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Sunday, April 13, 2014

NBA Draft Profile: Jordan Clarkson

Jordan Clarkson, a redshirt junior PG, declared for the NBA Draft last week. He is projected by many to be a late first round draft pick. Clarkson stand 6'5", 190 lbs and averaged 17.5 points per game and 3.8 rebounds per game last year as a Tiger.

The Good:
Clarkson is going to be on the taller side of NBA point guards, at 6'5". He utilizes his size to bully smaller guards and get the rim, where he is an above-average finisher. Clarkson's length helps him get in passing lanes and aggravate smaller guards on defense. The Tulsa transfer also spent the year he sat out at Missouri going head-to-head in practice everyday against Boston Celtics guard Phil Pressey. Clarkson beat up on the 5'10" Pressey with his size and spectacular athleticism. Clarkson's court vision is exceptional, and his height certainly helps him see over the defense. Clarkson is a great free throw shooter at 83.1%. When he gets on a roll, he can hit multiple threes in a row. He pushes the ball in transition and can finish through contact with both hands. Clarkson is speedy and shifty, and he can blow by guards using his speed and nice handles.

The Bad:
Clarkson is not a consistent shooter at all. He only shot 28.1% from three this season. The only time he made more than two threes in one game this year was his 3-5 performance against UCLA. Clarkson also turns the ball over too much at times. He tries to force the issue on offense and often ends up getting stripped. He telegraphs his passes on offense and gets easily frustrated.

The Low-down:
Clarkson is a super-athletic, tall point guard who can score the basketball. His shooting needs work, but his finishing at the rim is a strong suit.  His passing ability is strong, but about average for a point guard.

Pro Comparison:

A 6'5" Peyton Siva

Draft Slot:
Mid-Late First Round

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