NBA Draft 2011: Jordan Hamilton and 10 Late Fallers in the Draft
Every year, there are a group of prospects who are projected to be drafted outside of the lottery. Some just start off in that position, others' stock plummets from the top 14.
Despite that, many of them are still expected to have good careers in the NBA.
Here is a list of players who could potentially be sleepers in this year's draft.
Jordan Hamilton: Small Forward from Texas
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Jordan Hamilton is a terrific scorer on the wing with an impressive jump shot. His shooting motion is really smooth as he lines up his arms to the basket well.
He can shoot it from multiple spots on the floor, and that will certainly make him useful in the league for many seasons.
Some of the reasons he isn't expected to be a lottery pick are his questionable shot selection and lack of slashing skills. It is not sure if he will provide much other than perimeter shooting.
With the right coaching and system, he can have a nice, long career in the NBA.
Jimmer Fredette: Point Guard from Brigham Young
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Jimmer Fredette became one of the most popular college players last season.
He led the nation in scoring, and had many memorable performances along the way. His ability to shoot from virtually anywhere in the half court is unbelievable.
It is wondered, however, if he can transfer his prolific scoring into the NBA. His 6'2 stature is what raises the questions.
He might not be able to get shots off as easily on the next level at his size. It is also feared that his athleticism won't be up to par with other pro guards.
Fredette's shooting is undeniable. He will definitely be able to use that in his professional career.
He will always have a place in this league, whether he comes close to the kind of success he had in college or not.
Iman Shumpert: Shooting Guard from Georgia Tech
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Iman Shumpert is one of the elite perimeter defenders in this draft class. He works very hard to shut his opponent down and forces many turnovers in the process.
His length and athleticism help in that regard. His slashing skills and aptitude to finish at the rim are his best offensive skills.
He is expected to be drafted in the second round for a number of reasons. Fundamentals are not really his forte as he doesn't take smart shots.
He'll shoot while he is closely contested or even from deep where he's not much of a threat.
Despite what he lacks as a player, his defense will for sure be welcomed in the NBA. If he has the right guidance in the league, his flaws can be minimized and he'll be seen as valuable rather than defective.
Jordan Williams: Power Forward from Maryland
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Jordan Williams served as an extremely serviceable big man during his sophomore season at Maryland. He's very solid around the basket.
He can finish really well in the paint with his smooth touch and size. His footwork and balance are impressive as well.
One of his red flags is that his length does not seem to be enough. He struggled against longer defenders often. He also is still a little out of shape. Running up and down the court gave him trouble as a result.
Williams can be channeled into an effective NBA player once he gets some more conditioning in. He can be taught how to use his skills to avoid the trouble he faces with bigger opponents under the right guidance.
Bismack Biyombo: Center from Congo
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Bismack Biyombo is a monster defensive force. He's really quick on his feet both horizontally and vertically.
That comes in handy when he blocks shots, which he does often and greatly. He has a lot of strength and a body that's prepared for NBA battle.
Biyombo is considered a risky pick though. He has an incredibly raw foundation, especially on offense. Many of the things he accomplished are due to his athleticism rather than skill. These deficiencies could hurt his chances at being a high pick in the draft.
He is such a a dominant rim protector, that there is a solid chance he could be a highly capable starting center one day as he improves his intangibles. It wouldn't hurt to take him with a later pick.
Nolan Smith: Point Guard from Duke
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Nolan Smith knows how to play the game well. He can play with or without the ball in his hands.
Smith has good awareness and makes the right play the most of the time. His effort is present as well.
One reason why his draft stock is not top tier is because he never blows you away with anything he does on the court. Explosiveness is not in his repertoire. His jumper is not amazing, either.
Even though Smith isn't an exciting player, his basketball IQ, knowledge of the game, and commitment to teamwork should make him a solid NBA player.
Kyle Singler: Small Forward from Duke
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Kyle Singler is a hard-working player with a high basketball IQ. He's a quality shooter with a nice touch. His height helps him get his shot off.
When he doesn't have the ball, he can move around through screens adequately. He is an effective passer as well.
His projected place in the draft isn't high, though. His his lack of athleticism is one of the reasons. He also struggles getting to the rim. Another concern is that his jumper does not stay consistent.
Much like his teammate, Nolan Smith, Singler can make a solid career off of his knowledge of the game. He could end up being a really good role player.
Playing four years at a high-class basketball program like Duke certainly gave him the kind of experience that can allow him to have a successful career.
Josh Selby: Shooting Guard from Kansas
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Josh Shelby's strength and wide frame is what helped him become a powerful defender. He uses his his brawn to overpower his opponents on defense and wear them down.
He's a very creative finisher once he gets to the basket. His strength allows him to absorb contact and punch through for the score. His leaping ability is impressive, too.
The things he does on offense are why his draft stock isn't very high. His jumpshot isn't always in effect. His ball-handling and passing aren't up to par for a guard, either. These are the where fears of his NBA ceiling come from.
His elite defense is what could put him on the map as a professional, though. That skill could help him find a home as a professional for many years to come.
Trey Thompkins: Power Forward from Georgia
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Trey Thompkins has a really compelling post game. He has a wide array of moves when backing down. His footwork is in order and he hits his defender with many maneuvers to find ways to score. He can use either hand, too.
A number of teams could pass on him before his name is called though. He's not a stellar athlete, and nor the best runner. He's not imposing on the defensive end. The shape he's in is questionable as well.
Thompkins has enough talent to become a notable NBA player. Getting some more conditioning under his belt will definitely help him become that. The right coaching could help him belittle his shortcomings as a pro.
Chris Singleton: Combo Forward from Florida State
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Chris Singleton is a commanding player on both ends. He plays above the rim and can get up and down the floor well. He has highly palpable upper body strength and always works hard. He is strong enough to guard big men, and quick enough to cover wings.
The worries about him include his slightly skinny legs, poor shooting motion, below-average body control, and his rough touch around the basket.
Singleton is a physical specimen who can certainly use that to his advantage and become a prosperous player. In the right kind of system, all of his skills could be highlighted perfectly. If that happens he might end up as an admirable pro.
