When USC first identified James as 6’4″, it seemed like he had the ideal height for his position. However, actual measurements showed he was 6’1″, which initially hindered his draft stock. In a sport where every inch can make a significant difference, this discrepancy was notable. Despite this, James had the opportunity to showcase his skills during the Combine. In his first game, he flew under the radar, but he significantly improved in the second, catching the attention of scouts and analysts.
Is James clearly among the top 58 prospects in this year’s draft? That’s a matter of perspective and heavily depends on a front office’s player evaluation preferences. Some teams might prioritize height and physical attributes, while others may focus more on skill, potential, and fit within their existing roster. Given his performance and improvement at the Combine, it’s reasonable to believe that James has a solid chance to end up on an NBA team next season, either through the draft or as a two-way player.
The journey to the NBA is rarely straightforward, and James’s path is a testament to that. While height discrepancies initially posed a challenge, his ability to adapt and improve when it mattered most highlights his potential. The draft is as much about potential and fit as it is about current ability, and James has shown he can rise to the occasion.
Front offices will undoubtedly weigh his Combine performance, his college stats, and his overall potential when making their decisions. Whether he lands in the top 58 or not, James has proven that he deserves a shot at the NBA. The path forward might be through the draft or signing as a two-way player, but either way, his future in professional basketball looks promising.
Ultimately, the draft is just the beginning. It’s what players do with their opportunity that truly defines their career. For James, the real work begins once he’s on an NBA team, where he’ll have the chance to prove that he belongs in the league, regardless of where he was picked.
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