Chase Budinger - NBA Draft Prospects

Numbers: 17.1 ppg, 5.4 rpg, 2.9 apg, 1.1 spg, 45% FG, 72% FT, 38% 3's

About Him: Chase Budinger showed some flashes during his freshman season, but the biggest knock on him was that he was too passive at times - not using his considerable talent to take over games. It was much of the same thing during his sophomore campaign. Granted, much of that was because of the emergence of Jerryd Bayless, Budinger didn't have to take games over. Budinger projects to be an off-guard in the NBA, and he has great size (6'7") and athleticism for the position. He also has a deadly jump shot, and range beyond the NBA three-point line. His biggest problem right now is his defense. He has no lateral quickness which means he gets beaten off the dribble, he is not a physical defender, and has trouble playing off the ball defense and getting around screens. Most projections have him as a mid first-rounder, but he has a tough decision in front of him. Lute Olsen is returning next year after taking a season off, and with Bayless gone, Budinger will have to take over the team and could propel himself into the lottery.

Comparisons: Mike Dunleavy Jr., Ray Allen (stretch)

Bottom Line: Budinger is going to be a solid NBA role player when he finally gets to the league. His passive demeanor and defensive struggles mean that he probably won't be a star but he could have a nice, long career. If he leaves (which he probably will) he will be a first round pick, maybe even sneaking into the end of the lottery.