Drafted by Detroit Pistons 

Kyle Singler won a national championship and came back to Duke for seconds. Instead of the money and allure that comes with going into the NBA Draft, he returned to school because of his competitive nature and desire to repeat as a champion.

That in itself personifies the type of player Singler is. Singler gets crazy player comparisons to Larry Bird and Dirk Nowitzki, which is largely due to the fact that he’s simply an old school scorer that happens to be white. Singler’s game has some similarities, but merely labeling him as a poor rendition of either player is simply a lazy scouting job.

Read on for further details on Singler’s prospects for the 2011 NBA Draft:

NBA Position: SG/SF

Height: 6’9”

Weight: 230

School: Duke

Stats

Strengths

Singler is living proof that not every four-year college basketball player has maxed out his potential. Singler could have left for the NBA after his first or second season, and arguably would have been a lottery pick. He possesses one of the best jumpers in college basketball, with great range and a high release, making sure this skill will translate to the next level. Has excellent size and length for the next level. Very tough competitor and is fearless in penetration. Has a great handle for a forward. Has the handle, offensive skills, and cerebral make-up to cut it as a guard or a forward at the next level. Isn’t a freak athlete, but is very under-rated in the athleticism department. Can get up and finish at the rim, and has a slew of offensive moves that he can use in a number of spots on the court. A truly well-rounded player with elite fundamentals. Makes the smart decision the majority of the time. Great team leader and crunch time performer, and has a national title (and counting?) to back it up.

Weaknesses

Has good athleticism, but for some reason this is always listed as a major short-coming. Is a very capable defender and can do anything he wants offensively at the college level, but there is some question as to his effectiveness in the NBA on both sides of the court. Regardless, his great size and length usually compensate for anything he lacks athletically. Could stand to use better shot selection. Overall, very few big weaknesses to his game.

NBA Player Comparison: Mike Miller

Draft Projection: Lottery Pick