The Sixer Sense
Fansided

2019 NBA Draft Big Board 1.0

By Christopher Kline

ATLANTA, GA - MARCH 28: Nassir Little #10 of Orlando Christian Prep drives against Zion Williamson #12 of Spartanburg Day School during the 2018 McDonald's All American Game at Philips Arena on March 28, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - MARCH 28: Nassir Little #10 of Orlando Christian Prep drives against Zion Williamson #12 of Spartanburg Day School during the 2018 McDonald's All American Game at Philips Arena on March 28, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /
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HOUSTON, TX – JUNE 21: Darius Bazley of Team USA shoots the ball during practice at the University of Houston on June 21, 2018 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Bill Baptist/NBAE via Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TX – JUNE 21: Darius Bazley of Team USA shoots the ball during practice at the University of Houston on June 21, 2018 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Bill Baptist/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Bazley is trying to set a new precedent, forgoing college basketball in favor of spending next season in the G-League. He makes money, gets to work under an NBA staff, and should be well-positioned for first-round consideration come June.

With that said, there is some downside. He won’t get the same exposure — at least not on a national scale — playing in the G-League. There are also questions about whether or not coaches will be motivated to play an underdeveloped, younger player who could join a different organization on draft night.

Nonetheless, Bazley does present a number of promising NBA traits. At 6-foot-9, he’s a fluid ball-handler with upside at both forward spots. He can face-up, spread the floor and attack closeouts. Strengthening his frame and becoming a viable stretch four should be his focus.

His defensive versatility is another appealing asset given his size and athleticism. If Bazley can succeed at the semi-professional level, he has a chance to rise up draft boards.