Jerryd Bayless SELECTED BY: Indiana Pacers, Round 1(11) traded to Trail Blazers

SI Rank 9 GRADING SYSTEM

BIOGRAPHY: Quick and explosive, Bayless possesses great open-court speed and a first step that makes him very difficult to defend in the half-court game. He averaged 19.7 points and 4.0 assists in 2007-08, his only collegiate season. Put together a dominant three-game stretch from Feb. 10-16, when he averaged 34.3 points for the Wildcats. A strong 3-point shooter, he averaged 40.7 percent from beyond the arc for the season. Has great lift, form and quick release on jump shot, and combined with his elusiveness, he has the ability to easily create his own shot. He has a strong feel for the two-man game in the half court, and will use picks and screens effectively to find open space. Bayless goes aggressively to the hoop and looks to get to the foul line. He has swagger and presence on the court, but balances that with sound basketball skills and a head for the game. His height could be a problem in the NBA, as he's smaller than many shooting guards and lacks the playmaking abilities needed in a full-time point guard. The problem is compounded by him not having long arms, which may hamper his ability to defend big shooting guards and contain quick point guards. However, he's a determined defender. Just 19 years old, he can tend to get out of control with the ball occasionally, a problem that should disappear with maturity. His youth also leads to emotions getting the best of him at times, which affects his game. He also needs to grow physically and add bulk, as wearing down is a concern. Fatigue may have gotten the best of Bayless toward the end of last season, as his scoring and effectiveness dropped over the last nine games. He's also battled injury problems. Despite immediate concerns stemming from his youth and inexperience, Bayless has great upside and the skills to become a star player in the NBA. He's likely to be chosen in the first five picks.