The Champions Classic in Chicago on Tuesday night (Duke versus Kansas; Michigan State versus Kentucky) is loaded with elite talent, especially among freshmen. Last week I ranked the freshmen, many of whom will be playing Tuesday night on ESPN at 7:30 pm., ET.
We now take a look at the top first-year players on the floor tonight, and talk to NBA scouts about the best way to stop them -- or in some cases, just try and slow them down.
How would you stop Jabari Parker?
Scout: “He’s tough because he comes at you and is aggressive. He can make jumpers -- and contested ones. The problem with Parker is trying to play him with a power forward because he’s so skilled and is big and strong. He’s got a nice pull-up jumper and can handle it and get to the basket. I’m not sure there’s a great answer to stop Jabari because he’s so well-rounded in his offensive game. He can just pick you apart in different ways.”