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2016 NBA Mock Draft: Top Prospects Entering March Madness

By Maxwell Ogden

Mar 5, 2016; Lexington, KY, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Jamal Murray (23) reacts from the court during the game against the LSU Tigers in the second half at Rupp Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 5, 2016; Lexington, KY, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Jamal Murray (23) reacts from the court during the game against the LSU Tigers in the second half at Rupp Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 16, 2016; Starkville, MS, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores guard Wade Baldwin IV (4) brings the ball up court during the first half against the Mississippi State Bulldogs at Humphrey Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Spruce Derden-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 16, 2016; Starkville, MS, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores guard Wade Baldwin IV (4) brings the ball up court during the first half against the Mississippi State Bulldogs at Humphrey Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Spruce Derden-USA TODAY Sports /

18. Wade Baldwin IV, Vanderbilt Commodores

Position: Point Guard

Age: 19 (3/29/1996)

Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’3″, 194 pounds, 6’10”

Slash Line: .430/.414/.796

Season Averages: 30.3 MPG, 14.3 PPG, 5.2 APG, 4.0 RPG, 1.2 SPG, 1.3 3PM

Analysis

Wade Baldwin IV has all of the physical gifts necessary to make an impact at the next level. He’s a 6’3″ and muscular 194 pounds with an unreal 6’10” wingspan and the smooth athleticism that should maximize the value of his gifts.

Coupled with a jump shot that he’s ready and willing to release from just about anywhere, Baldwin could be the sleeper of this draft class.

Beyond his obviously impressive physical stature is a skill set that screams potential stardom. He can shoot from well beyond the 3-point line, is one of the Top 5 passers in this draft class, and knows how to use his body against smaller defenders.

The issue for Baldwin has been finishing against players bigger than he.

In the NBA, where the giants roam, Baldwin’s biggest issue will be going against players who can match or exceed his size—both at his position and in the paint. That’s quite the red flag, but Baldwin’s skill level and wingspan are too intriguing to entirely overlook.

If he can learn to play better against superior size and length, Baldwin can be a stud in the NBA. He already draws fouls at a tremendous rate.

Next: Oddly Overlooked