Portsmouth Notebook – Day 3
Day Three at the PIT provided every player here a second chance to show who he is and what he can do for a professional team. When watching a player in his second game, you can often get a better idea of who he truly is, as nerves have settled down, team chemistry is typically a little better, and each guy has made his own adjustments in reaction to his first game performance. How players respond to the good or bad of their first day speaks volumes.
Here are some new players who commanded attention in Day 3:
*Joe Trapani – Boston College*
Proving he can do much more than just shoot the ball, Trapani came out much more aggressive, setting more ballscreens and cutting, flashing and slipping into open spaces. He got to the foul line with strong attacks at the basket, rebounded, blocked shots, and displayed a versatility that only increases his already high value as a shooter and floor spacer as a pro.
*Gary Johnson – Texas*
Johnson continued to play with great energy and effort, grabbing rebounds and displaying a mid-range jumpshot to go along with his production in and around the paint. His athleticism and intensity are evident right away, and his ability to build more polish and skill into that package will determine his pro ceiling.
*Bill Clark – Duquesne*
Although Clark’s 11 points don’t look as impressive as his 21 from the previous night, it was more telling of his pro potential. He just made a bunch of open threes in his first game. With defenders more focused in, Clark went 5-8 from the field with a variety of shot fakes, dribble pull-ups and catch and shoots off the move – without forcing a bad shot. That says value at the pro level.
*Corey Stokes – Villanova*
Stokes took a lot of forced, bad shots in his first game, and although he came out firing again in Game Two, he showed more of the pure, deep three point stroke that has to have NBA scouts taking note. He is a strong, physical guard, a great competitor, and has the skill, character and physical tools that could make him a sleeper on draft night.
*Ravern Johnson – Mississippi State*
A rail thin 6’7 shooting guard, Johnson has impressed with his ability to catch and shoot within the flow of the offense. He doesn’t force the action, and just finds his spots playing off the ball. He elevates and extends which translates well at the pro level as shots will be more hotly-contested. If he can use his athleticism to rebound better and create on the defensive end, his stock will rise.
Loading ...
