NBA Draft Scouting Report: Penn State’s Jalen Pickett
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Jalen Pickett
Guard | Penn State
Height: 6’4” | Weight: 210 lbs
2023 Draft Age: 23.67
Lily Smith/The Register / USA TODAY NETWORK
Prospect Profile
Pickett essentially did everything for his Penn State team last season, guiding them to a record of 19-12 and incredible run in the Big Ten tournament. He led the team in scoring, rebounding, assists and steals which all contributed to a very well-rounded season. He’s a smart, fundamentally sound prospect with playmaking upside.
Pickett was super effective offensively last season as he knocked down 39% of his 3.5 attempts from beyond the arc, along with created for teammates as he generated seven assists per game. On both ends of the floor he played unorthodox for his size, but it was highly effective.
The Penn State product has the ability to play lead guard at 6-foot-4, but also possesses the strength to play bigger than his height. A good portion of his shot diet comes from closer to the rim, as his go-to is bullying defenders for easy buckets. While most guards don’t traditionally play a ton with their back to the basket, Pickett is the exception. He does it often and is extremely effective in doing so.
Given be plays bigger than his size, Pickett is a fantastic positional rebounder. With his strong frame, Pickett is also impactful defensively. He plays with high effort and energy which is contagious for teammates.
Pickett is one of those unorthodox players that actually makes it quite difficult to project his fit at the next level. He has plenty of translatable skills, but it will be interesting to see how exactly he impacts the NBA game. His natural feel for the game is impressive, so he should find his place as a role player in the right system. It will take a team that’s really willing to use his unorthodox strengths.
A decorated five-year college athlete, Pickett played at Siena for three years before his final two at Penn State.
Highlights
Draft Projection
Potential Second-Round Pick in 2023 NBA Draft.
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