University of Wisconsin “Badgers”

10/18/2018

Player Biography:

Ethan Happ # 22

Position: Forward

Height: 6-8

Weight: 200lb

Age: 22

Hometown: Milan, IL

High School: Rockridge HS

Highlight Reel Quick link: https://youtu.be/pMPveOv5N8c  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                          (Google Images, 2018)

 

       After gathering hours of research, I recognized Happ is an all-around “hustle player.” Ethan Happ not only averages doubles but is aggressive for the entire game. However, this big man is no stranger to foul trouble. Happ’s greatest asset is his ability to score and rebound the ball. Once Happ rebounds the ball, his focus is to press the transition offense; capturing baskets before the defense has time to set up. Over the past season, Happ averaged 17.9 points, 8.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.5 steals and 1.1 blocks per game as a junior, leading the Badgers in all five of those categories to first-team All-Big Ten honors for the second consecutive season.

 

At this point, I have researched the most elite players within the Big 10 Conference. Although there are a few schools that are not listed, these players simply did not make the cut. In the first few days of research, I noticed you have to create a chart and compare players with stats, videos, sports articles, and follow updated information (ESPN and Big Ten Network). Within the season starting in three days, I will be able to follow exhibition games. However, the actual qualities of a player won’t necessarily be accounted for until season play. Currently, I have about three weeks until a can fully watch each of my predictions in action. In the meantime, Mr. Greene and I had a phone conversation. He was impressed with the first assignment and instructed me to arrange these players by top ten; with 1 being the highest overall pick to 10 being the least. Mr. Greene also mentioned that’s comparing my predictions to some other sports agents in the mid-west.

 

                                                                     References

 

Google. (2018). Photo [Ethan Happ]. Retrieved from http://google.com/images

Youtube. (2018). Player Highlights. Retrieved from https://youtu.be/pMPveOv5N8c 

 

Purdue University “Boilermakers”

10/17/2018

Player Biography:

Name: Carsen Edwards

Number: 3

Position: Guard

Height: 6-1

Weight: 190lb

Age: 20

Hometown: Atascocita, TX

High School: Atascocita High School

Highlight Reel Quick link: https://youtu.be/g-HWPstaCgc

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                                                                     (Google Images, 2018)

 

       Today, I read numerous articles about Edwards possibilities to enter the NBA. One Article mentioned how Edwards took some time in the summer of 2018, to train with a few NBA players. After watching hours of video, Carsen is very explosive and has an “evil eye” for court vision.

Carsen Edwards is an explosive guard that can attack the basket whenever he feels its necessary. Edwards creates assists by incorporating the “drive and kick” method that is designed for other guards to execute with a mid-range game or creates open lanes for his big man to set up a high-low execution. Not only does Edwards have speed, but his three-point range has a 41% average. Over the course of last season, he averaged 18.5 points and 2.8 assists this season while shooting 40.6 percent from three-point, averaging 47.6 percent overall shooting. Edwards has both the speed and ability to approach the basket confusing his defenders as a guard.

 

 

                                                            References

 

Google. (2018). Photo [Carsen Edwards]. Retrieved from http://google.com/images

Youtube. (2018). Player Highlights. Retrieved from https://youtu.be/g-HWPstaCgc

 

Pennsylvania State University “Nittany Lions”

10/16/2018

Player Biography:

Name: Josh Reaves

Number: 23

Position: Guard

Height: 6-4

Weight: 210lb

Age: 21

Hometown: Fairfax, VA

High School: Oak Hill Academy

Highlight Reel Quick link: https://youtu.be/-_6OzBm1nkA

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                                            (Google Images, 2018)

 

       Josh Reaves is consistent in playing fundamental basketball. Reaves will guarantee at least four hustle plays per game. Reaves can not only compete at the three-point line but at the basket as well. In order for Reaves to be considered for a higher rank, he must increase his averages. Reaves is 6-4, 210lbs. He should average at least 12PPG considering he touches the ball at least 80% of the game. Reaves should be able to manage two buckets for 3 out of four quarters. If Reaves does not increase his scoring, he can definitely increase his steals, rebounds, and assists to gain more conference attention. Per 40 minutes, he averaged 1.5 threes, 4.1 assists, and an impressive 2.8 steals. Reaves ranked in the 84th percentile or better out of spot-ups, cuts and off offensive rebounds.

 

                                                                    References

 

Google. (2018). Photo [Josh Reaves]. Retrieved from http://google.com/images

Youtube. (2018). Player Highlights. Retrieved from https://youtu.be/-_6OzBm1nkA

 

University of Nebraska “Cornhuskers”

10/15/2018

Player Biography:

Name: Isaiah Roby

Number: 15

Position: Forward

Height: 6-8

Weight: 214lb

Age: 20

Hometown: Dixon, IL

High School: Dixon High School

Highlight Reel Quick link: https://youtu.be/8KsHFcEjjyI

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                 (Google Images, 2018)

 

       The Cornhuskers always bring a solid competitive team to the Big 10 level of play. Today the intense research involved Isaiah Roby and James Palmer. Although they play different positions, their physical abilities give them an opportunity to shine in the NBA, here’s why:

 

       Isaiah Roby has to become more reliable with his defense. In fact, when Nebraska played against Michigan 2017-2018 (https://youtu.be/TFKYK3565W0 game highlights), Roby allowed too many baskets. He must become faster on his feet (he needs to incorporate footwork drills into his offseason workouts. Footwork ladders, jump rope, and quick defensive drills will help Roby become quicker). On offense, Roby has an excellent eye for passes and prefers backdoor openings when approaching the basket for an easy unconscious score. This 6'8" combo forward, is highly effective in spot-up situations (92nd percentile), converting 43.5 percent of his non-dribble jumpers, 3.3 blocks per 40 minutes for the number one Big Ten candidate.

 

Player Biography:

Name: James Palmer Jr.         

Number: 24

Position: Guard

Height: 6-5

Weight: 200lb

Age: 22

Hometown: Upper Marlboro, MD

High School: St. John's College HS

Highlight Reel Quick link: https://youtu.be/OD4XbCGxWis

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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       On the other hand, James Palmer has the ability to draw penalties against his opponents placing him at the foul line. In the 2017-2018 season, Palmer reached the foul line 221 times. Palmer has the size and the strength to make game-changing plays allowing defenders to hesitate on “double teaming” his wingman game. Palmer averaged 17.2 points per game, 4.4 rebounds per game, and 3.0 assists per game. Palmer also got to the free throw line 221 times, while managing to shoot 74 percent.

 

                                                                References

 

Google. (2018). Photo [Isaiah Roby]. Retrieved from http://google.com/images

Google. (2018). Photo [James Palmer]. Retrieved from http://google.com/images

Youtube. (2018). Player Highlights. Retrieved from https://youtu.be/8KsHFcEjjyI

Youtube. (2018). Player Highlights. Retrieved from https://youtu.be/OD4XbCGxWis 

 

Michigan State University “Spartans”

10/14/2018

Player Biography:

Name: Cassius Winston

Number: 5

Position: Point Guard

Height: 6-0

Weight: 185lb

Age: 21

Hometown: Detroit, MI

High School: University of Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy

Highlight Reel Quick link: https://youtu.be/h3QBLZO2-Jw?t=19

             

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                                               (Google Images, 2018)

 

       Cassius Winston is an unselfish player that controls the floor with streetball handles and hesitation moves. Winston can attack the basket and can execute 81% from the free throw line. Winston should channel his offseason toward causing more defensive turnovers and increase his average steals per game to at least three to be considered a higher pick. This point guards stats proves he focuses more on offense instead of being an all-around playmaker.

Cassius Winston is an advanced ball handler. Uses hang dribbles, combo moves and head fakes to get into the paint to score or distribute. Winston is a capable shooter, especially off the catch and gets good rotation. 39.7% from 3-point range on 78 attempts and 81.0 free throw percentage on 63 attempts. 2017-18 season averages 12.6 PPG, 3.4 RPG, and 6.9 APG.

 

                                                                    References

 

Google. (2018). Photo [Cassius Winston]. Retrieved from http://google.com/images

Youtube. (2018). Player Highlights. Retrieved from https://youtu.be/h3QBLZO2-Jw?t=19

 

University of Michigan “Wolverines”

10/11/2018

Player Biography:

Name: Charles Matthews

Number:1

Position: Shooting Guard

Height: 6-6

Weight: 190

Age: 21

Hometown: Chicago, Ill.

High School: St. Rita

Highlight Reel Quick link: https://youtu.be/qP6ASmBa7QA

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                                           (Google Images, 2018)

 

       Today, I discovered two possible NBA prospects for the 2019 NBA Draft; Charles Matthes and Jordan Poole. Starting off, Charles Matthews created a dynasty last season. Matthews is consistent with splitting defenders and has developed a baseline game the attacks the basket with a one-on-one defender. This style of play has Matthews averaging a significant amount of “and one” buckets (consecutive points caused by a foul). Matthews also plays excellent defense and defends the passing lane exceptionally well forcing numerous turnovers. For the 2017-2018 season, Matthews averaged 13.0 PPG, 5.5 RPG, and 2.4 APG. During the NCAA tournament, Matthews averaged 14.8 points and 6.2 rebounds.

            The second player that could possibly advance to the National Basketball League is:

Player Biography:

Name: Jordan Poole

Number: 2

Position: G

Height: 6-4

Weight: 190

Age: 19

Hometown: Milwaukee, Wis.

High School: La Lumiere School      

Highlight Reel Quick link: https://youtu.be/E_5sc5lSTCk

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                                          (Google Images, 2018)

 

       Jordan Poole deserves the name “Catch & Shoot.” This player confuses players by running a continuous offense and being able to catch and shoot without taking a dribble to set himself up. However, Poole has to step up his consistency every game and not take a backseat to teammate Charles Matthews. Instead, Poole needs to become more of a threat forcing coach John Beilein to keep both of the guards on the floor 90% of the time; feeding off of each other's competitive drive. Poole averaged 6.0 points, 1.4 RPG, and 0.6 APG. Poole is expected to be a threat for Michigan for the second consecutive year in the 2018-2019 season.

 

                                                                  References

 

Google. (2018). Photo [Charles Matthews]. Retrieved from http://google.com/images

Google. (2018). Photo [Jordan Poole]. Retrieved from http://google.com/images

Youtube. (2018). Player Highlights. Retrieved from https://youtu.be/qP6ASmBa7QA

YouTube. (2018). Player Highlights. Retrieved from https://youtu.be/E_5sc5lSTCk

 

University of Maryland “Terrapins”

10/9/2018

Player Biography:

Name: Bruno Fernando

Number: 23

Position: Center

Height: 6-10

Weight: 245

Age: 20

Hometown: Primero Agosto, Angola

High School: Montverde Academy

Highlight Reel Quick link: https://youtu.be/g4P8RCi00x0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                 

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      Initially, today was designed to study the Men’s basketball program at the University of Iowa. After spending over an hour researching for an elite NBA prospect, Iowa’s talent did not present the opportunity. So I advanced my research to the University of Maryland and surprisingly found Bruno Fernando.

       Bruno is by far one of the best centers in his class. Not only does he have size, but he is extremely aggressive on and off of the ball. Fernando is a great rebounder and plays strong defense. During the offseason, Fernando should shape his game with free throw line consistency. This will allow players to second guess placing him at the foul line. Fernando’s profile consists of powerful accolades such as being a 6'10", 245-pound physical profile, which led to 62.4 percent finishing mark at the rim and 11.7 rebounds and 2.2 blocks per 40 minutes. Fernando also has numerous highlight videos and full game film from the previous season. Fernando also has his own channel that provides an actual film of his workouts and new moves that he is trying to master for his upcoming competition.

 

 

                                                                         References

 

Google. (2018). Photo [Bruno Fernando]. Retrieved from http://google.com/images/

YouTube. (2018). Player Highlights. Retrieved from https://youtu.be/g4P8RCi00x0

 

Indiana “Hosiers” University

10/8/2018

Player Biography:

Name: Romeo Langford

Number: 1

Position: Guard

Height: 6-5

Weight: 190

Age: 18

School: New Albany H.S.

Hometown: New Albany, IN

Highlight Reel Quick link: https://youtu.be/Zv8zyU6E5rI

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                   (Google Images, 2018)

 

       Langford is a demolishing threat on both offense and defense. His game is respected by the three-point line or attacking the rim. Once under pressure, Langford does not back down. If his college career compares to his high school accolades, he will definitely become a competitive pick.

Langford is the talk of Indiana. It was proven that he is a top prospect to enter the 2019 NBA Draft. However, doubts surrounding Langford’s growth depends on his maturity level both on and off of the court. After finalizing today’s research, Langford averages 16.9 points; 5.3 rebounds and 2.2 assists. With Langford being from the Indiana area, his future career of a support system seems promising, and his game is well respected. While introducing myself to Langford, I captured an hour and fifteen minutes YouTube video to justify my research and gathered my thoughts of a promising elite career based off the level of competition presented on multiple highlight tapes. This playback feature allowed me to study Langford’s style of play and monitor some of his highlighted competition. A potential drawback from studying this player was choosing him as a Draft prospect even though he hasn’t played at the colligate level. Langford’s career does not begin until a few weeks from now, and most of his highlights were only judged from other high school content.

 

                                                                 References

 

Google. (2018). Photo [Romeo Langford]. Retrieved from http://google.com/images

YouTube. (2018). Player Highlights. Retrieved from https://youtu.be/Zv8zyU6E5rI

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                                   (Google Images, 2018)

Big 10 Men’s Basketball Player Biographies

10/7/18

      For years, the NBA Draft is an elite process that allows talented individuals to enter the National Basketball League. This process is developed to encourage individuals to compete and excel amongst other players who enter this process as talent is distributed around the world. Leading performances from the top elite conference players have high projections to enter the draft during its earlier rounds; often referred to as rankings. Below is a list of the 2019 NBA Mock Draft predictions for the division 1 Big Ten Conference, men’s basketball players. This list also includes potential prospects based upon the upcoming season performance statistics and are subject to change.

       Developing player biographies includes the ability to research and categorize players into a pool that best describes the competitiveness of each individual player. Elite categories often catch a sports agent’s attention to be considered for a professional sports draft. Players are then followed, and the players stats often determine the next level of play. This week was spent classifying and categorizing each player projected to enter the NBA draft within the Big Ten men’s basketball conference.

       Upon conducting research, pertinent information included a detailed background search that is not limited to:

• Size

• Age

• Educational Institution

• Educational Classification

• Career Statistics

• Upcoming Season Predictions

       Although further research will have greater projections of the NBA Draft predictions, players are highlighted, allowing agents to narrow their focus on the top elite players of the conference. Player biographies, statistics, and draft projects are subject to change and heavily relies on the performance of the players.

During this research, I recognized ten male basketball players in the Big Ten Conference. Considering the extensive research, I divided the research amongst ten days, allowing adequate time to gather as much information about these players. Once presented, the agent will have all of the necessary information to review the upcoming 2018-2019 college basketball season.

        Needless to say, today was spent researching the top prospects from each Big 10 Basketball profile. During this time, I realized it was easier to do one school per session. In completing the day, I discovered the top prospects in alphabetical order according to the academic institution. First up, was the University of Illinois. Unfortunately, their elite players did not make the final cut (me and Mr. Greene) for the NBA draft.

 

                                                                        References

Google. (2018). Photo [Big Ten]. Retrieved from http://google.com/images

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                  (Google Images, 2018)

First Things First

10/4/18

       After an hour of conversing and introducing myself with my mentor Darryl Greene, we shared the common interest of sports; particularly basketball. During this time, we discussed the upcoming season as it was approaching. Darryl and I also discussed my future plans in the sports industry and spoke about his connections with the Harlem Globetrotters. One interesting connection that sparked his interest was being a recent flight attendant who took the Globetrotter team to Long Island, New York. I spoke with multiple players as they were headed to a meeting discussing professional appearances. Those conversations also lead me to some personal contact information with a few Globetrotters.

       As conversation advanced, I briefly informed Mr. Greene about my colligate career playing basketball. Upon ending the conversation, we formatted a plan that would allow me to obtain approximately 40 hours per month. The specified plan allowed “wiggle” room to gain more hours or tapper them according to my flight schedule. Although he had many assignments in mind, he was more interested in the learning outcomes. This was a plus for me as I wanted to discover, learn, and research current sporting events and profiles. Unfortunately, due to my extensive flight schedule, we had to plan a virtual agreement. However, our communication went beyond, and we incorporated text messages, phone calls/voicemails, and emails.

 

                                                                       References

Google. (2018). Photo [Darryl Greene]. Retrieved from http://google.com/images