Shannon Brown Draft Capsule

VITALS: 6-4, 205, Michigan State

OVERVIEW: Took a step forward in his junior year, improving his scoring average by more than six points to 17.2. Finished three-year career with 1,183 points, 329 rebounds and 124 steals. Scored a career-high 31 points against Wisconsin. Had career highs of eight assists and six 3-pointers in 26-point effort against Wisconsin-Green Bay. Selected as Austin Region’s Most Outstanding Player en route to Final Four appearance in 2005. Named to Big Ten All-Freshman Team in 2003-04.

LIKELY DRAFT POSITION: Anywhere from 15 to 30.

COMPARATIVE UPSIDE: Gilbert Arenas

COMPARATIVE DOWNSIDE: Steve Francis

ROLE PROJECTION: He will play 15 or so minutes even on a good team as a rookie due to his superior athleticism. His role (which guard spot he will play) will be dictated by the drafting team.

POSITIVES: Brown is very quick and has big-time leaping ability, which helps him make up for his relative lack of height. He has the ability to be going upcourt at full speed, stop on a dime and pull up for a jump shot. He also has the kind of breakaway speed that will make him a finisher on the break. Despite his individualistic talent, he has played team basketball with other good players (Maurice Ager, Paul Davis) his whole career at Michigan State. Despite his lack of height, he is a very physical player and can apply that mind-set on defense as well.