Duke Blue Devils freshman RJ Barrett saw his collegiate season come to an end Sunday with a loss to the Michigan State Spartans in the Elite Eight. Many around the country watched as Barrett, who is widely expected to be a top selection in June's NBA Draft, put his skills on display, especially his godfather, Hall of Famer and two-time NBA MVP, Steve Nash, who had this to say about his godson.
RJ Barrett (*yes, is my godson) is a next level playmaker at his age, 18, and size. Makes every read/pass. This is one skill that is easier in many respects due to the rules at the nba level but so damn valuable. Blown away at the reads and deliveries he made repetatively.
— Steve Nash (@SteveNash) April 1, 2019
And that's coming from a man that knows a thing or two about passing, with Nash having racked up north of 10,000 assists in his career, along with five regular-season assists crowns.
Just what position the 6-foot-7 Barrett will occupy at the next level remains up for debate. Many see him as the modern NBA hybrid, built for the position-less system that the NBA has embraced over the past handful of years. Others have been critical about his passing abilities, making him destined to be a wing who operates off the ball. If Nash — who admits somewhat to his bias — had his vote, he's seemingly all-in on the camp that Barrett can make it as a decision-maker who can run the show if given the chance.
The question becomes: Even with a vote of confidence from Nash, who will land Barrett? He entered the 2018-19 season as the nation's No. 1 recruit, only to leave his freshman season at Duke with Zion Williamson having far eclipsed him in terms of draft hype. While many are hoping for his teammate, Barrett will attempt to transform a franchise of his own.
Follow Us
Subscribe