Category

Score

Lateral Quickness

Not quick at all, really lacks on defense because of lack of athleticism.

Speed

Only reason it's this high is because of the way he moves in transition. Looks faster in transition because of the way he can move in the open court. Looks much slower and lacks burst in a set offense. PnR helps to mitigate this.

Athleticism

Just not very athletic, even for college.

Size

Size is decent. Shows a good sturdy build and has never let his average size stop him from being exceptional.

Versatility

Will not be more than a PG or sometimes off-ball shooter in an NBA small line-up.

Motor

Anybody who is loved by Tom Izzo even after challenging nhim mid-game has a motor. Plays with fire and intensity. Has an "it factor" and chip on his shoulder that seems to always keep him going. Never looks lazy... literally ever.

Rebounding

Decent rebounder for his size. Always boxes out, just doesn't get many due to moving out to transition after rebound is gotten.

Instincts/Awareness

Unmatched IQ and instincts in-game when it comes to college. Already shows the awareness of an NBA caliber PG.

Character/ Leadership/ Competitiveness

Just a phenomenal human being. Throughout all the headlines and issues with MSU, he showed unmatched support for the victims of Larry Nassar and a want to help the community of East Lansing. Also a clear leader on the team with a willingness to challenge Tom Izzo and still have Izzo's undying respect.

Intangibles

Just has an amazing feel and "it factor" that keeps his team in the game at any time. Can weave his way through just about any situation and motivate his team through an cold streak.

Shot Selection & Efficiency

Was forced to take some bad shots his senior year which hurt his %'s. Took it all the way down to 40% from 3 (clear sarcasm?). Ridiculous efficiency from 3 and on layups despite lack of quickness to get inside.

Shot Range

Showed a willingness and ability to take a shot from anywhere on the court when needed. Doesn't take any shot he doesn't need to but will take deep shots.

Passing Ability

By far Cassius' best ability is his passing. While he does have a pass a game where you wonder what he was doing, most of his passing makes you wonder, "how?!?!?" Just sees the court on a different level.

Ball Handling & Security

While his handle looks loose at times, he never seems to turn the ball over, instead using it to his advantage.

Playmaking Ability

What can I say that I haven't said?

Free Throws

85% over his career. That's all you need to know.

On-Ball Defense

While not skilled on defense nor quick enough, he will always try his hardest to keep up with and keep you in front of him.

Off-Ball Defense

Doesn't seem to lose his guy ever. Doesn't provide much in the way of help D because of lack of athleticism, but is on top of switches at all times and is still a smart defender.

Disruptiveness

Just doesn't disrupt much.

Court Vision

Already covered this in passing. Rarely is there a pass he can't make.

Pick & Roll

Definitely the scheme he fits best in.

Controlling Tempo

Something else he excels at. Makes the opposing team play to his speed instead of playing to theirs.

Ability to get in the lane

Shows a level of creativity to get to the basket even if he's not quick. Can't tell you how many times I've seen him weave to the lane despite looking like he has the speed of Carl Fredricksen from Up.

Shot Creator

Will figure out how to get shot up no matter what. Could use a more consistent and quick release though.

Transition

Excels. That is all.

Strengths

Passing, Shooting, Ball Handling, It Factor, Leadership, Playmaking, Creativity, PnR game, Transition offense, motor and effort are unmatched

Weaknesses

Athleticism is lacking terribly, Lacks defensive prowess, Could work on quicker release

Overall Analysis

If Cassius was even as athletic as Tre Jones, he would be a top pick. But he doesn't and he's so slow that despite his clear skills set, I believe he lacks potential. I have a hard time seeing him not make it in the NBA, but I don't believe he'll be a star or even starter. He projects as a savvy backup point guard who provides playmaking and shooting off the bench. Could be really good when paired with a great PnR big man. While he has the skills, thew athleticism is just too glaring a flaw, as well as defense, not that it matter today in the NBA.

Compares to

Play style of Chris Paul if CP3 used a walker, Career arc of Cory Joseph?

Potential