All I Know is that Austin Rivers is One Hell of a Basketball Player

Soon- to- be Duke Freshman Austin Rivers
Source: www.jockpost.com

If you go to NBAdraft.net, Austin Rivers is currently, only ranked #11 as far the 2012 NBA mock draft is concerned. I just don’t know if ten months from now that will still be the case. Regardless, if people are not so high on Austin Rivers, all I know is that Doc’s son can really ball.

 

Austin Rivers during the McDonald's All- American Game

Source: www.artcles.orlandosentinel.com

The soon- to- be Duke Freshman was named National Player of the Year and also Mr. Basketball in the state of Florida. He played for Winter Park High School and led them to back to back state titles. He was also a McDonald’s All- American and he also participated in the Nike Hoops Summit as part of team USA. But more than anything else, Austin Rivers’ game is tailor fit for the NBA style of basketball. He can flat- out shoot. He is a tall point guard at 6’4. He can also play the off- guard position. In addition, Austin is also very athletic as he was an ESPN sensation because of all the highlights he put up during his senior year. Then, of course, his basketball I.Q. is just really tremendous and his work ethic is fantastic according to his High School coach David Bailey.

There are some criticisms to his game like he does not have a definite position because he is more of a combo guard. He scores well, but that is the only thing he does. He is not a good enough defender at the next level. And in a way, they are fair criticisms, but let us also remember that he is only entering his freshman year at Duke and he will have one full year with Coach K. Then, let us also not forget that his dad is one of the best coaches in the NBA, who led Boston to a championship in ‘08 and turned Rajon Rondo into a Superstar point guard. 

It all boils down to seeing this kid play because once you seem him, all you can really say is that “Damn, this guy is special. He is one hell of a baller.”

I once wrote on my “Friendster” account, some years back before “Facebook” came along that a high school kid from Chicago named Derrick Rose will be the number one pick in the 2008 NBA draft. And this was before he even suited up for the Memphis Tigers. Most of my friends did not agree with me then. Some of them even called me crazy. And now, after D- Rose won Rookie of the Year in 2008- 2009, and then won the MVP last season, my only meek reply to them is a funny smile.:)

Austin Rivers will be a star in the NBA. He may be ranked #11 now in a very strong draft with studs like Harrison Barnes, Jared Sullinger, Anthony Davis and James McAdoo. But still, I am very sure that ten months from now, that will not be the case anymore. Don’t be surprised if he even ends up at number 1.