2011 Recruits That You Will See In The 2012 NBA Draft

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

Photo credits to Rivals.com

Yes, I know the 2011 NBA draft hasn't been spoken about a lot nor occurred yet. However, that will not prevent me from speculating which one-and-done players reside in the 2011 recruiting class.

Now, you thought the 2010 draft class was impressive, wait till you witness the talent and upside of the athletes in the 2012 class.

They certainly impressed me as well as scouts nationwide. To be pegged as a NBA draft pick in your junior year of High School has to make you content and anxious.

Nonetheless, these players are just speculation. I'm basing this solely on the talent, upside and who could be NBA ready after their freshman year of College Basketball.

G - Austin Rivers 6'4''

Rivers is stuck between the one and two but that only shows his versatility. We're talking about a guy that is virtually unguardable. Rivers has displayed eye-popping numbers in his High School days already. His jab steps, shot and dribble-drive is everything he needs to go to work. His jab steps are crafty and it always creates space for him to fire three-balls. His dribble-drive is notable because of his ability to finish strong around the rim with fancy layups or dunks.

G - Tony Wroten Jr. 6'4''

Wroten is an under-the-radar guard from the 2011 class. He has made great strides this off-season to prove he is among the best. He had a great run on the US team as well as the camps he participated in. He finds his teammates, scores and most importantly leads. On defense, his frame is beneficial. His lateral quickness allows him to keep the defender in front and stop penetration.

G -Kentavious Caldwell 6'4''

Caldwell is one of the best scoring threats in the class. He is equipped with a wonderful jumper. He get's great lift as well as a fluid release. To commend his shooting stroke comes his ability to attack the paint. He has solid build that benefits when driving to the lane. He makes hustle plays and tracks down the ball on defense. He is certainly league bound.

G - Marquis Teague 6'2''

Teague is very similar to his brother Jeff Teague. At such a small height both are blessed with explosive leaping ability. Marquis favors dunking on opponents. I know this because of the repetitive occurrences. That tells you he likes to play above the rim. He is also equipped with a decent jump shot. Expanding his range will be crucial come March of 2011. 

F - LeBryan Nash 6'7''

Nash is a great wing threat.  He can stretch the defense with his great jump shooting ability that ranges out pass the College three-point line. In addition, he is equipped with solid ball handling skills as well as great athleticism and leaping ability. He has NBA body and will be a key element for whatever team acquires him. Although, he shouldn't fall in love with his shot.

F - Quincy Miller 6'9''

Miller's maturity and skill level exceeds his peers. As a High School Senior-to-be, Miller has the ability to enter the draft. Miller has tremendous upside and a frame that continues to grow. He developed great ball handling skills that continue to improve. He expanded his jumper and continues to improve that as well. Not to mention, he can finish strong around the rim with dunks over the opposition. The big misconception of Miller is he falls in love with offense. He plays on the defensive end as well. He uses his length and high basketball I.Q to time steals and blocks perfectly. 

F - Anthony Davis 6'10''

Davis the late bloomer impressed a lot of scouts with his versatility. He can play up to three positions on the court. He can shoot the basketball better than most guards. Not to mention, his dribble-drive definitely creates a difficult matchup for any four man in the country. On the defensive end, his length allows him to intimidate and become an absolute vacuum on the boards. His length, defensive intensity, offensive play and upside solidifies Davis league-bound.

F - Michael Gilchrist 6'7''

Gilchrist has been considered the number one overall player for most of the year. However, with the emergence of Davis he might lose the spot. Nonetheless, that doesn't take away what Gilchrist has done. He has the ability to become a great mid-range threat. Once he expands his game he'll be virtually unstoppable. Talk about a player that excels on every stage he is placed upon. In fact, Gilchrist put up 26 on the lengthy forward Davis in the Nike Hoops Peach Jam Tournament. Gilchrist is a very talented leader and scorer. It will certainly be tough to keep him around for more than one-year.

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