Parker currently projected as No.3 pick.
Duke star and draft prospect Jabari Parker has welcomed comparisons made between him and New York Knicks star Carmelo Anthony.
The 18-year-old has been tipped for a successful future in the NBA, and according to most expert draft analysts, he will be a top three overall pick next year.
With the likes of Tyson Chandler and Tim Hardaway Jr in attendance to watch him put up 23 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists as Duke beat UCLA 80-63, he admitted that he is honoured to be compared to Anthony.
“He mastered the fundamentals. He’s always good at his craft. He works on it and that’s a person I’ve been looking up to, so yeah, that’s good compliment,” he said, according to Pro Basketball Blog.
Parker has been given the seal of approval by several active NBA players, as he has both the body and game to make an immediate impact on his arrival in the league.
While his strengths include scoring inside as well as having a solid jump-shot, his ability to catch-and-shoot and he can also play in the half-court or transition.
However, there are question marks surrounding his defensive ability, particularly when he experiences the step-up to the NBA.
“I know we’re in New York City, but there’s a lot of Melo in him as far as guy that can stretch you to the 3-point line,” UCLA coach Steve Alford said.
“He can drive the basketball. He creates space off the dribble to get jump shots. He can take you to the post, so I just think he’s a very, very talented, gifted player. And you don’t see a lot who are this polished 10, 11 games into their freshman year.”
Along with Bradley Wiggins, Parker is expected to have a successful career in the NBA and will be looking to maintain his current college form.
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