James Wiseman: 2020 Scouting Report

James Wiseman is poised to be selected as the top big man in the draft even after only playing three games at the University of Memphis due to NCAA violations. 

Bio and Measurables:

Strengths: In his short time at Memphis, James Wiseman justified the claim that he is a “freak of nature” when talking about his athletic ability. On the offensive end Wiseman can effortlessly finish around the rim and uses his 7-6 wingspan to rise above defenders and finish lob passes. He is not afraid of contact shooting 70% from the free throw line but can also use his footwork in the low post to create space for a turn around jumpshot. With a high release and soft touch defenders struggle to contest his shot and it usually leads to two points inside fifteen feet. Outside of the low block Wiseman is extremely efficient as the roller in the PNR because of his ability to finish around the rim and finish in traffic, with both hands, so effectively. In transition, he is just as dangerous using his athletic ability and above average dribbling skills to start and finish fast breaks with ease. Defensively, Wiseman is primed to be an anchor and elite shot blocker for years to come. His wingspan and height give him the ability to rise up and block shots that most defenders wouldn’t come close to getting their hands on. Even though he has the ability to block shots he does not rely on his shot-blocking ability, having no problem defending in the post. On both ends he is an all-world rebounder effectively boxing out his man while effortlessly rebounding in traffic. Wiseman proved why he was the number one recruit in the nation through his current skills and abilities but he is such a highly touted NBA prospect because of the potential he possesses.

Weaknesses: For as good as Wiseman is around the rim his shot selection could still improve. He has a tendency to settle for turn around jumpers when he should be backing his defender into the paint and finishing at the rim, as he is much more efficient there. Additionally, outside of fifteen feet, Wiseman’s offensive game is a big question mark. He did not hit a three in the three games he played at Memphis and struggled in his career hitting shots behind the arc. Defensively, he is also prone to lapses in defensive judgement, biting on pump fakes and trying to block shots that he should stay on the ground for. He lacks lateral quickness and suffers from “heavy feet” when he is forced to defend outside of the paint. Specifically, when switching onto smaller guards in the pick and roll he struggles to keep them in front of him and lacks overall defensive awareness in PNR situations. At the next level Wiseman will need to fill out his frame to make sure he does not get bullied on the defensive side of the ball.

External Factors: After an eligibility battle with the NCAA, Wiseman was suspended twelve games and ultimately decided to leave Memphis to prepare for the NBA draft. The NCAA found Wiseman in violation of taking money from Penny Hardaway, prior to Hardaway being named the coach, to help move his family to Memphis. the decision to uphold the violations caused Wiseman to cut his college career short. While the decision by the NCAA was questionable it gave him more time to work on his individual game which could benefit him in the long run.

Medical History: Wiseman has no history of injury.

Summary: Wiseman’s success in the NBA will be defined by how well he capitalizes on his potential. On the offensive side of the ball his footwork in the post and ability to finish around the rim, in traffic, will give him a significant edge against other bigs in this draft class. As an athlete he can run the floor and elevate above the rim not afraid to draw contact with confidence in his free throw ability. He does need to improve outside of fifteen feet, even though he has the confidence to take shots behind the arc he has found little success in converting those tries. His high release and soft touch make NBA teams hopeful that a shot can be developed which is why he continues to be touted as a top three prospect. On the defensive side of the ball, the expectation is that his ability as a rim protector will immediately translate to the NBA. As he matures the expectation is that he will become a defensive anchor and an All-NBA defender. The flaws in his defensive game can be cleaned up but should still cause a minor level of concern. Struggling in the pick and roll and having heavy feet outside of the paint could become an issue when the game picks up at the next level. However, without any lingering injuries or external factors hindering his development he should continue to improve on both sides of the ball. Wiseman’s game certainly has flaws but his athleticism and all around potential drive his draft stock to the top of the board.