Anderson and Adidas Nations

Since noting that Evan Anderson was invited to the adidas Nations Experience as a member of the 2010 team, I had not heard anything that confirmed he made the trip until now.

DraftExpress posted its first evaluation of Anderson after following the adidas event extensively. The author, Jonathan Givony, did not have anything unusual to say, but at least understood the "intrigue" regarding Eau Claire's big man. The article praises Anderson's frame and defensive instincts but labeled him a project worth monitoring at this point. Keep in mind that DraftExpress evaluates prospects based on their pro (draft) potential.

One thing the article touched on that I also noticed this summer -- looking at any AAU box scores I could get my hands on -- was the volume of free throw attempts Anderson generates. At this point, Anderson seems to get the majority of his points from the line and apparently he could have shot a little better on freebies during the competition.

Anderson and his Class of 2010 mates actually chewed up the competition, beating their older brethren from the Class of 2009. Ohio State-bound Jared Sullinger again proved to be the real deal at the 4-spot.

As long as we're talking recruiting once again, Rivals just released an updated Top 150 for 2009 prospects. The Big Ten checks in third on the list, with 15 commitments, behind the ACC and Big East. It's too early to tell, but maybe the region is beginning to see a small renaissance of talent. Among member states, Illinois leads the way with eight players on the list.

Individually, Wisconsin's two verbals sit outside the top 100. Diamond Taylor, continued his "slide" from #67 overall (4 stars) last year to #118 (3 stars) currently. I will be interested to see how playing his senior season for his father at a new high school will affect his perceived value. Meanwhile, Mike Bruesewitz maintained his relative position, though Rivals reclassified him as a power forward this time.