I could write my own evaluation of a point guard prospect and it would be fine. But I don't know as much about certain pro prospects as the fans who followed them in college every step of the way. This series, will interview the fans and bloggers from the point guard's college to see if we can gain any better insight into their games.
This is an interview with Jerry Steinberg of SBNation's Miami Hurricanes Blog "State of the U."
Clark:
What are your thoughts on Larkin's future in the NBA? What are his strengths and weaknesses moving to the next level?
Jerry:
First and foremost, I think Larkin has a long NBA career ahead of him.
Shane's athleticism is off the charts. I believe his vertical was something like 44 inches last year, and he was easily one of the fastest point guards in the nation last year. His handle and shooting are exceptional. FSU head coach Leonard Hamilton pointed out he also has the "it" factor you look for in a clutch performer. He also has a great feel for running the pick and roll and making good decisions in a high screen offense.
Shane's athleticism is off the charts. I believe his vertical was something like 44 inches last year, and he was easily one of the fastest point guards in the nation last year. His handle and shooting are exceptional. FSU head coach Leonard Hamilton pointed out he also has the "it" factor you look for in a clutch performer. He also has a great feel for running the pick and roll and making good decisions in a high screen offense.
That being said, he struggled a little bit when he became the focal point of Miami's offense and faced more double teams toward the end of the season. At 5'10, he also does not have the ideal size many NBA Coaches covet.
Clark:
Do you think Larkin is ready for the NBA and is there a team or a system that you think would fit his skill set well?
Jerry:
Shane would be best suited to sit behind an experienced PG and learn the ins and outs of the NBA game for a year or two. With the right coaching, he has the upside to be a Ty Lawson/Tony Parker like player on the next level. If he does not improve his floor game and decision making I see him more as a Tyrone Lue type, who can still be a pest as a defender.
Clark:
What is something that people would only know about Shane Larkin if they followed him closely?
Jerry:
Shane listens closely to what the media and fans have to say about him and his game, and uses it as fuel to improve. Like his hall-of-fame dad, he works very hard to improve his game on a regular basis.
Clark:
What is your prediction for where Larkin will be selected in the draft and by what team?
Jerry:
I think the savvy front office of the San Antonio Spurs will take Larkin, and groom him as the heir apparent to Tony Parker. That being said, Utah would be smart to give Shane a long look. Adding Larkin to their talented front court (and) Gordon Hayward, would make a lot of sense.
Thanks to Jerry for taking the time to answer. I thought he gave a really nice look into Larkin's game, while being fair. I think it was also apparent that Larkin does pay close attention to media and things around him, as evidenced by his ability to name a large part of the Jazz roster in interviews with Amar and Mychal.
For more info and writing on Shane Larking, check out these links: