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Scouting Report: 2022 F Alex Karaban

By Kendyl Provost, Jr., 09/13/20, 11:32AM CDT

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OFFENSE

Offensive Role: Floor Spacer

Strengths:

Comfortable in a 4 out system where he can stretch the floor and operate as a straight line driver in space. Decent vision in the half court although he’s not a creator. Being slower actually works in his favor in terms of processing defenses. Plus shot versatility. Can dial it up with a hand in his face. Rated excellent (94%ile) on guarded catch and shoot attempts, via synergy. Good movement shooter. Can knife through defenses and spot up for threes. Maintains really good balance. Brings a lot of value as a screener on this level. If he can bulken up his pick and pop game will take off. Rated in the 97%ile as a PnP roller, via Synergy. Good finisher despite his lack of vertical explosiveness. Has good touch around the basket. Sneaky rebounder on the offensive glass. Shows the willingness to play inside.

Weaknesses:

Mixed bag as a ball handler. Footwork is a recurring issue on the perimeter. In a stationary position all is fine, but he starts running into problems when he wants to take a dribble. He’s a step ahead of himself. Turnover after turnover (mostly traveling violations) it seems when he attacks closeouts. Not a threat to put the ball on the floor to create for himself. Poor passer on the move. His go to move is right jab, dribble left. Fluctuant shooter off the dribble. Doesn’t look natural. Comes to a lengthy pause before rising into a jumper. Has a hitch at the top in his shot mechanics. Not much of a factor in the mid range area. Unlocking this part of his game is priority. Must be able to cash in on one or two dribble pull up situations.

DEFENSE

Defensive Role: Switchable / Team

Strengths:

His defensive prowess is quietly flying under the radar and could very well be his best calling card at this stage. Rated excellent in overall defense, via Synergy and the play definitely backs that up. Safely projects to the next level. He won’t blow you away in terms of shutting down a position but he brings positive value on the defensive end with his length, toughness, and awareness. He gives you solid effort and has a rock solid motor. Has a good feel and keen awareness. Just always seems to be in the correct position. Makes all the necessary rotations. Light footed. Can switch pick and rolls and hang with guards despite not being overly quick. Effective closeouts. Excellent technique as a post defender. Uses his length well. Denies entry passes and avoids fouling over the top by maintaining verticality.  Plus rebounder who fights for position down low.

Weaknesses:

You know what you’re getting out of him, so there isn’t much to dislike. Will say he’s limited as a rim protector because he’s not an explosive leaper out of a standstill. Must get stronger to combat with bigger post players at the next level. He’s also not a drop big due to his lack of athleticism. Needs to make sure he isn’t resting on his heels in space. This was the main cause if he got blown by.

Athleticism/Frame:

He’s an average athlete but finds a way around it with his skillset. Pretty agile and moves fluidly. Lacks vertical pop/athleticism. Solid frame with plus length. 4 offensively but guards multiple positions.

Additional Info:

Swing factors: Pull up shooting, handle, athleticism

Mentality overview: Tough minded prospect who competes on both ends. Seems to understand his role as a 3 and D guy.

Grade: High Major 

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