2014 NBA Draft Scouting Report: Isaiah Austin



Written by Paul Banks of the Washington Times, and David Kay of the The Sports Bank.
Send Paul an e-mail here: paulb05 AT hotmail DOT com.
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2014 NBA Draft Scouting Report: Isaiah Austin


Position: Center

Size: 7-1, 225

School: Baylor, Sophomore


Strengths:
  • Shot blocking
  • Length helps him on the glass
  • Mid-range jump shooter
  • Range out to the 3-point line
  • Effective in pick-and-pop situations
  • Handles the ball well for his size
  • Can attack the basket
  • Face-up post game
  • Finish around the rim with either hand
  • Touch around the basket
  • Great athlete for a seven-footer




  • Weaknesses:
  • Rail thin
  • Physicality
  • Establishing position on the block
  • Back-to-the-basket game
  • Not very aggressive inside
  • Handling double-teams
  • Not a great passer
  • Slow release on jump shot


  • Summary: Once considered a lottery prospect, the lack of growth in Isaiah Austin’s game this season has dropped him down to a borderline first-round pick. Austin has a terrific skill set for a young seven-footer, but his lack of strength is a major concern in his transition to the NBA. He won’t be an immediate contributor at the next level as he will need to add muscle.

    Player Comparison: Hassan Whiteside. Long, lean, and versatile describe both Austin and Whiteside, who left Marshall after his freshman year and was early second-round pick. A lack of strength and physicality hurt Whiteside’s ability to find a spot in the NBA, which is why he is now playing overseas. Austin will face similar challenges in his attempt to transition to the NBA.







    RELATED LINKS:


    2014 NBA Mock Draft


    2015 NBA Mock Draft


    2014 NBA Draft Prospect Rankings


    2014 NBA Draft Scouting Reports








    Written by Paul Banks of the Washington Times, and David Kay of the The Sports Bank.
    Send Paul an e-mail here: paulb05 AT hotmail DOT com.
    All other e-mail, including advertising and link proposals, send to: [email protected]




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