NBA Comparison: Blake Stepp

Strengths: Big point guard with deep-range on jumper and high-level understanding of pick-and roll basketball … One of college game’s most impactful performers since 2009.  Led Saint Mary’s to 108-28 overall record and three NCAA Tournament appearances in four years as starting point guard … Quick, compact, consistent release on jumper whether stationary or on the move … Efficient scorer due to proclivity for three-pointers and free throws… Career 38% shooter from beyond the arc on 5.6 attempts per game …  Elite foul shooter – shot 86% from free throw line for career on high volume of attempts … Rare knack for pace and understanding of angles as a ball handler … Elite floor vision, capable of making every pass in the book … Very strong … Thrives in pick-and-roll situations as playmaker for self or teammates, utilizing creativity and patience.

Weaknesses: Major concerns due to lack of lateral mobility, explosion and potential … A graduated senior that turns 23 years-old in September … High dribble allows smaller guards to rim him … Tall, but lacks length in arms to make up for slow feet on either end … Question of "blow-by" ability at next level … Has trouble finishing in traffic over bigger defenders … Competitive defensively, but lacks tools to make a positive impact on that end … Oft easily beaten off dribble at the college level, and struggles navigating through on/off-ball screens … Might be a finished product and failed to progress in senior season …

Notes: Declined to play in 2013 Portsmouth Invitational … Participated in 2012 Olympics as member of Australian national team.

Jack Winter 4/24/13