2016 NBA Draft: Who Shined on Day 1 of Sweet 16?

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March 24, 2016; Anaheim, CA, USA; Oklahoma Sooners head coach Lon Kruger speaks to guard Buddy Hield (24) against Texas A&M Aggies during the first half of the semifinal game in the West regional of the NCAA Tournament at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports /

Buddy Hield, Oklahoma Sooners

Opponent: Texas A&M Aggies (3)

Result: 77-63, W

Stat Line: 38 minutes, 17 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists, 6/13 FG, 2/7 3PT, 3/5 FT

Position: Shooting Guard

Age: 22 (12/17/1993)

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

Analysis

Buddy Hield didn’t put forth his greatest performance during the Sweet 16, but he had an important outing. It was one of his less efficient outings, but he managed to make a significant impact without his shot falling—something that many are concerned he’ll be unable to do.

In a 77-63 Oklahoma Sooners victory over the Texas A&M Aggies, Hield contributed in multiple phases to help his team reach the Elite Eight.

Hield recorded 17 points, 10 rebounds, and three assists, which is normally a good enough stat line to intrigue the masses. He shot just 2-of-7 from beyond the arc and 3-of-5 at the free throw line, however, which are far below the marks expected of him.

Hield’s contributions as a rebounder and facilitator were the very definition of ideal.

If Hield can provide a solid impact on the boards and as a facilitator, he can round into the all-around contributor that most expect a shooting guard to be. His jump shot is genuinely elite, and it’d be reasonable to call him the best shooter in this draft class

The question is, can Hield lead Oklahoma past the No. 1 seed Oregon Ducks and into the Final Four?

Next: Pushing for No. 1

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