NBA Comparison: Luther Head

Strengths: An athletic 2-guard with prolific scoring ability … Makes up for a lack of ideal size (6’4) with a long wingspan and explosiveness … His game has matured showing improved (3p and FT) numbers. Doesn’t force plays like he did earlier in his college career. Assist to turnover ratio has gone into the positive and he’s also showing better discipline on shots … Quick first step. Shows excellent speed and the athleticism and body control to make plays at the rim … Brandon is a smart kid from a strong family background. Showed steady improvement throughout his college career, and despite four years of college under his belt appears to have room to improve … Has really worked on his outside shot, raising his 3 point percentage by over 6%, and knocking down a higher volume of 3 point shots (twice as many) … Shows good defensive ability, when he gives consistent eoffrt on that end. Shows the ability to stay in front of his man and limit his offensive looks … Solid ball handling ability. Can play back up point guard in college, and while it’s unlikely he will do that on the NBA level, he does have the ability to fill in in a pinch … Gets to the line well showing good aggresiveness attacking the rim and drawing contact. Connects at a decent 73% clip … Good rebounder for a guard, leading the team as a senior …

Weaknesses: While he has improved upon his handle, passing and general decision making, he still has a ways to go to convince scouts that he can play disciplined, consistent basketball and that his wild, out of control ways of his first 3 college seasons are a thing of the past … He will never be confused for an NBA PG, and lacks ideal 2-guard size … Needs to develop better consistency with his defensive effort. Not a self starter. Throughout his college career, coaches have needed to push him to get the most out of his abilities. While he has improved, he still leaves some wondering what if he gave full effort on a more consistent basis … Has been a high volume scorer throughout his college career. Shot selection has improved but still a concern … Could improve his pick and roll abilities …

Notes: Impressed scouts by leading the Illini to the 2012 Maui Invitational title … A projected late first/early second round draft pick by scouts …

Aran Smith 12/29/12