Coach Lav's Breakdown
First Team
Levance Fields, PG (Pittsburgh)
"Hailing from Brooklyn, NY, this guard is as active as a bumble bee. Fields had a phenomenal four-year run at Pittsburgh, culminating in some huge performances during March Madness '09. Levance isn't the tallest or the quickest point guard, but what sets him apart from the crowd are his intangibles, work ethic, and determination. He's very effective at running the offense and is a clutch jump shooter, especially in big games."
"A regular All-Conference performer, McNeal shattered numerous Golden Eagle records. With a silky smooth jump shot and a well-rounded game, McNeal is the quintessential college player. One of my biggest surprises on Draft Day was that all 60 picks went by without Jerel's name being called."
"A very heady, offensive minded player who is one of the best spot-up shooters in the country. Christmas has exhibited a penchant for taking control of games with sizzling hot shooting performances. Dionte's wiry 6'5" build and prolific scoring ability make him one to track."
"This power forward has lumberjack strength with a rugged approach to the game. At 6'6," Adrien is undersized for his position, but he manages to compensate with his 7'2" wingspan. (Jeff nearly averaged a double-double over his last 3 years at UConn.) His physical presence, lunch pail work ethic, and warrior's mentality are sure to impress NBA and overseas scouts alike."
"An up-and-down college career may have made some NBA teams think twice about taking a chance on this 6'11" Gonzaga product. However, with excellent size, a solid frame, a sweet jump shot, and the ability to mix it up inside, Heytvelt has all the tools to be successful at the next level."
Second Team
"After testing the NBA waters at the end of his junior year, Pargo decided to return to Spokane for one more year. Over the course of this past season, Pargo improved his ball handling, decision making, and shot selection. An effective passer and scorer, Pargo combines finesse and power in his game. Following in the footsteps of his brother Jannero, Jeremy has the potential to carve out an NBA career for himself as well. Until that happens, he's sure to be a star in Europe."
Tyrese Rice, SG (Boston College)
"Rice is a diminutive, lefty combo guard who, pound for pound, was one of the most productive players in all of college basketball. The accolades are endless for Rice who was All-ACC for all four years. Don't forget his 25 points and 8 assists to lead BC over the National Champ Tar Heels at the Dean Dome last season. With a pure jump shot and a feared scoring mentality, Rice reminds me of Nick Van Exel, the one-time Bearcat and NBA guard. Tyrese is one to keep an eye on."
"Xavier continues to produce outstanding basketball players, and B.J. Raymond is one of the best Musketeers in recent memory. A big, strong, 6'6" wing player, Raymond's greatest asset is his versatility and diverse skill set. He's a solid shooter from beyond the arc and has the ability to put the ball on the floor and get to the rim. With a 6'9" wingspan and fundamental base on both sides of the ball, European teams will be clamoring to get him signed."
"Landry is a 'jack of all trades' and when asked to rebound, score, or block a shot he simply delivers. Having four years in the rugged Big-Ten under his belt and wearing many different hats, Landry is an intriguing prospect. Despite being athletically limited for a wing and height challenged for a true power forward, Landry makes up for what he lacks with his ingenuity, leadership ability, and sound court sense."
"At 7'2", 265, this mammoth of a man is at his best under the basket, crashing the boards with authority. His deft shooting touch and ability to finish in the paint are the strengths of Nevill's game. It seems appropriate that Luke is an Aussie, as he's a force down under!"
Third Team
"James is an explosive guard whose quick first step gives him the ability to penetrate and get to the rack. Before James' late-season foot injury, his enhanced playmaking skills set the table for his fellow Golden Eagles, McNeal and Matthews. NBA evaluators are concerned about Dominic's compact size, yet he is a pesky defender with a competitive spirit."
"Abrams is a bona fide three point specialist, a dynamic two guard tucked in a point guard's body. He was one of the most prolific and consistent shooters in the Big 12 and NCAA throughout his 4-year career at Texas. With his exceptional offensive skill set, Abrams will get serious consideration in free-agency and will be a valuable asset to a team who needs a scorer."
"A small forward who has flown below the national media radar for most of his career, Cummard is an accurate outside shooter with a quick-trigger release. He has been compared by some to Mike Miller, as he has an aggressive offensive mindset for a player with his slender frame. Few small forwards around the country in 2008-09 were more complete offensive players than this BYU product."
"It would be hard to find a player with more heart and tenacity than Tony Gaffney. He is particularly proficient at setting ball screens for teammates and freeing himself up for easy baskets. But defense is where Gaffney truly shines, with an unusual ability to impose his disruptive presence on opponents. Tony is capable of blocking opponents' shots from any angle, and he's an exceptional rebounder to boot."
"Big John Bryant remade himself last season by dropping 30 pounds, improving his agility in a big way. Bryant averaged 14.2 rebounds last season, second only to #1 draft pick, Blake Griffin, in the entire NCAA. The 2009 WCC Player of the Year could make some noise at the next level."