NBA Draft 2012: Mid-Major Stars Ready for Next Level
In college basketball and the NBA draft, the mid-major teams have become just as important as the powerhouse schools. Teams like Kentucky and North Carolina are always going to have players representing them in the draft, but the smaller schools are finding these diamonds in the rough.
We see these smaller schools in the NCAA tournament every year, and they win games because there is so much talent around the country that slips by the big schools. It is a testament to the work the players do and the parity in college basketball that these mid-major stars get the recognition they so richly deserve.
As the 2012 NBA draft approaches, here are the best mid-major stars of the bunch, as well as a breakdown of why they are so well regarded.
Damian Lillard, PG, Weber State
Despite not getting much attention on the national stage, Lillard is the best pure point guard available in this class. His ability to score from the inside or outside makes him a lethal weapon who can contribute right away.
As a point guard, Lillard will have to work distributing the ball a little more than he did in college. Since he is going to be a high lottery pick, he will have the luxury of being the star and doing what he wants right away.
Lillard has long limbs and is able to use his speed and length to drive past defenders. He should be in the mix for the Rookie of the Year award next season.
Andrew Nicholson, PF, St. Bonaventure
In leading the Bonnies to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2000, Nicholson established himself as one of the best power forwards in this draft class.
Despite his size, Nicholson plays more like a guard than a traditional power forward. He has range and athleticism to hit outside shots and enough muscle to bang down low with NBA power fowards.
Nicholson does need to get a little more aggressive on both sides of the ball to reach his full potential, but right now, he looks like an above-average starter at least. He is going to be a great find for a team in the back half of the first round.
Scott Machado, PG, Iona
A sleeper in this draft, Machado has come on strong with a good season at Iona and terrific workouts during the pre-draft Combine.
Machado is a pass-first point guard who is becoming a much better scorer as his body and approach improves. If you want to nitpick, you can point out that Machado was never a strong NBA talent prior to this season.
Given Machado's speed and ability to drive the lane, he should be in the conversation for a late first-round pick. Depending on the team and need, he could slide into the first 30 picks. More likely, however, he will be a second-round selection.
