San Antonio Spurs 2nd Round Draft Prospect: Brandon Ashley

Brandon Ashley: 20-years old, Arizona, Power Forward

Draft Express Measurements (Draft Combine): 6″8.5, 228-pounds, 7″3.25 wingspan

2014-15 Stats: 12.2 points, 5.2 rebounds, 0.7 assists, 0.7 blocks, 0.6 steals, 51% field goals, 70% free-throws, 12-36 threes, 27.8 minutes

Quick Season Review: As a sophomore in 2013-14, Brandon Ashley’s season ended in disappointment. The Wildcats were 21-0 when Ashley injured his right foot in the first few minutes of the game against California. The Wildcats lost the game and Ashley missed the rest of the season. He didn’t play in the Pac-12 tourney and most importantly, he missed the big dance. This season that didn’t happen, the Wildcats made a run to the elite 8, where they lost to runner-up Wisconsin. Ashley was a big part of the Wildcats success as he brought constant energy and was second in the team in scoring. Ashley ended the regular season terrifically, as he averaged 19 points and 6.8 rebounds in the five games, before the NCAA Tournament. In the tournament, Ashley averaged 11.5 points and 3 rebounds.

Strengths: Good athlete (35.5-inch vertical) that runs the floor better than most power forwards. Gets after it defensively on most nights, due to quick feet and length. Can defend both forward spots like ex-teammate Aaron Gordon. Solid face-up jumper. Makes free-throws. Makes plays above the rim. Can score without ball.

Weaknesses: A bit undersized for a power forward, not enough offensive skills as a small forward. A bit of a “tweener”. Can improve rebounder. Must improve in post. Despite competing on defense on a consistent basis, doesn’t block shots. (Surprising considering length and athletic ability)

Where He Would Help Spurs?

Brandon Ashley will bring much needed energy down low for the Spurs. Can defend multiple positions and he is a team guy.

NBA Comparison: Poor man’s version of Aaron Gordon

Certainly not the athlete or doesn’t have the potential of Aaron Gordon. This is a good comparison, as both were tweeners and need improvement in post. Both also showed improvement in jumper.

Below is a Brandon Ashley highlight video uploaded by North Dallas.

Next: Spurs 2nd Round Draft Prospect: Dakari Johnson