player in ACC history with 2,000 points, 700 assists and 600 rebounds. He averaged 19.5 points, 6.2 assists and 4.6 rebounds this season. ...Has a versatile overall game that netted him triple doubles at Maryland. He is not a great athlete so he relies on crafty moves to score or set up teammates. I like him because of his desire. He plays hard. He can knock down a perimeter shot. ...Coach Gary Williams says, "Greivis has a South American and European approach to the game. He brings explosiveness and is a well-rounded guard who is a good ball handler, but also rebounds and defends well." ...Kevin Pritchard of Portland says, ..."Love his height, love his size. He's got great basketball IQ. He knows how to run a pick and roll. Will need to get a little bit better on defense, but he'll be interesting in the NBA. He's a point guard. He's got tremendous size for the position." ...Played in high school with Kevin Durant of Texas at Montrose Christian. ...Here is a good recent story on Vasquez by Mike Wise.

4. Jared Quayle - Utah State. 6'1" 180. SR. ... Quayle is a right handed Point Guard that owns an over two-to-one assist-to-turnover ratio while also helping out on the boards - where he grabs six rebounds per contest. He might remind you of Mark Price with his quick release jumper and ability to find the open spots in an offense. He shoots 90% from the line. ...Quayle averages 13 points, and four assists per game. "He can score, pass, and handle the basketball" says Stew Morrill - Utah State Head Coach. Quayle is hitting 44% from three point range. Quicker than he looks. ...He played JUCO ball in Wyoming and was 5th in the nation in scoring at 24 ppg. ...Gets after it defensively - and gives honest effort. ...Quayle is 24 years old, and married.

5. Sherron Collins - Kansas 5'11" 200 SR. ...Collins is a fantastic leader that is the unquestioned heart and soul of Kansas' great team. He was recently named the Most Outstanding Player of the 2010 Big 12 Tournament. He wills his team to wins and will leave Kansas as the winningest player in school history. To date in Collins' four years - the Jayhawks have won 129 games, four Big 12 championships and a national title. ...He is built like a truck and he competes like he wants to carve your heart out. ...He scores 16 points per game while dishing out four assists in each outing. ...His only real limitation is his inability to finish plays consistently in traffic, and his vulnerability to be posted up by taller guards. ...From Chicago. ...Great shooting range... An exciting player who earned McDonald's and Parade All-American honors... Can beat teams many different ways... Recruited in three sports - basketball, baseball and football.

6. Jackson Emery - BYU 6'3" 185 SR. ... Emery is a good athlete that would be easy to overlook due to his small stature. The truth is that he is one of the most skilled and competitive players in the Mountain West. …He gets after it. He is fifth in the nation in steals per game at 2.7. ...Set BYU record for steals in a season with 89. ...He shoots 43% from beyond the arc and he owns a 2.3 to 1 assist-to-turnover ratio. ...He is also a member of the Mountain West All-Defensive Team for 2009-10. "He does have tremendous lateral quickness," said BYU coach Dave Rose, "And he's very skilled at anticipating and understanding what opponents are doing or what their tendencies are. He's one of those guys who can see what's happening before it happens."

7. Scottie Reynolds - Villanova 6'2" 195 SR. ... I will start by saying that I am not nearly as high on Reynolds as the rest of the world seems to be. I see a guy with borderline athleticism that shoots 39% from the field as well as I see the tough, gritty guard that can carry a team. I like him as a person and a competitor but his game worries me when it comes to an NBA translation. ...He is a right handed point guard that can score. …Has deep range on his jumper. ...Can play at the point or off the ball ... Can also use his quickness to get to the basket. He is a good free throw shooter at 81%. ...Named to First Team All Big East for 2009-10. …A 2006 McDonald's All-American. ...Participated in 2005 USA Basketball Youth Development Festival, where he helped USA White team to a gold medal. ...Reynolds was adopted days after being born to a teenage single mom. For more on that and on Reynolds overall - click here.

8. Sean Mosley - Maryland 6'4" 210 Soph. ... Mosley plays in the very large shadow of Grievis Vasquez but he is a sophomore worth watching. He scored 26 against then-3rd-ranked Villanova (12/6/09). ... Mosley hit 11 of 14 shots from the floor and went 3-for-4 from behind the arc en route to his career-best effort. ...He is a good defender. ...His 76% free throw shooting reflects his nice touch from the perimeter. Mosley improved his career-high in single-game assists from four to 10 vs. New Hampshire.

9. Jon Scheyer - Duke 6'5" 180 SR. ... Among the smartest and most trusted players we see is Jon Scheyer. Scheyer is an accurate shooter and good passer that makes consistently intelligent decisions on the floor. He is averaging 18.6 points and 5.0 assists per game this season as Duke's leader. His overall athleticism is below average relative to the NBA but he uses his ball fake well and his release on his shot is "just quick enough". He can be mistaken as just a jump shooter but he will scrap. ...Unselfish. He uses his off-hand (left) well …As a very good shooter - he prepares himself for a shot before he ever touches the ball. ...Excellent free throw shooter. ...He executes like a pro. Smart. Smart. Smart. ...Like a coach on the floor. He is a finalist for the Oscar Robertson Trophy, Bob Cousy Award and Lowe's Senior Class Award. …Named MVP of the 2009 ACC Tournament.

10. Marcus Denmon - Missouri 6'3" 185 Soph. ... Denmon is an unselfish guard with toughness that averaged eleven points and three rebounds per game this season. …Shoots 74% from the line, and this year upped his three-point shooting accuracy to 43%. He can take you off the dribble or bury the long range shot. ...Improving rapidly. …Would like to become a basketball coach following his playing career. He owns a nice 1.47 to 1 ast.-to-turnover ratio.

11. Chris Wright - Georgetown 6'1" 208 Jr. ... Wright is a small point guard with a thick, sturdy frame that plays at NBA speed. His assist-to-turnover ratio has improved each season to a rock solid 1.85 to 1 as a junior. …He has great body control and excellent balance. His improvement in his junior year is a large part of the Hoya's 2009-10 success. Wright has matured as a Point Guard, improving his shot selection. ...He has deep range. ...Anticipates well defensively. ...Quick. ...Good handle with both right and left hand. ...Right handed. ...A former McDonald's All-American ... Won the three-point shooting contest at the 2007 McDonald's All-American Classic ... Played in the `07 Jordan Brand All-Star Classic in New York ... Named the Gatorade Washington, D.C. Player of the Year as a high school Senior.

12. D.J. Cooper - Ohio 5'11" 165 Frosh. ... Cooper was the MAC Freshman of the Year. …He is a young looking, left-handed kid that can hit a three point shot or score on the move. He owns a better than 2 to 1 assist-to-turnover ratio. ...He has good speed. …In the top-ten in the country in steals per game. ...Broke the school single-season record for steals with 85, leading the conference at 2.7 per game. …Has the ability to go "coast-to-coast". ...77% free throw shooter. ...High school: Named the Chicago Sun-Times' Small School Player of the Year in 2009.

13. Brandon Triche - Syracuse 6'4" 198 Frosh. ... Triche is a quality guard that has started all 31 games for the Orange as a Freshman. ...He is a good ball handler that runs well. …He reads plays and makes good cuts to the hole. …Attacks the gaps. …I like his demeanor on the court. ...Was voted to the BIG EAST Conference All-Rookie Team which is voted on by the head coaches of the BIG EAST Conference. ...2008-09 New York high school Gatorade Player of the Year. Right handed. ...Triche is the cousin of former NBA and Orange guard Jason Hart.

Two more worth watching: Louis Dale - Cornell, Brad Wanamaker - Pittsburgh.

Check out the Shooting Guards, Small Forwards, Power Forwards, and Centers.

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Power Forwards to watch in the 2010 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament

NBA Power Forwards absolutely have to be able to rebound the basketball at a high rate. Lately - there is a trend toward "stretch fours" - or Power Forwards that can shoot three-point shots well. That is fine - as long as the player still gets it done on the boards. In my years of observing basketball I have become a huge believer in the benefits of having a team that rebounds the ball well. Teams that rebound poorly do not win many games. ...Let's look at our list of Power Forwards to watch in the 2010 NCAA Tournament.

1. Derrick Favors - Georgia Tech 6'10" 246 ... One NBA executive we spoke with said of Favors glowingly, "6'10" and can go get it on both ends!" …Agreed. Favors is a monster prospect that has the potential to be an NBA All-Star. …At 6'10" - he is nimble with long arms and wide shoulders connected to a lively athletic body. ...He has good hands, and he hits the glass hard - often rebounding outside his area. ...He is also a quick and explosive shot blocker. ...His guards are just starting to realize that they are a better team when Favors gets more post touches. For now - he scores 12 points per game on 60% FG shooting while grabbing eight boards per contest. ...He MUST become a better free throw shooter. His present number is just 60%.

2. Carleton Scott - Notre Dame 6'7" 215 ... Scott can shoot the ball (53% FG, 77% FT) while still rebounding at a high enough rate to be effective. He came on late in the 2009-10 season when Luke Harangody was injured. His statistical sample size is still relatively small (696 minutes) but we've seen enough to be convinced of his ability. ...He may be a Small Forward eventually. ...Scott was named to the BIG EAST Weekly Honor Roll after averaging 13.0 points and 13.5 rebounds in Notre Dame's two wins (in early March) over Connecticut and Marquette. ...Right handed. ...Check out video of the clutch three point shot he made that is a huge part of why the Irish are in the tourney to begin with.

3. Draymond Green - Michigan State 6'6" 235 ...One of the most intriguing prospects in the NCAA is Draymond Green. Green is an undersized forward at 6'6" but he makes up for any lack of height with his savvy, and leadership. Known as "the Dancing Bear" to his teammates, Green has drawn comparisons to Charles Barkley from Illinois coach Bruce Weber. You do not see many PF's that own a positive assist-to-turnover ratio. However Green - in his career to date as a Spartan has 128 assists and 79 turnovers. ...He shoots 55% from the field and scores ten points per game. He also will grab eight rebounds each time he hits the floor. ...Led Saginaw High School to Michigan Class A State Championship two straight years as a junior and senior respectively. Here is the article where Weber references Barkley.

4. Luke Harangody - Notre Dame 6'8" 240 ... "Gody" is a strong power player that scores and rebounds with tremendously high efficiency. The nation's second leading scorer at 24.1 ppg - he also brings in ten boards per contest. He was a first-team All Big East performer this season - making it three straight years he was honored as such. ...He owns a deceptively quick and accurate shot that rivals the way that Cleveland Cavs star Antawn Jamison scores. ...Harangody is often picked on by scouts because he has short arms. But - he is a great rebounder with excellent hands. He is efficient due to his ability to rebound at a high rate and because he gets to the free throw line with regularity. ...Uses his body well to shield defenders - allowing him to get off his variety of hook shots. ...2007-08 Big East Conference Player of the Year. ...A better athlete than given credit for - although not gifted as a runner or jumper. He plays hard. …Gets to the line and converts at 78%. …Two-time Post Tribune Northwest Indiana HS Player of the Year, earning the honor in both `05 and `06. …Father Dave also was a tight end on the Indiana Hoosier football team.

5. Trevor Booker - Clemson - 6'7" 230. SR. ...Booker is one of only two players in ACC history (the other is Tim Duncan) with at least 1,500 points, 1,000 rebounds, 200 blocks and 200 assists in his career. ...A post player that schools other bigs with his quickness around the basket. He scores 15 points, and grabs eight rebounds per game while dishing two and a half assists. Defensively - Booker is good as well with averages of 1.4 steals and 1.4 blocks per game. ...Named to the ACC's All-Defensive Team (as voted by the coaches). …Left-handed shooter has soft hands. ...A strong finisher with the basketball - he will dunk with regularity. ...Needs to be a better ball handler and decision maker. More turnovers than assists. ...Also a poor FT shooter at 62% (career). ...In High School: Named Gatorade Player of the Year in the state of South Carolina as a senior.

6. Terrence Jennings - Louisville 6'10" 240 ...Jennings is an NBA caliber athlete that provides energy as a rebounder and shot blocker. He is shooting 59% FG for his brief two year career at Louisville. Most impressive are his 93 blocked shots in just 811 minutes! He is a strong finisher even with one hand. …Right handed. …From Sacramento, CA but finished his 2006-07 season at Mt. Zion Christian Academy in Durham, N.C. ...His cousin C.J. Wallace played for the Seattle Seahawks.

7. Patrick Patterson - Kentucky 6'8" 230 ... Patterson is one of three potential first round draft picks that Kentucky has on their ridiculously talented roster. …Patterson is the least spectacular but surely the most steady of the three. ...He plays a mature game and seldom tries to deviate from what he knows he can accomplish. He has recently become a much better perimeter shooter and now extends his range beyond the college three point line. His most dependable look in the NBA will be hitting the face-up 17 footer which he already does very well. His 73% free throw number backs up his nice touch for a BIG. ...Excellent finisher around the basket that shoots a high percentage (59% FG). …Wingspan is 7'1". ...Right handed. ...Good hands but soft touch. ...Patterson is a guy I trust.

8. Al Farouq Aminu - Wake Forest - 6'9" 215 Soph. ...Aminu is a determined rebounder that posted impressive averages of 16 points, and eleven rebounds per game this season. He has great size for the fantastic amount of athleticism he possesses. …Still raw offensively as evidenced by his 48% FG number (I think it should be higher for his athletic ability). He has more turnovers than assists - the result of trying to do Small Forward things. He CAN make plays from 15 feet and in but he is turnover prone - getting himself into trouble in traffic when he starts from the perimeter. He needs to be a better ball-handler. …Has the ability to be special but he needs to be more of a student of the game. ...Can REALLY run and finish. ...Good footwork around the hoop. ...Quick off his feet / NBA athlete. ...A high riser that will finish alley-oops. ...A 2008 McDonald's High School All-American. ...Name Al-Farouq means "the chief has arrived". ...Is the younger brother of former Georgia Tech player Alade Aminu.

9. Jordan Williams - Maryland 6'10" 260 Frosh. ... Williams is a big strong kid that played a big part in Maryland's solid 2009-10 season. He has a body similar to Sean May (at a similar age). ...He runs the floor and finishes. …He hits the offensive glass. ...He has a LONG way to go to be an NBA prospect. He is a poor foul shooter at 53%, and he only has five assisted baskets this season in over 750 minutes of play. …Right handed. May be a Center more than a PF. …Prep Player of the Year in state of Connecticut for 2008-09.

10. Rick Jackson - Syracuse 6'9" 240 ...Rick Jackson is a BIG with good hands. While the guards on his team hog the spotlight - Jackson is in the back doing the dirty work and doing it well. …A lefty, Jackson rebounds well, and recovers quickly defensively. …Controlled tips of the ball at the rim are a specialty for Jackson. …He is shooting 60% FG for his career with the Orange. ...This season, Jackson averages ten points and seven boards per outing. ...What he does not do well is shoot free throws. Jackson is a putrid 51% for his career.

11. Marcus Morris - Kansas - 6'8" 225 Soph. ... Another one of our favorite NCAA players in Marcus Morris. …He is a hard working Philadelphia-raised kid that brings skill and toughness to a team. He is great in transition and can finish plays at the rim. …While not the playmaker that Rodney McCray was - Morris nevertheless reminds me of McCray with his ability to handle the ball or post up. Both are the kind of player that holds a team together with their ability and no nonsense approach. Morris is an excellent rebounder and he shoots 52% FG. ...He can guard Small Forwards but his offensive game is more suited to being a PF. Led the Prep Charter High School Eagles to back-to-back Pennsylvania state titles in 2007 and 2006. In `07 he hit the game winning shot in the state championship game. ...Has a twin teammate; Markieff.

12. Wayne Chism - Tennessee - 6'9" 242. SR. ...Chism is a first team All SEC player in 2009-10. “I was picked on the second team during the preseason, and that really inspired me to work hard and prove I could be a first-team player,” Chism said. ...I like his game. He competes. He takes charges. He is the Tennessee's main man when it comes to rebounding and shot blocking. ...Will knock down a three but he needs to improve his accuracy from deep to be an effective Small Forward. His three-point percentage this season is just 29%. ...He scores 12 points per game and contributes seven rebounds per as well. ...Chism ranks first at UT in games played (135), second in career blocks (147), and sixth in career rebounds (869). ...In 2006-07 he was the SEC Freshman of the Year.

13. Gani Lawal - Georgia Tech 6'9" 229 Jr. ... Lawal is a right handed, active defender. ...Good rebounder. ...Has a nice turn around jump shot where he uses the glass. ...Averaged 14 points and 9 rebounds a game this season. ...Lawal owns a chiseled NBA body but his skills are lacking. He has nearly five turnovers for every assist and his 56% free throw shooting is a liability. …Likes to dunk everything - and that is the best part of his game. His power and athleticism has allowed him to shoot 55% FG for his career. ...He was Georgia's Mr. Basketball as a prep.

Two more worth watching: Matt Howard - Butler, Troy Gillenwater - New Mexico St.

65 players to watch in the 2010 NCAA Men's Basketball Tourney: Point Guards / Shooting Guards / Small Forwards / Centers

In the NBA, the top five rebounding teams (LAL, CHI, OKC, MIN, MIL) have a combined record of 171-168 (.504 winning percentage) while the bottom five rebounding teams (GSW, BOS, TOR, NJ and POR) have a record of 140-192, a winning percentage of .421.

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Small Forwards. ...65 players to watch in the NCAA Tournament

The Small Forward - in our opinion - has to be a threat from the deep perimeter. Many players can play SF defensively - but can they stretch a defense when on the offensive end? Let's look at our list of Small Forwards to watch in the 2010 NCAA Tournament.

1. Laurence Bowers - Missouri - 6'8" 205. Soph. ...Bowers can run and finish and he is extremely efficient. Check out his dunking ability in this tidy feature by a Columbia TV outlet. His .659 EFR stacks up historically well with successful NBA Small Forwards. …He is the rare SF athlete that has more assists than turnovers and he shoots 56% FG. ...He is a highlight reel dunker that excites fans. ...Bowers, as a sophomore, is Missouri's third-leading scorer (10.2 ppg) and second-leading rebounder (5.6 rpg). ...He will need to become more of a Small Forward quality ball-handler. ...He is known to be a tough kid. ...Right handed. ...Bowers will play in the 2010 NCAA Tournament with a hurt wrist that may require surgery in the post-season. For more on his injury - read this from the Columbia Tribune.

2. Damion James - Texas - 6'8" 224. SR. ...James really benefited from returning to Texas after testing the NBA Draft waters. He is going to immediately help an NBA team with his combo of athleticism, and toughness. This year, James averaged 18 points, and ten rebounds on a Texas team that struggled with their guard play. ...James' face-up shooting, and his ability to rebound at the THREE position are also crucial elements in making him unique. He is not a guy that is going to hit a ton of three point shots. He is more effective from 17 feet and in. ...Tougher than most NBA THREE's. ...James has never missed a game. ...He never shies from contact. He has a nice combination of ruggedness and ability to come off screens and knock down mid-range jump shots. Good athlete with an NBA body. ...Broad shoulders. He rebounds - even outside his area! He runs. He finishes - even in traffic. ...Squares himself nicely when he shoots. ...Quick reactions. ...From a very small town (Nacogdoches, TX.). …His weakness is his free throw shooting at 64% for his career at Texas. He hits a solid 35% from long range for his career.

3. Elias Harris - Gonzaga - 6'7" 215 Frosh. ...One of the best freshman in the NCAA is Elias Harris who is averaging 15 points and seven rebounds per game. He has toughness and he ATTACKS the rim with the dribble. He shoots 54% FG and he rebounds. …Harris is from Germany and he played in the European Championships before coming to Gonzaga. …He likes to drive and will pass up an open jumper if there is any hint of a chance to take it to the hole. However, he does keep defenses honest with his three-point shooting. His 46% from beyond the arc is very impressive. …Well conditioned and seems to have energy when others are spent. ...Here is a link to a nice feature on Harris from the Mark Few Show.

4. Darrington Hobson - New Mexico - 6'7" 205 Jr. ...Hobson is, in my estimation, a knucklehead with loads of talent. The 2009-10 Mountain West Conference Player of the Year is versatile and can get to the rim with the dribble or he can shoot the long ball. He plays at NBA speed. …He has poor shot selection and could be more efficient but his swagger is also an asset. He has tremendous self-confidence. He is an active on-ball defender and he rebounds in traffic. His offensive rebounding can be impressive. ...At the end of the day - I say "buyer beware" with this kid. I've seen him chew out teammates and talk back to referees. I've seen him get technical fouls that have hurt his team.

5. Gordon Hayward - Butler - 6'8" 180. Soph. ...Among the most polished players is Gordon Hayward, the 2009-10 Horizon League Player of the Year. He is a 6'8" kid that has guard-like skills due to a late growth spurt. As a high school freshman the right-hander stood 5'11". By his Senior season as a prep he was 6'8"! He can dribble, pass, and shoot (with a soft touch), and as his body matures (weight gain) he is catching up to the competition in the physical sense. A smooth wing player that makes smart decisions, Hayward also brings experience in the form of a past USA Basketball U-19 stint. ...Used occasionally to bring the ball up the floor. ...He posted sophomore averages of 16 points, nine rebounds, and two assists. His career Butler shooting numbers of 48% FG, and 82 % FT are rock solid. ...Was also an excellent tennis player in high school.

6. Lazar Hayward - Marquette. 6'6" 225. Jr. ...Among our favorite players in the NCAA is Lazar Hayward. He is tough yet poised and plays like a seasoned veteran. ...He has a wide and strong body - weighing in at 225+ lbs. but he seems to get anywhere he needs to get. He has a quick second jump and he is unselfish. He will sacrifice his body for the team - often taking charges. ...Offensively - he is nice with his back-to-basket game. He has a quick spin move that befuddles defenders. He can hit a three point shot (34%) or bang inside. Mostly - he plays offense from 15' and in. ...He is averaging 18 points, and eight boards per game. …Not a great ball handler or passer but he can put the ball in the hole. …79% FT, for his career. ...He plays under control. ...The kind of kid that accepts a challenge. ...I think Lazar Hayward is good enough all-around to be an NBA player yet I doubt he will be a star.

7. Tim Abromaitis - Notre Dame - 6'8" 235 Jr. ... One of the game's deadliest shooters is Tim Abromaitis. This season he hit 81 three point shots at 44%. He may not be able to guard Small Forwards in the NBA. Foot speed is a concern. That said, Abromaitis is a kid that understands basketball (his father played at UConn and brother Jason played at Yale). …Abromaitis moves well without the ball and he is an excellent shooter with super deep range. This season he averaged 18.2 points and 5.7 rebounds in Big East Conference games. …51% FG shooter, and 89% FT.

8. Kevin Jones - West Virginia 6'8" 250 Soph. ...Kevin Jones is everywhere! He is one of those players that has a nose for action. His coach Bob Huggins says he is a great kid that he does not have to worry about. He is never late and he knows all the plays. …He is strong and at this stage of his career he is more of a Power Forward really. He finishes well in transition. He might remind you of a Corey Maggette (but not as athletic at same age). ...At the next level, Jones will likely find himself playing Small Forward. …He does have ability to score from both inside and outside. As a sophomore - his averages are ten points, and six rebounds per game. ...He is an athletic right handed player but his speed is not great. He also needs to become a better ball handler as we've seen him struggle to handle intense ball pressure.

9. Kyle Singler - Duke - 6'8" 220. Jr. ...Singler is a scrappy Small Forward that never ceases to amaze with his smarts, boundless energy, and relentless hustle. He was the 2010 ACC Tournament MVP after averaging 21.7 points and 8.3 rebounds while leading Duke to its ninth ACC Championship in the last 12 seasons. He shoots the three well, and he is a great free throw shooter. He rebounds, he scores. ...Named a finalist for the 2010 Wooden Award. ...Singler seems to be mentally a step ahead of other players. He reads offensive situations and then makes the proper cut at the precise time to help his team. He is unselfish. …Limited in taking players off the dribble but he does possess a great shot fake that he uses to get free. ...He has range out to the three point line which helps spread any defense. …Focused. ...High hoops I.Q. …Singler is Duke's most well rounded player.

10. Quincy Pondexter - Washington 6'7" 220 SR. ... Pondexter is a player I like. He has superior energy and always seems to give an honest effort. He was named first team All-Pac-10 this season. ...Pondexter is an alert swingman/scorer that I think will be more of a TWO than a THREE in the NBA. He set a Pac-10 record with five 'player of the week' honors this season. He scored 19.8 ppg (second in Pac 10). .…He is said to be a hard worker - winning the team's "hardest worker" award two years in a row from 2007-08 through 2008-09 (both seasons included Jon Brockman as a teammate). …Pondexter is feisty. …Quick jumper. ...A good but not GREAT athlete. ...Good defender. A 2006 graduate of San Joaquin Memorial High School in Fresno, CA where he played with the Lopez twins. His father, Roscoe, played college basketball for Lute Olson at Long Beach State before being drafted in the third round of the 1974 NBA Draft by the Boston Celtics, the 53rd pick overall ... Roscoe played 10 years of professional basketball overseas.

11. Jimmy Butler - Marquette 6'6" 215 Jr. ... His coach (Buzz Williams) calls him the hardest working kid he's ever coached. …Jimmy Butler is a late bloomer that has improved by leaps and bounds since starting his collegiate career at a Junior College. …He rarely takes a bad shot - which is reflected in his career 53% FG shooting. ...He is smart - with a nearly two-to-one assist-to-turnover ratio. ...He is a good athlete with hang-time in his jumping ability. ...This season Butler averages 15 points and six rebounds per game. His three-point shooting ability is a key part of his evolving game. He doesn't shoot a high volume of threes but he makes a great percentage of the long ball shots he throws up. He is 16-32 beyond the arc for an even 50% this season.

12. Joseph Fulce - Marquette 6'7" 205 Jr. ...An under the radar legitimate player is Marquette bench guy Joseph Fulce. He barely plays but when he does - he contributes 3.8 points and 3.2 rebounds per game in just 11.6 minutes. …A tremendous rebounder that can also step out and make a three point shot, Fulce is a guy to keep an eye on. He is right handed. He dunks anything he has a chance to dunk. ...He is foul prone. ...Former junior college player that ranked #2 in the nation in rebounding in 2007-08. ...As a senior at Plano (TX.) High School (2005-06), he helped guide the team to the state title. Joseph's cousin is Jimmy King, 1991 Mr. Basketball in Texas at Plano East and a member of Michigan's Fab 5.

13. Jamar Samuels - Kansas St. 6'7" 215 Soph. ...Samuels is another guy that is really playing Power Forward but will most likely need to transition to SF if he makes it to the NBA. ...He has a big NBA body with long arms. ...Averaging 12 points and five rebounds in 24 minutes per game this season. ...Right handed. …He can hit a three point shot but does not attempt many (19-46 41% this season). ...Was redshirt as a freshman. ...Played on the AAU circuit with the DC Assault alongside Michael Beasley. ...You can follow Jamar on Twitter.

Two more worth watching : De'Sean Butler - West Virginia, Damion Johnson - Minnesota.

65 Players to watch: Point Guards / Shooting Guards / Power Forwards / Centers

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