@PrepHoopsTN Summer Combine Evaluations: Part XI

Andrew Force August 9, 2022 @ 04:26 PM

Bradin Buchanan's straight-line sprint speed was just ok (4.1, 4.1) during the late June combine. His most impressive time occurred in the Lane Agility Drill (11.56, 11.31). Buchanan showed the capacity to be a reliable two-way player by demonstrating a convincing shooting touch and the kind of lateral mobility to defend the 1-2 positions. Further, Buchanan is clearly devoted to the weight room making it possible that he will eventually be capable of guarding an NAIA-level small forward for stretches.

How did he measure against the competition?

Class of 2025
6'0"
Wingspan -- 6'2"
Standing Reach -- 7'6.5"
3/4 Court Sprint -- 3.8, 3.9
Lane Agility -- 11.59, 11.27
Shuttle Run -- 3.9, 3.5
Camp Ranking -- #34

[player_tooltip player_id='1548922' first='Eli' last='Gaines'] ('25 PG)

NBA Stylistic Comparison: 2021 Lakers Kendrick Nunn
College Projection: NAIA

Eli Gaines Eli Gaines 6'1" | SG Chattanooga Prep | 2025 GA posted a lovely +2 difference [wingspan = height]. Light on his feet. Strong legs. Quicks are good, not yet great, but every indication is that Eli Gaines Eli Gaines 6'1" | SG Chattanooga Prep | 2025 GA will be a problematic slasher this winter thanks to his handle and quickness.

Gaines did not demonstrate any shooting range at the combine, but it may be there. He just did not take any shots away from 10' in the limited five-on-five portion of the event. Gaines' upper body and lower body are strong. He displayed more competence with the basketball than playing away from it, as a shooting guard. Of course, every team featured multiple point guards, so Gaines was occasionally operating as a two-guard. He projects as a lead guard though. Learning how to effectively drag and move his defender when he is moving off of the ball will be helpful all the same.

Needs to develop a deadly outside shot. Respected teammate.

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