Post by kobe24 on Oct 7, 2009 16:58:42 GMT -5
Top 10 Prospects in the 2001 UOSLR Draft
Every year a new class of young men enter the UOSLR Draft in hopes of fulfilling their life-long dream of becoming an UOSLR Star. These guys have every GM drooling over them. This draft is headlined by two International Superstars, Tony Parker and Pau Gasol. But there is also a few great talents coming straight out of highschool. I will break down the top 10 players in this year's draft. *Note this is NOT a mock draft*.
#1 Tony Parker - France
PG, 6’2’’ 177
19 years old
Analysis:
This young frenchmen will most likely be the #1 pick in the 2001 UOSLR draft and for good reason. He plays the most important position in the league, he is only 19 years old, and he all ready looks like a stud. Parker's quickness and speed is unmatched and his ability to get to the cup is amazing. You rarely see PG's of this breed, I guess they grow them different in France. Parker won the 2000 FIBA Europe Under-18 Championship MVP, catching the eye of a lot of UOSLR scouts. Instead of attending an American College, Parker decided to stay in France to play ball. This could hurt him a bit because you never really know for sure what you are going to get from International guys. He has pretty good height, at 6'2'', for his age, he should grow another ince, maybe two which would be great. Still though, some teams and scouts will be turned off by his weight, he has a very skinny frame. Parker isn’t miles ahead of everyone else in this class, but combining; age, talent and potential Parker is who I see going #1.
Teams arent sure if he can fit in when he gets to America. Playing college in the US probably would have been a much better choice for Parker. Parker could stay overseas since his contract isnt up in France, which will turn a few teams away for sure. All signs point to him coming to the US though, whichever team drafts him.
Pro Outlook
Parker has the skill and the smarts to play the point in the UOSLR. But he will need to put on some weight unless he wants to get knocked around his whole career. He should be able to start right away and sort of learn as he goes. As stated above, his driving ability and quickness will immediately translate to the league. He doesnt have much of an outside shot, definitely wont be a sharp shooter from behind the 3 point line. He is a good ball handler, but doesnt really have the vision that most elite PGs have. His defense isn’t top notch but it isn’t awful either. If he just commits to playing hard defensively he will be a good defender. He isnt going to get you more then 2 or 3 rpg mostly because he is looking to get out on the break and push the tempo. If I were to compare his game to someone’s it would be Allen Iverson with a little less range.
Early Projection:
I like this kid a lot, I think he will end up being top 3 for sure, I would take him at #1. He will bring a fresh look to whichever team drafts him thats for sure. Tony is definitely a franchise type of PG. Whatever teams drafts him will be getting one very talented PG/singer.
#2 Pau Gasol - Spain
PF, 7’0’’ 227
21 years old
Analysis:
The first thing that jumps out at you about Pau, besides his size of course, is his amazing low post moves. He is very quick for his size, which fools alot of defenders. He has a very polished hook shot that he releases at its heighest possible point, making it difficult to block. Equally as good with both hands. He knows how to draw fouls and knock them down when he gets to the line. He may be a 7 footer but when you watch him play he could pass as a guard. Pau is very unselfish which at times hurts him. Pau just doesnt have the mentality to be a first option on a great team, he will probably be one of the best second options in the league during his prime though.
European players have a reputation of being soft. And Pau doesnt really differ from that. He can be soft at times, but his heigth and length surrently make up for it. Just off of those two things he will get you 10 boards and 2 blocks a game. He is a much better offensive rebounder than defensive rebounder at this point, which is very impressive.
Pro Outlook
Pau will probably win rookie of the year as he is ready to come in and contribute right away more than any other player in this draft. He is a seven footer but has the skill set of a guard. He can score in the post, step back and hit a 15 footer, find the open man, grab you 10+ rebounds and block 2 or 3 shots every night. Not many guys in the league can even say that. I think Pau will have a monster career in this league and it will start in his very first game. With no real whole in his game, Pau is more pro ready than Parker, but Parker gets the nod at #1 because of his age and potential.
Early Projection:
Gasol is the best all around player in this draft IMO. His age might drop him down to the #2 or #3 pick, but he could easily go #1 depending on team needs. Probably the guy who is more ready now than anyone else in this draft. A cant miss prospect IMO.
#3 Jason Richardson - Michigan State
SG, 6’6’’ 220
20 Years old
Analysis:
This guy wears #23 for a reason. He has been drawing MJ comparisons since high school. He has explosive leaping ability, will be one of the best dunkers in the league. He has great range as well, he shot the 3 very consistently all throughout his college career. His leaping ability makes him a very good rebounder from the 2 spot. He does go through stetches wear he loses his focus, especially on the defensive end. Which is really the only thing why I have him as the third best player in the draft. He has a lot of raw ability and talent, and with the right coaching he can become one of the best SGs in the league. Richardson is fresh off winning a NCAA title at Michigan State, so he is a guy who knows how to win the big one.
The knock on Richardson though has always been his defense. He isnt a naturally tough guy and would rather spend more of his energy on offense than defense. If he can get that turned around then he will be a very, very good player.
Pro Outlook:
Richardson has the size and athletic ability to play at the next level he just needs to keep his head on straight. I think most people compare him to a guy like Jalen Rose. He played SF in college and high school, but he will definitely have to play SG once he reaches the league. Landing on the right team has a lot to do with how successful Jason will be. Again, the best part of this guys game is his leaping ability, he will be known as an elite high flyer right away. Should win some dunk contests in his career if he participates.
Early Projection:
Richardson's ceiling isnt as high as some of the other guys in this draft but I still would take him in the top 3. If a GM decides to go with age before talent than Richardson could fall to as low as 5 or 6, but I dont really see that happening, this guy is just to talented to pass up on. Some are even considering him at #1 hoping he can become the next great SG in the league.
#4 Tyson Chandler - Dominguez High School
PF, 7’1’’ 220
18 Years old
Analysis:
The top 4 was really tough, it was hard putting Chandler this low. This kid is only 18 years old and is the tallest player in the draft and probably the best defender already too. At 7'1'' 220 lbs GMs are going crazy over this guy right now who could end up being close to 7'3'' 250 lbs when he is done growing. Chandler is a super talented shot blocker and posseses all that is needed for a great defensive player; lateral quickness, explosiveness, long arms, and excellent timing. He isnt the best shooter but he can shoot out to 15 feet comfortably. He has hit the 3 pt shot in high school with average success, but I dont see him shooting many once he gets into the league. He is an amazing athlete, second to maybe only Jason Richardson or Gerald Wallace in this draft. He will be one of the fastest guys on the floor even though he is over 7 feet tall. Passed very well when needed during high school and also hit his FTs at a decent rate.
He is very skinny at this point, but will put on more muscle in the future Im sure. Untill then, bigger players will bully him around. His post game isnt impeccable, could use a little work. Even though he has a great vertical, he isnt the best rebounder. Doesnt always hustle when he should due to lack of focus. Ball handling and his immaturity level will need some work as well, but all these things should sure them selves up as he gets some good coaching.
Pro Outlook
The best thing about Chandler is he is an athletic 7 footer who has loads of potential just waiting to be unleashed. Which is GMs and scouts love more than anything when selecting players. Chandler will be known as one of the best defenders in the league during his prime. Should easily get you 3 blocks per game and 10-12 rebounds per game. He isnt going to be asked to be a #1 option on any team, I dont really see him scoring more than 15 points a game at best.
Early Prediction:
Definitely top 10, dont see him being taken at #1 or #2 though because he cant score that well. But he will definitely get some consideration. I do think he will ultimately go at #4 because Parker, Gasol and Richardson are too hard to pass up, but some GMs would take a chance on him before that for sure, and they might.
#5 Eddy Curry - Thornwood High School
C, 6’11’’ 286
18 Years old
Analysis:
Wether or not Curry goes before Chandler depends on if the GM wants defense or scoring. They are exact opposites in the way they look and the way they play. Curry is huge at 290 lbs he fills the lane very well, but that should go without saying. He is deceivingly quick and will catch you off guard if you arent expecting it. He has a good post game for someone his age and easily draws fouls because of his size. And usually makes most of his FTs. He is very, very strong and he is a quick jumper allowing him to be a good rebounder. Good hands catches most passes thrown into post after getting it he can power the ball to the basket or use his variety of post moves. He does have good leaping ability, while it may not look like it. Limitless potential the only thing that could stop Curry from achieving star status is himself.
His weight is the most definite problem he has. This shows scouts that he isnt driven to lose weight and scares a lot of them away. If he can get down to about 260 or so and keep it there then he will be a much better player. Looks lost when he has to face the basket. As most other guys like himself, Curry showed some disinterest in games, but nothing more than normal.
Pro Outlook:
Curry is obviously big enough to play in the league, and he definitely has the post moves though no other part of his game is really on par with league talent. His rebounding numbers will definitely nose dive since he wont be playing against teens anymore. He should easily be a good 20 point scorer on a good team in the near future. Defense and rebounding are parts of his game are a bit of unknown in terms of if they will translate to the next level.
Early Projection:
Top 10 for sure, could go as high as 2 or 3, but dont really see that happening, since a big man without much defense or rebounding isnt very effective. Depending on if a team needs scoring or defense and rebounding will determine where this guy goes. If a team needs a scorer and if guys like Parker, Gasol, Johnson and Richardson are off the board, Curry is the obvious choice.
6-10 coming later in another article.
Every year a new class of young men enter the UOSLR Draft in hopes of fulfilling their life-long dream of becoming an UOSLR Star. These guys have every GM drooling over them. This draft is headlined by two International Superstars, Tony Parker and Pau Gasol. But there is also a few great talents coming straight out of highschool. I will break down the top 10 players in this year's draft. *Note this is NOT a mock draft*.
#1 Tony Parker - France
PG, 6’2’’ 177
19 years old
Analysis:
This young frenchmen will most likely be the #1 pick in the 2001 UOSLR draft and for good reason. He plays the most important position in the league, he is only 19 years old, and he all ready looks like a stud. Parker's quickness and speed is unmatched and his ability to get to the cup is amazing. You rarely see PG's of this breed, I guess they grow them different in France. Parker won the 2000 FIBA Europe Under-18 Championship MVP, catching the eye of a lot of UOSLR scouts. Instead of attending an American College, Parker decided to stay in France to play ball. This could hurt him a bit because you never really know for sure what you are going to get from International guys. He has pretty good height, at 6'2'', for his age, he should grow another ince, maybe two which would be great. Still though, some teams and scouts will be turned off by his weight, he has a very skinny frame. Parker isn’t miles ahead of everyone else in this class, but combining; age, talent and potential Parker is who I see going #1.
Teams arent sure if he can fit in when he gets to America. Playing college in the US probably would have been a much better choice for Parker. Parker could stay overseas since his contract isnt up in France, which will turn a few teams away for sure. All signs point to him coming to the US though, whichever team drafts him.
Pro Outlook
Parker has the skill and the smarts to play the point in the UOSLR. But he will need to put on some weight unless he wants to get knocked around his whole career. He should be able to start right away and sort of learn as he goes. As stated above, his driving ability and quickness will immediately translate to the league. He doesnt have much of an outside shot, definitely wont be a sharp shooter from behind the 3 point line. He is a good ball handler, but doesnt really have the vision that most elite PGs have. His defense isn’t top notch but it isn’t awful either. If he just commits to playing hard defensively he will be a good defender. He isnt going to get you more then 2 or 3 rpg mostly because he is looking to get out on the break and push the tempo. If I were to compare his game to someone’s it would be Allen Iverson with a little less range.
Early Projection:
I like this kid a lot, I think he will end up being top 3 for sure, I would take him at #1. He will bring a fresh look to whichever team drafts him thats for sure. Tony is definitely a franchise type of PG. Whatever teams drafts him will be getting one very talented PG/singer.
#2 Pau Gasol - Spain
PF, 7’0’’ 227
21 years old
Analysis:
The first thing that jumps out at you about Pau, besides his size of course, is his amazing low post moves. He is very quick for his size, which fools alot of defenders. He has a very polished hook shot that he releases at its heighest possible point, making it difficult to block. Equally as good with both hands. He knows how to draw fouls and knock them down when he gets to the line. He may be a 7 footer but when you watch him play he could pass as a guard. Pau is very unselfish which at times hurts him. Pau just doesnt have the mentality to be a first option on a great team, he will probably be one of the best second options in the league during his prime though.
European players have a reputation of being soft. And Pau doesnt really differ from that. He can be soft at times, but his heigth and length surrently make up for it. Just off of those two things he will get you 10 boards and 2 blocks a game. He is a much better offensive rebounder than defensive rebounder at this point, which is very impressive.
Pro Outlook
Pau will probably win rookie of the year as he is ready to come in and contribute right away more than any other player in this draft. He is a seven footer but has the skill set of a guard. He can score in the post, step back and hit a 15 footer, find the open man, grab you 10+ rebounds and block 2 or 3 shots every night. Not many guys in the league can even say that. I think Pau will have a monster career in this league and it will start in his very first game. With no real whole in his game, Pau is more pro ready than Parker, but Parker gets the nod at #1 because of his age and potential.
Early Projection:
Gasol is the best all around player in this draft IMO. His age might drop him down to the #2 or #3 pick, but he could easily go #1 depending on team needs. Probably the guy who is more ready now than anyone else in this draft. A cant miss prospect IMO.
#3 Jason Richardson - Michigan State
SG, 6’6’’ 220
20 Years old
Analysis:
This guy wears #23 for a reason. He has been drawing MJ comparisons since high school. He has explosive leaping ability, will be one of the best dunkers in the league. He has great range as well, he shot the 3 very consistently all throughout his college career. His leaping ability makes him a very good rebounder from the 2 spot. He does go through stetches wear he loses his focus, especially on the defensive end. Which is really the only thing why I have him as the third best player in the draft. He has a lot of raw ability and talent, and with the right coaching he can become one of the best SGs in the league. Richardson is fresh off winning a NCAA title at Michigan State, so he is a guy who knows how to win the big one.
The knock on Richardson though has always been his defense. He isnt a naturally tough guy and would rather spend more of his energy on offense than defense. If he can get that turned around then he will be a very, very good player.
Pro Outlook:
Richardson has the size and athletic ability to play at the next level he just needs to keep his head on straight. I think most people compare him to a guy like Jalen Rose. He played SF in college and high school, but he will definitely have to play SG once he reaches the league. Landing on the right team has a lot to do with how successful Jason will be. Again, the best part of this guys game is his leaping ability, he will be known as an elite high flyer right away. Should win some dunk contests in his career if he participates.
Early Projection:
Richardson's ceiling isnt as high as some of the other guys in this draft but I still would take him in the top 3. If a GM decides to go with age before talent than Richardson could fall to as low as 5 or 6, but I dont really see that happening, this guy is just to talented to pass up on. Some are even considering him at #1 hoping he can become the next great SG in the league.
#4 Tyson Chandler - Dominguez High School
PF, 7’1’’ 220
18 Years old
Analysis:
The top 4 was really tough, it was hard putting Chandler this low. This kid is only 18 years old and is the tallest player in the draft and probably the best defender already too. At 7'1'' 220 lbs GMs are going crazy over this guy right now who could end up being close to 7'3'' 250 lbs when he is done growing. Chandler is a super talented shot blocker and posseses all that is needed for a great defensive player; lateral quickness, explosiveness, long arms, and excellent timing. He isnt the best shooter but he can shoot out to 15 feet comfortably. He has hit the 3 pt shot in high school with average success, but I dont see him shooting many once he gets into the league. He is an amazing athlete, second to maybe only Jason Richardson or Gerald Wallace in this draft. He will be one of the fastest guys on the floor even though he is over 7 feet tall. Passed very well when needed during high school and also hit his FTs at a decent rate.
He is very skinny at this point, but will put on more muscle in the future Im sure. Untill then, bigger players will bully him around. His post game isnt impeccable, could use a little work. Even though he has a great vertical, he isnt the best rebounder. Doesnt always hustle when he should due to lack of focus. Ball handling and his immaturity level will need some work as well, but all these things should sure them selves up as he gets some good coaching.
Pro Outlook
The best thing about Chandler is he is an athletic 7 footer who has loads of potential just waiting to be unleashed. Which is GMs and scouts love more than anything when selecting players. Chandler will be known as one of the best defenders in the league during his prime. Should easily get you 3 blocks per game and 10-12 rebounds per game. He isnt going to be asked to be a #1 option on any team, I dont really see him scoring more than 15 points a game at best.
Early Prediction:
Definitely top 10, dont see him being taken at #1 or #2 though because he cant score that well. But he will definitely get some consideration. I do think he will ultimately go at #4 because Parker, Gasol and Richardson are too hard to pass up, but some GMs would take a chance on him before that for sure, and they might.
#5 Eddy Curry - Thornwood High School
C, 6’11’’ 286
18 Years old
Analysis:
Wether or not Curry goes before Chandler depends on if the GM wants defense or scoring. They are exact opposites in the way they look and the way they play. Curry is huge at 290 lbs he fills the lane very well, but that should go without saying. He is deceivingly quick and will catch you off guard if you arent expecting it. He has a good post game for someone his age and easily draws fouls because of his size. And usually makes most of his FTs. He is very, very strong and he is a quick jumper allowing him to be a good rebounder. Good hands catches most passes thrown into post after getting it he can power the ball to the basket or use his variety of post moves. He does have good leaping ability, while it may not look like it. Limitless potential the only thing that could stop Curry from achieving star status is himself.
His weight is the most definite problem he has. This shows scouts that he isnt driven to lose weight and scares a lot of them away. If he can get down to about 260 or so and keep it there then he will be a much better player. Looks lost when he has to face the basket. As most other guys like himself, Curry showed some disinterest in games, but nothing more than normal.
Pro Outlook:
Curry is obviously big enough to play in the league, and he definitely has the post moves though no other part of his game is really on par with league talent. His rebounding numbers will definitely nose dive since he wont be playing against teens anymore. He should easily be a good 20 point scorer on a good team in the near future. Defense and rebounding are parts of his game are a bit of unknown in terms of if they will translate to the next level.
Early Projection:
Top 10 for sure, could go as high as 2 or 3, but dont really see that happening, since a big man without much defense or rebounding isnt very effective. Depending on if a team needs scoring or defense and rebounding will determine where this guy goes. If a team needs a scorer and if guys like Parker, Gasol, Johnson and Richardson are off the board, Curry is the obvious choice.
6-10 coming later in another article.
