MARCUS BANKS

Position: PG School: UNLV High School: Cimarron-Memorial (NV) Conference: MWC Ht., Wt.: 6'1, 200 Selected by Memphis Grizzlies Round 1, pick 13 (13 overall) Traded to Celtics

BIO: Banks spent two seasons at Nevada-Las Vegas after transferring from Dixie Community College in Utah. Banks was one of the most explosive scorers in the country a year ago after averaging 20.3 points to rank second in the Mountain West Conference. Banks has displayed improved point-guard skills and led the MWC with 5.5 assists per game. Banks is a tremendous athlete who played football in high school and is a cousin of former Arizona State guard Ron Riley, a second-round selection by Seattle in 1996. Banks is also a tremendous defender who came up with 91 steals a year ago. Banks is an example of a late bloomer who is quickly maturing into an intriguing pro prospect. ANALYSIS: Banks had a strong senior season, leading the Runnin' Rebels in scoring and assists. He has some attributes that could serve him well in the pros, most notably his body, which at 200 pounds, is already solid. He can also defend, as he uses his quick hands and speed to full advantage. Banks can penetrate and knows how to find open teammates once he leaves his defender. He had a solid shooting effort his senior season (51 percent from the field, 33 from 3-point range and 75 percent from the free-throw line). Height is a drawback. POSITIVES: Banks is a terrific scorer with an unbelievable ability to shake his defender and get in the lane. He possesses a rock-solid body and gets strong elevation to finish. On the perimeter, his shooting is equally as strong. NEGATIVES: Although Banks is a good passer, he is a poor decision-maker. He commits turnovers on a regular basis, making wild passes or trying to do too much with his dribble. Can Banks be depended upon to run an offense? The answer will determine whether Banks can succeed in the NBA. PROJECTION: Mid First Round 2002 - 2003 Season Stats