NBA Comparison: Nick Richards

Strengths: 6’11 left-handed big man … Good length with a 7’4 wingspan … Good athlete. Well-coordinated with good mobility, long strides, and fluidity. Runs the floor very well, nimble, and moves better than other players at his size. Gets off the ground well and finishes above the rim with ease … Has the foundation for a faceup game. Shooting range extends to the 3PT line, displaying proper arc and ball rotation coming out of his hand. A lot of his makes hit nothing but the bottom of the net … Can grab a rebound and start the offense. Can occasionally make impressive plays as a ball-handler and passer. Knows his options and where his teammates are … Good hands and soft touch around the basket … Provides natural tools and talent that can’t be taught …

Weaknesses: Has much room to get stronger but frame should fill out … Good looking shot but 3PT consistency can improve … Puts the ball down in congestion after rebounds at times … Has a way to go defensively, on the ball and as a help defender. Doesn’t like to bend his knees, gets beat on the perimeter a bit often and doesn’t block shots or protect the paint as you would hope for someone with his size and athleticism. Can be more disciplined staying on his feet as he bites often for shot fakes. Foul prone … Can drift to the perimeter too often. Isn’t always heavily involved with the offense and can look to utilize mismatches to get easier baskets more often … Can be more physical and doesn’t like contact. Fails to box out at times and allows too many offensive rebounds for his opponent by simply getting outhustled. Lacks intensity overall and will be hard to reach his potential and live up to his high prospect status without it. Maybe the highest upside prospect in the class, but has a way to go for his production to match his tools and talent …

Outlook: Michigan State freshman … 2023 McDonald’s All-American … MVP of the 2022 Pangos All-American Camp … Played in the 2022 UA Next Elite 24 … 2023 Naismith High School Boys All-American 3^rd Team …

Evan Tomes 10/1/23