NBA Mock Draft 2016: New Year's Resolutions

NBA Mock Draft 2016: New Year’s Resolutions

Dec 25, 2015; Honolulu, HI, USA; Oklahoma Sooners guard Buddy Hield (24) flashes a "shaka" sign after the game against the Harvard Crimson at the Stan Sheriff Center. Oklahoma Sooners defeated the Harvard Crimson 83-71. Hield was named MVP of the tournament. Mandatory Credit: Marco Garcia-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 12, 2015; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners guard Buddy Hield (24) brings the ball up the court against the Oral Roberts Golden Eagles during the first half at Lloyd Noble Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports /

24. Buddy Hield, Oklahoma Sooners

Position: Shooting Guard

Age: 22

Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’4.5″, 215 pounds, 6’8.5″

Slash Line: .495/.494/.905

Season Averages: 31.8 MPG, 24.7 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 1.8 APG, 1.4 SPG, 3.3 3PM

New Year’s Resolution: Keep On Pushing

Buddy Hield is an early frontrunner for National Player of the Year. The 22-year-old is averaging 24.7 points per game on an obscene slash line of .495/.494/.905 for the 12-0 Oklahoma Sooners.

The question in NBA circles is as simple as it is complex: can he thrive at the next level?

Hield will turned 22 on December 17, which means he’ll be 23 during what projects to be his rookie NBA season in 2016-17—something relatively meaningless in the grand scheme of things. He’s relatively undersized at 6’4.5″, but he boasts a strong 215-pound frame with a 6’8.5″ wingspan and an NBA-caliber skill set.

Hield is a dynamic slasher and lights-out shooter who welcomes contact, makes plays on defense, and isn’t afraid of big moments. Most importantly, Hield is a high-character player who loves the game, competes every time out, and will help bring a locker room together.

His efficiency will inevitably decline, but all Hield needs to do is continue playing his heart out to compete for a spot as a lottery pick.

Next: College Star or NBA Player?