Full Scouting Reports for Top 2016 NBA Draft Prospects at Champions Classic
The 2015 State Farm Champions Classic features four of the premier programs in the country and boatloads of quality NBA prospects.
I would expect scouts from all 30 teams to be in attendance.
First, the defending national champion Duke Blue Devils will take on the Kentucky Wildcats and their crew of high-profile freshmen. It's a game that could potentially showcase two of the first three picks in June's draft.
The follow-up game—Kansas Jayhawks versus Michigan State Spartans—lacks star power, but not breakout candidates. In this matchup, there are a few intriguing prospects who look poised to take the next step onto the radar.
We ranked the top 10 prospects from the event based on pro potential, upside, previous production and future expectations.
10. Denzel Valentine (Michigan State, SG)
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Denzel Valentine has gradually expanded his game with every year he's been in school, and last season, he helped lead Michigan State to a Final Four. This year, he'll look to improve his individual image as a 2016 NBA prospect.
Expected assignments versus Kansas: Wayne Selden Jr., Brannen Greene, Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk
Backcourt Versatility
At 6'5", 220 pounds, Valentine looks more like a 2-guard, but his 5.2 assists per 40 minutes as a junior don't lie. He's a comfortable ball-handler, passer and facilitator. For what it's worth, he dished out nine assists in the Spartans' 2015-16 opener against Florida Atlantic.
But Valentine is also a highly credible three-point shooter, having made a whopping 102 triples last year at a scorching 41.6 percent clip. Valentine knocks down jumpers off movement, dribbles or spot-ups, which allows him to generate offense while playing off the ball.
Athletic Limitations
He has strong physical tools, but Valentine is a below-average athlete at his position. Poor lateral quickness does not bode well for his NBA outlook, given the speed and blow-by burst of pro guards. Valentine also lacks the explosiveness that translates to easy scoring opportunities. He's likely to struggle finishing inside the arc at the next level.
Bottom Line
He'll play a big role against Kansas in the Champions Classic, and assuming Michigan State has another strong season, he'll likely be the catalyst behind it. But he just turned 22 years old, and his athletic limitations cloud any visible upside. Still, Valentine should have a shot at the 2016 second round thanks to shooting and passing abilities that play to role-player potential.
9. Tyler Ulis (Kentucky, PG)
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Kentucky's most efficient and reliable guard from 2014-15, Tyler Ulis returns to help stabilize a lineup that lost its top seven scorers. He's played a total of 68 minutes through two games after averaging just 23.8 minutes as a freshman. Ulis doesn't offer the same visible upside as the Wildcats' high-profile freshmen, but in a full-time role, he'll have a legitimate chance to sell NBA scouts on his value as a potential change-of-pace ball-handler.
Expected Assignments versus Duke: Grayson Allen, Derryck Thornton
Decision-Making, Playmaking
Ulis' 6.0 pure point rating (weighs assists to turnovers relative to each other) ranked No. 8 in the country among point guards last season, per RealGM.com. He averaged 6.1 assists to just 1.7 turnovers per 40 minutes. Ulis simply has a good feel for knowing which buttons to press.
And with super quickness and basketball IQ, he's a threat to pick apart defenses off ball screens and penetration.
Opportunistic Scoring
Ulis doesn't hunt for shots; rather, he lets scoring opportunities come to him. The two most threatening weapons in his arsenal: a spot-up jumper (53 percent on catch-and-shoots, per DraftExpress' Matt Kamalsky) and floater (46 percent). You won't see Ulis take over games as a scorer, but he can hurt defenses from outside or off timely drives and runners.
On-ball Defense
Ulis can be a handful defensively. He moves exceptionally well laterally and plays with high on-ball energy. His pressure can make it difficult for opposing ball-handlers to comfortably operate.
Size, Burst
Unfortunately, Ulis' athletic ability isn't great enough to fully compensate for his 5'9" size. He isn't the blur that Boston Celtics' guard Isaiah Thomas is, and he doesn't pack the strength or explosiveness of Nate Robinson.
Bottom Line
He won't attract first-round interest, but assuming he shoots it well and showcases a winning floor game, there will likely be one general manager willing to take a chance on Ulis. He should ultimately get second-round consideration whenever he chooses to declare.
8. Marcus Lee (Kentucky, PF)
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After two years of waiting behind lottery big men like Karl-Anthony Towns, Julius Randle, Willie Cauley-Stein and Trey Lyles, Marcus Lee finally has his opportunity. And if Kentucky's first two games were any indication of what's to come, Lee looks prepared to deliver in a much bigger role.
Expected Assignments versus Duke: Brandon Ingram, Amile Jefferson
Athleticism and Activity
Lee's game is all about off-ball activity generated from athleticism, mobility and energy. He's always moving and looking to become a target for cuts, backdoor lobs or forward transition passes. With effortless bounce, Lee can elevate high above the rim for finishes, putbacks and blocked shots. Through two games, he's totaled six blocks and 12 offensive rebounds—big numbers we can expect from Lee all year.
He's ultimately a scrappy power forward capable of making plays without needing any drawn up for him.
Ball Skills
They've looked better already, but Lee's ball skills will be under the microscope in 2015-16 now that his workload has increased.
Over the years, we haven't seen much of a post game or jumper from Lee. So far this season, he's flashed glimpses of a hook shot in the lane, as well as the ability to put the ball on the floor. Still, over the next season or two, scouts will want Lee to become more of a threat with the ball.
Bottom Line
The Champions Classic against Duke will be a great chance for Lee to make some noise against top-shelf competition. It's an opportunity he hasn't really been given—at least not in a 20-plus-minute role.
From an NBA standpoint, he projects as an energizer or frontcourt spark. But improving his one-on-one game and shooting touch will be the formula for moving the draft-stock needle in the right direction.
7. Grayson Allen (Duke, SG)
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Grayson Allen has been given the green light following the departure of Jahlil Okafor, Justise Winslow and Tyus Jones. He's played at least 30 minutes in each of Duke's first two matchups after never playing more than 24 minutes in a game last season. And Allen has capitalized early as a sophomore, having erupted for 26 points against Siena and 28 against Bryant.
Expected Assignments versus Kentucky: Jamal Murray, Charles Matthews, Isaiah Briscoe
Athleticism
At 6'5", 205 pounds, Allen is an explosive high-flier. His quick first step and bouncy last one at the rim make him difficult to contain with an available lane on either side. He's fearless attacking the basket—Allen has already made 17 free throws through two games (18 attempts). We're also talking about a highlight machine in the open floor, where he can handle the ball and soar over rim protection.
Backcourt Versatility
Though he projects as a 2-guard, Allen has played a little point early on, showing an ability to create and find open teammates off the dribble (six assists against Bryant). It allows him to threaten the defense as more than just a line-driver or spot-up shooter. Still, a good-looking jumper plays a major role in his sales pitch to the pros. Allen has a sweet stroke and plenty of range (five-of-12 from three to start the year).
In-Between Game
He's dangerous behind the arc and a threat to attack the rim, but Allen could use some work in between. Rarely do we see him use the mid-range to score. Becoming a more complete player would mean improving his shot creation and execution within the second level of the defense.
Bottom Line
This game against Kentucky ultimately represents a major opportunity for Allen to prove his first two scoring outbursts weren't flukey. He's on the rise, and if he can continue knocking down jumpers, getting to the line and moving the ball, generating first-round buzz shouldn't be considered out of the question.
6. Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk (Kansas, SG)
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He's still one of the younger players in the country (turned 18 years old in June), but sophomore Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk should be looking at a decent increase in touches and minutes in year No. 2 at Kansas, where he'll look to validate the upside he flashed with Ukraine during FIBA events over the years.
Expected Assignments versus Michigan State: Denzel Valentine, Javon Bess
Size, Athleticism for Position
Listed at 6'8", Mykhailiuk has terrific size for a 2-guard. He uses it to release over the defense, and though he isn't the most explosive, Mykhailiuk can play above the rim or shake-and-bake east and west.
He's created room for optimism regarding his defensive outlook as well. Mykhailiuk has shown he can contain dribble penetration and keep opposing ball-handlers from blowing by or turning the corner.
On the downside, his 195-pound frame hurts him inside the arc, where he made just 11 of 33 shots a year ago. With a 6'6" wingspan, he also sports very short arms.
Perimeter Scoring
Mykhailiuk's offensive game revolves around his perimeter scoring attack. He's smooth around the arc, where he can spread the floor as a three-point shooter, pull up in the mid-range or step back into jumpers. We didn't see much consistency from Mykhailiuk a year ago, but with regular playing time, he'll have a better chance to build some rhythm in 2015-16.
Otherwise, he's flashed a solid handle that allows him to dance around and wait for a lane or a jump-shot opportunity to open up.
Bottom Line
He's still a project, and will likely be viewed that way for another few seasons. Still, expect to see flashes of shot-making ability and defensive versatility—two strengths coach Bill Self will value right away. Long-term potential will keep Mykhailiuk in the first-round conversation, but unless he emerges as a consistent force, which will be difficult, No. 15 to No. 30 seems like a more realistic draft projection.
5. Carlton Bragg Jr. (Kansas, PF)
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With Cheick Diallo still waiting to be cleared, freshman Carlton Bragg Jr. will continue seeing extended minutes. The opportunity gives him a major chance to showcase his potential, which is fueled by strong physical tools, athleticism and a developing inside-out game.
Expected Assignments versus Michigan State: Deyonta Davis, Matt Costello
Physical Tools, Athleticism
Bragg has a promising 6'9", 220-pound frame for a power forward. He's also light on his feet, both running the floor and elevating around the basket. That, along with a live motor, should translate to easy buckets off guard penetration, cuts, offensive rebounds and transition.
Inside-Out Offense
He doesn't necessarily project as a player coach Bill Self will feature in the post, but with size, athleticism and excellent hands, he's an option to feed around the low block, where he can score using pivots, dexterity and bounce.
In doses, we've even seen Bragg look comfortable connecting on jumpers, though he isn't likely to take many as a freshman off the bench. Still, it's part of the repertoire and one of the potential driving forces powering his upside.
Lack of Polish
Bragg's skills lack polish, from his back-to-the-basket game to his handle and shooting touch. He's more of a project than a weapon the Jayhawks will be able to count on for consistent offense.
Bottom Line
Bragg will have a great chance to make his national introduction against a Michigan State team that's missing high-level athletes up front. However, the 2017 draft may be a more likely entry point to the pros. If he does declare this year, he isn't likely to have the production to show for the potential.
4. Isaiah Briscoe (Kentucky, PG)
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Isaiah Briscoe might be third in Kentucky's backcourt pecking order in terms of usage, but that shouldn't mask his pro potential. He's still expected to produce, and given his physical tools and two-way strengths, scouts will be tracking his development.
Expected Assignments versus Duke: Grayson Allen, Matt Jones, Derryck Thornton
Physical Tools, Quickness
At 6'3", 202 pounds, Briscoe blends power with quickness. He plays through contact on his way to the rim and under it. He even pulled down 12 rebounds during his regular-season debut against NJIT.
And when given space to handle the ball, he's difficult to contain off the dribble, where he can shake and bake with change of speed and direction as well as crafty ball-handling.
Briscoe doesn't pack much explosiveness, limiting his perceived upside. But together, his strength and elusiveness pass the eye test.
Scoring and Playmaking
NBA scouts could value Briscoe's ability to break down defenses. He's at his best penetrating, attacking and making plays as a driver or passer. Don't count on an efficient assist-to-turnover ratio in 2015-16, but he's still flashed the vision and basketball IQ to set the table for teammates.
Briscoe also puts a tremendous amount of pressure on the rim, whether he's plowing through traffic, slicing through the lane or pushing the break. He's capable on the perimeter, but realistically, achieving shooting consistency should be considered more of a long-term goal. At this point, he's capable—not proficient—in the mid-range and behind the arc.
Defense
Briscoe has the potential to become a defensive hound, thanks to a strong frame, quick feet, 6'8" wingspan and competitive edge. He's no Marcus Smart, but that physical, in-your-grill approach may remind some of the Boston Celtics guard.
Bottom Line
It will be tough for Briscoe to regularly put up numbers in Kentucky's crowded frontcourt. But odds are he'll still have his eye-opening moments that highlight toughness, energy and advanced offensive skills. At first glance, Briscoe looks like he can sell himself as a gritty NBA reserve.
3. Jamal Murray (Kentucky, PG/SG)
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A standout spring and summer helped raise the bar for Jamal Murray. Albany coach Will Brown already called him the "best player in the country," per Kentucky.com's Jerry Tipton.
That was after Murray hung 19 points and eight assists on his Great Danes during the opener. Murray did struggle to knock down shots in Kentucky's followup game against NJIT, but he's undoubtedly established himself as one of the premier prospects to scout.
Expected Assignments versus Duke: Grayson Allen, Matt Jones
Size, Athleticism
Listed at 6'5", 207 pounds, Murray has excellent size for either backcourt position, though he projects strongly at point guard. He's quick off the bounce and capable of elevating for finishes above the rim. Murray isn't overly explosive, and that should lead to a lot of jump shots (he's taken two free throws through two games). But with such an advanced skill level, it's not expected to significantly restrict him at either level.
Scoring and Playmaking
Murray is best with the ball, given his strengths as a shot-creator. He's dangerous out of pick-and-roll situations, where he does a nice job freezing the defense using hesitation before beating it with a pass, drive or pull-up jumper.
He's also a serious threat from outside who's capable of getting hot and scoring in bunches. Deep shooting range allows him to play off the ball in a spot-up role as well, which is important for Murray in a lineup with two other point guards. He can be a bit streaky, but when he's on, tight defense isn't typically enough. Confident and fearless, look for Murray to go off for lengthy stretches throughout the season.
Bottom Line
He's clearly a special talent and a threat to lead Kentucky in scoring on any given night. We've seen him take over games before, whether it was in high school, during showcase events (Nike Hoop Summit) or international play (Pan American Games). Adding Duke to the list of opponents he's torched would surely strengthen his top-five-pick case even further.
2. Brandon Ingram (Duke, SF)
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Brandon Ingram is unsurprisingly off to a fast start at Duke, where he's averaging 18 points in just 26 minutes (27.7 points per 40 minutes) through his first two games.
Expected Assignments against Kentucky: Derek Willis, Alex Poythress, Marcus Lee
Physical Tools
Ingram's 6'9" size, 7'3" wingspan and athleticism immediately stand out under the NBA lens. He's a mismatch for a face-up small forward. Ingram only checks in at 190 pounds—we'll likely hear "lack of strength" referenced at least once per broadcast—but having just turned 18 years old in September, he's also one of the youngest players in the country.
Scoring Versatility
With convincing range and touch on his jumper, Ingram can play on or off the ball, either as a spot-up shooter (already hit five threes in 52 minutes) or one-on-one scorer. His ball skills are excellent, from his handle to his shot-making ability. Ingram can generate offense in a variety of ways—by separating into pull-ups, step-backs and fallaways, or attacking his man off the dribble and finishing off one foot.
Defensive Playmaking
Though not viewed as a lockdown defender, his length and quickness naturally translate to steals and blocks. He can get into passing lanes, pick up deflections and make plays around the rim.
Bottom Line
Lighting up Kentucky's frontcourt would be quite the look for Ingram, who could actually be competing for the top spot on NBA draft boards. He's flashed a towering ceiling as a potential go-to matchup nightmare—too big for wings and too skilled for bigs.
If he can extinguish the concern tied to his skinny arms and legs, we should be talking about a top-five lock come June. Taking it to Derek Willis, Alex Poythress, Marcus Lee and Skal Labissiere would be a start.
1. Skal Labissiere (Kentucky, PF/C)
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It only took two games for Skal Labissiere to get comfortable—he'll enter the Champions Classic fresh off a 26-point effort (on 10-of-12 shooting) against a helpless NJIT squad on Saturday.
Expected Assignments against Duke: Marshall Plumlee, Amile Jefferson
Inside-Out Offense
A skinny yet bouncy 7-footer, Labissiere gives Kentucky an easy-bucket target around and above the rim, whether it's off drive-and-dump passes or putbacks. But it's his skill level at the high post, elbows and short corner that ultimately fuels Labissiere's superstar upside.
He's flashed exceptional touch between the key and arc, as well as the footwork and moves to separate into rise-and-fire jumpers, fallaways, turnarounds and hooks with both hands.
He projects as a featured scorer, both now and long term, given his ability to create high-percentage, unguardable looks for himself in the half court.
Defense
He also offers plenty of defensive potential stemming from foot speed, shot-blocking instincts (six through first two games) and motor. Understanding rotations and the referee's whistle may take some time, but his physical tools should naturally translate to defensive versatility and rim protection.
Bottom Line
We haven't seen him match up with anyone of substance yet. Marshall Plumlee, who stands 7'1", will be his first real test.
The only fear tied to Labissiere is his ability to play through and after contact. Otherwise, his gradual rise in high school and can't-miss skills are simply too convincing. This game against Duke will give Labissiere the chance to start building his case as the top prospect in the country.
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