While the NBA will always be a game that favors size, there have been a number of diminutive players who have made their mark on the league over the years. The most recent example of a player overcoming his lack of size, or physical shortcomings, if you’ll forgive the pun, is the Celtics’ Isaiah Thomas, who is averaging an outstanding 22.4 points and 6.3 assists per contest this season. While Thomas’ success is hardly the norm for a player standing 5’9″ in shoes, he has certainly proven that heart and talent can trump stature in the league.
One of the next players who will look to find success in the league despite being undersized is Kentucky point guard Tyler Ulis, who has declared for the draft and is reportedly going to hire an agent, a move that would eliminate the possibility of him returning to the Wildcats for another campaign. Like Thomas, Ulis also stands 5’9″, though that measurement may be a tad on the generous side for the sophomore. Ulis, who was arguably Kentucky’s best player this past season, averaging 17.3 points, 3.0 rebounds and 7.0 assists to accompany a slash line of .434/.344/.856. The freshman is currently ranked No. 20 overall by Jonathan Givony of DraftExpress, while Chad Ford of ESPN.com slots him at No. 17 overall.
Here’s today’s topic: How successful will Tyler Ulis be in the NBA?
Sound off in the comments section with your predictions for Ulis once he takes the floor in the NBA. Do you think he’ll achieve a similar level of success as the aforementioned Thomas, end up as a bench player, or is he destined to toil away in the D-League or overseas? Give us your best predictions for his career, take a guess at his stat line or share your own scouting report on the player. We look forward to what you have to say.
Tyler Ulis could have a solid career. Depends on the team who drafts him really. Hard to find success in the NBA today with the outstanding talent at the Point Guard position. I think he could be a solid back up, like how Reggie Jackson was with the Thunder.
I think he could actually be an okay player. Great defense. Solid passer and ball handler. Scores well if needed. I think he’s underrated because his height, which I feel today it’s not gonna make a huge difference like in the 90’s or earlier. Isaiah Thomas shows that
Why is it a picture of skal labisserie
I think you’re seeing an old picture that was originally linked to this post. The one in there now, if you’re looking at this on our app, is different.