NBA Draft 2017 Prospect Watch: Lonzo Ball

Strengths

Lonzo Ball is one of the most intriguing and polarizing prospects available in a quickly-evolving NBA. He has size, smarts, and skills. The 6’6″ point guard spent the past year on the college stage showcasing what a triple-double threat point guard looks like.

Simply put, Lonzo Ball is a joy to watch. And that isn’t an understatement. He brought NBA-level court vision to UCLA this year, constantly setting the table for his teammates.

Passing is Ball’s premier skill, and watching him this past season, he didn’t look like a college player. UCLA didn’t look like a college offense. I’m not giving credit to coach Steve Alford or Ball’s supporting cast; the success and sheer enjoyment of UCLA this season can be credited almost entirely to Lonzo Ball.

The way in which Ball approaches the game just looks different to most other college players — flashy, yet controlled. He moves with confidence and intelligence, unlike most frantic and one-dimensional college guards.

In addition to setting his teammates up, Ball can also shoot from deep, and his length allows him to be a pest on the boards and in passing lanes.

Overall, Ball is an impressive talent who already looks to have the kind of polish needed for him to be ready to graduate to the NBA.