NBA Draft 2011: DeAndre Liggins and 5 Top Perimeter Defenders in the Draft

Scoring points might be sexy, but being able to shut down your man will get you into the NBA.

As the Dallas Mavericks proved against Miami Heat in the NBA Finals, defense truly wins championships.

These following five players would would be welcomed by any NBA team looking for strong perimeter defense.

Norris Cole

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MIAMI - MARCH 22: Forward Jordan Hill #43 of the University of Arizona Wildcats blocks the shot of guard Norris Cole #30 of the Cleveland State University Vikings during the second round of the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Tournament at the American

Norris Cole helped to resurrect Cleveland State's basketball program in no small part to his willingness to compete defensively.

Cole has good speed and agility and the lateral quickness to stay in front of his man.

Brandon Knight

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HOUSTON, TX - APRIL 02: Shabazz Napier #13 of the Connecticut Huskies drives on Brandon Knight #12 of the Kentucky Wildcats during the National Semifinal game of the 2011 NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship at Reliant Stadium on April 2, 2011 i

A clutch performer offensively, unwavering performer defensively. Very smart defender who uses his quick feet and long arms to stay in front of his man, contest shots and deny penetration. 

Shelvin Mack

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HOUSTON, TX - APRIL 04: Shelvin Mack #1 of the Butler Bulldogs passes the ball while taking on the Connecticut Huskies during the National Championship Game of the 2011 NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Tournament at Reliant Stadium on April 4, 2011 in Ho

Superb leader for Butler the last two years, plays much bigger than 6'2", with huge shoulders and chest. Uses his strength to his advantage, allowing him to play his opponent physically. 

Iman Shumpert

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GREENSBORO, NC - MARCH 10: Iman Shumpert #1 of the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets looks to pass against Tyrone Garland #21 of the Virginia Tech Hokies during the first half of the game in the first round of the 2011 ACC men's basketball tournament at the Gr

Iman Shumpert is raw offensively but a stud on the defensive end. An extremely tenacious defender with lock-down potential forces lots of turnovers, rebounds well and can guard any of the 1-3 positions in the NBA. 

DeAndre Liggins

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HOUSTON, TX - APRIL 02: Kemba Walker #15 of the Connecticut Huskies goes to the hoop against DeAndre Liggins #34 of the Kentucky Wildcats during the National Semifinal game of the 2011 NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship at Reliant Stadium on A

DeAndre Liggins better be great defensively, because he's NOT offensively.

Takes great pride in his defense and always seems to be in the right place at the right time. His huge wingspan combined with solid lateral quickness makes him the top perimeter defender in the 2011 NBA draft class. 

Conclusion

While shooting performance comes and goes, good defense, like a diamond, is forever. Finding these defensive diamonds in the rough is what every GM yearns for, yet few are able to land.

Your girl knows when its cubic zirconia, and so will the fans. Better be packing defensive heat...