Strengths: Athleticism
If you ask “what is R.J. Hampton’s best trait?” — the answer is his athleticism and speed. The potential for a one-man fast break with the general ability to go into a full spirit and still do the “basketball stuff” catch, pass, and score while breaking the sound barrier is outstanding. His overall ability to control himself while he’s sprinting is comparable to Russell Westbrook or John Wall.
It’s a variety of finishing around the basket and passes to players cutting or in shooing position with Hampton in the full-court. With the NBA’s pace increasing and teams understanding the analytics of free throws, layups, or 3’s — Hampton has already optimized his speed by setting up his teammates and taking advantage of back-peddling defenders, efficient stuff.
It took the other teams by surprise in the NBL and with some more muscle and definition on his body, he will be able to become a more imposing and stronger finisher.
All of us hold our breath when Ja Morant goes up in the air, hopefully, a similarly skinny guard like Hampton can put on that muscle so he doesn’t get knocked around when trying to finish around bigs, as we’ve seen other point guards recently do this like Damian Lillard or Lonzo Ball.
A thread of point guards who grew into their bodies after their rookie season. (1/2) #NBATwitter
— Lachlan Everett (@LachieEverett) October 24, 2020
Russell Westbrook
Lonzo Ball pic.twitter.com/yQQnu3ECre
His gangly arms and his springy bounce allow him to sneak into tip the ball or rebound at a high level considering his slight frame. Hampton averaged 3.9 rebounds per game (with almost one offensive board per game.)
At his age and being a 6’5” guard provides Hampton with an inch or two over traditional point guards and allows him to grab more rebound than the guards defending him, similar to Westbrook.
Speaking of Westbrook, how good of a playmaker is Hampton?