2011 NBA Draft Player Profile | Norris Cole

Rights traded to Miami Heat

Cole is the classic small conference player that played above and beyond what he “should” have. With his scoring ability and ability to do so many other things, it wouldn’t make any sense for him to not find a place at the next level.

Is he this year’s Gordon Hayward? Not quite, but he definitely is a gifted offensive player with solid tools and athleticism that scouts need to take a close look at.

NBA Position: Point Guard

Height: 6’2”

Weight: 175 lbs.

School: Cleveland State

Stats

Strengths

Cole is a very strong and somehow under-rated offensive player with solid point guard skills and room for improvement at the next level. Is a terrific rebounder for his size and position, can create for himself and others, and distributes at a solid level. Cole has a solid package of offensive skills, while he also has the ability to turn into a solid defender in the NBA. Really didn’t get the recognition he deserved on offense. Has a killer instinct and has excellent range on his jumper. A fearless offensive player.

Weaknesses

He has the desired size and experience for a point guard, but could stand to toughen up. Playing in the Horizon Conference doesn’t help his argument in terms of competition and nightly matchups. His lack of elite competition also makes his gaudy senior numbers less impressive. Doesn’t always make the best decisions with the ball in his hands. Can force shots and at times practices poor shot selection.

Overall, Cole has the athleticism and skills needed to man the point at the next level. He’ll just have to show that his lack of experience against elite competition isn’t going to hold him back, and that he can truly take over the point for a team in the NBA.

NBA Player Comparison: Chauncey Billups

Draft Projection: Early Second Round

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Kevin Roberts

Kevin Roberts owns and operates NBA Soup, while heading the fantasy basketball section of the site. Roberts also leads the yearly scouting and mock draft analysis for the NBA Draft.

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