Marques Bolden NBA Draft Scouting Report

Overview
High level center prospect who has all the physical tools to excel at the next level. A raw talent with nice upside but a lot of development needed.

Strengths
Bolden has really good size and great length, making him a potential force in the paint on both ends of the floor. His 7-5 wingspan and above average athleticism give him a lot of upside potential as a rim protector. He does a nice job of blocking or changing shots without fouling and has good discipline as a defender. Does a good job of staying vertical and uses his length well.

Can guard pretty well on the perimeter for a big guy showing quick feet and good lateral movement.

He shows potential on the offensive end, even if he’s still very raw. He might not be a #1 option on offense but his post up ability, along with his willingness to do the dirty work (like setting screens and crashing the boards) makes him a high value offensive player.

He excels at crashing the offensive glass and getting put-back buckets, showing a good ability to follow the ball and predict the rebound.

His length and jumping ability allow him to play above the rim and dunk with ease.

Moves well up and down the court for a center, with long fluid strides. Is light on his feet and has good suddenness for a Big.

Weaknesses
Needs to get stronger and turn his solid frame into muscle.

Is still very raw and will likely take a few years to become a polished low post scorer. Doesn’t have much range on his shot and isn’t a very good free throw shooter. Needs to gain a better understanding of the game and get better at finding teammates out of the double team.

Has had nagging injuries and has yet to put all his talent together on the court and play with consistency.

Comparisons
A less crazy Andrew Bynum.

Projection: late first to mid second round pick in the 2018 or 2019 NBA Draft