T.J. FORD

Position: PG Class: Early Entry School: Texas High School: Willowridge (TX) Conference: Big 12 Ht., Wt.: 5'11, 165 Selected by Milwaukee Bucks Round 1, pick 8 (8 overall)

BIO: Ford is an early-entry candidate after spending two seasons at Texas. Ford received Naismith and Wooden Player of the Year honors last season after leading the Longhorns to their first NCAA Final Four since 1947. As a freshman, he led the nation in assists with 8.3 per game. Ford is a noted winner -- not only did Texas reach the "Sweet 16" and the Final Four in his two seasons, but Willowridge High School in Houston won a pair of state titles in his last two seasons there. Ford is still honing his shooting ability since he shot just 26.5 percent (18-of-68) from beyond the arc last season. ANALYSIS: Ford has all the attributes to be a great point guard, which he's proven so far at the high school and collegiate levels. There's no doubt he'll do the same in the NBA. As a freshman in 2001-2002, Ford became the first rookie to lead the NCAA in assists. This past season, Ford led the Longhorns to the Final Four. He's a great leader with tremendous quickness, court vision and ball-handling ability. This year, he was asked to score more, and he showed that wasn't a problem. His only weakness is his stature. For a point guard in today's NBA, Ford is short and slight. Weight room work will help him gain bulk and strength, which he's going to need in the pros. POSITIVES: Ford is the purest point guard to come into the league since Jason Kidd in 1994. He has a high basketball IQ, great floor vision, and has a pass-first mentality. Despite the fact that the 5-10 guard can throw down 360-degree dunks, you will not see much pizzazz in Ford's game. He emulates the New York Knicks' dependable but unflashy floor general Howard Eisley. NEGATIVES: Standing just 5-10 and 165 pounds can be an obstacle in the NBA, but not having a jump shot to go with that small frame is nearly a death wish. Most players who fit that description would not even be drafted. The fact that Ford is a probable top-10 selection speaks volumes about his talent. Even so, Ford will have to improve his outside shooting to excel in the NBA, because he is not growing to 6-5. PROJECTION: Early First Round 2002 - 2003 Season Stats Photo: Ronald Martinez/Getty Images