Updated Grading Definitions

To provide more transparency to the scouting community, I have laid out the minute expectations for corresponding grades. These roles are specified within each prospects' summary, but this outline will give viewers insight into where each prospect stands as their summaries are being completed. With this tool, grades between 4.4 and 6.5 are easily distinguishable. Prospects below that range are not considered NBA prospects and those above that range are considered regular fixtures who sustain consistent roles at the next level.

Be sure to check the rankings weekly as they will be updated throughout the season. Viewers will notice that incoming freshman are absent from the rankings but they will be incorporated as they are evaluated during the early portion of the season. This is my favorite time of the year! I hope those that follow the rankings will gain valuable insights as it pertains to the prospects.

Full player summaries will start to populate around March and April each year. The prospect information will be limited to strengths, weaknesses, and summaries. Detailed information will be provided for those that reach out and seek interest.

Also, users should use the rankings and grades from previous draft classes to monitor how the prospects fair as the NBA season unfolds. I will do this and you should too. It is important to hold each evaluation accountable. My grades set forth an expectation and tracks my ability to evaluate prospects. Growth is not possible without self-reflection.

Let the season begin!

10) Generational Talent: This is a player that dominates the game for a prolonged duration. Their influence on the game results in multiple finals appearances and/or championships and discussion of possible rule changes due to their dominance. Ex: LeBron James, Michael Jordan

9) Multi-time All NBA, Defensive, and/or All Star Team Accolades: This player is considered one of the best at their position for a prolonged duration. Their influence on the game demands that opposing teams game plan around this type of player. Ex: Damian Lillard, Reggie Miller

8) Consistent Starter, All Star Potential: This player consistently provides positive contributions for his team. Their role on the team is secure and would earn a similar role on another roster. Ex: Pascal Siakam, Michael Finley

7) Starter/Rotational Role Earning 25-32 Minutes a Game: This player provides a positive contribution as a regular fixture of the rotation. He may start or come off the bench, but consistently plays the majority of the game. They may not earn an All Star spot but continue to play regular minutes due to their positive impact on the game. Ex: Aaron Gordon, Derek Fisher

6) Regular Reserve Competing for Increased Minutes/Role Playing Between 12-24 Minutes a Game: This player provides limited contributions as their game consists of either specialization skills coupled with apparent deficiencies or generally average attributes. Their role is limited to utilize their strengths while reducing their overall exposure. Ex: Alec Burks, Vernon Maxwell

5) Inconsistent Game Participation and/or Limited Minutes Reserve Playing Less Than 12 Minutes a Game: This player demonstrates deficiencies or general inconsistencies within their game lacking a high end specialization trait to lean on. They will spend their career competing for an increased role on an NBA roster. Ex: Alex Len, Dewayne Dedmon

4) Primary G League or 10-day Contract Competing for an NBA Reserve Role: This player possesses many deficiencies. They are an inconsistent contributor working to develop their game. Ex: Mac McClung, Tremont Waters

3) Long Shot to Make an NBA Roster: This player has not demonstrated the prerequisite skill, size, and/or athleticism to project an NBA role. Ex: Scottie Lewis, Marcus Paige

Minutes Distribution per Grade

• 6.5 -> 24-30 minutes

• 6.4 -> 22-28 minutes

• 6.3 -> 20-26 minutes

• 6.2 -> 20-24 minutes

• 6.1 -> 16-24 minutes

• 6.0 -> 12-24 minutes (consistent reserve whose role fluctuates)

• 5.9 -> 12-22 minutes

• 5.8 -> 12-20 minutes

• 5.7 -> 12-18 minutes

• 5.6 -> 10-18 minutes

• 5.5 -> 10-18 minutes

• 5.4 -> 10-16 minutes

• 5.3 -> 10-16 minutes

• 5.2 -> 10-14 minutes

• 5.1 -> 10-12 minutes

• 5.0 -> 10-12 minutes (limited reserve player whose role is to spell teammates)

• 4.9 -> 8-12 minutes

• 4.8 -> 6-10 minutes

• 4.7 -> 6-10 minutes

• 4.6 -> 6-8 minutes

• 4.5 -> 6 minutes

• 4.4 -> G League