Offense
Strengths
- Strong outlet passes to advance up-court
- Relentless offensive rebounder with a great nose for the ball
o Understands that the ball goes opposite of where the shot comes from and positioning is most important
- Strong post moves around the rim
o Incorporates drop-step, pump-fakes, and counter moves routinely
o Gets to the foul line often and hits his free throws
- Has shown potential with mid-range/perimeter game
o Releases the ball at the peak of his jump
o Needs more reps to create more confidence and reinforce form—capability is there
Weaknesses
- Has trouble with length and athleticism around the rim
- Not super explosive
Defense
Strengths
- Bodies offensive players for position
- Timing when blocking shots
- Stays down on fakes, doesn’t try to block every shot
o Stays out of foul trouble
- Soft but strong hands
- Boxes out his man consistently
o Displays excellent fundamentals
o Hustles for balls within and outside of his area
- Strong
o Lower body is
- Plays with effort in the passing lanes
Weaknesses
- Perimeter defense
o Contesting shots
Jared Sullinger has been one of the most consistent players in the country, and in this analysts opinion, the most valuable player overall. Blessed with a perfect body for banging around in the post, Sullinger is a power forward who controls his territory in the paint below the rim by wearing out the other team at both ends with his physical prowess. Offensively, Sullinger has an NBA-ready post game, a developing outside jump shot (which he doesn’t need to shoot too often at this level), and rebounds with a purpose. Although he doesn’t have neither the superb athleticism nor the ideal height, Sully comes to play every night and has consistently shown throughout the year that he adapts quickly to competition—an attribute that is invaluable for the next level. Scouts may not feel that he has the ceiling that some of the other players in his class might have, but if you select Sullinger there aren't many questions, besides his health, to ask concerning the type of player that is being taken.
--Ed Isaacson--
