NBA Draft Profile:
Sam Young, Pittsburgh

Posted on 14. Mar, 2009 by Justin Shulman in nba-draft

One of the few Seniors in this years draft who will be taken in the first round, Sam has been the model of consistency throughout his collegiate career. A prototypical SF who can do a little bit of everything, Sam’s game has improved every year at Pitt. Armed with a terrific body for an NBA wing, Young is 6′6 and weighs 220. More importantly Sam has led the Panthers in scoring the last two seasons, averaging a staggering 19 points per game in the highly competitive Big East Conference. During his career The Panthers have been almost as consistent as Young, going to 4 straight NCAA tournaments, and winning 2 Big East Tournaments. A proven winner, Sam Young’s draft stock has been on the rise all year.

Offensively, Sam is very well rounded. He has a unique release on his jump shot which probably worries some NBA scouts. That being said, Sam has been a highly effective shooter this season, scoring on over 50% of his attempts. He also shoots the 3 at a very respectable 37%. As a slasher, Sam possesses the instincts and desire to get to the goal, and the power to finish once he gets there. The one area where Young needs alot of work is with his handle. His ability (or lack of ability) to dribble, limits the way he can take the ball to the rack. On the college level Young was able to take the game over from time to time. This was evident during his 31 point performance over than #1 Connecticut. I don’t think Sam will be asked too many times to put a team on his shoulders at the next level, but the experience should help him stay poised in late game situations.

Defense is the most impressive part of Sam’s game. He works as hard as any wing in the country and has the necessary tangibles required to guard NBA caliber small forwards. He has an excellent wing span, and pretty good lateral movement. Whether he will be able to shut down wings that are quicker and stronger than him remains to be seen, but no one will question his desire to be great on both ends of the floor.

Will be selected: Pick # 12-24
NBA Comparison- Josh Howard