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NBA Draft Combine Doesn’t Matter To These Players

By Ryan Blackburn

Jun 25, 2015; Brooklyn, NY, USA; NBA commissioner Adam Silver speaks at the conclusion of the first round of the 2015 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 25, 2015; Brooklyn, NY, USA; NBA commissioner Adam Silver speaks at the conclusion of the first round of the 2015 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 9, 2016; Des Moines, IA, USA; Wichita State Shockers guard Ron Baker (31) gestures from the court against the Drake Bulldogs during the first half at Knapp Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 9, 2016; Des Moines, IA, USA; Wichita State Shockers guard Ron Baker (31) gestures from the court against the Drake Bulldogs during the first half at Knapp Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports /

Ron Baker – 3/4-Court Sprint

Ron Baker was never one of the most athletic players on the court, but he is always one of the hardest workers.

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    • As a junior and a senior, Baker led Wichita State on both offense and defense, making some tough shots and being a mistake free player his coach could always rely on. His 1.5 turnovers per game are a great example.

    A player shouldering as much responsibility as Baker would usually make mistakes, but as a senior (and before as a junior and sophomore) he was always intelligent.

    His calling card in the NBA will likely be his defense, off-ball shooting and his energy. Some scouts may believe this won’t translate due to his subpar numbers at the combine, specifically his 3/4-court sprint.

    His time of 3.45 seconds is underwhelming, especially for a player who projects as a shooting guard at the next level.

    That being said, Baker’s basketball IQ has always helped with his positioning, and his footwork is already at a solid level. As long as he continues to use his high motor to move his feet quickly and efficiently on both ends, he will continue being a solid role player for whichever team drafts him.

    Next: The Other Maryland Guy