Mavs Draft Profile: Could DFW's Anthony Black Help Dallas Backcourt?
As the NBA Draft approaches, the Dallas Mavericks sit with the No. 10 pick in the lottery after missing the playoffs in what was a disappointing season. Already with many questions heading into the offseason, bump figuring out whether to keep or trade the pick to the top of the list.
Though the Mavericks seem to be the favorites to re-sign Kyrie Irving this summer, you just never know what can transpire during NBA free agency — and especially with Irving. To avoid being left empty-handed, Dallas could look to use the No. 10 pick another guard to add to a backcourt with Luka Doncic and Jaden Hardy.
If so, maybe a look at Arkansas guard Anthony Black is merited. In 36 games during his freshman season, Black averaged 12.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 2.1 steals in just under 35 minutes per game.
The Duncanville native’s 6-foot-7 frame brings size to the backcourt, which helps Black leave his stamp on the defensive end. Black’s height and athleticism give him the ability to guard multiple positions, as his activity and hands are some of the best in the class.
Offensively, Black showcases a high basketball IQ as an unselfish playmaker. His size for a lead guard gives him an advantage to see above smaller defenders with swift floor vision.
Black isn’t necessarily a natural scorer or knockdown shooter as he’s a true pass-first guard, but has the tools to continue improvement in both areas.
In a recent interview with the Dallas Morning News at the NBA Combine, Black spoke on what it’d be like to play for his hometown team alongside Doncic.
“Luka is one of the best players in the game, and he’s still young ... it would be cool to play with a dude like that and kind of get to learn from him,” Black said. “Yeah, playing for the home team would be cool.”
With other major needs on the roster and the unlikelihood Black falls to No. 10, the Razorback might not land back home in the DFW. But regardless of Irving's status, if the situation presents itself, the addition of Black could be a winning move for the long haul.
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