Post by jhb on Jan 23, 2021 18:03:59 GMT -5
Thurl Bailey
PF
6'11"
215
22
NC State
Big T brings the defense to TMBSL. After a storybook run through the NCAA Tournament which culminated in a title after knocking off Sidney Green and UNLV, Sampson and Virginia, and eventually the insanely talented Houston squad featuring Drexler, Olajuwon, Micheaux, and Young, Bailey is ready to be deployed to help a TMBSL bring the pain in a similar way on defense.
Throughout that storybook run in the NCAA tournament, Bailey showed the ability to do it all on defense. He can guard men on the post and makes up for his slight build with exceptional footwork and athleticism. He can make up for being backed up underneath the rim by a much larger big man with a simple well-timed jump and start the transition back the other way after blocking a shot. He also showed the ability to get out on the perimeter and bug guys like Drexler outside. He can defend at every level, which is a unique talent that will come in handy for whoever drafts this young man.
Bailey does have some work to do on offense though. He has a limited array of moves to finish in the post, often choosing to settle for jump shots (his stroke is functional and will be solid at the next level). He doesn't facilitate much for his teammates in the way of passing, but he is a tough screen-setter and has shown the soft hands to catch and finish a pick and roll with a dunk if he has space. He lacks the strength to finish strong and get to the free throw line much, which is a shame because he is efficient there. Scouts do worry that after four years of college, his offensive game won't develop much further because that lack of strength is holding him back from truly growing into a low post scoring presence.
