Recently, Doug Gottlieb wrote an article asking if former Hoosier Victor Oladipo should be a top ten draft pick. “It depends,” he said. Gottlieb starts by raving about Victor’s freak athletic ability. Then, he discusses Oladipo’s size, or lack thereof, and the fact that he doesn’t have a position: “On the other hand, he has no position. At 6 feet 3 1/2, Oladipo has the size of a point guard, but he doesn’t seem to have great feel as a passer. You could argue he has the size of a two-guard in a league that is playing more and more hybrids, but he’s not really a shooter.” He raves about his defensive ability and compares him to Eric Bledsoe. Gottlieb ends the article with this: “Would I draft him? If I had an elite point guard who could create shots for him and have him float away from the basketball … absolutely.”
In essence, Gottlieb is saying that if a team doesn’t have an established point guard they should shy away from Vic.
All of these are fair points, and really makes one think. Should Oladipo be a top ten pick? Will he be a star or rather a role player? Will he be a defensive stud, but an offensive dud?
Oladipo came to Indiana with sloppy, out-of-control ball-handling skills, poor decision making, and no jump shot. While he still needs to improve in each area, Oladipo worked incredibly hard and improved greatly by his junior season. True, he’ll never be a Carmelo type offensive player. He doesn’t play that way. He will, however, work his butt off to become a great passer, shooter, and ball-handler. It wouldn’t be surprising if Vic worked toward becoming a point guard. With a charismatic personality, Oladipo became a star at IU and can definitely be an NBA star that can sell merchandise and seats.
Vic will probably never average 20+ points, but he will be a leader, a facilitator, rebounder, and defensive force. If a team wants a Kobe, LeBron, or Melo type star, then they should shy away from Vic. However, if they want a leader, winner, and a consistent producer, they should definitely draft Dipo in the top ten.
Drafting is always tricky. Stars are hit and miss, while busts are numerous. Oladipo can change the culture of a franchise and can lead them to greatness. He brings an extra level of excitement and energy on the court, which spreads to the fans. If an NBA team is drafting in the top ten and Vic is still on the board, they should make the smart decision and take him.
All Hoosiers 