Being a UConn student, this is a completely honest and non biast look at the potential NBA futures of UConn upperclassmen.
Shabazz Napier:
There is almost nothing negative I can say about Napier. I watched him all 4 years at Uconn, including this past year watching every home game at gampel pavilion. The kid has a born talent and there is no denying that fact. He can shoot the three, distrubute the ball, and he is extremely crafty around the rim for him size. It truly makes me sick looking at NBA draft boards where "analysts" have him going late in the second round. Not only does Napier have the true talent, but he has the experience. With two rings under his belt, there no denying what he can accomplish. He proved that he could lead a team, and for UConn this season to beat 3 teams that were supposed to win the tournament in 2012, it's ignorant to believe Napier couldn't do the same in the NBA. Obviously he's not perfect. Napier needs to improve his decision making, he turned the ball over a tad too much this year. Getting stronger and limiting the turnovers will turn him into a beast. I honesty feel that Napier will have a highly successful career in the league, a role similar to Mario Chalmers of the Miami Heat. Look, the NBA is a point guard friendly league and I base my prediction on the fact that Napier is absolutely CLUTCH. I am honored to have talked to him once, and I hope nothing but the best for Shabazz. He is an amazing athlete and a totally chill character. HUNGY HUSKIES.
Predicted Draft Position: 1st round, 17th pick overall to the Boston Celtics.
Deandre Daniels:
The "X-factor"! Deandre Daniels' draft stock took a huge jump up during UConn's terrific run to the championship this year. Deandre showed up big time and his complete talents were on full display. The entire year I wondered wether or not he would even consider entering the draft, but he has officially declared for the draft. Daniels' game has tremendous upside. He has NBA size at 6-9 and his game fits perfectly for the league. He can play inside with the big boys (pending gaining more muscle), he can shoot the perimeter shot, and he can slash his way to the rim tremendously. The only flaw with Deandre is his tendency to shy away from the ball. The entire season Deandre only seemed to show up and play hard for the big and important games. It felt like he wanted to float outside and simply shoot the three; which is tough to watch because he has such a more versatile game. He proved his talents during the tournament and if he can play 100% every game, there is no telling how terrific he will be in the NBA. Deandre, you're welcome for the answers to the inclass quiz questions. (I sat next to him in Geoscience class) I can't wait to see where Deandre Daniels ends up in the draft because if he goes past the second round, someone will be getting an absolute steal.
Predicted Draft Position: 1st round, 25th pick overall to the Houston Rockets
Niels Giffey:
It was great watching Niels play at UConn. He always gave it his all and he consistent provided a spark to the team when they needed it. Niels is a SHARPSHOOTER, a three point specialist. Don't underestimate his other skills because he is fairly crafty and can drive to the hoop as well. It's just disappointing to realize that the NBA is probably not going to become a reality for him. The German native may never play in the NBA but it's never out of the question. He can tryout for a team and hopefully get an invite to training camp.
You never know! I wish the best to Niels and it wouldn't surprise me to see him playing oversees and maybe even for the German national team.
Ryan Boatright:
I'll just go ahead and say this right away. I've never been a big fan of boatright. He's a ballhog. Coutless times I have seen him take ridiculous shots when guys on the team were wide open. Don't get me wrong he's a terrific player, but i just don't like the way he plays the game. Boatright is lighting quick, and that could translate well for a fast paced offense in the NBA. He is an amazing ball handler with an above average jumpshot. Ryan just announced that he will be returning to UConn for his senior year. (I wish he declared for the draft honestly) Many times this year him and Napier have gotten into arguments, and they clearly didn't have the best chemistry. It seems to me that Boatright tries to run a team by his own means; selfishness. Maybe I'm just being a total douche, but until he turns his attitude around I don't see Boatright having any significant impact on an NBA team (if any). So, let's see if he can turn into a leader next year and change my attitude towards him.
Lasan Kromah will likely not continue playing basketball, but he did provide a great amount of help off the bench. Thanks Lasan for a good year. Tyler Olander isn't even worth talking about.
#bleedblue #huskies #uconn
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